Water at the campsite door
Lakes & Reservoirs for RV Travelers
Iconic American lakes worth pointing an RV toward — what each lake is, when the shoreline is at its best, and how to find a rig nearby. Facts are sourced from official park and agency pages.
Lake levels, boat ramps, and shoreline campgrounds shift with the season — confirm on the official park or agency page before you go.
- 10
- Field guides
- 10
- States covered
- 4
- Managing agencies
The shorelines
Every lake in the guide
Vermont & New York
Lake Champlain
Vermont & New York
Lake Champlain: An RV Traveler's Guide
Lake Champlain spans roughly 455 square miles and reaches depths of about 400 feet. The lake is known for its diverse fish species, including lake trout and smallmouth bass, and its scenic islands, such as the Lake Champlain Islands. The surrounding area features state parks, historic sites, and the Adirondack and Green Mountains.
Read the field guideMontana
Flathead Lake
Montana
Flathead Lake: An RV Traveler's Guide
Flathead Lake spans about 191 square miles with roughly 160 miles of shoreline. Its deep, clear waters are ideal for recreation, and the surrounding area features numerous state parks, including Flathead Lake State Park with multiple units.
Read the field guideNew York
Lake George
New York
Lake George: An RV Traveler's Guide
Lake George is a deep, 28,000-acre lake stretching 32 miles within the Adirondack Park. The lake's southern basin is busier, with the village of Lake George offering dining and attractions, while the northern reaches are quieter and more wild. The lake is famous for its clear water and the 1755-era (French and Indian War) Fort William Henry at its southern tip.
Read the field guideMissouri
Lake of the Ozarks
Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks: An RV Traveler's Guide
With marinas, resorts, and public access points dotting its coves, Lake of the Ozarks offers endless opportunities for water recreation. Anglers target bass, crappie, and catfish, while boaters explore its winding channels. The lake's central location makes it a convenient getaway from St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield.
Read the field guideKentucky
Lake Cumberland
Kentucky
Lake Cumberland: An RV Traveler's Guide
Lake Cumberland is a 50,250-acre reservoir in southern Kentucky, renowned for its houseboat culture and excellent fishing. The lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and features numerous public access areas, marinas, and campgrounds. Its deep, clear water and extensive shoreline make it a favorite for boating, swimming, and relaxing in a scenic, wooded setting.
Read the field guideArizona
Lake Havasu
Arizona
Lake Havasu: An RV Traveler's Guide
Lake Havasu is a popular desert oasis known for its spring break crowds, houseboat rentals, and the iconic London Bridge, which was relocated here in 1971. The lake supports a variety of fish including bass, catfish, and crappie. Its consistent winds also make it a favored spot for sailing and windsurfing.
Read the field guideTexas
Caddo Lake
Texas
Caddo Lake: An RV Traveler's Guide
Caddo Lake's cypress swamps, bayous, and open water create a primeval paddling paradise. Caddo Lake State Park is managed by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Visitors explore the maze via canoe or kayak, fish for largemouth bass and crappie, or hike the 2-mile Caddo Forest Trail. The nearby town of Uncertain offers rustic lodging and guide services.
Read the field guideMaine
Sebago Lake
Maine
Sebago Lake: An RV Traveler's Guide
Sebago Lake is a 45-square-mile natural lake in southern Maine, known for its pristine water quality and recreational opportunities. Sebago Lake State Park offers a sandy beach, boat launches, and hiking trails. The lake is a popular destination for sailing, kayaking, and fishing, with nearby towns like Naples and Raymond offering services.
Read the field guideIdaho
Lake Coeur d'Alene
Idaho
Lake Coeur d'Alene: An RV Traveler's Guide
This deep, natural lake in the Idaho Panhandle is a hub for water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. Anglers target trout, bass, and kokanee salmon. The ~24-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail runs near the shoreline, while the Coeur d'Alene Resort's floating boardwalk offers unique lake views.
Read the field guideNew Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee
New Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee: An RV Traveler's Guide
This 44,000-acre lake features public beaches, boat launches, and fishing access. The surrounding Lakes Region hills and nearby mountains provide a scenic backdrop. Popular activities include boating, swimming, fishing for lake trout and smallmouth bass, and exploring the lake's islands via kayak or cruise.
Read the field guide
Still water, wide sky
Lake country, state by state
Great RV lakes string across the map — mountain reservoirs, desert impoundments, and the big natural basins. Pick a state to see RV rentals and what else is along the shore.
Chasing a quiet morning on the water this season?