10 Best Lakes Near Winnipeg That You’ll Want to Keep on Your Bucket List
The other day, I realized something: I needed a serious change of scenery. Don’t get me wrong – I love Winnipeg. But sometimes the city grind just gets to you, you know?
I found myself daydreaming about quiet lakes and sandy shores, and just chilling by the water. Before I knew it, I decided to hit the road, do some exploring, and find the most stunning spots to escape the city.
Whether you’re craving some beach time, a little kayaking, or just a peaceful place to unwind, you have to seriously consider checking out the best lakes near Winnipeg.
Trust me, after a weekend at one of these spots, you’ll forget all about city life – for a little while, at least. If you’re ready to dive in (pun intended), let’s go!
1. Lake Winnipeg
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Address: South-central Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 55 kilometers north
Amenities: Beach, picnic spots, fishing lodges
It’s only fitting to talk about the big one – Lake Winnipeg. It’s one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, right in Manitoba’s backyard.
Imagine driving just an hour north of Winnipeg and suddenly being greeted by 24,000 square kilometers of sparkling water. Yes, it’s that huge.
If you’re into fishing, this place is heaven. Lake Winnipeg’s got some of the best walleye fishing in North America – anglers travel from all over just to cast a line here.
You can also just relax on sandy beaches like Gimli and Winnipeg Beach, which are perfect for a family outing or just a day of sunbathing. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, grab a boat and check out the little islands scattered around the lake.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on Gimli Beach’s Icelandic Festival if you’re visiting during the summer – it’s a quirky and fun cultural experience! |
2. Falcon Lake
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Address: Whiteshell Provincial Park, Southeastern Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 152 kilometers east
Amenities: water sports, campgrounds, boat rentals
Tucked away in the beautiful Whiteshell Provincial Park, Falcon Lake is a must-visit gem. About an hour and a half east of Winnipeg, it’s the ideal spot for anyone craving a bit of water sports action.
This lake is perfect for those who love to paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, with its calm and crystal-clear waters. There’s something seriously exciting about gliding across the lake with the wilderness surrounding you on all sides.
Of course, if relaxing is more your speed, Falcon Lake’s got you covered too. The sandy shores are perfect for kicking back and soaking up the sun.
Families love the campgrounds here – the facilities are clean and well-kept, making it easy to enjoy a few nights under the stars.
The lake is also a hotspot for fishing – northern pike and smallmouth bass are plentiful, so be sure to bring your gear.
| Pro Tip: Rent a cabin or stay at the famous Falcon Lake Hotel for a cozy weekend retreat! |
3. Grand Beach
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Address: Rural Municipality of St. Clements, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 100.6 kilometers north
Amenities: beach, picnic areas, boardwalk
If you’re looking for that classic beach day experience, Grand Beach is the place to go. Located just over an hour from the city, on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, this is the spot for white sand, sunshine, and beach vibes.
The sand dunes are epic here – some of them stand a whopping 12 meters high! It’s basically the Manitoba version of a coastal getaway.
If you’re someone who loves to build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or just lay back with a good book, Grand Beach should be on your radar.
The beach is part of Grand Beach Provincial Park, and you’ll find plenty of amenities nearby, like picnic areas, hiking trails, and even bird-watching opportunities for nature lovers out there.
Meanwhile, the water here is shallow and warm enough for kids to safely splash around, which is a huge bonus for families. Plus, the boardwalk’s got snack stands, shops, and everything you need for a perfect beach day.
| Pro Tip: Come during the week if you want to avoid the weekend crowds. It gets packed! |
4. Birds Hill Provincial Park
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Address: Oakbank, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 30.7 km north
Amenities: campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic shelters
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 11 PM
Just a 20-minute drive from Winnipeg, Birds Hill Provincial Park is the ultimate quick escape for nature lovers who don’t want to spend hours on the road.
The man-made Birds Hill Lake is a top pick for a summer day out. The water here is calm, making it ideal for floating, swimming, or just wading around to cool off.
But what’s really great about Birds Hill is that there’s so much more to do beyond the lake. The park is a hub for activities like hiking, horseback riding, and cycling.
Plus, the beach area is clean, family-friendly, and perfect for a casual picnic or barbecue. So whether you’re coming for a quick afternoon or planning to camp overnight, Birds Hill offers that perfect balance between outdoor fun and convenience.
| Pro Tip: Spend an afternoon hiking the Pine Ridge Trail before cooling off in the lake! |
5. Whiteshell Provincial Park
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Address: Hwy 1, Eastern Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 139 km east
Amenities: campgrounds, boat launches, hiking trails
Imagine a place with over 200 lakes to choose from. Sounds like a dream? That’s Whiteshell Provincial Park for you.
Located about 1.5 to 2 hours east of Winnipeg, this massive park is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you’re into canoeing, fishing, hiking, or even scuba diving, Whiteshell’s got something for everyone.
Some of the standout lakes include West Hawk Lake, Caddy Lake, and Jessica Lake – each offering something unique in terms of scenery and activities.
Camping is also a must-try here, with both backcountry and more accessible sites available. To top things off, the crystal-clear waters and rugged wilderness make it a true escape from city life.
| Pro Tip: Take a canoe trip through Caddy Lake’s rock tunnels – it’s an adventure you won’t forget! |
6. Riding Mountain National Park
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Address: 135 Wasagaming Dr, Onanole, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 267.2 km northwest
Amenities: campsites, restaurants, boat rentals
Riding Mountain National Park is a bit of a trek from Winnipeg (about a three-hour drive), but it’s worth every minute spent on the road.
The star attraction here is Clear Lake, one of the clearest (obviously), most pristine lakes you’ll find anywhere.
It’s the perfect spot for some swimming, kayaking, or just enjoying the breathtaking scenery. You’ll definitely want to spend time by the water but don’t overlook the great hiking and biking trails in the area either.
Clear Lake is also surrounded by the charming village of Wasagaming, which feels like it’s been plucked right out of a storybook.
From cozy cafes and cute shops to a variety of accommodation options, Wasagaming has all the makings of a perfect cottage-country retreat.
| Pro Tip: Try the ice cream at The Sugar Shop in Wasagaming – it’s legendary! |
7. Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park
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Address: Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 157.5 km north
Amenities: resorts, marina, hiking trails
If you’re looking for a quieter, more secluded escape, Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park should be at the top of your list.
Located about two hours north of Winnipeg, this park sits along the shores of Lake Winnipeg, offering a mix of natural beauty and fascinating history.
The main attraction here is Hecla Island, a beautiful spot steeped in Icelandic heritage. This place is perfect for anyone craving tranquility – think peaceful beaches, scenic walking trails, and plenty of wildlife to observe.
If you’re into bird-watching, pack those binoculars because Hecla is a prime spot for catching sight of some incredible species.
The beaches here are less crowded than other lakes in the area, making it feel like you’ve stumbled upon your own little secret hideaway.
| Pro Tip: Rent bikes and explore the island’s trails – it’s the best way to see the scenery up close! |
8. West Hawk Lake
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Address: Whiteshell Provincial Park, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 154.9 km east
Amenities: boat rentals, cabins, campsites
If you love a good geological backstory with your lakes, West Hawk Lake is going to blow your mind.
This stunning lake, located within Whiteshell Provincial Park about 1.5 hours east of Winnipeg, was formed by a meteor impact – yeah, you read that right!
Not only does that make for an interesting fact to drop at your next dinner party, but it also means West Hawk Lake is one of the deepest lakes in Manitoba. It’s over 100 meters deep, making it a popular spot for scuba divers who want to explore its depths.
And even if diving isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to love about this lake. West Hawk Lake is perfect for powerboating, swimming, and waterskiing, and the surrounding area is ideal for camping and hiking.
The nearby town offers all the amenities you need, and there are even cozy cabins for rent if you’re in the mood for a more laid-back lakeside experience.
| Pro Tip: Check out the meteor crater information site to learn more about the lake’s unique origins! |
9. Twin Lakes Beach
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Address: Northwest Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 89.1 km northwest
Amenities: picnic areas, walking paths
If you’re on the hunt for a low-key beach day, Twin Lakes Beach is a great option. Located along the western shore of Lake Manitoba, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive northwest of Winnipeg.
The gentle waves and gradual slope into the lake mean it’s super safe for kids to splash around without the worry of big waves or sudden drop-offs.
Twin Lakes Beach is less commercialized than some of the other big beach destinations, which means fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
There are also some great walking paths nearby if you want to stretch your legs after lounging in the sun all day.
You won’t find big shops or restaurants here, so it’s more of a bring-your-own-picnic kind of place. But that’s part of the charm!
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pack a blanket and an umbrella for your picnic – the beach here is perfect for getting some R and R. |
10. Nutimik Lake
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Address: Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 131.3 km west
Amenities: campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails
Nutimik Lake is a well-kept secret inside the Whiteshell Provincial Park, about 1.5 hours west of Winnipeg. This lake is ideal for those who are looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature.
There’s a sense of tranquility here that’s hard to beat – picture yourself paddling along the shore, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of birds and the gentle lapping of the water.
Nutimik Lake is also a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and other bird species that call this area home.
And if you’re up for a bit of exploring, there are some hiking trails nearby that lead to Whitemouth Falls, a gorgeous spot that’s definitely worth the walk.
| Pro Tip: Plan to visit during the fall for some of the best leaf-peeping in Manitoba! |