As the mercury rises to high levels this summer throughout the United States and Canada, it can be tempting to stay inside. However, there are so many activities outside that warrant beating the heat, specifically taking advantage of the abundance of lakes wherever you happen to be.
Those traveling through Alberta, Canada should stop by Banff, the city nestled among the mountains. Camping is allowed in Banff National Park with 2,468 sites available during the peak season. Thirteen campgrounds are offered in Banff National Park, and availability and pricing can be found on the Banff National Park website. The park encompasses 2,564 square miles with several lakes within reach for a variety of activities including: Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack, Johnson Lake, Vermilion Lake, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Herbert Lake, Hector Lake, Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake. Park visitors can check which lakes allow fishing, boating, canoeing, fishing, boating, scuba diving and swimming.
Sandwiched between the United States and Canada, the Great Lakes are of particular note to those considering summer destinations involving water activities. Spanning 95,000 square miles, the chain of five lakes – Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario – have been pivotal to each country’s industrial economy as well as providing plenty of opportunities for water recreation. Everything from boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and scuba diving are offered among the Great Lakes. For more information about permissible activities on the lakes, contact the Great Lakes Information Network, 734-971-9135. Campgrounds and National Parks surround the Great Lakes on either side of the border. For more information about camping near the lakes, the Good Sam Campground Finder is your one-stop shop, complete with an extensive list of rated campgrounds.
Heading south, those who prefer making a splash to staying put in the campground or hiking the trails, should head to Georgia. Lake Lanier Islands in Buford, Georgia, has energy-filled watersports like kayaking and paddle-boarding plus boating, swimming and sailing. Lake Lanier Islands Resort includes a campground with tent and RV camping along with the option to stay in a hotel for those family members who don’t want to rough it.
Always follow proper water safety precautions while taking advantage of aquatics. Local stores sell a variety of lifejackets outfitting kids, adults, and even dogs! Floating rafts, noodles, tubes and group mattress floats are fun ways to exercise, get fresh air and enjoy the cool water wherever you end up this summer. Don’t forget beach balls and water sports like water volleyball.
Whether you’re staying close to home or taking a road-trip vacation elsewhere, there are plenty of lakes to satisfy your adventurous spirit with water sports, leisure activities like boating or sailing, and, of course, swimming.