While it is known as a river town, since it is situated right on the banks of the Ohio River, don’t miss some of the most beautiful lakes near Cincinnati. As much as we love the views and ambiance the river allows our city, sometimes it is nice to escape to a serene lake where you can kick back and relax and find places to swim. Summer is a great time to head to the scenic lakes around Cincinnati, and there are several to choose from! If you want to experience lake life this season, then check out these nine gorgeous lakes near Cincinnati this summer.

1. Twin Lakes at Eden Park
Twin Lakes, 9840 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, USA
Flickr/David Ohmer
Twin Lakes, once an old rock quarry, is a hidden gem within Eden Park near downtown. It was once owned by Joseph Longworth, a Cincinnati landowner and horticulturist, who called his scenic estate the "Garden of Eden," after the one in The Bible. Part of the name remains. And it is simply breathtaking, with two small lakes that beautifully wind through gardens, and there is also a footbridge, many sculptures, and several spots to sit and take in the views of the lake and the Ohio River Valley. It's a serene lake escape, and one of the most beautiful lakes right in the heart of Cincinnati.
2. Brookville Lake
Brookville Lake Office, 14108 State Rte 101, Brookville, IN 47012, USA
PanWoyteczek, CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
If you want to experience one of the largest lakes in our area this season, head across the Indiana border to Brookville Lake. This more than 5,000-acre lake is large enough for any type of water activity, and it also has two beaches where you can sink your toes in the sand. There are plenty of spots to camp around the lake, and you can even rent a boat for the day from a marina.
3. Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland Marina, 2108 State Hwy 1383, Russell Springs, KY 42642, USA
Flickr/Cathy
For another impressive lake, this time head south into Kentucky and check out Lake Cumberland. This is a popular vacation spot for Cincinnatians, thanks to its proximity and the wide range of activities. You can rent a houseboat, cabin, or camp near the lake, and visit any number of the marinas for restaurants and events. The views are pretty remarkable, as well.
4. Lake Isabella
Lake Isabella, 10174 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, USA
John V/TripAdvisor
If fishing is your favorite lakeside activity, visit Lake Isabella in Symmes Township. This quiet lake and park are perfect for relaxing, and fishing is the favorite way to do it here. The park is opening a new campground this year, so you can make a little trip out of your visit to this picturesque lake.

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5. Acton Lake at Hueston Woods State Park
Hueston Woods State Park, 6301 Park Office Rd, College Corner, OH 45003, USA
Flickr/Cathy
Hueston Woods is a great place to explore the outdoors near Cincinnati, and you can choose to visit for the day or make an entire vacation out of it. The park surrounds 625-acre Acton Lake, which is especially beautiful at sunset. You can hike around the lake, take a boat out, or just sit on a bench and enjoy the view.

This super-cool footage gives you a spectacular birds-eye view of Acton Lake and the surrounding beauty.
6. Falling Rock Park *
FRP LaGrange Quarry “The Quarry”, 2201 Fendley Mill Rd, La Grange, KY 40031, USA
FRP-LaGrange Quarry - “The Quarry”/Facebook
If you are looking for a lake that is also the best swimming spot in the region, you'll find it at Falling Rock Park in LaGrange, Kentucky. In just a little over an hour, you can be diving into clear, blue water or floating the day away on this sapphire lake. It is only for adults. ages 18 and over. Learn more about Falling Rock Park.
7. East Fork Lake
East fork lake, Elklick Rd, Bethel, OH 45106, USA
wolfgirl A/TripAdvisor
Another state park, this time just east of Cincinnati in Bethel, East Fork Lake State Park is filled with outdoor adventure. The main feature of the park is its 2,610-acre lake that is just calling for you to get out on it. Swim, boat, fish, relax, but definitely visit this lake sometime this season. It's peaceful and quiet and the perfect natural oasis near the city.
8. Williamstown Lake
Williamstown Lake, Kentucky, USA
Facebook/Paddle Williamstown
This 333-acre lake in Grant County in Northern Kentucky is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Stay the night or just visit for a few hours for kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. It's close enough for a quick visit, but far enough away to be able to truly unwind.
9. Miami Whitewater Forest
Miami Whitewater Forest Lake, Crosby Township, OH 45030, USA
Alex/TripAdvisor
The large lake at Miami Whitewater Forest in Harrison is perfect for the whole family, as it is easily accessible and offers a wide range of activities. You can set up a chair and fish from a paved walkway, have a picnic by its shores, or rent one of several types of boats to take out on the water. It's an all-around great lake to experience life on the water near Cincinnati.

When you’ve had enough of the city this summer, head to one of these beautiful lakes near Cincinnati for cool breezes, inviting water, and laid-back activities that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. If you are into scrapbooking, photography, or journaling – these stunning views are where poems begin. Do you have a favorite lake in the area that is your go-to spot for relaxing in Cincinnati? Let us know in the comments!

And if you’re looking for more places to swim, check out one more body of water near Cincinnati that’s perfect for a hot, summer day at White Rock Park, just a short drive from downtown in Saint Paul, Indiana.

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More to Explore

Lakes Near Cincinnati

Carolyn Harmon | May 13, 2022

What is another beautiful lake near Cincinnati?

  • Dale Hollow Lake, a large body of water on the Kentucky/Tennessee border, is just a few hours away from Cincinnati. One way to experience this beauty is by visiting Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. This Kentucky State Park offers a scenic lodge, hiking trails, and water activities. And houseboats are available for rent at Sunset Marina. Plan ahead to reserve your boat and hours of summer fun.

 

Where are some fun places to swim near Cincinnati?

  • Land Of Illusion Aqua Adventures is well-known for its creepy haunted house, but it is perfect for the entire family, offering an inflatable waterpark in the summertime that comes with a sandy beach, concessions, and other wet and wild activities.
  • Another close place to find water fun is White Rock Park, located about an hour west of Cincinnati. This unique summer destination offers a fishing spot, swimming hole, and campground. Swing from a rope, zipline into the cool water or float - just plan on a fun day at this sunny spot near Cincinnati.

 

Where can I find a great sandwich near water in Cincinnati?

  • Jim & Jack’s On The River, on River Road, offers live music, great drinks, and delicious food all in one place. Try the Bavarian pretzels for an appetizer, sink your teeth into the porky pineapple pizza, or try the grilled chicken salad. Anything you try at Jim & Jack's will relieve even the biggest appetites. Also, be sure to check out their lineup of musicians.

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