There’s something amazingly serene about standing on the shore and staring out at the calm surface of a lake. It’s a beautiful and natural experience, but did you know that not all lakes throughout this country are natural in their own right? Here are five of the most amazing artificial lakes in America that serve as reminders that just because something is man-made doesn’t mean it can’t be a beautiful part of nature.
Lake Powell – Arizona/Utah
You’ll find this breathtaking lake where Arizona and Utah’s state borders meet. Powell is the second-largest reservoir in the United States and provides incredible scenery and almost every form of outdoor recreational activity. The sight of the blue water in contrast with the red rock formations makes this an unforgettable experience.
Lake Cumberland – Kentucky
Lake Cumberland boasts an impressive shoreline of over 1,200 miles along the state of Kentucky. Like many artificial lakes, Cumberland formed from a dam in a river for hydroelectric power. This lake is a popular tourist destination with natural beauty and some exciting tunnels to swim through.
Lake Travis – Texas
Lake Travis is a lake created by dams to stop flooding in the 1930s and has a rich history of spreading itself throughout the Austin area. In the modern day, Lake Travis is one of the most popular party lakes for boats, live music, restaurants, and more.
Lake Mead – Nevada
Lake Mead is one of the most amazing artificial lakes in America and stands out for also being the biggest one, with an area of almost 29 million acre-feet across the Nevada desert. This lake serves as a hub of hydroelectric power and recreational activity and provides refuge and water to local wildlife.
Shasta Lake – California
Shasta Lake is one of the must-see spots in the state of California. Like many other reservoirs, this lake exists to prevent flooding and droughts and offers protection from any damage from salt water along the coast. However, the crystal-clear waters make it an ideal tourist spot that’s perfect for diving, swimming, fishing, and more.
