Top 11 Under-the-Radar Lakes in the US

If you’re looking to stay away from the crowds, these hidden gems are some of the best lakes in the U.S. for pontooning and fishing.

Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake in northwest Arkansas is a quiet boating destination with 500 miles of coastline nestled in the Ozarks and numerous coves for great secluded fishing of largemouth, smallmouth, and trophy stripers.

Lake Namekagon

Lake Namekagon in northern Wisconsin is one of the best lakes to fish for targeting muskie and walleye, while enjoying the spectacular scenery. This remote, 2,800-acre lake is surrounded by six parks, including Fairyland State Natural Area.

Torch Lake

Torch Lake in northern Michigan should be on your bucket list if you’ve ever dreamed of taking your pontoon boat to the Caribbean. It was once named the third most beautiful lake in the world by National Geographic for its clear, turquoise waters and swimmer-friendly two-mile-long sandbar.

Raystown Lake

Raystown Lake in rural central Pennsylvania is one of the top non-touristy boating spots in the U.S. for getting away from it all. The lack of development means there are plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities such as fishing for a wide variety of species, hiking the many trails surrounding its 27-mile length, or swimming in its clean, clear water.

Douglas Lake

Douglas Lake in eastern Tennessee is set among breathtaking scenery in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. While the tourists flock to the nearby attractions of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, you can enjoy one of the best lakes for pontoons in America. Countless islands and coves have gently-sloped sandy beaches that are perfect for beaching a boat.

Lake Kissimmee

Lake Kissimmee in central Florida is part of a chain of lakes that can transport boaters from the frenzied attractions near the Disneyworld complex back in time to old Florida. Great fishing and magnificent scenery will make you forget the famous mouse.

Nantahala Lake

Nantahala Lake in North Carolina sits at an elevation of 3,000 feet and is surrounded by lush hills and few people. Its clear waters are ideal for boating and swimming, and the lake offers anglers the chance to catch many species of fish including trout and salmon.

Pomme de Terre Lake

Pomme de Terre Lake in southwestern Missouri might not get as much publicity as Lake of the Ozarks or Table Rock Lake, but it also doesn’t attract the large numbers of boaters either. Its clear spring-fed waters are perfect for watersports and fishing.

Lake George

Lake George in central New York state is considered by many to be one of the best lakes in the U.S. for boating. Surrounded by the southern Adirondacks, its scenery is stunning, the fishing is great, and there are many activities for your family on and off the water.

Lake Pepin

Situated on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin, Lake Pepin is a wide part of the Upper Mississippi River and is a special favorite of Minnesotans, who would like to keep it a secret from outsiders. Several parks lie on its shores, offering land-based recreation while its waters hold plenty of fish to catch.

Grayson Lake

Grayson Lake in eastern Kentucky might be the smallest lake on this list at only 1,512 acres, but it’s one of the most scenic with sandstone cliffs, grottos, and waterfalls after it rains. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are among the many species of fish caught here.