5 Underrated Boating Lakes in North America

There are a ton of fantastic boating locations in North America, but some of the best lakes are rarely seen by adventurous boaters. Beyond the famous spots like Lake Tahoe, Lake of the Ozarks, or even the Great Lakes, there are hidden destinations that offer the same vibe -- handy launch points, scenic shorelines, and without the large crowds -- that are often overlooked by adventurous boaters. Travelers who like fishing on open waters, finding peaceful coves to anchor up, or relaxing beneath the stars will love these underappreciated lakes. The list below provides all the key details for boaters: where to launch, marinas and fuel docks in the area, places to camp and stay overnight, and local sights to see once you're in the area.

1. Flathead Lake – Montana, USA

One of the biggest natural freshwater lakes in the western United States, Flathead Lake is renowned for its vast stretch of warm, clear summer water that is surrounded by the Mission and Swan Mountain ranges. With lots of space to explore, it's a fantastic place for fishing, island hopping, wake sports, and cruising.

There are multiple public boat ramps around the perimeter of the lake. For example, the Sportsman Bridge is the northernmost public boat ramp. The Polson Riverside Park and Ducharme Fishing Access boat ramps serve the southern shoreline. There are several other public boat ramps as well, including Walstead Park, Big Arm State Park, Elmo Fishing Access, and Dayton Townsite.

You’ll find state park campgrounds conveniently located near most launch points, as well as private campgrounds and lakeside vacation rentals. One of the most popular attractions is Wild Horse Island which, as you might deduce, is where you can see wild horses living free. The island itself is a state park accessible only by boat and perfect for a day trip with hiking trails. Although the Wild Horse Island is only for day-use, visitors can stay overnight on campgrounds around the lake, such as the West Shore Unit on Flathead Lake State Park.

Boaters should be advised that certain coves contain rocky or shallow regions close to shore, and that strong afternoon winds can form in some bays. As well, certain areas, such as the Flathead River near Polson, also fall under the jurisdiction of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, and permits or specific boating rules may apply.

2. Kootenay Lake – British Columbia, Canada

The long, fjord-like Kootenay Lake is dotted with sheltered arms that are ideal for cruising and is encircled by breathtaking mountain scenery. The Selkirk and Purcell Mountains rise sharply from the water, giving the lake a dramatic alpine feel. It provides a well-rounded mix of peaceful anchorages, full-service marinas, and picturesque stretches of open water. The calm coves and mountain views make it an ideal destination for boaters seeking both adventure and tranquility.

There are several public boat ramps including the Woodbury, Kokanee Park, Kootenay, and Boswell Public Boat Launches. It is simple to arrange multi-day excursions or refuel while exploring the lake because most marinas provide moorage, fuel, and pump-out services. As well, there are many lakeside lodges and campgrounds suitable for overnight stays. Campers and boaters alike love Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, which features beaches and a marina. The Kokanee Salmon also run in late summer, where thousands of bright-red fish return to spawn.

Easily accessible from the shoreline, the neighbouring towns of Nelson and Kaslo include grocery stores, dining options, and visitor services, making them great places to stop by. Nelson has a variety of lakeside restaurants, such as The Black Cauldron, which specializes in charcuterie and cocktails. The interior gives a witchy aesthetic with their magical cocktail lounge, and is one of the most popular restaurants in town.

3. Great Sacandaga Lake – New York, USA

Great Sacandaga Lake is well-known for its open water, picturesque shorelines, and vibrant summer boating scene. Pontoons, PWCs, and small fishing boats full of hopeful anglers are particularly fond of it. The lake is a fantastic choice for both day visits and long boating weekends because of its combination of accessible services and scenic natural surroundings.

Around the lake are several easily accessible public launches. The hard-surface DEC boat launch at Moffitt's Beach, which can handle large trailered boats, is among the most notable. Boaters also have easy access from many locations along the shoreline thanks to the town-operated launches in Northville, Edinburg, and Broadalbin.

Boaters will find a range of supporting amenities, including public beaches and campgrounds near Moffitt’s Beach. It also offers showers, restrooms, and a picnic area with fireplaces.

Great Sacandaga Lake is also surrounded by several towns, including Northville and Broadalbin, which have waterfront bars and restaurants where boaters can dock for lunch. The Northville area has a charming small-town feel with a pedestrian bridge, scenic walking paths, and local shops.

4. Lake Pend Oreille – Idaho, USA

Lake Pend Oreille is the largest lake in Idaho and the 5th deepest lake in the country. It has a winding shoreline, making it ideal for cruising, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and fishing. The surrounding terrain is some of the most majestic in the country.

Several public boat ramps are present around the lake, including the Farragut, Johnson Creek, Sunnyside Park, Garfield Bay, and more. These sites typically feature concrete launches, docks, parking areas, and dump stations, making them convenient for both small boats and larger trailered vessels. 

Sandpoint is a city by Lake Pend Oreille that is surrounded by three mountain ranges, the Selkirk, Bitterroot, and Cabinet. The city is well-loved for hiking and skiing. It also features numerous lakeshore restaurants such as Spuds Waterfront Grill and The Hydra Steakhouse so you can enjoy meals with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Just south of the city lies The Long Bridge, which is two miles long and crosses the southern part of the lake.

5. Lake Chelan – Washington, USA

Lake Chelan is a glacier-carved lake that is extraordinarily deep and surrounded by mountains and sheer cliffs. It features more than 50 miles of beautiful, fjord-like waterway that are perfect for fishing, long excursions, and visiting beaches within its boundaries.

There are several public boat ramps, including those at Chelan Riverwalk, Lakeshore Marin, Manson Bay Park, Old Mill Park, and Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park. On the south shore, Lake Chelan State Park features convenient launch ramps, while the northern access point at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park includes a full-service marina with slips and mooring options. 

Boaters will particularly like Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park for its modern moorage, campgrounds, and a picturesque starting point for exploring and hiking through the upper portions of the lake. In the community town of Manson, there are also numerous wineries to explore. The Lake Chelan Winery is one of the most popular and it produces both red and white wines that can be tasted on site.

While boaters are well-known for always coming back to their favourite haunts and honey holes, these five lakes prove that some of North America’s best boating is found beyond the typical fare. Each has a unique blend of adventure, leisure, and scenery, from the expansive, crystal-clear waters of Flathead Lake in Montana to the mountainous backdrop surrounding Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. Any boater wishing to explore new seas will find what they need thanks to well-known dependable marinas, well-maintained public ramps, and beachfront communities that cater to their lifestyle. These five lakes are definitely worth including on your itinerary. #destinations