While you might thing the beach is where it's at this summer, take a look at these incredible lakes for a more mellow waterside retreat without the crowds.

Lake Eklutna, Alaska

Situated less than an hour from Anchorage, Lake Eklutna is just secluded enough to fly under the radar. It's the ideal destination for hikers, bikers, or even ATV enthusiasts. Found within the Chugach State Park, visitors will be pleased to find plenty of outdoor activities. From kayaking to fishing, you can really do it all at Lake Eklutna.

lakes

Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

As the biggest manmade lake in Arkansas, Lake Ouachita has about 40,000 acres of magnificent and clean water. It's really the perfect spot for fishing, boating, or diving. According to law, development along the shoreline is forbidden, so even though it's manmade, Lake Ouachita has plenty of natural beauty.

lakes

Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho

With its incredible view of the Cabinet and Selkirk Mountains, Lake Pend Oreille is found in the Sandpoint, Idaho, a town credited as being the best small lake town in America.

lakes

Jenny Lake, Wyoming

Situated in Grand Teton National Park, Jenny Lake is the perfect family vacation destination if you're a lover of boating, camping, and hiking. With such marvelous mountain views, it's no surprise that TripAdvisor referred to Jenny Lake as "wonderfully attractive."

lakes

Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona

Located in the center of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell stretches all the way from southern Utah to northern Arizona for 1,932 miles. It's no surprise to us why the scenic waters and miraculous landscape brings in over three million visitors on a yearly basis. Not only can tourists enjoy the amazing hiking and water sports available, but they can also check out the Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world's longest natural bridges.

lakes