Discover Five Scenic Lakes Across the United States Featuring Unusually Clear Water

Lake Burton’s mountain setting gives it a cooler atmosphere, with pine and mountain laurel scents and an elevation that distinguishes it from Georgia’s flatter reservoirs.
Lake Artemesia is managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the City of Berwyn Heights, and includes a wooden gazebo built over the water on stilts.
Lake Onota’s clarity is detailed enough that visitors can see individual pebbles and rocks on the lake floor; the lake covers approximately 617 acres and is located in Pittsfield.
Laurel River Lake was formed when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Laurel River, and inflows from the surrounding mountains help keep its water cool and clear.
Laurel River Lake lies within Daniel Boone National Forest, where visitors can see fish through the clear shallows and encounter cliffs composed of both sandstone and limestone.
Five U.S. lakes stand out for crystal-clear water and stunning natural settings. Family Destinations Guide highlighted these scenic destinations: Lake Burton in northern Georgia reflects Blue Ridge mountains, Lake Powell spans Arizona and Utah with sapphire water and red sandstone walls, Maryland's Lake Artemesia offers peaceful surroundings, Lake Onota in Massachusetts covers 617 acres in the Berkshires, and Kentucky's Laurel River Lake pairs aquarium-like clarity with forested ridges and dramatic cliffs.
Lake Burton in northern Georgia combines reflective blue water with the Blue Ridge mountains and hardwood forests. Family Destinations Guide notes the lake's cooler atmosphere sets it apart from Georgia's flatter reservoirs. Pine and mountain laurel scents fill the air at this elevated location. The dramatic mountain backdrop and forested shoreline create a distinctive scenic experience.
Lake Powell stretches across Arizona and Utah, filling the canyons behind Glen Canyon Dam. The lake features sapphire-colored water framed by towering red sandstone walls. Family Destinations Guide highlights the lake's extensive shoreline as a major draw for visitors. The striking contrast between the water's blue hue and the red rock formations creates an unforgettable landscape.
Lake Artemesia was created as environmental mitigation during Metro construction in Maryland. Family Destinations Guide reports the lake is managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the City of Berwyn Heights. The peaceful natural area features reflective water and surrounding habitat. A wooden gazebo built over the water on stilts offers visitors a scenic viewing spot.
Kentucky's Laurel River Lake was formed when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Laurel River. Family Destinations Guide notes the lake's aquarium-like visibility lets visitors see fish through clear shallows. The lake lies within Daniel Boone National Forest and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. These cliffs feature both sandstone and limestone formations that frame the water. Mountain inflows keep the water cool and clear year-round.
Lake Onota in Massachusetts's Berkshires covers approximately 617 acres and is located near Pittsfield. Family Destinations Guide highlights the lake's exceptional clarity — visitors can see individual pebbles and rocks on the lake floor. Rolling green hills frame the water, creating a picturesque New England setting. The Berkshires' elevation and natural geography contribute to the lake's transparent water quality.
Publishers
18
Articles
2
Reach
20