Even though summer crowds might be fun, sometimes all you need is a quiet spot to splash around in, float around on, soak in the sight by yourself, or spend quality time with friends and family. You can get in touch with nature, enjoy the peace by the water, or relive the glory days of summer camp with lake activities by renting a private lake house. Take advantage of a lake cottage with a private dock, swimming pool, or hot tub for even more enjoyment, or liven up your stay with a log cabin close to hiking trails or state parks.
Wade into a tranquil lake retreat and return home renewed with a fresh tale to tell. Here are a few of our favorite places to seek for the greatest secluded lake house rentals if you’re searching for the ideal setting for your upcoming lake trip.
1. Washington
The Pacific Northwest is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful getaway that is scented by mist and old-growth forest. Lake Chelan is a wonderful autumn getaway for spending the season with family and friends because of its clean waters and close-by apple orchards in the gently undulating valley. Cozy lake cabins with scenic views surround the melting waters of Lake Wenatchee on the eastern slope of the Cascades. When you’ve had your fill of seclusion, head over to the delightful Bavarian town of Leavenworth, which features traditional German cuisine and holiday markets.
2. Idaho
The area’s summer vacation hotspot for water activities and hiking trails may be Lake Coeur d’Alene, the town’s namesake, but there are also many quiet cabins to enjoy away from the bustle. Look for a secluded refuge with a private dock so you may enjoy the ocean during the day and relax on the waves at night to view the stars. The largest and deepest lake in Idaho is Lake Pend Oreille, which is a little further north. You could think you have your own piece of the great outdoors with 111 miles of shoreline to fish, hike, boat, or float as you want. If you can’t get enough time on the water, there is even a marina of houseboats on the lake.
3. New York
The Finger Lakes is a great option for a rural getaway because they are situated next to the Catskill Mountains. Take advantage of the slower pace as you quickly visit the city for necessities or an evening of wine tasting before returning to the comfortable comfort of your lake house rental. Some of the greatest hiking routes for views of the gorge and waterfalls may be found at Robert H. Treman State Park if you’re up for an adventure. Rent a vacation home at Lake George, frequently referred to as the “crown gem” of the Adirondacks, to be among the trees and close to the forest. The lakeside mountain village advertises clear waters, grand vistas, and a wide range of outdoor pursuits.
4. North Carolina
You’ll realize why gorgeous Lake Lure was chosen as the backdrop for classic films like Dirty Dancing and The Last of the Mohicans once you get a sight of it. Its tranquil beachfront is a testament to North Carolina’s unspoiled beauty and is ideal for a rejuvenating retreat at a remote lake cabin. Don’t miss the magnificent floral bridge in the spring when it transforms into a vibrant scene of 2,000 different plants. It only takes a half-hour trip from Asheville to Lake Junaluska, where you may cozy up while snuggled into the neighboring Blue Ridge Mountains or purchase a lakefront house and keep the fun close at hand. You have access to the lake and the mountains, so you may unwind by taking a stroll up the hiking paths or sightsee.
5. Texas
Lake Travis is the perfect location for your vacation if you want a good balance of daily excitement and tranquil nights. You can enjoy a variety of spas, aquatic activities, and zipline courses here, and when your fun-filled day is through, you can relax in the luxury of your lake house rental. Vacation accommodations on the lake and riverfront provide a tasty remedy to the Texas sun—quick access for a plunge into the water—at the remote Lake LBJ, which is located alongside the Colorado River. With friends, relax against some floaties, light the grill, or go on a horseback tour of the area (would it be a trip to Texas without one?). Austin is a great place to go when you want to change things up.
6. Maine
One of the biggest freshwater lakes in the country, Moosehead Lake is situated in the center of Maine and spans more than 74,000 acres. If you go kayaking for the day during your lake vacation, you might see some of the lake’s 80 islands. There are few better places to unwind in a private lakefront cottage than this expansive terrain, which is home to a variety of species. Sebago Lake, which offers some of the clearest lake water you’ll ever see for all of your swimming, boating, and fishing needs, is a great place to see more of New England’s beauty. You can enjoy the best of a northern summer with canoes at the ready and seafood shacks nearby.
7. California
Take the less-traveled hiking trail over to Donner Lake, which is only a 25-minute drive away, if Lake Tahoe feels a little too crowded. In this manner, you may visit Lake Tahoe’s inflatable obstacle courses whenever you’re in the mood for them and then head back to your hidden base at Donner Lake for additional peace and quiet. The lake cabins nearby offer unrivaled vistas and some of the biggest lake trout in the state may be caught there. Another option is to visit Pine Mountain Lake, where you can unwind on the peaceful lakeshores and take day trips to Yosemite National Park, which is only a 30-minute drive away.