Reviewed by: Gabby Gervais
6 splash-worthy lakes within a 2-hour drive of Birmingham
Warm weather is here which means it’s time to gas up the car and make a beeline for the lake. There’s no need to travel far, because Birmingham has several lakes nearby. Here are six to visit and what to do when you get there.
1. Lake Purdy
Dreaming of a calm day on the water? Plan a day-trip to Lake Purdy.
What to do:
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Pontoon boating
Top activity: Boat rental. Visit Lake Purdy Fish & Boat Launch to rent:
- Kayaks
- Large family pontoon boats
- Boats (with or without motor)
- Paddle boards
Where to eat:
- Cabo Coastal Grill
- Ruby Sunshine
Where to stay:
Distance from Bham: 41 minutes
2. Lay Lake
Around 33 miles from Birmingham, Lay Lake is a great choice for a quick getaway when you’re in need of some relaxation or water-filled fun.
What to do:
- Boating
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Water skiing
- Tubing
Top Activity: Fishing + fishing tournaments are held year-round.
Where to eat:
- The Point Grill & Bar
- VJ’s Restaurant
Where to stay:
Distance from Bham: 1 hour, 9 minutes
3. Lewis “Smith” Lake
Located on the Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River, when you visit Lewis “Smith” Lake in Cullman, you’ll be met with 21,000 acres of picturesque views and tons of activities on and off the water.
What to do:
- Clarkson Covered Bridge
- Fly Fishing
- Paddle boarding
Top Activity: Visit Sportsman Lake Park for paddle boat rentals, splash pad fun, putt-putt golf and more.
Where to eat/drink:
- Brothers on Smith Lake
- Goat Island Brewing
- Trident Marina Grill
Where to stay:
Distance from Bham: 54 minutes
4. Logan Martin Lake
Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled day on the lake, or want to make a weekend trip out of it, consider a visit to Logan Martin. Only 30 miles east of Birmingham, this majestic lake offers 17,000 acres of beauty.
What to do:
- Boating
- Jet Skiing
- Tubing
Top Activity: Bass fishing. Logan Martin is known of having the best bass fishing in the nation.
Where to eat:
- B’s Grill
- El Cazador Mexican Grill
- Taco Tuesdays
Where to stay:
Distance from Birmingham: 48 minutes
5. Double Oak Lake
You likely know Oak Mountain State Park located in Pelham for its beauty and hiking trails, but did you know it’s also the largest state park in the state? It’s also home to the Alabama Wildlife Center? It also includes 3 lakes, the largest being Double Oak Lake that features a sandy beach and water activities for fun with family and friends.
What to do:
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Paddle Boating
Top Activity: Flipside Aqua Park—an inflatable obstacle course on the water of Beaver Lake inside Oak Mountain State Park with slides, tower, tunnel, wave section and more.
Discover more about Oak Mountain State Park:
- New mountain bike trail “Tails” coming to Oak Mountain
- It’s official — Oak Mountain State Park is now 1644 acres larger
Where to eat:
- Margarita Grill
- Ragtime Cafe
- The Beer Hog
Where to stay:
Oak Mountain State Park is the ideal setting for camping. Check out campsite amenities and make your campground reservation.
Distance from Bham: 39 minutes
6. Lake Martin
A bit further, but still under a two-hour drive from Birmingham, you’ll find Lake Martin. The third largest lake in Alabama, you’ll discover everything from recreational activities to great restaurants and beautiful places to stay.
What to do:
- Boating
- Lake Martin Tours
- Swimming
Top Activity: Cliff jumping at Acapulco Rock (Chimney Rock)
Where to eat:
- Daylight Donuts
- Firetruck Bar-B-Que
- Carlisle’s Soda Fountain
Where to stay:
View 291 vacation rentals at Lake Martin.
Also consider:
- Booking a room at Creekside Lodge and Event Center.
- Camping at Wind Creek State Park.
Distance from Bham: 1 hour, 48 minutes
Check out these Huntsville lakes that make the perfect summer destination.
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