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, the last big glacier to cover the United States. Of all the lakes in the Dairy State, the clearest is Black Oak Lake, which is located way, way, way up north, just a mile or so from the Upper Peninsula.
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.
BlackOakLake.com
What makes this lake so special is that it’s one of the clearest lakes in Wisconsin. It’s full of fish, including Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Trout, and Walleye.
BlackOakLake.com
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.
BlackOakLawn.com
That makes for some crystal clear water and some of the best views of life underwater that you can ever imagine.
Flickr/Mark
No one actually knows how the lake got it’s name, especially since Black Oaks don’t grow this far North — the estimate is the closest Black Oaks growing is 200 miles south of this area. But there are historical documents dating back to the 1880’s that name the lake this way.
BlackOakLake.com
Located just 4.5 miles due west of Land O’Lakes, Black Oak Lake is a stellar swimming and fishing lake.
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But it’s also one of the most gorgeous, untouched, magical places you’ll ever see.
BlackOakLake.com
That crystal clear water makes for a stunning backdrop for sunrises and sunsets.
BlackOakLake.com
And no matter the season, you’ll love seeing the surroundings reflected back in the water’s mirror-like surface.
BlackOakLake.com
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.
BlackOakLake.com
The clear lake 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.
BlackOakLake.com
If you find yourself way, way up north, you have to make your way to Black Oak Lake. It’s the crown jewel of the state when it comes to water clarity and as you can see, the vistas it provides aren’t too shabby, either.
BlackOakLake.com
Black Oak Lake is located in Vilas County, 4.5 miles due west of Land O’Lakes. You can find it on this interactive map.
BlackOakLake.com
BlackOakLawn.com
Flickr/Mark
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Where else do you go in Wisconsin to find crystal-clear waters? Let us know in the comments!
Another Wisconsin spot with very clear water is Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island. Check out this amazing and unique Wisconsin beach.
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