When the weather gets warmer, you’ll know that it’s time to get outside and explore the lakes in Maine again. Take a look at these lakes and consider heading out to one – the journey is part of the fun! But, don’t forget to bring a map. These are some of Vacationland’s lesser-known bodies of water. Some are hidden in forests, others are hidden in plain sight. But they all have one thing in common – lots of fun!

1. The Bowl, Acadia National Park
The Bowl, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
The Bowl, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
dave-a-roni / Flickr
The Bowl is a beautiful high-altitude Maine lake that's perfect for swimming on a hot Maine day. You'll find it near the summit of The Beehive, but the lake can actually be reached very easily. The trail is well-marked and only about 1.5 miles roundtrip. It's not difficult, but it does go slightly uphill. Upon arriving you'll be met with some of the clearest water in the area, along with the opportunity for a relaxing swim. Read more about Acadia National Park.
2. The Belgrade Lakes Area, Central Maine
Belgrade Lakes, Belgrade, ME, USA
lightsamples / Flickr
For lots of Maine lake options, head for the hills to the Belgrade Lakes Region. The quaint little Main Street is alive with local flavor. If you miss it this summer, don't worry. Autumn is lovely as well. Don't miss the picture-perfect Harvest Festival in early October - you'll feel like you're stuck in a Norman Rockwell painting. Check out more about TheBelgrade Lakes Area.
3. Big Lake, Washington County
Big Lake, Maine 04668, USA
suckamc / Flickr
Those who love Washington County will be well acquainted with this wonderful lake. It's a bit off the beaten path, but with its hefty smallmouth bass population, it is well-known among freshwater fishermen. Learn more about Big Lake.
4. Lake St. George, near Liberty
St. George Lake, St George Lake, Liberty, ME 04949, USA
J We / Flickr
We love this lake for the state park located on its shores, but it's also one of the more unique in Maine. It's about 1,000 acres and spring fed. Being spring fed makes tit one of the clearest and cleanest lakes in Maine. But it also makes the water very, very cold! Be prepared! Read more about Lake St. George State Park.
5. Sabbathday Lake, New Gloucester
Sabbathday Lake, New Gloucester, ME 04260, USA
Close Outlet Beach at Sabbathday Lake / Facebook
While Sabbathday Lake is well-known to many, the fun beach on the shores might not be. Outlet Beach has been a beloved place for kids and adults alike since 1930. The small, family-owned beach is located on the northern side of the lake. It's equipped with all the things you need for fun water activities without all the crowds. It pays to be a little bit hidden! Learn more about the Sabbathday Lake area.

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6. Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel
Frenchman’s Hole, Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, USA
fenris / Flickr
Okay, okay. Again, we know this one isn't exactly a lake, but how could we leave it off! You can jump into it and have a swim, giving it the qualities we love in a lake. It has high rocky ledges and deep, crystal water, allowing for some epic dives. The shallower upper pool is great for kids and taking a dip with your dog. If the water is running heavily, be very careful as it can be very dangerous. Check out more about Frenchman's Hole.
7. Umbagog Lake, Oxford County
Umbagog Lake, United States
christine4nier / Flickr
The word "Umbagog" comes from the Abenaki word for "shallow water." This lake is also shared with New Hampshire, but it's still a lovely one to visit if you're in the area. It runs about 11 miles north to south, making it the largest lake along the Maine/New Hampshire border. Learn more about Umbagog Lake.
8. Duckpuddle Pond, Nobleboro & Waldoboro
Duckpuddle Pond, Maine, USA
nhoulihan / Flickr
This pond might have the best name of all those on this list! In addition to its cute name, it's also great for those who love kayaking, canoeing and other calm-water activities. Take a look at this fun waterfall road trip that includes Duckpuddle Pond.
9. Bear Pond, Waterford Township
Bear Pond, Waterford, ME 04088, USA
lisadonoghue / Flickr
You'll find Bear Pond near Oxford, Waterford and the Crooked River. It's at the intersection of Route 35 and 37 where you can park. You can swim, kayak and canoe, but do a little bit of searching and you'll find a fun rope swing which will take up most of your day. Want to stay and enjoy Bear Pond for a couple of days? Read about The Bear Mountain Inn.
10. Rattlesnake Pool, Evans Notch
Evans Notch, South Oxford, ME 04217, USA
logicalrealist / Flickr
Plan for a hot day of hiking Blueberry Mountain in Evans Notch and make sure you stop off at Rattlesnake Flume and Pond near the end. The crystal clear pool is located just off Stone House Trail. You'll see a marker showing you the way via a small detour. For more information on this spot, check out this article!
11. Megunticook Lake, Knox County
Megunticook lake, 584 Hope Rd, Camden, ME 04843, USA
Fyn Kynd / Flickr
Before everyone gets upset, let us admit that this lake is not at all one of the hidden lakes in Maine. However! It IS often overlooked. People often stick to the waterfront city of nearby Camden, forgetting that this is worth the trip outside of the town. In the summer, hike up Maiden's Cliff and then come down to enjoy a dip in the warm waters. In the fall, enjoy the foliage as well as boating. Read more about Megunticook Lake.

One of Maine’s greatest lakes is Moosehead Lake. Learn more about it here.

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