Tetonka Lake and Sakatah Lake form the isthmus on which the charming Minnesota town of Waterville lies. These rustic Minnesota lakes offer some of the most laid-back recreation in the state, along with all the charm of a small-town vibe. Come explore the possibilities at some of the best lakes near me!

The first - and largest - of Waterville's two bodies of water is Lake Tetonka, one of the best lakes in Minnesota.
Tetonka Lake
Tetonka Lake, Minnesota 56096, USA
Lynn Armstrong/Google Reviews
It's lesser known than its smaller neighbor, and we don't mind, yet the beautiful body of water offers 1,336 acres located on the west side of town.
The quieter, less-crowded Tentonka Lake is perfect for a day of fishing or simply kicking back on the shore and relaxing.
Tetonka Lake
Best Point Resort, T-20, Waterville, MN, USA
Casey Strand/Google Reviews
On this pretty lake, you'll find laid-back campgrounds and resorts, such as Best Point Resort that features a picturesque sandy swimming beach in front of the cabins along with boats, paddleboats, and pontoon rentals. Visit the Best Point Resort website for accommodation types, rates, and more information.
Connected to Tetonka Lake by a short stretch of the Cannon River - which runs through Waterville - Sakatah Lake is the better-known of the town's two Minnesota lakes.
Anthony Fuller/AllTrails
The Upper Sakatah Lake offers 881 acres of fun and excellent fishing for Walleyes.
On its shores, you'll find one of the largest - and probably most fun - family campgrounds in the state.
Tetonka Lake
Kamp Dels/Facebook
Kamp Dels not only has considerable lake frontage, it also boasts a massive waterpark and many other amenities that elevate it above your typical family campground.

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For a mellower connection with the lake, head over to Sakatah Lake State Park.
Tetonka Lake
Tom Young/Google Reviews
Hike one of the park's miles of trails and enjoy the lake's undeveloped shoreline.
Tetonka Lake
Sakatah Lake State Park, 50499 Sakatah Lake St Park Rd, Waterville, MN 56096, USA
AndyB5542/TripAdvisor
Read all about it on the ​​Sakatah Lake State Park web page.
After a day of exploring, you're sure to be hungry.
El Molino Mexican Restaurant, Waterville MN/Facebook
Head into Waterville and tuck into some hearty Mexican fare. Check out the menu and why this is a local favorite on the ​​El Molino Facebook page.
We enjoy the chiles rellenos platter with melted cheeses and a choice of ground beef or shredded chicken.
El Molino Mexican Restaurant, Waterville MN/Facebook

Tetonka Lake and Sakatah Lake are especially pretty at sunset. We think you’ll agree that Waterville and its two lakes make an ideal destination for a summer day trip. Have you been to Waterville or any of the area’s other destinations? Let us know in the comments below!

For another adventure, take this 275-mile road trip that goes to some of the most scenic parts of Minnesota. And get a little help from our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List.

This 275-Mile Road Trip Leads To Some Of The Most Scenic Parts Of Minnesota, No Matter What Time Of Year It Is

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More to Explore

Minnesota Lakes

Carolyn Harmon | June 03, 2024

What are some of the best Minnesota lakes?

  • Salt Lake (Marietta): Part of the lovely Salt Lake Wildlife Management Area, this 312-acre body of water borders South Dakota and is the only salt lake in the state. It is also known for extraordinary bird viewing with the abundance of wildlife the property attracts.
  • Knife Lake: Knife Lake is a 1,266-acre impoundment on the Knife River in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. With an average depth of 9.1 feet, it shares a border with Ontario. Anglers enjoy the plentiful management of Walleye and Northern Pike.
  • Deer Lake (Deer River): Did you know that the minerals in this body of water cause it to change colors? One of Minnesota's largest lakes, the approximately 4,097 acres offers 22 miles of shoreline. Folks enjoy dropping a line for trophy muskies.
  • Iowa Lake (Fairmont): Continuing the theme of sharing a border, this lake shares one with Iowa.

Where else can I find lakes in Minnesota? 

  • Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge (McGregor): For some water fun, visit Mandy Lake, Twin Lakes, or Rice River on this 18,000-acre preserve. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife which you can see from the Rice Lake Observation Tower.

 

 

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Waterville, MN 56096, USA