Top 10 Lakes in Alabama

🌊Dive into Alabama's most beautiful lakes—perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and scenic escapes.

by Alabama Live Travel

1. Lake Martin

A 44,000-acre man-made reservoir with 750 miles of wooded shoreline, popular for boating, swimming, fishing, and events like fireworks and jazz festivals. Chimney Rock, a 60-foot cliff jump, and the scenic Wind Creek State Park make it unforgettable.

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2. Lewis Smith Lake

Also known as Smith Lake, this 21,200-acre destination is Alabama's deepest and among the cleanest. It boasts 642 miles of shoreline and is perfect for diving, swimming, and camping.

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3. Guntersville Lake

At ~69,100 acres, the state's largest is famous for fishing, boating, and watersports. It's home to Lake Guntersville State Park—ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and lakefront lodging.

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4. Logan Martin Lake

Dubbed the "Lake of a Thousand Coves," this 17,000-acre reservoir offers deep-water recreation 30 miles east of Birmingham, drawing anglers and boaters alike.

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5. Pickwick Lake

Stretching across Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi, Pickwick spans ~43,100 acres. It's renowned for smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing and boating adventures.

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6. Lay Lake

A 12,000-acre reservoir south of Birmingham that's smaller but stunning. It's loved for its multiple boat-access points, fishing opportunities, and scenic day trip escapes.

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7. Weiss Lake

Known as the "Crappie Capital of the World," this 30,000-acre lake delivers exceptional fishing with campgrounds and cabin rentals for a relaxing getaway.

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8. Lake Tuscaloosa

Created in 1970, this 5,800-acre reservoir is a fishing, boating, tubing, and swimming hub. Public parks and rental services make it accessible and family-friendly.

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9. Wheeler Lake

Alabama's second-largest at 68,300 acres on the Tennessee River. Popular for fishing, boating, wildlife refuge access, and outdoor recreation.

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10. Lake Lurleen

Nestled within Lake Lurleen State Park near Tuscaloosa, this 250-acre lake offers fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and 23 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails.

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🌟 Why These Lakes Stand Out

• Size & Variety: From the massive sprawl of Guntersville and Lake Martin to the cozy charm of Lake Lurleen.

• Outdoor Adventure: Fishing, boating, swimming, hiking—endless opportunities.

• Scenic Beauty: Clear water, wooded shorelines, cliff-jumping spots, and lakeside parks.

• Accessibility: Lakes near major cities make day trips easy; state parks and cabins enhance the experience.

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🚗 Plan Your Visit

Pack the boat, grab your gear, and check seasonal info. Whether it's a lakeside vacation or a quick weekend getaway, Alabama's lakes promise lasting memories. Want an interactive map or detailed guide for one of these lakes? Just ask!

Top 10 Lakes by Wiki Peaks

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