Top Lakes and Rivers in Upstate New York for Summer Activities

Lake Champlain | Evan Clark

Upstate New York is a popular year-round destination for its incredible scenery, and come summer, visitors seek to get out on the water and take advantage of the seasonal heat. Visitors can partake in many activities on the waters of Upstate New York. Let’s look at some of the most popular activities and the best places to enjoy them in the region.

Fishing

Upstate New York is a well-known region for anglers seeking to relax and haul in great freshwater catches. Below are some of the top lakes and rivers in Upstate New York for fishing:

Oneida Lake: Oneida Lake, which encompasses more than 50,000 acres, has a significant population of walleye, bass, perch, and more. Located near Syracuse, the lake regularly hosts bass fishing tournaments throughout the year.

Lake Champlain: Lake Champlain is a vast lake along the border between New York and Vermont. There have long been rumors of a lake monster living in its waters, and while these are unconfirmed, we can confirm that there are numerous species of fish there, including perch, crappie, sunfish, and several kinds of bass.

Boating and Water Sports

For those who prefer something a little more fast-paced, Upstate New York has many lakes and rivers filled with boaters and water sports enthusiasts throughout the summer. Below are some of the top lakes in the area ideal for these recreational activities: 

Chautauqua Lake: This 17-mile lake is a massively popular recreational destination. Many enjoy sailing, kayaking, or canoeing throughout the lake, while others prefer the speed of motorboats. It is a common water skiing and wakeboarding destination and even hosts an annual water ski show.

Lake George: Lake George is an oft-visited and all-season outdoor paradise in the scenic Adirondack region. The lake is an appealing destination for boaters thanks to its vast, open waters and surrounding scenic views. All types of water activities are allowed there, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. Also, boat tours and cruises are available in the area.

Beaches, Swimming, and Waterfront Relaxation

The New York summer temperatures can get high, and many across the Upstate region simply want to relax by the water, take a dip, and lounge on a beach. We’ll take a closer look at two of the many locations in the area that can accommodate this preference.

Skaneateles Lake: As one of the Finger Lakes, the long and slender Skaneateles Lake is known for its clear water and popularity for summer fun. Skaneateles stands out as one of the cleanest lakes in the state, making it a favored swimming locale. Also, pleasant parks line its shores, such as Thayer Park, which offers public swimming beaches.

Keuka Lake: Another one of the Finger Lakes, Keuka Lake is known for its distinct Y-shape, which distinguishes it from the other long and slender Finger Lakes. Visitors flock to Keuka Lake to enjoy its many pleasant beaches. Champlin Beach and the public beach in Keuka Lake State Park are two of the many idyllic places to unwind and dip your toes into the clear, calm waters on a summer day.