The Cleanest Lakes in the U.S. May Not Always Be the Clearest

Lakes across the United States play a crucial role in both the nation's landscape and its cultural identity. From the vast Great Lakes of the Upper Peninsula to the scenic waters of the Ozarks in the Midwest, these freshwater bodies have attracted people for trade, natural resources, and exceptional recreational opportunities.

The cleanliness of a lake is typically assessed by common indicators such as dissolved oxygen, ammonia, lead, phosphorus, sulfate, total dissolved solids, turbidity, and pH levels. These metrics help determine which lakes are the clearest, dirtiest, and most pristine across the U.S.

Top 5 Cleanest Lakes in the United States

Scientists have assessed lakes by analyzing their mineral and chemical makeup, which supports a vibrant aquatic ecosystem. This includes species like lake trout, frogs, and insects. Below is a list of some of the cleanest lakes in America, where both wildlife and humans can flourish.

1. Lake Louise, Florida

Lake Louise in Florida is recognized as the cleanest lake in America. Situated in a suburb of the larger Orlando metropolitan area, its water quality is exceptional. With a pH of 6.98, it creates a healthy environment that not only supports aquatic life but may also enhance skin health for those who visit.

2. Axhandle Lake, Wisconsin

Axhandle Lake, located in Chippewa County, Wisconsin, holds the title of America's second-cleanest lake. This 75-foot-deep (23-meter-deep) body of water is celebrated for its clear waters, which make it a perfect spot for local fishermen to spot a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass and northern pike.

3. Bear Gully Lake, Florida

Bear Gully Lake ranks as the third-cleanest lake in the United States, thanks to its exceptionally low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels. These solids include elements such as sulfates, chlorides, calcium, magnesium, potassium, bicarbonates, and sodium.

4. Lake Mooney, Virginia

Previously known as Rocky Pen Reservoir, Lake Mooney has been steadily growing since it began operations in 2014, with an impressive increase of 40 million gallons per day. This reservoir, fed by the Rappahannock River, serves as a long-term water source for the local community.

5. Aberdeen Lake, Mississippi

Located along the Tenn-Tom waterway, Mississippi's Aberdeen Lake is one of the nation's most secluded lakes. The area surrounding it offers camping opportunities, yet its remote location might explain why it is recognized as one of the cleanest lakes around.

Honorable Mentions

5 Dirtiest Lakes in the United States

Researchers measuring lakes often cite oxygen-deprived water and higher-than-average TDS levels as significant warning signs. New studies, however, have highlighted rising concerns about lakes contaminated with lead.

While Florida is home to some of the cleanest lakes in the U.S., it also faces serious contamination issues with lead levels. Notable lakes affected by this pollution include Lake Yvonne, Lake Marie, Lost Lake, Triplet Lake, Secret Lake, Lake Kathryn, Lake Concord, Lake Lotus, Lake Ellen, Trout Lake, and Lake Griffin.

The following are some of the most polluted lakes in the United States, facing problems far beyond Florida's lead contamination.

1. Utah Lake, Utah

Utah's largest freshwater lake also holds the title of the dirtiest lake in America. Its unpleasant odor is likely a result of high TDS levels and pollution.

2. Lake J.B. Thomas, Texas

Lake J.B. Thomas, located in Texas, holds the title of the second dirtiest lake in the United States, largely due to its unappealing muddy brown hue. The presence of silt and clay deposits gives it a murky look, making it one of the least inviting spots to cool off during the hot Texas summer months.

3. Lake Wichita, Texas

Texas is also home to the third-dirtiest lake in the country, Lake Wichita. A combination of high pH levels, a flourishing green algae bloom, and diminished water levels—further exacerbated by local communities—has rendered the lake nearly uninhabitable for its native wildlife and plant life.

4. Waurika Lake, Oklahoma

Waurika Lake in Oklahoma faces many of the same problems as other lakes on this list of polluted bodies of water. However, its primary water quality issues stem from excessively high TDS levels and dangerously high mercury concentrations.

5. Dave Boyer (Walters) Lake, Oklahoma

This lake in Oklahoma is known for its high turbidity and dangerously high TDS levels, reaching as much as 338.5 milligrams per liter.

Honorable Mentions

5 Clearest Lakes in the United States

We've already explored the cleanest and dirtiest lakes in the U.S., but there are countless breathtaking natural wonders that surpass scientific measurements and leave you in awe.

If you search for "crystal-clear lakes" on your favorite vacation rental platform, the following natural marvels are sure to appear.

1. Crater Lake, Oregon

Nestled within the peaceful surroundings of Crater Lake National Park, Crater Lake is an awe-inspiring sight. The lake, which plunges 1,943 feet (592 meters) deep, was formed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption nearly 7,700 years ago. Over time, melted snow and rainwater filled the caldera, resulting in the deepest lake in the United States.

2. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

When imagining the perfect lake, you’re probably envisioning something like Lake Tahoe. This stunning freshwater lake lies on the border between California and Nevada, attracting hordes of tourists each year to its picturesque beaches and luxurious ski resorts.

3. Lake Chelan, Washington

A boater’s dream, Lake Chelan is a long, narrow lake in Washington that stretches for about 50 miles (80.5 km). Its clear blue waters are teeming with lake trout and salmon, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.

4. Lake George, New York

Tucked away within the timeless beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is a captivating and historic gem of the Northeastern U.S., surrounded by ancient forests and stunning natural scenery.

5. Newfound Lake, New Hampshire

The New England area is renowned for its peaceful and charming lakes, but few places rival the serene beauty of Newfound Lake in New Hampshire.

Honorable Mentions