Best Lake Vacations in the U.S.

"A flooded volcano and the deepest lake in the U.S. (1,943 feet), notable for lava cones, sheer cliffs, and rock formations like Phantom Ship; visitors can take boat tours that include Wizard Island (a 763-foot cinder cone formed after Mount Mazama's eruption about 7,700 years ago). Editor's note: Crater Lake and the Cleetwood Cove Trail will be closed to swimmers, boaters, and hikers from 2026 to 2029 for construction — check the national park website for updates." - Joe Yogerst Joe Yogerst Joe Yogerst is a writer, editor, and photographer with over three decades of experience covering travel. His articles have appeared in The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Time, and he has worked on more than 40 books for National Geographic. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines