The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources states that there are more than 15,000 lakes in the state. Though it might be a fun project, it'd be challenging to visit all of them. However, while a few of these small lakes in Wisconsin might be well known to locals who live near them, the following 15 lakes deserve a look when you're in the area too. If you're searching for "quiet lakes near me," these are just the ticket, and as you'll soon learn, they're also some of the best and smallest lakes in Wisconsin.

1. Fox Lake - Fox Lake

Over in Dodge County, Fox Lake is more than 2,700 acres, but the town has just 1,500 hundred people in it, making this lake a bit of a hidden gem. A great fishing lake in summer and winter, this is one far too many people overlook. Here are some more little-known lakes and places worth exploring when you're in Wisconsin.

2. Bone Lake - Bone Lake

Up in Polk County, this lake is interestingly named for the remains of Native Americans that were found on one of its islands. There's a ton of wildlife, from fish to birds, that call this area home and it's a nice, quiet area in the northwest part of the state. Visit this Wisconsin state park when you're in Polk County too.

3. Butternut Lake - Three Lakes

Combined with the next lake on the list, Butternut Lake forms a State Natural Area way up north, almost to the UP. The site is more than 1000 acres and includes great trails, tons of unique flora, and birdwatching opportunities. Here are some more beautiful lakes in Wisconsin.

4. Franklin Lake - Three Lakes

Combined with Butternut Lakes in a State Natural Area that is one of the most untouched and undeveloped lake areas in the state. Walk through 400-year-old hemlock and pine forests and watch for all kinds of wildlife. In addition to this lesser-known lake in Wisconsin, check out these beautiful Wisconsin lakes in the state too.

5. Sohlberg Silver Lake - Friendship

Another State Natural Area, this lake is constantly in flux due to the water table. It sits in the footprint of the now-extinct Glacial Lake Wisconsin.

6. Lake Delavan - Delavan

7. Moose Lake - Merton

A small lake nestled between bigger Okauchee and Pine Lakes, it used to be home to a big resort and a major party lake, but now it's a quieter destination in Lake Country. Once called Mouse Lake, the area residents lobbied to have the name changed. It also used to be used to harvest ice - a lake with a lot of history!

8. Luna Lake - Three Lakes

Compared to the larger Butternut and Franklin Lakes, Luna Lake is one of the lesser-known lakes in Wisconsin.

9. Lake Petenwell - Strongs Prairie

A man-made lake that was created by a dam on the Wisconsin River, this lake is just north of Castle Rock State Natural Area and gets a lot less attention than the similar lake there. Recent efforts to improve water quality have made this a great place to visit. Read more about why Lake Petenwell is considered one of the best in the state.

10. Lake Wingra - Madison

11. Pike Lake - Fifield

This is the Pike Lake way up north that is tucked in with a ton of state natural areas. It's truly gorgeous and often overlooked. See why it's one of the best small lakes in Wisconsin .

12. Bohner's Lake - Burlington

Located just south of Burlington, Racine County, this lake is quiet and residential and a perfect little jaunt away from the city.

13. Kelly Lake - Hickory Corners

Far enough north to feel like you've escaped, but a little less of a drive than far Northwoods, this lake just northwest of Green Bay is the perfect fishing and relaxing getaway lake.

14. Allequash Lake

Vilas County has more lakes than we can count, but Allequash Lake is tucked between two much larger and more popular lakes and is in its own State Natural Area, keeping it protected and also a lot less populated.

15. Lost Land Lake - Sawyer

Along with the little-known lakes mentioned above, did you know that Wazee Lake is the smallest lake in Wisconsin? If you've been to any of the lakes that've made this list, feel free to share what your experience was like in the comment section below.