Don’t Live Near an Ocean? Check Out These Unique Lakes in the USA

If you don't live near an ocean beach or simply want a change of scenery from typical destinations, why not check out some of the unique bodies of water this country has to offer?

Here are ten lakes to visit, stay overnight or sight-see at, in the USA.

1. Crater Lake - Oregon

Located in Southwest Oregon, Crater Lake lies in Crater Lake National Park, which is the 6^th oldest National Park in the USA. It is the deepest lake in the US, also a caldera lake, formed about 8,000 years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption. Because no other rivers or streams flow into it, Crater Lake is considered one of the clearest blue lakes in the world.

2. The Lost Sea- Tennessee

Located in Sweetwater, Tennessee, or more appropriately beneath it, lies The Lost Sea, otherwise known as the largest US lake underground. The lake is part of Craighead Caverns, a cave system that contains various crystal clusters and a waterfall. So far the lake has been mapped to cover thirteen acres and counting. Currently boat tours are given to tourists and visitors. Click here to see current prices, as they vary per season.

3. Deep Creek Lake- Maryland

Located in Garrett County, Maryland, Deep Creek Lake is a manmade lake that is the state's largest body of inland water. It has become a popular tourist destination in both summer (boating, fishing) and winter (located near the Wisp ski resort). It overlays 69 miles of shoreline, and is known for its variety of water birds and freshwater fish. Those on vacation can enjoy affordable, nearby staples like Lakeside Creamery's ice cream or Copper Kettle Popcorn's homemade fudge and Old Bay popcorn. Families can arrive to both locations by boat, powerboat or canoe, all of which can be rented fairly reasonably from Deep Creek Marina. Hikes, campfires, and cozy lodges are also available on site.

4. Rangeley Lakes- Maine

Located in Franklin Country, Maine, Rangeley Lakes is one of the major connected lakes to the Androscoggin watershed, and houses various islands such as the South Bog Islands and Doctors Island. Guided boat tours, as well as speedboat and canoe rentals, are perfect for sight-seeing some of Maine's beautiful wildlife, from herons to moose. For food, check out the Maine Mountain Maple Plantation where you can try their infamous sugar sap, while in town there are plenty of antique shops, including quilting shops which offer sewing classes.

5. Shohola Lake - Pennsylvania

Located in Shohola Township, Pike County Pennsylvania (Game Lands No. 180), Shohola Lake is a manmade lake created in 1967 by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The lake is generally shallow, with a maximum depth of about eight feet. Electric motors are the only motors allowed on the lake, while there are three boat launches. Being in the Pocono Mountains, there are plenty of hiking trails for advanced and beginning hikers, while horseback riding and ski resorts allow for plenty of family activities as well. Wildlife lovers can witness turkeys, deer and bear while in the Shohola Lake area.

6. Lake George - New York

Located in the Warren/Essex Counties, in the Adirondack Mountains in New York, Lake George is a narrow lake which offers plenty of activities on its southern end, from boating and biking to sight-seeing the wax museums and various hiking trails. Generally Lake George is only populated in summer seasons, and it lies in the northern region of the Great Appalachian Valley. It is nicknamed "Queen of American Lakes," an extends about 33 miles. Along with the lake itself are several notable bays, mountains and landforms, including Silver Bay, Black Mountain and Diver's Rock.

7. Lake Cumberland - Kentucky

Located in the Russell/Clinton/Laurel/Wayne/McCreary/Pulaski Counties in Kentucky, Lake Cumberland is a reservoir and one of the largest bodies of manmade water in America. As part of Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, visitors have plenty of places to stay/sleep, fish, jet ski, shop an even watch horse racing. The shoreline is about 1300 miles, and was created for means of electric power and flood control. Currently there is a crack in its dam effecting water levels, but the Lake is still a beautiful sight to see.

8. Lake Crescent- Washington State

Located in Clallam County, Washington, Lake Crescent is a lake near the community of Piedmont, located specifically in Olympic National Park. It is the second-deepest lake in the state, although its maximum depths have been said to reach up to 1000 feet. Lack of nitrogen in its water allows Lake Crescent to retain its beautiful, clear-blue waters, and houses infamous diving and swimming sections like "Devil's Punch Bowl" and several walking/hiking trails like Pyramid Mountain and Barnes Creek trail, as well as several authentic railroad trails. Lake Crescent is a wonderful place to go if one prefers a peaceful retreat.

9. Donner Lake - California

Located in Nevada County, California, in the town of Truckee, Donner Lake is a fairly small, freshwater lake, located 16 miles south of Lake Tahoe. Unique to Lake Tahoe's tourism, Donner Lake is known for its more authentic atmosphere and warmer waters. It was named after the Donner Party of the late 1800s; pioneers headed for California that got stranded in the area due to snow. Besides activities like hiking, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and laying on the beach, Lake Donner has unique sight-seeing destinations like the original 1875 jailhouse of the Old West town, several unique art/jewelry/photo galleries, a 1940s-style diner (Jax at the Tracks), an in-house brewery (Fifty Fifty Brewing Co.) and a lodge where you can watch the sun set (Loch Leven Lodge).

10. Lake Norman - North Carolina

Located in the Catawba/Iredell/Lincoln/Mecklenburg counties, specifically in Mooresville, North Carolina, Lake Norman is a manmade lake, created to help produce energy in the area. It is the largest freshwater body in the state. Residents and visitors can take part in fishing, swimming or hiking in the summer, while skiing is also possible if you choose a winter rental. Often called "Inland Sea," it covers 530 miles of shoreline. There are plenty of popular game fish in the waters, including the yellow perch and white bass, as well as various turtles.