Lake towns are some of the easiest places to plan a family trip. Everything moves a little slower, outdoor activities are close by, and it is easy to mix adventure with downtime.
These lake towns offer a great balance of nature, walkable downtowns, and outdoor experiences that work well for families traveling with kids. Each destination also has guided activities and tours that are easy to book ahead of time.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Lake Tahoe is one of the most versatile lake destinations in the U.S. Families can enjoy clear blue water, mountain scenery, and a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.
- Scenic lake cruises and boat tours
- Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals
- Easy hiking trails with lake views
- Snow play and gondola rides in winter
Some of our favorite activities in Lake Tahoe include a Daytime Scenic Cruise or a Clear Kayaking Tour (which is a super special experience for the whole family!). You can book the scenic cruise here and the clear kayaking tour here!
Lake Powell, Arizona
Lake Powell offers a dramatic lake setting surrounded by red rock landscapes and wide open water. The area is well suited for families who want a mix of guided experiences and time exploring at their own pace.
- Scenic boat tours through canyon waterways
- Guided water experiences and sightseeing
- Opportunities for swimming and shoreline exploration
- Unique landscapes that feel adventurous but accessible
There are some truly amazing activities in Lake Powell, and two of our favorites include a photo boat tour of Antelope Canyon and a guided kayaking tour of Antelope Canyon. You can book the photo boat tour here and the guided kayaking tour here!
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake Havasu is a warm-weather lake destination known for calm water, wide open views, and an easygoing pace that works well for families. The town is built around outdoor fun, with plenty of ways to get out on the water without needing to plan far in advance.
- Guided boat and sightseeing tours on the lake
- Jet ski and watercraft experiences
- Scenic cruises and waterfront activities
- Relaxed shoreline areas for swimming and downtime
Our absolute favorite activity in Lake Havasu include a Sunset Cocktail Cruise on Lake Havasu’s Paddle Wheeler. You can book the cruise experience here!
Big Bear Lake, California
Big Bear Lake is a popular mountain lake getaway that works well for families looking for outdoor fun without a long travel commitment. Activities change with the seasons, keeping trips interesting year-round.
- Lake cruises and water sports
- Hiking and nature trails
- Snow play and mountain activities in winter
- Scenic chairlift rides
Some of our favorite activities in Big Bear Lake include a Ziplining tour for the whole family or Jeep excursion to explore the area. You can book the ziplining tour here and the Jeep excursion here!
Why Lake Towns Work So Well for Family Trips
Lake towns make it easy to mix outdoor activities with downtime. Guided tours and experiences help take the planning pressure off while still giving families memorable ways to explore together.
BuKoo Adventures focuses on destinations that feel approachable, relaxed, and easy to enjoy at your own pace.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.