During the brutal Mississippi summer, nothing is quite as important as finding a great spot to keep cool. Luckily, we don’t have a shortage of such locations in the Magnolia State. Whether you’re looking to swim, fish, kayak, or just relax on a sandbar, these gorgeous lakes in Mississippi will definitely deliver. Don't forget the sunscreen!

1. Sardis Lake, Lafayette, Panola, and Marshall Counties

What started off as a flood control facility in the 1930s has turned into a 98,000-acre recreation area, otherwise known as Sardis Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Mississippi. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the area surrounding the lake is also a plus, as it’s ideal for everything from picnicking to hunting.

In the middle of Sardis Lake is an iron bridge left over from before the reservoir was created. Take a look at this unusual feature of this Mississippi lake in this video from NicaHarlista:

2. Lake Patsy, Oxford

This serene lake in Mississippi can be found situated among the greenery, gardens, and walking trails that make up Oxford’s Lamar Park. If you're searching for peace and quiet, this is the spot.

3. Lake Bill Waller, Columbia

Stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear, and channel catfish, this 168-acre lake in Columbia, MS is a prime fishing spot, definitely one of the better fishing holes as far as Mississippi lakes are concerned. Happy fishing!

4. Tippah Lake, Ripley

This 145-acre lake in Mississippi, which is filled with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear, and channel catfish, is located just north of Ripley. Turn your fishing trip into an overnight adventure by taking advantage of the nearby campsites.

5. Oktibbeha County Lake, near Starkville

According to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, this body of water is the largest state fishing lake in the north region. The 513-acre lake is known for its thriving population of catfish and largemouth bass, but also offers crappie and bream fishing. Make a weekend out of it and stay along the water's edge at the Starkville KOA.

6. Clear Springs Lake, near Meadville

This lovely 12-acre spring fed lake is located within the Clear Springs Lake Recreation Area which offers camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking.

Take a quick look at the lovely Clear Springs Campground in the Homochitto National Forest in this video from Retro RV Recon:

7. Grenada Lake, Grenada

A wonderful setting for exploration, and perhaps one of the most beautiful lakes in Mississippi, the North Graysport Campground is surrounded by this man-made lake, which has about 148 miles of shoreline and holds 35,820 acres of water, making it a popular spot for water-enthusiasts. Take the 50-mile Grenada Lake Loop scenic drive for incredible waterfront views without ever leaving your car.

8. Bogue Homa Lake, Laurel

Located in the state’s coastal region, Bogue Homa Lake is an 882-acre lake in Mississippi that offers both beautiful views and the perfect setting for some fun in the sun.

9. Arkabutla Lake, DeSoto County

One of DeSoto County’s best kept secrets, Arkabutla Lake offers a little bit of everything - from some of the best fishing in the southeast to an abundance of recreational opportunities. An 11,240-acre "recreation pool," beaches, boat ramps, campsites, picnic areas, and playgrounds are just a few of the amenities visitors to this lake can enjoy.

10. Okatibee Lake, Meridian

Located within a wildlife management area, visitors to this 3,800-acre lake in Mississippi can fully immerse themselves in the outdoors and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

11. Little Black Creek Campground and Park, Lumberton

This gorgeous 640-acre lake in Mississippi is located within Lumberton’s Little Black Creek Campground and Park, which is ideal for water enthusiasts, as it offers everything from fishing to kayaking. The park also offers non-traditional amenities, including disc golf and zip lining, so you'll never be bored!

12. Lake Ferguson, Greenville

Referred to as a "fisherman’s paradise," this ten-mile oxbow lake in Greenville, MS hosts numerous regional and national tournaments. Even though Lake Ferguson’s topography includes everything from sandbars to deep rocky structures to mud flats, the water stays clear year-round, making it a popular spot for anyone looking to beat the heat on a hot summer day.

If you are looking for one of the best lakes in MS for bass fishing head to Lake Ferguson in Greenville, MS. Check out some footage from one of Greenville's hottest fishing tournaments at Lake Ferguson in this video from The BassHunter:

Which Mississippi lakes do you plan on visiting this summer? Did your favorite lake make the list? Let us know about your favorite lakes in Mississippi with a comment!