Lakes Around Columbus
Sometimes you just need to pack up and find a spot by the water. A lake vacation can be amazing for people that enjoy getting outside too, because they offer opportunities to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.
There are numerous brilliant reasons for a getaway to a lake in Columbus during the warmer months – the water is refreshing on hot days, relaxing summer entertainment like wakeboarding, fishing, or just relaxing on a raft. You’ll find that some lakes have beaches that are ideal for working on your tan. Has there ever been a better time? Pack up your vehicle with your beach goodies and a cooler then set out on your next vacation to find your own number one spot on the water!
Nearby Lakes for Columbus
A Day at the Lake: An Itinerary
A day trip to the lake, or a longer getaway gives you a nearly boundless list of activities for families, couples, or even those looking for some quality alone time.
Now we’ll run down a list of some of the best things to do when you arrive at a Columbus lake:
Grab a board. If you like to paddle around, pack up your board of choice and chart your course to a lake with a public boat launch you can use and get out and soak up nature’s beauty in all it’s glory.
Catch some fish. For those that love to fish, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or standing on a dock with a beer in one hand and a rod in the other.
Have a picnic. The lakes near Columbus gives you the chance to visit all sorts of top-notch picnic areas partake in the enjoyment of your favorite tasty treats, or just a couple of sandwiches to enjoy while enjoying the scenery. Should you be with someone you want to impress, this plan should be suitably romantic.
Preparing for a Day on the Lake
A lake day itinerary can be drastically different when you take into consideration the specific lake you’ll be visiting, when you decide to go, and your plan of attack. However, we’ve assembled a rundown of our favorite lake items for you to use as a checklist prior to locking up the house and heading out.
Lake basics
When you’re out on a lake near Columbus it makes a lot of sense to take many of these things to make sure you’re feeling good, healthy, and relaxed.
- Plates, bowls, utensils, cups
- Bottle opener
- A beach blanket and umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Sunglasses
- Portable stereo
- Towels and dry clothes
- Trash bags (one for trash, one for wet items)
- A cooler and drinks
Specialty lake stuff
Consider your planned activities at the lake and who will be in your entourage, the items below could make your day more enjoyable and worth packing before you make the trip.
- Games for the beach
- Diapers (if a baby’s on board)
- Corkscrew
- Tackle box
- Safety gear like life jackets
- Fishing poles
- Paper towels and sanitizer
- Goggles or masks
- Licenses and registration for boating and fishing
- Your favorite magazine or book
Lake Safety Checklist
While your getaway to a lake in Columbus can provide tons of fun, safety should remain top of mind at all times. If you’re going to be out on the water here are some general safety tips to keep in mind.
- Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft
- Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
- Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
- Always swim with a buddy
- Always wear sunblock
- Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
- Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
Some More Tips
Not everyone has had a chance to visit the amazing lakes around Columbus and likely have some questions on ways to maximize their fun. Obviously, any body of water is going to have unique qualities and trappings, but here are a couple key points to review when planning which could help you end up with a winning itinerary.
- Do homework on the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, occasionally the beaches near Columbus can get very crowded. To find a little more privacy, do some digging on multiple nearby beaches and lakes to see if you can find one that’s less crowded if you want a more relaxing vibe. To get in on the party, search out the busiest, most happening sandy party scene!
- No boat, no problem. If you’re near the water you’ll often find nearby marinas where you can rent a boat. You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or a day of watersports. Using a search engine can typically help you find options for renting the perfect boat.
- Make the most of the best assets in the area. If you have time for a lengthier getaway, look for local state parks and recreation areas which give you the ability to stay near or even on the water without breaking the bank.
