Hot weather is officially here and we’re doing everything we can to keep cool! From rooftop pools to outdoor swimming holes, we’re pulling out all of the measures to beat the heat.
For this list, we’re thinking a little bigger than your average public pool, we’re talking the best lakes near NYC. Although they may be a quick weekend getaway or day trip away, these stunning bodies of water are perfect for a quick dip! Here’s where to plan your next lake day now:
1. Canopus Lake
Canopus Lake is located within Fahnestock State Park and resides about an hour from NYC! The 100-acre lake has a large sandy beach and swimming area. It’s more popular for boating and fishing than it is swimming, but there is a sizable beach that you can dip your toes into! If you’re really up for it you can stay the night, at their lovely campgrounds or even go on a scenic hiking trail.
Distance from NYC: 1 hour
Where: 1498 Route 301, Caramel, NY
2. Lake Marcia
Lake Marcia in Sussex County, New Jersey is typically open all summer through Labor Day weekend! The 20-acre lake and sand beach is life-guarded and sits right near High Point State Park and the New Jersey Veterans’ Memorial. With over 50 trails nearby, this little oasis offers swimming opportunities, gorgeous views of the monument, opportunities for fishing and boating, plus more. There is even a bathhouse and concession stand as well.
Distance from NYC: 2 hours
Where: 1480 Rt. 23, Sussex, NJ
3. Lake Welch
This man-made lake in Harriman State Park boasts a half-mile-long beach that you can swim in all summer long! It sits on the foot of Ramapo Mountain, and their spacious beach makes for a great place to swim, boat, and fish. There’s ample parking, the beach is kept up quite nicely, and there’s a neighboring Beaver Pond Campground that you can grill, hike, and camp at.
Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Where: 800 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY
4. North-South Lake
One of the Catskill Mountain’s most popular and largest lakes is North-South Lake, which you can imagine, encompasses two massive lakes into one. As for swimming, you can do that on one of their two beaches (if lifeguards are on duty), but there’s also so much more too. The nearby campground offers 219 tent and trailer sites, picnic areas, camping loops, trails, fishing spots and more.
Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Where: County Route 18, Haines Falls, NY
5. Lake Wawayanda
From Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, you can swim in Lake Wawayanda when lifeguards are on duty! Most known for its serene forested hills, it makes for the most beautiful backdrop to splash around. There are nearby trails (part of the Appalachian Trail), a close by boat rental facility (not in actual park), and camping spots to stay the night. If you go on the weekends prepare for it to be crowded!
Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Where: 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ
6. Greenwood Lake
The waterfront park in Greenwood Lake, NY is a cute little sandy spot where you can go swimming during the summer. It’s been a popular vacation destination for over 200 years, and the 9 mile long lake is nestled right into the village center. If you’re visiting the town on vacation, you can purchase a day pass to the lake and beach for a mere $10! Be sure to explore the town afterwards too.
Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Where: Windermere Ave, Greenwood Lake, NY
7. Lake Hopatcong
Boasting itself as the largest freshwater body in New Jersey, Lake Hopatcong is only 40 miles from NYC and makes for a great day trip! Visitors can not only enjoy swimming on their sandy beach, but also boating, sailing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, water sports and more year-round! Plus, the cute town surrounding it includes dining options, bars, marinas, and so much more!
Distance from NYC: 1 hour
Where: 260 Lakeside Blvd., Landing, NJ
8. Lake Tiorati
This dog-friendly lake has a sand beach that you can visit over the summer, as well lots of meadows and hills to gaze at in the interim. It’s located in Harriman State Park, and includes accessible fishing spots, grills, hiking trails, and a bathhouse with restrooms and showers. There’s no concessions here though so be sure to stock up on snacks before you get swimming!
Distance from NYC: 1 hour
Where: 2300 Seven Lakes Drive, Southfields, NY
9. Bantam Lake
Bantam Lake is Connecticut’s largest natural lake, and their two beaches Morris Town Beach and Sandy Beach are the perfect place to cool off. Plus, there’s boat launches, weekly events happening at the lake, and even a ski club in the winter. Don’t forget about their wide range of restaurants too.
Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Where: East Shore Dr, Morris, CT
10. Lake Taghkanic
Nestled right into the Hudson Valley is Lake Taghkanic, located in the 1,569-acre Lake Taghkanic State Park. Of course you can swim in their beach waters, but you can also set up a tent or trailer and camp, as well as visit their boat shop, playgrounds, snack shop and more! They’re open daily and you can even rent kayak and paddle boats!
Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Where: 1528 Rt 82, Ancram, NY