4 of the World’s Biggest and Best Camping and Hiking Lakes

For those who love to combine camping with other types of outdoor adventures such as watersports, it’s usually a good idea to find a suitable lake where you can enjoy both. There are thousands of wonderful lakes around the world where you can explore to your heart’s content. These are some of the more famous lakes to visit.

Best Camping and Hiking Lakes

1. Loch Ness – Scotland

Scotland’s Loch Ness is famous across the globe due to the famous Loch Ness monster that possibly lives there. The lake is close to 25 miles long and lies in the western Highlands. There are some superb hikes along this scenic lake with the Great Glen Way being among the most popular. This route stretches the entire length of the lake. There are numerous historical sites in the surrounding area including Urquhart Castle, which was constructed at Strone Point. The castle provides hikers and campers with a spectacular view of Loch Ness. The castle was originally built back in the 6th century, but it was destroyed in the 17th century. However, its ruins are still there to visit.

2. Lake Okanagan – British Columbia, Canada

Lake Okanagan is one of British Columbia’s most popular destinations during the summer months. It’s a recreational place where you’ll find several vineyards and plenty of houseboats. The lake is about 85 miles long and close to three miles wide and is filled with sparkling water. Lake Okanagan is especially a popular site with residents and visitors of the nearby communities of Penticton and Kelowna. The countryside is ideal for orchards and vineyards and the views are astounding. Camping and watersports are abundant and legend has it that there’s a 40-foot long sea serpent swimming around in the deep waters.

3. Lake Tanganyika – Africa

This famous African lake is regarded as the world’s oldest and longest. It’s also the second deepest and second largest. The lake borders a total of four different African nations, which are Zambia, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. Years ago the lake was used as an important trade route for people who were dealing in spices and even slaves. The fishing here is incredible as there are many different species and they’re quite bountiful. Exploring Lake Tanganyika counts as one of the best African adventures you could imagine since you can stop at many lakeside communities.

4. Lake Superior – Canada/USA

Lake Superior is one of North America’s Great Lakes. In fact, it’s the biggest freshwater lake on the planet when it comes to surface area and it contains more water volume than the rest of the Great lakes put together. The waves are strong enough here for surfing and the camping and watersports are fantastic. There are also numerous hiking opportunities and the communities that lie alongside the lake’s shores are very picturesque and enchanting. You’ll also have the chance to see some pretty impressive waterfalls and canyons. The sheer size of the lake makes it a popular spot for boating and it’s also a busy ice-fishing spot once the winters arrive in North America.