Here, visitors will find quiet options that crowds have yet to discover, as well as bustling beaches near Clearwater.

Alternatively, beachgoers can escape to remote islands operated by state parks and relax in a pristine natural setting.

When it comes to activities, the beaches near Spring Hill offer anything from fishing and kayaking to beach volleyball, jet skiing, and even camping.

Check out what Spring Hill has to offer!

Beaches near Spring Hill:

1. Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park
2. Fort Island Beach
3. Hunter Springs Park
4. Bird Creek Beach
5. Robert K Rees Park Beach
6. Anclote River Park
7. Fred Howard Park
8. Sunset Beach
9. Anclote Key Preserve State Park
10. Caladesi Island State Park
11. Honeymoon Island State Park
12. Clearwater Beach

1. Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 12 miles 
• Travel time: 20 min
• Activities: swimming, picnicking, playing volleyball
• Amenities: kid’s playground, restrooms, grills, picnic pavilions, concessions, volleyball court

If you are looking for the perfect hideout for a holiday respite, you might want to check out Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park. It has a uniquely alluring Florida appeal to it, with characteristic palm trees and golden sand.

Located on the edge of a peninsula, this park is close to other amazing coastal estuary preserves along the Gulf of Mexico, like the Historic Bayport Park, with its pier and coastal boardwalk. 

Alfred A McKethan Pine Island Park is another kid-friendly choice on this list, with a playground and picnic areas. 

Parking is limited, and when full, cars can only be allowed in if another leaves. So be sure to arrive early to avoid parking inconveniences.

2. Fort Island Beach

• Distance from Spring Hill: 40 miles 
• Travel time: 50 min
• Activities: boating, fishing, picnicking, swimming
• Amenities: fishing pier, covered picnic tables, boat ramp, restrooms, bathrooms, boardwalk, pavilion, showers

Fort Island Beach is one of the most interesting places you might want to visit while in Homosassa. To begin with, this is a public beach with no parking or access fees, and the drive towards this shoreline is a scenic one.

Located on the edges of Crystal River, this is a 1,000-foot man-made beach with calm shallow waters that are pristine for swimming. 

On a good day, you should be able to see manatees and dolphins swirling in the blue waters as well. There’s a pier that is ideal not just for fishing but for wildlife watching, too.

Some noteworthy sights around Fort Island Beach include the surrounding lush green vegetation, which is accessible by a boardwalk, and the river estuary teeming with wildlife. 

The beach is also not far from Crystal River Preserve State Park – a place to check out later. Food vendors are mostly available during the season.

3. Hunter Springs Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 32 miles 
• Travel time: 40 min
• Activities: kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, picnicking 
• Amenities: boardwalk, playground, showers, restrooms, parking lot, picnic chairs and tables, swings and slides, pavilions

Hunter Springs Park is one of Florida’s most quaint beaches with an easy-going vibe. This place has wonderful natural landscaping, a well-maintained lawn with a short boardwalk that guides you around.

There’s certainly a lot to do here, from swimming, canoeing, and adoring manatees to kayaking all the way to the Three Sister Springs. 

However, taking boat rides and seeing the surrounding community is the real deal. Also, many fish swirl here, so you better pack a snorkel.

There are a few recreational facilities, including a small paid parking lot. So you can either arrive early to secure a spot or park a few blocks away and then walk to the park for an invigorating spring water experience. 

4. Bird Creek Beach

• Distance from Spring Hill: 49 miles 
• Travel time: 1 hour
• Activities: fishing, kayaking, sightseeing
• Amenities: porta potties, boat ramp, pavilion, grills, picnic tables

Bird Creek Beach is a small beach facing the Withlacoochee Bay in the seemingly quiet and dozy Yankeetown. 

Borrowing the village’s extremely verdure climate, this beach is a sightseeing gem, especially if you want to have the most magical views of the Gulf of Mexico coastline. 

There are many unique geographical experiences on this beach, from the swampy spots and huge trees to plenty of birds and wildlife. 

It’s a glorious setting for avid photographers, aesthetes, and hiking enthusiasts. The water here is ideal for boating and kayaking rather than actually getting into it.

Bird Creek Beach is best explored while on a kayak. Ride the Withlacoochee River and find your way down into Bennett’s Creek area. While on this marvelous coastal adventure, you may encounter some dolphins and manatees. 

5. Robert K. Rees Park Beach

• Distance from Spring Hill: 26 miles 
• Travel time: 35 min
• Activities: swimming, walking, sunset watching, snorkeling
• Amenities: picnic pavilion, picnic tables, boardwalk, restroom, showers, water fountains

Robert K. Rees Park Beach is a small, 45-acre beachfront sprawling the Gulf of Mexico. It is widely known for offering picnic and wildlife observation experiences. 

Thanks to its lush-green surroundings, it is home to many bird species, like herons, egrets, seagulls, and pelicans.

The unique aspect of this beach is its one-of-a-kind boardwalk trail that leads to the lookout tower. While at the tower, you can view dolphins, cranes, and other sea creatures gracefully exploring the gulf. It’s a breathtaking spectacle, especially when gazing at the sunset. 

Also, the beach has two zones stocked with grills and picnic tables. There are sliders, swings, and other playtime equipment right by the ocean. But unfortunately, there are no kayaks or paddle boards for rent.

Swimming is allowed at Robert K. Rees Park Beach. In fact, the water is shallow and thus ideal for both kids and adults. The changing facilities are modern, clean, and in good condition. 

While outstanding in many ways, Robert K. Rees Park Beach doesn’t have fishing piers, sports facilities, or jet skis; it’s a nature getaway rather than a water playground. The parking spot is pretty limited, too, so go there early.

All in all, Robert K. Rees Park Beach is totally worth checking out if all you need is an outdoor picnic, crabbing, relaxing, and sea life viewing.

6. Anclote River Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 33 miles 
• Travel time: 45 min
• Activities: boating, fishing, jet skiing, picnicking, paddleboarding  
• Amenities: boat launch, picnic pavilion, lifeguard, bathroom, playground, picnic tables and benches, outdoor rinsing shower, changing rooms, boardwalk, charcoal grill

Although over an hour away, Anclote River Park is a popular spot offering plenty of recreational opportunities, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, and of course, swimming.

This park boasts a whopping 300 feet beach stocked with picnic pavilions, designated fishing areas, a kid’s playground, and multiple other water amenities.

The boardwalk and trails here take you through the park if you want to get up close and personal with Mother Nature’s green woodlands, birds, and squirrels. 

This is a child-friendly and safe coastland. The sands are soft, lifeguards are present, and the swimming area (at most 5 feet deep) is roped off to keep boaters away.

Anclote River Park is also a great place to just visit when you want some quiet reading time. The views of the surroundings, swimming dolphins, and the sunset are delightfully enchanting. 

However, the evenings tend to be buggy, so be sure to carry bug repellant. Parking is free and ample.

7. Fred Howard Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 35 miles 
• Travel time: 50 min
• Activities: swimming, kayaking, picnicking, fishing, and sunset viewing 
• Amenities: boat launch, picnic pavilions, restrooms, playgrounds, picnic tables and benches, showers, rentals

Fred Howard Park is a public recreational facility located in Tarpon Springs. It has a 155-acre beach that attracts bustling crowds year after year.

It’s a perfect holiday escape spot with majestic palm trees and green surroundings that are home to eagles and ospreys. The shoreline is soft sand, so you can leave your shoes at home.

Fred Howard Park has many popular fishing spots. The vastness of the beach and the existing shades provide great conditions for relaxing or sunset viewing. 

Some of the amenities available at the site include picnic shelters, two playgrounds, and canoe and kayak launching areas, as well as kayak and SUP rentals.

Bordering the shoreline is a scenic, 1-mile-long causeway, a biking trail, and a butterfly garden. The beach is accessible to the public for free, but you might need to pay for parking space.

Howard Park is still one of the nicest beaches around. It is so quiet and serene. There are few food stands and restaurants, so carry your own food and drinks when visiting this amazing spot.

8. Sunset Beach

• Distance from Spring Hill: 35 miles 
• Travel time: 50 min
• Activities: swimming, boating, sunset watching
• Amenities: boat ramp, boardwalk, shaded pavilion, showers 

Peace. Serenity. Contentment. These are the feelings you are going to experience if you happen to visit Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs.

As the name implies, this is one of the best spots to catch the sunset as it recedes below the ocean waters creating a strikingly magical contrast both in the water and the luminous sky.

This beach is pristine and very quiet, except during spring when the season starts. 

The boat ramp for small craft and the sheltered waters of Sant Joseph Sound make it an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other watersports.

Sunset Beach doesn’t have ample parking. Nevertheless, it’s worth a visit.

9. Anclote Key Preserve State Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 36 miles 
• Travel time: 55 min
• Activities: bird watching, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, camping
• Amenities: restrooms, primitive campgrounds

Located near Tarpon Springs, Anclote Key Preserve State Park has a gorgeous shore that you can explore in the much-famed Gulf of Mexico. The park is one of the hidden gems with a laid-back, 403-acre beach.

Unlike most beaches, this one comprises four amazing islands – Three Rooker Island, North Anclote Bar, Anclote Key, and South Anclote Bar. Basically, you’ll have quite a lot to explore.

If you are into birding, this beach should be at the top of your list. It has a whopping 43+ bird species to spot. That includes bald eagles, piping plovers, oystercatcher, and many more.

However, there is no lifeguard on duty, so be sure to look out for yourself, friends, and family members. Paddleboarding, snorkeling, and boating are also common activities on the island. 

What’s more, there’s also a historic lighthouse on the island that dates back to 1887. Adjacent to it lies perfect camping spots, making for a primitive but unique camping experience.

Although Anclote Key Preserve State Park is free to the public, it’s a boat-in location that you can’t access by car. Several ferries run from Tarpon Springs, so getting here is an adventure, too.

10. Caladesi Island State Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 60 miles
• Travel time: 1h 15min
• Activities: Kayaking, canoeing, nature walking, paddling, swimming, boating, hiking, picnicking

Caladesi Island State Park offers a ferry and boat-accessible beach located in Dunedin. It’s a 54 minutes drive from New Port Richey. 

For many years, the facility has appeared at the top of many lists as one of the best beaches in the country. As of 2022, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (Dr. Beach) ranks it as the second-best.

There are many reasons why people flock to Caladesi Island State Park. Perhaps the most important ones are its mild weather and rental amenities.

This beach’s sparkling waters make fishing and swimming pleasant and fun. And at a small fee, you can enjoy boat, canoe, and paddle board rides with friends and family.

Caladesi Island State Park is an excellent gateway for nature walks. Unlike others with only boardwalk trails, this one includes canoe and kayak trails that cut through mangroves. 

While on your seaside trails, you’ll be able to see Blue Herons and other bird species roaming around. There are also a few wildlife animals hiding in the thick mangrove trees.

What’s more, Caladesi Island State Park has best-in-class amenities. There are concession stands and a cafe for meals, snacks, and drinks.

11. Honeymoon Island State Park

• Distance from Spring Hill: 42 miles
• Travel time: 55 minutes
• Activities: paddle sports, swimming, fishing, biking, nature walk, picnicking

Combining an island, a park, and a beach experience all at once, Honeymoon Island State Park is supremely magical. Like Clearwater Beach, it’s also one of the most-lively beaches in Florida for family vacations and fishing expeditions. 

The spot has over four miles of a wonderful beach to explore. A walk through one of the trails leads straight into one of the few remaining virgin pine forests on the island. If you turn your head towards the sky, you’ll see many bird species flapping around.

There are a few cool swimming spots on Honeymoon Island State Park. The park is also popularly known for harboring the mightiest fish species like snook, kingfish, ladyfish, and many others. The beach can hook you up with marine equipment on rental.

Besides fishing and watersports, you can opt to ride a bike or explore walking trails that connect to other unspoiled islands like Caladesi.

It’s common to see visitors taking a walk on the island’s vast, sugar-white sandy shorelines. And when it’s time to relax, there are a couple of shops for coffee, ice cream, and food.

12. Clearwater Beach

• Distance from Spring Hill: 50 miles
• Travel time: 1h 5min
• Activities: boating, swimming, kayaking, fishing, jet-skiing, paddle boarding, shell hunting, snorkeling

One of Florida’s finest and biggest beaches worth exploring is Clearwater Beach. This gem is always abuzz with activity 24/7 and, therefore, a top choice for holiday and family picnics. 

Any water activity you can think of takes place on this trendy shoreline. You can dive into its emerald-colored water or simply enjoy a walk across the sugary white sandy coastline.

Not only is Clearwater beach a stone’s throw distance from restaurants and hotels. It’s also close to water sports rental equipment like boats, canoes, and kayaks. There are plenty of umbrella shades to rest under as you watch life goes by. 

Besides its blue waters and sugar-white sands, this spot is also popularly known for having one of the longest fishing piers from where you can fish or enjoy tranquil sunset moments. At night, many bars along the coast remain open for business.

The beach is usually abuzz with private boat tours. You can hire one to ride across the extensive coastline and other close-by zones to catch magnificent dolphin views. There is also rich marine life to observe, such as stingrays and manatees.

As one of the busiest beaches in the area, there is always a lifeguard on duty all year round. And every once in a while, you might be lucky to indulge yourself in lively performances from street artists amongst other special event celebrations.

Beaches in Florida:

• Homestead
• Homosassa
• Lakeland
• New Port Richey
• Ocala
• Port St Lucie

Lakes in Florida:

• Gainesville
• Jacksonville
• Tallahassee

Parks in Florida:

• Clearwater
• Destin
• Gainesville
• Jacksonville
• Naples
• Tallahassee

Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio are the two most popular options, offering swimming, boating, sailing, and camping.

Several neighboring towns have community lakes suitable for tranquil fishing and paddling. And those who enjoy hiking can venture to Soda Lake to explore the unique habitat of this ancient lakebed.

Learn more about the area and discover what Paso Robles has to offer!

Lakes near Paso Robles:

1. Lake Nacimiento
2. Lake San Antonio
3. Atascadero Lake
4. Whale Rock Reservoir
5. Santa Margarita Lake
6. Laguna Lake
7. Lopez Lake
8. Soda Lake

1. Lake Nacimiento

• Website: Lake Nacimiento
• Distance from Paso Robles: 20 miles (30 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing

A drive of 20 miles northwest of downtown Paso Robles takes visitors to the earthen dam that created Lake Nacimiento in 1957. 

Managed by the Monterey County Water Resources Agency, this impoundment along the Nacimiento River in San Luis Obispo County transformed a narrow waterway into a great recreation and camping location. 

The dam generates hydroelectricity, provides water for irrigation and reduces downriver flood risk. 

Some locals refer to this body of water as “Dragon Lake” due to the shape it has assumed within the valley. 

After passing the dam, water in the Nacimiento River flows into the Salinas River.

Located approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Lake Nacimiento has a shoreline spanning almost 165 miles, a length of 18 miles, and a surface area that usually ranges around 5,370 acres.

Lake Nacimiento Resort is a popular commercial property that offers access. With a Mediterranean-like climate, guests enjoy outdoor activities along this reservoir. 

Swimming, fishing, water skiing, wakeboarding, boating, hiking, and enjoying wildlife are common pastimes.

Anglers enjoy visiting this lake, the only one in California regularly stocked with white bass. Species found here include bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegills. 

Mercury from legacy mining operations has led to fishing advisories people should observe before consuming fish from the lake. 

A state record 52 lbs. minnow carp was caught by a lure in this lake in 1968.

2. Lake San Antonio

• Website: Lake San Antonio
• Distance from Paso Robles: 30 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing

A road trip that is a little more than 30 miles northwest of Paso Robles, Lake San Antonio took shape as a central California reservoir after the San Antonio Dam went into operation in 1967. 

Designed for flood protection, this dam serves a similar function as the one impounding Lake Nacimiento – to control the downriver flow along the San Antonio River and regulate water levels in the Salinas River for fish passage and groundwater recharge. 

This dam that holds the nearly 17-mile-long lake with approximately 100 miles of shoreline is also managed by the Monterey County Water Resources Agency.

Monterey County’s Lake San Antonio Recreation Area is the best place to experience this reservoir, which has a surface area of over 5,700 acres. 

Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, swimming, water skiing, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, and horseback riding at two separate recreation areas: the North Shore’s 1,180 acres and the South Shore’s 3,020 acres. 

Those who fish in the reservoir may see deer and other wildlife perched on the nearby hills as they cast their lines. 

Common fish found in Lake San Antonio include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie, and striped bass.

3. Atascadero Lake

• Website: Atascadero Lake
• Distance from Paso Robles: 15 miles (20 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking, Biking

Atascadero Lake is located 15 miles south of Paso Robles, in Atascadero. This municipal lake sits within a shallow, small basin that used to fill after the winter rains and largely disappeared during the summer. 

This small pond was a gathering place for the Salinan Indians long ago. When E.G. Lewis planned to develop Atascadero in 1913, he hired engineers and crews to expand the pond’s basin and touted the lake in his promotional brochures. 

Before the city was formally incorporated, San Luis Obispo County deepened the basin in 1962. 

The 30.5-acre lake has an average depth of 6.85 feet, though droughts in the semi-arid climate will lower water levels. 

Located on its northern shore, Atascadero Lake Park has a playground, trails, workout areas, and the Charles Paddock Zoo. 

Paddle boats are available for rental. 

Those who enjoy fishing will find bass, bluegill, bullhead, channel catfish, sunfish, sturgeon, crappie, and steelhead. 

4. Whale Rock Reservoir

• Website: Whale Rock Reservoir
• Distance from Paso Robles: 23 miles (35 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Picnics, Hiking, Biking

Located 23 miles southwest of downtown and less than a mile from the Pacific coastline, Whale Rock Reservoir impounds Old Creek, a short distance from the community of Cayucos. 

Built by the state’s Department of Water Resources in 1961 and managed by San Luis Obispo County’s Public Works, this impoundment serves as a source of drinking water.

Public access to Whale Rock Reservoir is permitted, but boating of any kind is prohibited. 

Three miles of trails and a picnic area offer excellent birdwatching sites. 

Year-round fishing is permitted at the reservoir. Fish commonly found within its clear waters include catfish, bluegill, bass, and steelhead.

5. Santa Margarita Lake

• Website: Santa Margarita Lake
• Distance from Paso Robles: 33 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Camping, Hiking

A drive along a section of US Highway 101 a little more than 30 miles south-southeast of town allows visitors to experience Santa Margarita Lake. 

Also known as the Salinas Reservoir, this impoundment of the Salinas River was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1941 to guarantee a reliable source of drinking water for Camp San Luis Obispo. 

Today, the 1,100-acre reservoir also is a water source for the City of San Luis Obispo. 

San Luis Obispo County Parks provides public access to Santa Margarita Lake. Although body-contact restrictions prohibit swimming, water skiing, and personal watercraft, activities such as year-round fishing and boating are allowed. 

The Santa Margarita Lake Natural Area offers activities such as hiking, biking, equestrian riding, and wildlife viewing in the open space near the reservoir. 

Anglers who visit this lake will enjoy its peaceful nature and excellent fishing opportunities. Species commonly found in Santa Margarita Lake include crappie, catfish, bluegill, trout, and redear sunfish. 

6. Laguna Lake

• Website: Laguna Lake
• Distance from Paso Robles: 32 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking, Biking

Laguna Lake is located approximately 32 miles to the south, in San Luis Obispo. 

This seasonal reservoir has historically grown in size as runoff from Sycamore Canyon, Prefumo Canyon, and watersheds within the Los Osos Valley have flowed into it. 

Urbanization in the area, the re-routing of Prefumo Creek, and other factors have increased sediment deposits, an issue the city has started to address. 

San Luis Obispo has crafted a Laguna Lake Natural Reserve Conservation Plan to guarantee that birding, picnicking, boating, and fishing in the area will continue. 

The Laguna Lake Natural Reserve, 344 acres in size, includes the lake, a popular place to fish for largemouth bass, black crappie, and spotted bass. 

7. Lopez Lake

• Website: Lopez Lake
• Distance from Paso Robles: 46 miles (55 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing

A 46-mile drive south of Paso Robles, Lopez Lake took shape after a dam impounded Arroyo Grande Creek in 1969. 

This reservoir provides drinking water for nearby communities along the Pacific Coast in San Luis Obispo County. 

The Lake Lopez Recreation Area is a perfect destination for those who want to visit this reservoir, which averages between 950 and 1,000 surface acres. 

Popular activities include camping, boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, birdwatching, and mountain biking. 

The Arboleda Group Day Use Area is a place for large gatherings and reunions. 

The park hosts more than 150 bird species and over 175 different types of flowering plants. 

Boats are permitted within the lake, unlike some drinking water reservoirs that only permit fishing from embankments. 

The lake’s 22 miles of shoreline make this an ideal destination for fishing. Top catches here include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, and spotted bass, along with sunfish. 

8. Soda Lake

• Website: Soda Lake
• Distance from Paso Robles: 60 miles (1hr 10min)
• Activities: Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Photography, Birding

Sixty miles southeast of Paso Robles, Soda Lake offers a different recreational experience. 

This lakebed usually remains dry, though its outline as an alkali waterbed is visible to those who visit the Carrizo Plain National Monument, a federal preserve established in 2001. 

Situated in an area that receives very little rain, much of the water that hovers near or above the surface has a salty crust upon it. 

Located in an area of the Central Valley that once had vast grasslands, this remote region is known for its ridges and ravines, as well as lowland dry pond areas where rain accumulates during the infrequent precipitation. 

Once a year, this area comes alive with a wildflower display that stretches for as far as an eye can see. Springtime, and April in particular, are the best times to experience Soda Lake.

Those who visit this area should plan to bring plenty of water and supplies since services are limited. 

Anglers can leave their gear at home since only brine and fairy shrimp are usually found here. 

More Lakes in California:

• Bakersfield
• Bishop
• Fresno
• Lake Tahoe
• Modesto
• Mt Shasta
• Palm Springs
• Sacramento
• Temecula

Trails in California:

• Santa Ynez
• Vista
• Pismo Beach
• Big Sur Coast
• Santa Rosa
• Escondido
• Fresno
• Moreno Valley

Bay Area Trails:

• Lake Chabot
• Alameda
• Fremont
• San Francisco
• Henry W. Coe State Park
• Mendocino National Forest

Beaches in California:

• Fremont

Yet, there are several smaller lakes in the area that offer a more cozy and tranquil experience. Visitors who don’t like to worry about wind gusts and powerful waves will find plenty of options.

Many of these lakes are parts of state parks with campgrounds and hiking trails. Some offer swimming beaches and allow motorboating. 

In winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating at some of these lakes.

Learn more about the area and discover what Buffalo has to offer!

Lakes near Buffalo:

1. Hoyt Lake
2. Como Lake
3. Green Lake
4. Darien Lakes
5. Silver Lake
6. Bond Lake
7. Tillman Road WMA
8. Lake Erie
9. Lake Ontario

1. Hoyt Lake

• Website: Hoyt Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 3 miles (10 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking, Biking, Ice Skating

Located three miles north of downtown, Hoyt Lake is a signature waterway within Delaware Park. 

This 350-acre grassland was constructed by Olmsted, Vaux & Co. in the early 1870s, with Meadow Park on the eastern half and the water park on the west. 

Crews impounded a section of Scajaquada Creek to create what was originally known as Gala Water. It was renamed Hoyt Lake in 1980. 

A 1.1-mile trail surrounds the lake and offers access to the meadow areas. The park offers a variety of community activities. 

The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy maintains the lake and adjacent urban forest. Rowboats are available for rental, with the lake’s fountain usually operating between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

Numerous cultural heritage sites sit near the lake. These include the Buffalo History Museum, the Rose and Japanese Gardens, and the site of Shakespeare in Delaware Park. The park also has athletic fields and other outdoor recreation sites.

Those who visit Hoyt Lake may fish. Although swimming is not permitted, fishing has become very popular. Fish commonly found here include channel carp, bass, bluegill, perch, and pumpkinseed.

Guests may also bring their personal kayak or canoe into Delaware Park.

2. Como Lake

• Website: Como Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 12 miles (25 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Picnics, Hiking, Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Sledding

Located in Lancaster, 12 miles east of downtown Buffalo, Como Lake was formed inside a park acquired by Erie County in 1926. 

The village of Lancaster donated the original 80 acres of what has grown into a 534-acre park. 

Named for an Italian resort town, the park’s 4 ½ acre artificial lake crafted along Cayuga Creek became a popular spot for an ice skating rink in the early years. 

A lighthouse and other features were later added, including a toboggan run and zoo that has since been removed. 

Visitors to Como Lake enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. These include hiking, biking, sports games, disc golf, picnicking, sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and enjoying nature. 

In addition to playgrounds and a dog park, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty along the Cayuga Creek Nature Trail and footbridges to two islands by the lake. 

Fishing is permitted within Como Lake. While watching belted kingfishers, American kestrels, and eastern screech owls overhead, anglers can cast a line for bass, common carp, steelhead, and rainbow trout. 

3. Green Lake

• Website: Green Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 15 miles (20 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Hiking, Biking

Located 15 miles south-southeast of downtown, Green Lake is an impoundment of the South Branch of Smoke Creek. 

Created after the construction of an earthen dam on the lake’s northwestern side in 1909, this 20-acre reservoir is a popular destination for residents of Orchard Park and their guests. 

Yates Park, on the lake’s north end, has a variety of recreational facilities. The beach and swimming area are open during the summer months. 

Picnic shelters, bocce courts, a basketball court, hiking areas, a baseball diamond, and the town’s recreation building also sit within the park. 

Anglers may fish from the shoreline or bring a non-motorized kayak or canoe to Green Lake. 

Fish commonly found in this body of water include largemouth bass, fathead minnows, grass carp, yellow perch, black crappie, and golden shiners. 

4. Darien Lakes

• Website: Harlow Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 25 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Snowmobiling

A drive 25 miles east of downtown offers visitors a chance to visit Harlow Lake in Darien Lakes State Park. 

Not to be confused with Six Flags Darien Lakes, this 1,845-acre state park offers a quiet retreat for those who like modest hills, woodlands, visits to Ellicott Creek, and time at a lake. 

Visitors to this state park enjoy hiking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, hunting, disc golfing, and camping. 

Seasonal swimming is usually permitted from June through September, with campsites available from mid-May through early October. 

Although some facilities within the park close during the winter, trails are available for cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowmobiling. An outdoor skating rink is a popular attraction in Genesee County. 

Visitors wishing to fish can try their luck at catching the bass found within Harlow Lake. 

5. Silver Lake

• Website: Silver Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 53 miles (1hr 5min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice-Fishing

Silver Lake is located in eastern Wyoming County, a little more than 50 miles east-southeast of downtown Buffalo. 

Originally a glacial lake created during the last Ice Age, the body of water was slightly adjusted when crews constructed an impoundment along the lake’s outlet in the village of Perry in 1982. 

This lake, with an average of 836 surface acres, serves as a local water source and recreation site. 

Along the southern shore, Silver Lake State Park offers a comfortable retreat for picnicking, fishing, and boating along the lake. Ice fishing is permitted when conditions allow. 

A smaller park that visitors can enjoy is Perry Public Beach on Silver Lake’s upper eastern shore. Although swimming is not permitted within the lake, this park provides another vantage point to enjoy bank fishing or other recreational activities. 

During the summer, this park attracts crowds with annual Shakespeare performances in an event known as Shake on the Lake.

A popular fishing destination a few miles west of Letchworth State Park, Silver Lake is home to a variety of fish species. 

These include bass, walleye, northern pike, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, bullhead, yellow perch, and white sucker. 

6. Bond Lake

• Website: Bond Lake
• Distance from Buffalo: 25 miles (35 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Hiking, Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Sledding, Ice Skating

Located approximately 25 miles north of the city, Bond Lake is one of five notable lakes within the boundary of Bond Lake Park. 

Thirty-seven acres in size, Bond Lake originally served as the site of a limestone quarry in the late 1800s. 

The 531-acre park in which the lake sits is part of the Niagara Escarpment and includes opportunities for hiking, fishing, biking, picnicking, canoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing. 

Visitors to Bond Lake Park have access to a disc golf course and approximately 13 miles of trails perfect for birdwatching. 

An 18-hole disc golf course offers summertime recreation opportunities, while winter visitors will enjoy an ice skating rink and other cold-weather recreation options. 

The Warming House located in this park is a popular rental venue for weddings.

Those fishing along Bond Lake will find an abundance of largemouth bass. Other fish commonly found here include black bullhead, common carp, smallmouth bass, and occasional bluegill. 

7. Tillman Road WMA

• Website: Tillman Road (WMA)
• Distance from Buffalo: 17 miles (25 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing

Tillman Road Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is 17 miles northeast of the heart of Buffalo. 

Once used for farming and gravel mining, the 239 acres within this preserve include numerous wetland areas and two ponds that once served as quarries. 

Trails allow access to many areas of this WMA, great for wildlife viewing and birdwatching near cattail marsh during migratory seasons. 

Species found in this conservation tract include Canada geese, herons, cottontail rabbits, white-tailed deer, beavers, and muskrats.

Since the state acquired this site in 1977, Tillman Road WMA has become a popular site for anglers. Fishing is available in the ponds on site. 

While year-round access is possible, swimming and the use of motorized vehicles are prohibited. 

8. Lake Erie

• Website: Lake Erie
• Distance from Buffalo: 0 miles (0 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice-Fishing, Ice Boating

Lake Erie reaches its westernmost boundary in the Buffalo area before channeling into the Niagara River. 

Numerous parks and recreation areas along the city’s waterfront offer opportunities to enjoy lakefront activities. 

Unity Island Park and Broderick Park offer access to Unity Island. Within view of the Peace Bridge, this island once served as a point where fugitive slaves passed into Canada on the Underground Railroad at the Niagara River.

Lasalle Park sits at the junction of the Niagara River and Lake Erie, a place for everything from rollerblading to jogging. 

The Buffalo Waterfront includes the Outer Harbor with its trails and bike park, and Canalside, the site where the Erie Canal ended in 1825, a location for festivals and concerts. 

Buffalo Harbor State Park has a marina with 1,100 slips and boat launches. Tifft Nature Preserve covers 264 waterfront acres once considered the site of a landfill. 

Lake Erie is a popular fishing destination in any season. It holds multiple state records, including the one for 3 lbs. 8 oz. yellow perch that was caught in Erie County’s section of Lake Erie in 1982. 

9. Lake Ontario

• Website: Lake Ontario
• Distance from Buffalo: 32 miles (35 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Picnics, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice-Fishing, Ice Boating

Just like Lake Erie, Lake Ontario offers dozens of access points and plenty of activities in any season.

Numerous water parklands along the Niagara River welcome visitors. These include Niagara Falls State Park, Whirlpool State Park, Devil’s Hole State Park, Joseph Davis State Park, and Old Fort Niagara. 

Numerous other water recreation opportunities, such as the seasonal Maid of the Mist boat tours, also exist. 

Nearby sites along Lake Ontario include Four Mile Creek State Park (32 miles north), Wilson-Tuscarora State Park (33 miles north), Golden Hill State Park (50 miles northeast), and Lakeside State Park (approximately 60 miles northeast). 

More Lakes in New York:

• Albany
• Cooperstown
• Lake George
• New York
• Syracuse
• Utica

Beaches in New York:

• Rochester

Lake Lawtonka is a popular choice managed by the city and holds state fishing records. It offers swimming, paddling, boating, and camping opportunities as well.

Most of the lakes are less than an hour’s drive away, and many have multiple access points and marinas. 

Learn more about the area and discover what Lawton has to offer!

Lakes near Lawton:

1. Elmer Thomas Lake
2. Lake Lawtonka
3. Lake Ellsworth
4. Rush Lake
5. Lake Jed Johnson
6. Quanah Parker Lake
7. Lake Louis Burtschi
8. Waurika Lake
9. Lake Humphreys
10. Clear Creek Lake
11. Tom Steed Reservoir

1. Elmer Thomas Lake

• Website: Elmer Thomas Lake
• Distance from Lawton: 16 miles (25 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Located a little more than 15 miles northwest of downtown Lawton, Elmer Thomas Lake honors Elmer Thomas (1876–1965), a longtime US Senator from Oklahoma. 

The US Fish and Wildlife Service created this lake, which averages between 334 and 360 surface acres, in 1993 from a stream connected with Little Medicine Creek. 

With over nine miles of shoreline, this lake stands out along the hilly, rocky, and prairie landscape surrounding it. 

Most people access this reservoir at Fort Sill’s Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area (LETRA), which sits mostly on the lake’s southern shore. 

Open to the public, LETRA provides year-round access with cabins, camping, disc golf, and miniature golf courses, as well as an archery range and other recreational facilities. Paintball activities are also scheduled at LETRA. 

Guests can rent kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft while visiting.

Anglers visiting LETRA and the lake have great locations for shoreline fishing. The two fish found in the lake’s waters most frequently are channel catfish and largemouth bass. 

2. Lake Lawtonka

• Website: Lake Lawtonka
• Distance from Lawton: 15 miles (25 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics

A drive fifteen miles northwest of Lawton, Lake Lawtonka is a larger lake sibling one-half mile to the northeast of Elmer Thomas Lake. 

It was created by an impoundment built along Medicine Creek to provide drinking water to the city, Fort Sill, and other communities in the area. 

Located immediately north of Medicine Park, the 2,325 surface acres reservoir is managed by Lawton and offers a day-use area, along with opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and hunting. 

Multiple access points are provided for visitors, including marinas and a day-use beach on the eastern shore. 

Hikers who want a panoramic view of Lawtonka Lake and Elmer Thomas Lake may climb Mount Scott, located immediately west of Lawtonka and a short distance north of Elmer Thomas.

Those who enjoy fishing will find a lot to enjoy when visiting Lake Lawtonka. Common species include saugeye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, blue catfish, and channel catfish. 

The state record smallmouth bass, a fish weighing 8 lbs. 7 oz., was caught here in 2012. A 2 lbs. 12.8 oz. spotted sucker was landed by bow & arrow in 2021.

3. Lake Ellsworth

• Website: Lake Ellsworth
• Distance from Lawton: 20 miles (25 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics

Twenty miles north of Lawton, Lake Ellsworth is another reservoir managed by the city. 

Developed after a dam went into operation along the lake’s southern shore in 1962, this 5,220-acre reservoir is more than double the size of Lake Lawtonka. 

Similar to Lawtonka, Lake Ellsworth was established as a reliable water source for Lawton and other nearby communities. 

East Cache Creek is the primary source of the lake’s water, though other, smaller creeks also drain into the lake, creating shallow areas and sloughs along its 53 miles of shoreline. 

The noticeable size of Lake Ellsworth makes it an ideal location for a variety of water recreation opportunities. 

In addition to fishing, visitors come to this lake to enjoy jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, sailboating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. 

A city-managed campground is located at the lake for those who wish to extend their stay. Boat ramps offer convenient lake access.

Anglers who come to Lake Ellsworth enjoy fishing along the embankment and fishing piers, as well as in a vessel. 

Stocked with saugeye, this lake is also home to crappie, sunfish, walleye, white bass, channel and flathead catfish, and largemouth bass. 

4. Rush Lake

• Website: Rush Lake
• Distance from Lawton: 21 miles (30 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Rush Lake is a little more than 20 miles northwest of downtown, situated in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. 

This federal preserve has nearly 60,000 acres of granite mountains, streams, lakes, and mixed grass prairie that offer great wildlife viewing of herds of elk, longhorn, and bison. 

The 51-acre lake occupies a natural lowland within the wildlife refuge, created by a dam constructed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in 1934.

Visitors to the lake and nearby parts of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge may enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. These include birdwatching, hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, and wildlife photography. 

Those who bring rod and reel to Rush Lake can try their luck at catching largemouth bass, rock bass, black crappie, green sunfish, redear sunfish, and bluegill.

5. Lake Jed Johnson

• Website: Lake Jed Johnson
• Distance from Lawton: 21 miles (30 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Less than a mile southeast of Rush Lake, Lake Jed Johnson is another fish and wildlife pond created when a dam was constructed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in the late 1930s. 

Named for Jed Joseph Johnson, Sr (1888-1963), an attorney, judge, and member of Congress, this 59-acre reservoir within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge includes a trail. 

A notable feature along the lakefront is the Jed Johnson Tower, a fire tower built in 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps as a lookout location for fires in the prairie. The tower sits along the Jed Johnson Trail, a one-mile round-trip pathway.

Visitors to this section of the wildlife refuge enjoy hiking and running, as well as casting a line for fish. 

Species found within Lake Jed Johnson include rock bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, black crappie, and bluegill. 

Related: Lake Jed Johnson Recreational Guide

6. Quanah Parker Lake

• Website: Quanah Parker Lake
• Distance from Lawton: 22 miles (30 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Twenty-two miles northwest of the city, Quanah Parker Lake is another reservoir found in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. 

Quanah Creek and Crater Creek converge in an area where federal crews built a dam in 1936. This lake has three miles of shoreline and spans 89 surface acres. 

Popular recreation activities at Quanah Parker Lake and the surrounding areas include hiking nature trails, rock climbing, and fishing. 

Guests who wish to stay overnight may secure a site at Doris Campground to enjoy night-sky viewing in an area within a cedar forest. 

Anglers may bring electric-trolling and hand-powered boats into the lake. Canoeing and kayaking are also enjoyable pastimes. 

Fish found within Quanah Parker Lake include channel catfish, largemouth bass, small bass, black crappie, sunfish, and bluegill. 

7. Lake Louis Burtschi

• Website: Lake Louis Burtschi
• Distance from Lawton: 37 miles (50 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Camping, Picnics

Located 37 miles northeast of Lawton, Lake Louis Burtschi was created in the 1940s, with improvements to the impoundment on the lake’s east side in 1990. 

This reservoir spans between 160 and 180 acres and is maintained by the Oklahoma Wildlife Department. 

Facilities include two fishing piers, five fishing jetties, two boat ramps, and a picnic area. Tallgrass prairies and some forested areas are near the lake. 

With a maximum depth of 30 feet and an average of five feet, Lake Burtschi was designed to serve as an excellent fishing destination within Grady County. 

Saugeye was recently introduced to a lake already enjoying good populations of crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish. 

Spotted, striped, and smallmouth bass, along with alligator gar and flathead catfish, are also occasionally caught here. 

8. Waurika Lake

• Website: Waurika Lake
• Distance from Lawton: 40 miles (50 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Swimming, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, Hiking

Waurika Lake is a 10,000-acre reservoir 40 miles southeast of Lawton. It’s a popular recreational lake with a wide selection of activities.

Waurika Lake has half a dozen access areas managed by the Corps of Engineers. Most of which provide boat ramps, campgrounds, and picnic shelters. 

For first-time visits, Waurika Lake Marina near Hastings is an ideal choice. It’s a family-friendly place with a designated swimming area, camping, and kayak rentals. 

Thanks to the multiple launching ramps and a large surface area, Waurika Lake is excellent for boating activities. Pontoon cruising, wakeboarding, and tubing are all allowed here.

Also, the shore access is easy and unrestricted, visitors can put in a kayak or canoe almost anywhere they like. 

Unlike many other reservoirs, Waurika Lake isn’t stocked with largemouth. Instead, it’s a striped bass lake. Striped bass grows to larger sizes, and together with blue catfish, these are the two most common species in this lake.

9. Lake Humphreys

• Website: Lake Humphreys
• Distance from Lawton: 31 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics

Lake Humphreys is 31 miles east of Lawton. One of the lakes in the Duncan area, this reservoir took shape in 1958 after the construction of an earthen dam. 

With a surface area that spans from 840 to 880 surface acres, Lake Humphreys has over 16 miles of shoreline, a campground, three boat ramps, and areas for hiking and picnicking. 

The City of Duncan manages the lake and its recreation facilities. 

Located ten miles northeast of Duncan, Lake Humphreys is a popular place to fish in this part of Oklahoma. Bow fishing is permitted, and wildlife is found in the area. 

Anglers have good opportunities to catch white bass, largemouth bass, saugeye, and catfish. 

10. Clear Creek Lake

• Website: Clear Creek Lake
• Distance from Lawton: 37 miles (45 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics

Thirty-seven miles east of Lawton and less than two miles east of Lake Humphreys, Clear Creek Lake has 11 miles of shoreline and 600 surface acres. 

Similar to nearby Lake Humphreys, Clear Creek Lake is one of the major bodies of water in the Duncan area. Popular activities include swimming, camping, fishing, and hunting. 

Anglers who visit Clear Creek Lake will find plenty of places to cast a line. The reservoir is stocked with crappie, catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass. 

11. Tom Steed Reservoir

• Website: Tom Steed Reservoir
• Distance from Lawton: 53 miles (1hr 5min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Picnics

A drive of 53 miles northwest of downtown Lawton, the Tom Steed Reservoir covers approximately 6,400 surface acres. 

Created by an impoundment along West Otter Creek, this lake provides water to nearby communities, including Snyder, Frederick, and Altus. 

Located in the foothills of Wichita Mountain, the area near the lake offers miles of excellent mountain biking opportunities, along with hiking trails and opportunities to visit granite boulder fields. 

Great Plains State Park sits alongside part of this reservoir, also known as Tom Steed Lake. 

Visitors to the area can see the remains of the old Gold Bells Mill and Mine, located near the former site of a settlement named Wildman, which has since completely vanished. 

Park visitors can fish along many segments of Tom Steed Reservoir’s 31 miles of shoreline, bring their vessels to launch into the lake and try to catch the catfish, crappie, bass, and other fish within this notable body of water. 

More Lakes in Oklahoma:

• Oklahoma City
• Tulsa

Visitors can experience mountain lakes with a short summer season which are great for escaping summer’s heat.

The valley below the High Sierras is home to some of the largest recreational reservoirs in California that operate year-round.

Most of the lakes allow swimming, boating, and camping, while anglers can enjoy warm and cold-water fishing.

There is something for everyone here. Learn more about the area and discover what Arnold has to offer!

Lakes near Arnold:

1. White Pines Lake
2. New Melones Lake
3. Beardsley Lake
4. Spicer Meadow Reservoir
5. Utica Reservoir
6. Union Reservoir
7. Lake Alpine
8. Pardee Reservoir
9. New Hogan Lake
10. Camanche Reservoir
11. Don Pedro Lake

1. White Pines Lake

• Website: White Pines Lake
• Distance from Arnold: 1 mile (5 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

A mile north of downtown Arnold, White Pines Lake was created in 1970. A 26-acre impoundment of San Antonio Creek, this tranquil lake surrounded by hills and forests also receives inflow from Big Trees Creek. 

Created after a lumber mill in the hamlet of White Pines closed, the original plan was for the lake to be surrounded by a residential subdivision that American Forest Products, Inc. intended to build between Arnold and Camp Connell. 

Designed to attract prospective homebuyers, the lake remained surrounded by nature as development plans fell through.

The Calaveras County Water District acquired the lake and surrounding land in 1977. The clear waters within the lake serve as a community water source. 

The White Pines Park Committee plays an important role in maintaining picnic areas, the beach site, BBQ pits, and other amenities along the lakeshore. 

A designated swimming area is available for seasonal swimming, with boating and fishing not permitted in that section of the lake. A disc-golf course is available near the lake.

Anglers who visit White Pines Lake will find largemouth bass and rainbow trout to be the predominant species. Black crappie and bluegill also swim in these waters.

2. New Melones Lake

• Website: New Melones Lake
• Distance from Arnold: 25 miles (40 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing

A drive of 25 miles south-southwest of Arnold, New Melones Lake took shape after the US Army Corps of Engineers built a hydroelectric dam on the Stanislaus River. 

Constructed to generate hydroelectricity, the earth and rockfill dam also supplies water for communities and irrigation and has created new recreation opportunities in Calaveras County. 

With an average of 12,500 surface acres, this reservoir near Mother Lode – where the 1849 California Gold Rush began – is the state’s fourth-largest in size. 

The trip from Arnold to New Melones is an elevation drop of more than 2,900 feet.

New Melones Lake is a popular recreation site. Activities include sailing, swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing, wakeboarding, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, camping, and hiking. 

Federal recreation areas at Glory Hole and Tuttletown are popular destinations.

Those who enjoy fishing will find a variety of species in this reservoir. Bass, Kokanee salmon, bluegill, back crappie, channel catfish, and rainbow trout swim here.

3. Beardsley Lake

• Website: Beardsley Lake
• Distance from Arnold: 37 miles (1hr 35min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics, Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, Tubing, Windsurfing

A mountainous trip a little more than 35 miles east of Arnold allows visitors to experience Beardsley Lake. 

Created as an impoundment on the Stanislaus River’s Middle Fork, this reservoir spans between 650 and 720 surface acres. 

This dam impounding the lake, along with a smaller afterbay dam, were built in the late 1950s to generate hydroelectricity.

Located in Stanislaus National Forest, the Beardsley Reservoir has adjacent recreation facilities.

Although the lake is open year-round, facilities close during the winter season as roads may become impassable during heavy snow. 

Day-use areas at Beardsley on the lake’s southern shore and China Flat at the dam offer great locations to fish for brown, brook, and rainbow trout. 

The Beardsley Dam Campground and nearby TeleLi puLaya (Black Oak) Campground provide great night-sky viewing for overnight visitors.

4. Spicer Meadow Reservoir

• Website: Spicer Meadow Reservoir
• Distance from Arnold: 31 miles (50 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Spicer Meadow Reservoir is 31 miles northeast of Arnold in the Stanislaus National Forest. This impoundment of Highland Creek, a tributary of the Stanislaus River, can extend up to 2,000 surface acres when full. 

The dam, constructed in 1989, is managed by the Calaveras County Water District. 

Visitors to this area, with an elevation of 6,621 feet above sea level, enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding in a timbered setting. 

Low-speed boating is permitted in the lower part of the lake, with the northern arm set aside for canoeing and kayaking. 

Visitors who wish to stay overnight may camp at the Spicer Reservoir Campground. This High Sierra lake is known for its rainbow trout.

5. Utica Reservoir

• Website: Utica Reservoir
• Distance from Arnold: 31 miles (50 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics, ATV Trails

Thirty-one miles northeast of Arnold and a couple of miles north of the Spicer Meadow Reservoir, Utica Reservoir was developed after a dam was constructed along the North Fork of the Stanislaus River in 1903. 

Reachable during the warmer months by taking Spicer Reservoir Road, this lake spans approximately 240 acres in a rustic area. 

A popular summer and fall destination, the waters in this granite basin are located in forests of lodgepole pine and red fir. Visitors will notice many rocky islands along the water.

Campers may stay at two campsites along Utica Reservoir, Rocky Point and Sandy Flat. 

With an elevation of 6,800 feet, cool evenings continue into the summer at this location, popular for camping, boating, and fishing. 

Fish are not stocked in this reservoir, though an angler may see an occasional trout.

6. Union Reservoir

• Website: Union Reservoir
• Distance from Arnold: 31 miles (50 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

Located immediately southeast of Utica Reservoir, Union Reservoir is its 192-acre upriver sibling. 

A rockfill dam constructed in 1910 created this reservoir of the Stanislaus River’s North Fork in 1910. 

Together, these scenic reservoirs and their granite basins and forested surroundings attract visitors in the late spring, summer, and fall who want to escape to the higher elevations of Alpine County.

Guests who wish to stay overnight should attempt to secure a first come, first served space at either the Union East or Union West Campgrounds. 

Although this reservoir and nearby Utica are open year-round, winter visitors may find it difficult to gain access along high-elevation roads. 

Fish found within Union Reservoir include rainbow trout, brown trout, Kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass.

7. Lake Alpine

• Website: Lake Alpine
• Distance from Arnold: 28 miles (35 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing

Located a little more than 25 miles northeast of Arnold, Lake Alpine was created by a rockfill impoundment in 1891. Silver Creek flows from the other side of the dam. 

Visitors will enjoy views of Inspiration Point, casting a presence over the lake’s southeastern shore. 

Located in the Calaveras Ranger District of Stanislaus National Forest, this pleasant 170-acre lake offers opportunities to fish for trout, hike, camp, and enjoy high-elevation relaxation.

This lake is easily accessed from Route 4. It offers several campgrounds and a family-run lodge with a restaurant and boat rentals.

Winter visitors who venture to the area near the reservoir may enjoy activities in the Lake Alpine SNO-PARK. 

Located near the winter closure gate along California Highway 4, this area has become a popular destination for cross-country skiing, snow play, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.

8. Pardee Reservoir

• Website: Pardee Reservoir
• Distance from Arnold: 46 miles (55 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Picnics

A 46-mile drive towards Mokelumne Hill, Pardee Reservoir sits in the Sierra Nevada foothills. 

Between 1927 and 1929, crews built the 345-foot-high Pardee Dam that created this reservoir to store water from the down-mountain flow of the Mokelumne River. 

The East Bay Municipal Utility District collects water from the Pardee Reservoir to serve the San Francisco Bay region. 

As a source of drinking water, the Pardee Reservoir cannot be used by swimmers, jet skiers, or water skiers. 

Although body contact with water is prohibited, fishing may occur along the 37-mile shoreline and aboard vessels launched into the reservoir at the Pardee Recreation Area. 

Boat rentals are available. Day-use facilities include picnic areas and hiking trails. Visitors may reserve overnight camping sites.

Most guests fish for trout. Other common species found in the Pardee Reservoir include catfish, black bass, bluegill, crappie, and kokanee salmon. 

9. New Hogan Lake

• Website: New Hogan Lake
• Distance from Arnold: 43 miles (55 min)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Picnics, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing

New Hogan Lake became a reservoir for the forks of the Calaveras River after the New Hogan Dam came into service in 1964. 

Approximately 4,400 acres in size, this lake near Valley Springs collects water for drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. 

Vistas along the southern shore offer locations to spot grey foxes, turkeys, and mule deer, as well as the occasional eagle, bobcat, and mountain lion.

Along with a number of land-based activities, year-round fishing opportunities exist at Hogan Lake. Fishers commonly spot bass, bluegill, stripers, and catfish. Guides recommend casting a line in shallow water for some of the best catches.

Warm summertimes amidst the hills make this a popular spot for swimming as temperatures get into the 90s. 

The Acorn Campground offers a place to stay overnight. Seasonal hunting is permitted in some areas.

10. Camanche Reservoir

• Website: Camanche Reservoir
• Distance from Arnold: 47 miles (1 hr)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Picnics, Hiking, Biking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Tubing

A 47-mile drive from Arnold, the Camanche Reservoir represents a portion of the Mokelumne River resting above the Camanche Dam that began service in 1964. 

Flooding occasionally occurred along the lower sections of the Mokelumne River before the construction of this dam, one managed by the East Bay Municipal Utilities District.

The 7,700-acre reservoir has grown into a popular fishing, recreation, lodging, and camping destination. 

Anglers commonly see crappie, catfish, sunfish, bluegill, kokanee, and varieties of bass. A private entity under contract with the National Park Service manages concession operations. 

The former town of Camanche existed along some of the areas now submerged under the reservoir. As construction began in 1962, nearly 50 families abandoned the former town. 

11. Don Pedro Lake

• Official Page: Don Pedro Lake
• Distance from Arnold: 45 miles (1 hr)
• Activities: Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Camping, Hiking, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Tubing, Sailing, Windsurfing

At 13,000 acres, Don Pedro Lake is the 5th largest reservoir in California. It’s one of the highest-rated and visitor-friendly lakes in the area.

The reservoir is managed by its own recreation agency that offers two main access areas – Lake Don Pedro Marina and Moccasin Point. Both locations are well-developed and provide boat ramps, boat rentals, campgrounds, swimming areas, and more.

Camping is fantastic at the reservoir. Visitors can stay at developed campgrounds with full hookups and Wi-Fi or camp along the banks. Don Pedro Lake is one of a few places where dispersed shoreline camping is still allowed.

Don Pedro Lake is large enough to allow for all sorts of boating activities, including wakeboarding and sailing. And the marinas provide support and rentals. Plus, a houseboat community on the lake adds to the charm.

Fishing here is a unique experience. Thanks to the lake’s great depth, Don Pedro Reservoir has both cold and warm water species. From bass, crappie, and catfish to trout, kokanee, and Chinook, there are plenty of species to target.

Swimming is allowed at Don Pedro Lake. It has fantastic beaches that get pretty busy in summer. The surrounding area has a selection of hiking trails to warm up before cooling off.

Don Pedro Reservoir is extraordinarily versatile and well-managed. It gets some of the highest ratings in California.

More Lakes in California:

• Bakersfield
• Bishop
• Fresno
• Lake Tahoe
• Modesto
• Mt Shasta
• Palm Springs
• Sacramento
• Temecula

Trails in California:

• Santa Ynez
• Vista
• Pismo Beach
• Big Sur Coast
• Santa Rosa
• Escondido
• Fresno
• Moreno Valley

Bay Area Trails:

• Lake Chabot
• Alameda
• Fremont
• San Francisco
• Henry W. Coe State Park
• Mendocino National Forest

Beaches in California:

• Fremont

License plates from Florida become more common as many residents of that state escape to their summer retreat. 

Those from nearby Midwestern states such as Ohio arrive as school ends so the family can visit attractions such as Dollywood and make occasional escapes to a mountain trail.

Visitors unfamiliar with basic mountain-driving practices crowd into Newfound Gap Road. The weekend warriors try to see everything from Mingus Mill to Chimney Tops in a single day. 

The smell of overheated brake pads becomes noticeable to those with open windows as inexperienced drivers sometimes ride their brakes all the way down from Newfound Gap. 

More often than not, visitors will see cars pulled over along the roadway with people looking under the hood of overheated engines.

Total visits in July exceed two million, often reaching more than 2.5 million as crowds flock to all park entrances. 

The number of vehicles that drive near the Gatlinburg Bypass is at or above 300,000 during the month. More than 50,000 people camp or spend the evening in RVs in the park. 

Pros of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in July

• All recreation areas, trails, overlooks, campgrounds, and other public sites are open.
• Attractions, shops, facilities, and businesses in nearby areas are open.
• Wildflowers and wildlife are enjoyable to see during visits.
• A trip to the higher elevations in the park offers a cool escape from hotter areas at lower elevations. 

Cons of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in July

• Crowded roads do become the norm.
• Opportunities to experience all park areas may be limited due to crowds, lack of parking, or others with prior reservations.
• Those who arrive without advance reservations may not be able to secure rooms, campgrounds, or other amenities at the park and in the area.
• Drivers unfamiliar with mountain driving often slow traffic for others.

Weather in July

Lower Elevation (Park Headquarters, near Gatlinburg area)

• Average High: 88°F
• Average Low: 59°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 5.7 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: None
• Days of Precipitation: 10

Highest Elevation (Clingmans Dome)

• Average High: 65°F
• Average Low: 53°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 8.3 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: None
• Days of Precipitation: 13 days

During this prime month for visitation, many people who visit nearby communities such as Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Pigeon Forge experience hot weather, with temperatures soaring into the 90s.

Cherokee, Bryson City, and Maggie Valley on the North Carolina side tend to be a bit cooler. 

An afternoon drive into the Smokies from tourist destinations on the periphery offers opportunities to cool off, enjoy nature, and dip one’s feet in a stream. 

Rainfall is a part of life throughout the year in the park. While traveling on a curvy mountain road, sunny skies can turn into a humid haze, foggy clouds, drizzling rain, or a thundershower. 

Higher elevations maintain cooler temperatures, with places such as Mount LeConte rarely surpassing 80°F. 

Even in July, packing a light jacket is a sensible decision for those visiting locations such as Clingmans Dome or Andrews Bald, places where there are no obstructions to stop the occasional brisk breezes.

Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains in July

Touring:

Drivers who have visited in the past know to expect delays along Clingmans Dome Road, Newfound Gap Road, and Cades Cove Loop Road. 

Access to the one-lane, one-way loop road is restricted to bikes, pedestrians, and non-motorized vehicles on Wednesdays in July, so hikers and bikers do not have to navigate around miles of slow-moving vehicles. 

Here and throughout the park, bicycles are permitted on any road where vehicles are usually allowed, but not on hiking or horse trails. 

Those hoping to visit Cades Cove from Sevierville and Pigeon Forge often find it easier to get there by driving through Weirs Valley to the entrance near Townsend instead of heading west from the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

Download this National Park Map from nps.gov (pdf)

Parking spaces throughout the park are at a premium during afternoons and weekends, especially around July 4. 

Guests should expect to circle around the lot at the visitor centers at Oconaluftee and Cades Cove, and use the overflow lot at Sugarlands, where first-time visitors stop to enjoy the Cataract Falls. 

All visitor centers have expanded hours to handle the rush of visitors, including the large number who experience the Smokies only through their car windows.

Other roadways and sites that had fewer springtime visitors tend to get crowded early and often. 

Parking lots at trailheads such as Chimney Tops, Laurel Falls, and Alum Cave Bluffs frequently fill by mid-morning. 

A once-casual drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail can become an hours-long endeavor as cars clog the one-lane road that spills out into Gatlinburg. 

Equally crowded are sections of Glades Road as visitors outside of the park stop at various pottery and craft stores in the Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community.

Those who have visited the Smokies before know a few of the less-traveled areas. 

The Foothills Parkway, at the western end of the park, trails in the Deep Creek area near Bryson City. 

A visit to the Fontana Dam area or a drive to “The Road to Nowhere,” offer an escape from the crowds at other locations. 

Seeing Mingo Falls on the Cherokee Reservation or taking an extended drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway are other options to consider. 

Picnicking:

Some picnic areas fill quickly. This is especially true for sites along Newfound Gap Road, such as Chimneys and Collins Creek. 

Sites such as Metcalf Bottoms may also fill quickly, though tables are frequently available without delay at more remote sites, such as Look Rock, and the day-use area at Deep Creek.

Camping:

Frontcountry (developed) campgrounds at places such as Smokemont and Elkmont fill quickly during the summer months. 

Advance reservations are strongly recommended because hotels also fill quickly throughout the region. 

Those who take a chance at getting a last-minute camping space may find themselves checking into a hotel near Knoxville or Asheville instead. 

Permits for remote backcountry sites are also competitive for those who plan to turn a daytime hike into an overnight adventure. 

Tent campers who hike into the backcountry should set realistic expectations if they plan to visit multiple sites over a period of a few days, and make sure they can handle the substantial elevation gain between certain areas. 

Reservations for overnight stays at the hike-in LeConte Lodge on Mount LeConte also fill quickly.

Hiking:

Guests in July will share trails and pathways with a large number of guests. Certain spots, such as ranger-led talks at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, strolling to Mingus Mill, or climbing to Clingmans Dome are very popular. 

Other areas offer quiet reflection, such as small pioneer cemeteries near Sugarlands, at Cades Cove, and near Elkmont. 

Although the number of hikers along the Appalachian Trail also grows in number, short hikes along it or some of the park’s scenic byways offer a relaxing experience. 

Fishing:

Anglers will enjoy casting a line in some of the streams with trout populations. 

Those unfamiliar with the best spots should ask in surrounding towns, where they can also get the required Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license that covers the entire park. 

During the longer days of summer, as stream levels get to their natural levels after the spring thaw, fishing is permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.

Wildlife and Wildflowers

Birds and bears are top attractions. Casual visitors dream of seeing momma bears and their cubs from the comfort of their cars, while serious birdwatchers are on the lookout for the scarlet tanager, wood thrush, black-and-white warbler, and chirping sparrow, among other birds. 

Deer are commonly found walking through the forests and across nature trails, and drivers should exercise caution when turning on mountain curves or driving at night. 

Horseback riding opportunities are popular in the park during the summer. Those planning to visit during this busy season should confirm availability in advance at the concession sites operated at Cades Cove, Smokemount, and Sugarlands. 

With nearly 550 miles of trails within the Smokies available to riders, visitors may also bring their own horses but should be ready to encounter downed trees, some trail erosion, and overflowing streams after heavy rains. 

Although the last blooms of the rhododendrons have passed by early July, flame azaleas are still in bloom at higher elevations. Throughout the park, wildflowers are found at overviews, along trails, and near the roadway.

Events

A variety of events celebrating Independence Day are scheduled throughout the region. 

Lakes in Tennessee:

• Chatanooga
• Clarksville
• Gatlinburg
• Johnson City
• Memphis
• Pigeon Forge

State Parks in Tennessee:

• Chattanooga

Beaches in Tennessee:

• Nashville

Lakes in North Carolina:

• Asheville
• Boone
• Durham
• Fayetteville
• Greensboro
• Greenville
• Murphy
• Wilmington

Beaches in North Carolina:

• New Bern

Lightly-traveled roads within the park boundaries have fewer traffic jams, though the presence of elk, deer, or bears near the roadside may cause temporary congestion to occur as visibility within the hills and valleys increases after many trees shed their leaves.

While checking for road closures makes sense throughout the year, consulting advisories about temporary road closures in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and nearby roads is imperative in December. 

After entering the park, those unfamiliar with driving through it may wish to stop at visitor centers to check on updates. 

Although Newfound Gap Road (US Highway 441) between Cherokee and Gatlinburg is generally kept open throughout the year, there may be times when snow and ice accumulations require its temporary closure, especially late at night and early in the chilly morning.

While smaller crowds and fewer traffic jams within the park are reasons to visit in December, attractions and shopping opportunities in adjacent cities that thrive on visitors are also important magnets. 

Unlike spring, summer, and fall visitors who tend to spend long periods of time in the park to enjoy nature and escape the heat of the valley, many park visitors in December congregate at visitor centers. 

Some take short strolls on quiet walkways and put on layers for a quick, chilly stop at one of the scenic overviews.

Those willing to travel a short distance from the roadway will encounter solitude and scenic views. 

Rhododendrons and tall evergreen trees dot the landscape. Rocky mountain streams with patches of snow and large boulders are still in motion as the rest of the park slows down for winter.

In December, hiking and camping opportunities exist, and many roads normally clogged with cars in warmer months have become wide and safe paths for those who want to hike beyond the gates that keep vehicles out until springtime. 

Pros of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in December:

• Fewer people visit the park, offering opportunities for solitude.
• Hikes away from the roadway provide an escape from crowds and a chance to see snow-dusted mountains.
• Nearby cities become popular shopping destinations.
• Abundant Christmas and holiday light displays bring a sense of holiday cheer.
• Wildlife becomes easier to notice in areas where trees have shed their leaves.
• Ice formations may take shape along shallow stream areas and some waterfalls during prolonged cold weather. 

Cons of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in December:

• Many park facilities and notable roads are closed.
• Unexpected road closures may occur, requiring long detours.
• Hotel accommodations may become difficult to obtain in late December.
• Cold, wet rain is very common.
• Monitoring weather forecasts is mandatory.

Weather in December

Lower Elevation (Park Headquarters, near Gatlinburg area)

• Average High: 52°F
• Average Low: 28°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 4.5 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: 1 inch
• Days of Precipitation: 8

Highest Elevation (Clingmans Dome)

• Average High: 37°F
• Average Low: 21°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 7.3 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: 8 inches
• Days of Precipitation: 10

December is a time of ever-changing weather, especially with differences in elevation. 

While weather conditions in the southern Appalachians are generally more moderate than in northern latitudes, snowstorms and unsafe travel conditions may occur.

Notable weather extremes often occur between what one would find at the Oconaluftee and Sugarlands visitor centers than at higher elevations. 

Heed warning signs at entrances about possible snow and ice, even if temperatures at Cherokee and Gatlinburg are in the upper 50s or low 60s.

Most evening temperatures in the park drop below freezing in December. Drivers should pay close attention to the presence of icy fog, ice patches, and wildlife that may congregate along the warmer pavement after sunset. 

Tourists unfamiliar with mountain driving in winter weather should limit most travel to the daytime hours.

Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains in December

Touring:

Sometimes, traveling between popular destinations on opposite sides of the park can take much longer during December. 

When conditions call for the closure of Newfound Gap Road, a long eastward detour to Lake Junaluska near Asheville may be required as vehicles take Interstate 40. During very heavy periods of snow, even this more-gently sloping highway may close. 

Other peripheral roads may also close, such as the Foothills Parkway within the western park boundaries and the 43-mile Cherohala Skyway. 

This National Scenic Byway between Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and Robbinsville, North Carolina, crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, offering a shortcut to Chattanooga. 

Many sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will close by December, including all portions within the national park.

Numerous park roads will be closed to vehicular traffic by December. The gate at Clingmans Dome Road closes by December 1, earlier if necessary. 

Download this National Park Map from nps.gov (pdf)

Since the Newfound Gap averages nearly 70 inches of snow a year, those who enjoy hiking in the snow, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing sometimes ascend Clingmans Dome Road. 

Other notable park roads that close by December include Little Greenbrier Road, Rich Mountain Road, Parson Branch Road, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Many December visitors make short drives through the park before returning to surrounding communities to enjoy the holiday cheer and seasonal shopping excursions. 

Lights and stores along the Parkway are popular destinations, with many choosing to take the trolleys in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge so they can enjoy the light displays. 

Folk arts and crafts attract many visitors, including some at the stores in Gatlinburg’s Great Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts Community. 

While roads are less traveled in Cherokee, Maggie Valley, and Waynesville, seasonal lights and shopping opportunities attract visitors.

Picnicking:

Outdoor picnicking is not as popular in December as in June, but the sites that remain open do attract guests. 

Some may bundle up and eat there, but many others visit these sites for short walks along streams and winter photography. 

With Chimneys usually scheduled to close by December 1, the year-round picnic areas open for vehicles include Cades Cove, Greenbrier, Metcalf Bottoms, and Deep Creek.

Camping:

Two frontcountry (developed) campgrounds remain open in December and throughout the winter. 

Located four miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Smokemont has long been a year-round campsite. A gate along Newfound Gap Road just beyond Smokemont may be closed during periods of snow and ice. 

With the popular Elkmont usually closed at the end of November, the campground at the entrance to Cades Cove remains open.

Backcountry camping is permitted throughout the year, though some sites may become inaccessible during cold, snowy periods. 

Those who plan to stay at these locations should secure the necessary permits and notify park officials if they decide to cancel their overnight stays. 

Hiking:

Cold-weather hikers enjoy visits during this time when trails experience lighter traffic. 

All hikers should wear layers, preparing to remove or add them based upon external conditions and their body temperature. 

Those who plan longer hikes should also prepare for shorter days and the possibility that clouds or fog may reduce visibility along trails, including those with dangerous cliffs and unstable paths or rocks. 

Hikers should exercise care when crossing wooden bridges or logs across creeks that may have icy and slippery surfaces.

Laurel Falls remains a popular stopping place, even during December. One of the few paved trails in the park, this 2.3-mile round-trip journey to the falls may include ice formations. 

Although the Roaring Fork is closed to vehicular traffic, pedestrians may hike along it to destinations such as Grotto Falls. 

While traffic is much reduced during this time of year, a hike along the Alum Cave Bluffs trail is popular for those who enjoy mountain overlooks along this challenging hike.

Fishing:

Brook and brown trout remain active during the spawning season. Dedicated anglers grab their jackets and a fishing license from North Carolina or Tennessee and visit mountain streams throughout the park and in nearby areas.

Wildlife and Wildflowers

Although wildflowers are fewer in number during December, the snow-covered ground near evergreens attracts a lot of interest. 

Bears may hibernate during colder periods, but other wildlife remains visible as bare trees and fewer visitors increase opportunities to see animals in fields and along hillsides.

Events

Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, Gatlinburg: An annual event in early December, complete with marching bands and costumed characters.

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, Pigeon Forge: Music, cheer, and more than six-million lights welcome visitors to this popular attraction. 

New Year’s Eve Celebration, Fireworks, and Ball Drop at Gatlinburg: This family-focused end-of-the-year gathering has been a Gatlinburg tradition since 1987.

Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area, Ober Gatlinburg: Winter activities thrive atop the mountain. 

Pigeon Forge Winterfest: Lights cover the Pigeon Forge landscape between November and mid-February for visitors who enjoy this colder time of year.

Lakes in Tennessee:

• Chatanooga
• Clarksville
• Gatlinburg
• Johnson City
• Memphis
• Pigeon Forge

State Parks in Tennessee:

• Chattanooga

Beaches in Tennessee:

• Nashville

Lakes in North Carolina:

• Asheville
• Boone
• Durham
• Fayetteville
• Greensboro
• Greenville
• Murphy
• Wilmington

Beaches in North Carolina:

• New Bern

May is a transitional month in the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers a chance to see the blooming wildflowers and active wildlife while avoiding the peak summer crowds.

The remaining campgrounds and picnic areas that had closed in the fall are open by the middle of the month. 

Access to all roads within the park also resumes by late May, including sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Heintooga Ridge Road, Heintooga-Round Bottom Road with its one-way exit into the Cherokee reservation, and Parson Branch Road south of Cades Cove. 

The number of visitors increases as temperatures warm. Approximately 175,000-200,000 vehicles are counted coming into the north side of the park by the Gatlinburg Bypass in May. 

The total number of visits in May averages from 1.4 to 1.6 million. Between 25,000 and 30,000 camp or stay in their RVs when visiting. 

Pros of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in May: 

• Light traffic in some areas, such as Cades Cove and Roaring Fork, that will become very crowded after Memorial Day.
• Nearby cities such as Cherokee and Bryson City tend to have light traffic, even as the number of vehicles increases in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Cons of Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in May:

• Occasional cold fronts may cause chilly weather or sharp temperature differences.
• Some services and attractions remain closed into early May.
• Some hotels may not open until the period immediately before or during Memorial Day weekend, especially establishments in areas such as Cherokee and Maggie Valley.

Weather in May

Lower Elevation (Park Headquarters, near Gatlinburg area)

• Average High: 79°F
• Average Low: 50°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 4.5 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: None
• Days of Precipitation: 9

Highest Elevation (Clingmans Dome)

• Average High: 57°F
• Average Low: 43°F
• Monthly Precipitation: 6 inches
• Monthly Snowfall: Trace
• Days of Precipitation: 10

Snow flurries and icy patches are rare in May. However, visitors should be prepared for the possibility of an occasional chilly night along Newfound Gap Road (US Highway 441) between the Deep Creek Trailhead (North Carolina) and the Alum Cave Bluffs Trailhead (Tennessee), as well as Clingmans Dome Road, that may produce icy stretches of road.

Temperatures may vary significantly between lower elevations, such as at the visitor centers at Sugarlands and Oconaluftee, and areas such as Newfound Gap and higher sections of the Appalachian Trail. 

Temperatures in the mid-70s may easily drop below 50°F as guests reach higher elevations. Unpredictable weather and wide temperature fluctuations may occur well into May, so packing jackets and warm-weather clothes is a wise decision. 

Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains in May

Touring:

Traffic along Newfound Gap Road is generally light in the mornings during early May, with some areas experiencing congestion during the afternoons and weekends. 

Clingmans Dome Road may have some slowdowns on weekends, as well, though sufficient parking spaces should be available during the early part of the month. 

As Memorial Day approaches, parking spots at Newfound Gap and the trail to the Clingmans Dome observation tower become more difficult to obtain.

The southernmost sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway within the Smokies and up to the intersection with US Highways 23 and 74 near Waynesville should open by the middle of May. 

Balsam Mountain Road, also known as Heintooga Ridge Road, opens in May. 

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail near Gatlinburg usually opens in early April but remains sparsely traveled during the early part of May. This is an excellent time to enjoy this winding and narrow road to see the cabins and other historic buildings. 

The availability of parking lots to access trails to Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls remains good, and everyone enjoys water cascading down the Place of a Thousand Drips waterfall before leaving.

Download this National Park Map from nps.gov (pdf)

The Cades Cove Loop Road – often a spot that resembles an 11-mile parking lot during the summer when bears or elks appear near the road – is much easier to navigate during the early part of May. 

On Wednesdays beginning in early May and continuing through late September, vehicle-free access on this one-way road allows hikers and bicyclists to enjoy this loop without having to share the lane with rubbernecking drivers.

Rich Mountain, Forge Creek, and Parson Branch roads open by May, allowing some guests to take different exits from the park after driving along part of the Cades Cove Loop Road. 

Trail heads along these and other remote roads become more accessible for day use.

Picnicking:

The last two picnic areas that close for the colder months open by mid-May. 

Look Rock opens in late April and Heintooga by mid-May. 

Picnic sites are available during much of May, though spaces may become difficult to find at peak times around Memorial Day. 

Camping:

The last two frontcountry (developed) campgrounds open by mid-May. 

The Look Rock Campground, sitting at 3,000 feet, sits along Foothills Parkway West. 

At 5,310 feet, Balsam Mountain Campground may have cool to chilly evenings when the gates open, but dark sky viewing opportunities are great on clear nights. 

With all park campgrounds usually open by the third week of May, campers and those with RVs have a variety of options. 

Reservations are recommended later in the month, especially as it gets closer to Memorial Day. 

Campgrounds on the periphery, such as Abrams Creek Campground on the northwest side of the Smokies and Cosby Campground on the northeast, tend to get less traffic than Elkmont and Smokemount. 

Backcountry camping permits for remote stays within the Great Smokies are easy to reserve in early May, but spots begin to fill up by the middle of the month.

Hikers with reservations experience one of five trails along Mount LeConte to the LeConte Lodge for a chance to enjoy a meal and an overnight stay in a rough-hewn cabin located nearly 6,400 feet in elevation. 

LeConte Lodge opens in March, with reservations becoming more difficult to get by the middle of May.

Hiking:

With wildflowers in bloom, May is a great time to hike trails within the park. 

Many tourists take short walks along paths at sites such as Newfound Gap, Carlos Campbell Overlook, and the trail to Laurel Falls. 

Parking spaces are often available at The Sinks, Chimney Tops trailhead, and Alum Cave Bluffs trailhead, places that often reach capacity during the peak summer season. 

Fishing:

A year-round activity in the Smokies, fishing takes on a different character in the late spring because streams have greater flow and higher levels due to melted snow and regular precipitation. 

Approximately 20% of the streams within the park have populations of trout. 

Smallmouth bass are found in certain larger streams. 

Anglers need to secure a fishing license from either North Carolina or Tennessee to fish within the park’s 2,900 miles of streams.

Wildlife and Wildflowers in May

Wildlife is visible in many areas of the park, though the growth of new leaves on many trees will give deer and other animals better places to hide from the growing number of people and vehicles in the park. 

Bird populations remain significant in more remote areas of the park, even as the seasonal migration of other birds northward during the spring comes to an end. 

Occasional flashes of light start to appear in the dark woods during the night. Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are a type of beetle that begin to cast their glow for a few weeks during the mating season. 

Within the Smokies, fireflies usually offer their peak luminescence during a window between mid-May and late June, depending on the temperature and other environmental factors. 

Shrubs and other plants experience blooms in the spring. White and pink mountain laurel flowers start to bloom in early May and continue into June. 

Rosebay rhododendrons, often called great laurel, start to bloom at lower elevations in late May and early June. Catawba rhododendrons follow suit at higher elevations a little later. 

Lower areas in pine and oak forests also experience substantial flame azalea blooms between April and May. 

Although the park’s annual Wildflower Pilgrimage has usually happened in April since 1951, many of the plants featured during these programs remain in bloom into May. 

Events in May

Bloomin’ BBQ Festival: A weekend event in the heart of Sevierville (Tennessee), this family event includes music, food, and plenty of barbeque in a festive atmosphere.

Blooms and Tunes, Gatlinburg (annually, mid-April to early June): Spring artworks, seasonal foods, large flower blooms in the Vista Gardens, and live music draw crowds to this central Gatlinburg attraction.

Flower & Food Festival, Dollywood, Pigeon Forge (annually, mid-April to early June): A combination of flowers, blossoming oversized topiary mosaicultures, and music presented by Covenant Health are popular enhancements found at Dollywood during late spring. 

Unto These Hills, Cherokee, North Carolina (shows begin in late May and continue until late August): A popular attraction that tells the story of the Cherokee people, these shows that have been a part of the community since 1950 are offered Mondays through Saturdays during the busy summer season. 

Lakes in Tennessee:

• Chatanooga
• Clarksville
• Gatlinburg
• Johnson City
• Memphis
• Pigeon Forge

State Parks in Tennessee:

• Chattanooga

Beaches in Tennessee:

• Nashville

Lakes in North Carolina:

• Asheville
• Boone
• Durham
• Fayetteville
• Greensboro
• Greenville
• Murphy
• Wilmington

Beaches in North Carolina:

• New Bern

This 384-acre reservoir serves as a source of drinking water for residents of Tuscaloosa. 

Water that drains through the spillway continues along Yellow Creek for less than 3,000 feet before flowing into Lake Harris, an earlier impoundment of the creek created to hold potable water. 

Completed as a reservoir in 1956, this lake presently serves as a secondary water source after Lake Tuscaloosa. 

With almost 3.3 billion gallons of water, this lake has gained a reputation as a popular place for locals to fish for bass and catfish. 

Birdwatching in the forested location is enjoyed by many visitors, along with warm-weather swimming and year-round boating, canoeing, and kayaking. 

In 2022, conversations started about expanding amenities along the lake and nearby areas. Future upgrades may include a camping area or other facilities to increase eco-tourism in the area. 

History

Lake Nicol was the second impoundment created along Yellow Creek. 

The northern portion of Lake Harris, the original reservoir created in 1929, sits less than 3,000 feet to the south of Lake Nicol’s spillway. 

That 220-acre body of water remains under the oversight of the city’s water utility. 

Crews built Lake Nicol in 1956, with waters from the Yellow Creek filling many low-lying areas to create a lake with great fishing opportunities in many small alcoves surrounded by small hills and elevated areas. 

After workers created Lake Tuscaloosa in 1970 as the city’s primary source of drinking water, Lake Nicol became a secondary source of water for the area. 

Fishing and bird watching along this lake, surrounded by small, rolling hills and pine forests, have been popular activities since the reservoir’s creation in the mid-1950s. 

Activities

An attractive reservoir northeast of Tuscaloosa, Lake Nicol is known as a destination for paddlers, boaters, swimmers, and birdwatchers.

Swimming: 

• Swimming is not prohibited in Lake Nicol, though officials have discouraged it in the past.
• There are no designated swimming areas, though people often take a dip near the boat launch area along Nicol Park Road. 
• The Cliffs at Lake Nicol are impressive, but getting caught diving from them could lead to a $500 fine.

Boating: 

• Boaters should have a valid Alabama license
• Glass containers are prohibited throughout the lake, including on vessels.
• Water skiing, jet skis, wakeboards, and similar personal watercraft have been prohibited at Lake Nicol since 2014. 
• Boaters in possession of items that could allow water skiing, wakeboarding, and similar activities may get a citation, even if such items are not in use on the lake.
• Although gas-powered boats are prohibited on nearby Lake Harris, they are permitted on Lake Nicol.
• Boats must keep speeds at or below 25 miles per hour and remain at least 50 feet away from motionless boats, smaller skiffs, and paddlers. 

Paddling: 

• Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular within this lake.
• Motorized boats are required to keep a minimum distance of 50 feet from any paddlers, motionless boats, or smaller craft.

Fishing: 

• Largemouth bass and spotted bass are the top catches at Lake Nicol.
• Catfish, bluegill, and black crappie also frequent these waters. 
• Lake Nicol has no state fishing records at present.

Camping:

• There are no campsites in the area immediately near the lake, though there are commercial campgrounds in the Tuscaloosa area and sites at Lake Lurleen State Park, a drive of 19 miles to the west. 

Hiking: 

• Lake Nicol Spillway: This 0.7-mile roundtrip trail is an easy pathway that starts near the spillway and continues through the adjacent woods. 
• Outer Cliff Trail: A 1.1-mile trail open year-round that provides great views of the cliffs area and the lake. 

Wildlife

• Aside from the occasional deer, Lake Nicol is highly regarded as a place to enjoy birdwatching. 

Access points

• Access to the boat ramp and trails at the northern end of the lake is available by taking Nicol Park Road from Watermelon Road (Tuscaloosa County Road 47).
• A small, dirt parking area is also located on Lake Nicol Road (Tuscaloosa County Road 42), near the spillway. It offers access to the Lake Nicol Spillway Trail and possibilities for bank fishing. 

Lakes in Alabama:

• Birmingham
• Huntsville

Created in 1952, this impoundment sits in a section of the plains area of Texas approximately 70 miles northeast of Midland, 90 miles west of Abilene, and 100 miles southeast of Lubbock. 

With a surface area of 7,282 acres, this body of water seasonally fluctuates due to downriver flows and seasonal rains. 

Five parks managed by the Colorado River Municipal Water District (CRMWD) offer opportunities for camping, fishing, walks along the lake, boating, and a variety of water-related activities. 

The district serves more than 600,000 customers in the area by providing a reliable source of water. 

Visitors to the lake’s 88 miles of shoreline, recreation sites, and camping areas should secure parking passes before using the facilities. 

History

This impoundment was designed in the early 1950s along a portion of the Colorado River. After the impoundment was completed, the reservoir expanded to over 7,000 surface acres. 

The lake honors the founder and one-time president of the Texas Electric Service Company, Julian B. Thomas.

Rains and significant water flows along the Colorado River may cause lake levels to fluctuate in a very short period of time. 

In May 2015, the lake’s level rose 11 feet in a week as the result of heavy rainfall in the area that led water from many creeks and gulches into the lake. 

Activities

Lake J.B. Thomas is a large reservoir known for great boating, fishing, and camping opportunities in the plains area of the state. 

Swimming: 

• Swimming is not prohibited, though no lifeguards are on duty. 
• Most swimming occurs alongside park areas. 

Boating: 

• Motorized and non-motorized watercraft are permitted within Lake J.B. Thomas.
• Due to the ever-changing level of the lake and the presence of shallow areas and rock outcrops, boaters should check the current lake level.
• Some rocky outcrops are located in the water – areas of higher elevation not submerged in the lake; boaters should approach carefully to prevent damage to their watercraft.
• A no-wake speed is required within 50 feet of the lakeshore, swimming area, and those who are surfing, paddling, and on smaller craft. 
• No restrictions prohibit activities such as wind sailing or water skiing. 

Paddling: 

• Kayaking, canoeing, and similar paddling activities are permitted within Lake J.B. Thomas.
• Like boaters, paddlers should be aware of numerous rocky outcrops, especially when the water is low.

Fishing: 

• The best fishing opportunities take place in the lower reservoir area. 
• White bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, and white crappie are the most common species found in the lake. 
• Numerous undeveloped areas and multiple parks offer excellent shoreline access.
• The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides occasional lake surveys and stocking history for curious anglers.
• Those who fish may want to check current lake level conditions.

Camping: 

• Bull Creek Park, on the northern shore.
• Sandy Beach Park, on the northeast section of the lake. 
• South Side Park, the closest campground to the impoundment, with good facilities.
• White Island Park, a site on the lake’s southern shoreline.

Hiking: 

• Although there is not a system of formal recreation trails along the lake, short walks are available in many areas.
• The length of the dam on the lake’s eastern side is 2.75 miles.

Access points:

• Bull Creek Park: Situated on the lake’s northern shore just off Scurry County Road 3235, Bull Creek Park has camping areas, a boat launch, and basic amenities. 
• Sandy Beach Park: Sitting along the lake’s northeastern corner, this location offers first-come, first-serve campsites and excellent lake access.
• South Side Park: Located on County Road 3234 immediately south of the impoundment, this recreation area offers multiple boat launches, picnic areas, a dump station, shady tree sites, and camping opportunities. 
• Rocky Point Park: On the lake’s southern shore, a short drive north of County Road 3236, this area, with few facilities but great lake access, sits along the southeastern portion of the reservoir.
• White Island Park: On the lake’s southern shore, a short drive north of County Road 3236, this area offers first-come, first-serve campsites and great views of the lake for anglers. 

More Lakes in Texas:

• Abilene
• Amarillo
• El Paso
• Lubbock
• Lufkin
• Odessa
• San Angelo
• San Antonio
• Texarkana
• Tyler
• Victoria
• Waco
• Wichita Falls

Trails in Texas:

• Frisco