As Wisconsinites, we love to say that while those folks next door might be the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we actually have 15,000. Especially up north, Wisconsin is dotted with tons of lakes, many of which are spring-fed and the result of the Wisconsin glaciation - specifically, the last big glacier to cover the United States. Of all the lakes in the Dairy State, one of the clearest lakes in Wisconsin is Black Oak Lake, which is located way, way, way up north, just a mile or so from Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Black Oak Lake is truly a sight to see. This large lake up north is 564 acres. The DNR says it's one of the deepest lakes in the state, with a maximum depth of around 85 feet, though the mean depth sits at around 34 feet.
What makes this lake so special is that it's one of the clearest lakes, if not the clearest lake in Wisconsin. It's full of fish, including panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, Northern pike, trout, and walleye. In a survey of state lakes, Black Oak Lake is listed as the one with the most clarity - a seeing depth of around 30 feet.
That makes for some of the clearest water in Wisconsin, and some of the best views of life underwater that you can ever imagine.
No one actually knows how the lake got its name, especially since black oaks don't grow this far North - the estimate is that the closest black oaks growing are 200 miles south of this area. But there are historical documents dating back to the 1880s that name the lake this way.
Located just 4.5 miles due west of Land O'Lakes, Black Oak Lake is a stellar swimming and fishing lake too - not just eye candy.
But, of course, it's also one of the most gorgeous, untouched, magical places you'll ever see. Black Oak Lake offers stunning views from the shore and even better views once you're out on the water. You'll want to spend hours peering over the edge of the boat as you get unprecedented views into the underwater ecosystem.
That perfectly clear water makes for a stunning backdrop for sunrises and sunsets.
The glasslike water allows for more sunlight to penetrate the depths of the water, encouraging more underwater growth - the clarity of the lake can be incredibly healthy for the lake's ecosystem, making it even more interesting to spend time observing.
And no matter the season, you'll love seeing the surroundings reflected back in the water's mirror-like surface.
If you find yourself way, way up north, you have to make your way to Black Oak Lake. It's the crown jewel, one of the best lakes in Wisconsin, when it comes to water clarity and as you can see, the vistas it provides aren't too shabby, either.
Black Oak Lake is located in Vilas County, 4.5 miles due west of Land O'Lakes.
Where else can you find some of the clearest lakes in Wisconsin? Let us know in the comments!
Another Wisconsin spot with dreamy views is Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island. Check out this amazing and unique Wisconsin beach for yourself! Or, for more waterfront beauty to enjoy, check out our great outdoor adventure guide.
If you plan on exploring the great outdoors via hiking trails, make sure to download the AllTrails+ app.
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