Wisconsin counts itself as having more than 15,000 lakes, so it’s never difficult to find a place to cool off, take a dip and relax. But one of the very best lakes in the state is bit of a hidden gem up in Black River Fall. Built on a former iron mine quarry, Wazee Lake is the deepest lake in the state. Part of Wazee Lake Recreation Area, which is 1300 acres and Jackson County’s newest and largest county park, the lake is 146 acres in size and is the clearest and deepest inland lake in Wisconsin.
But what makes this lake so special and unique is that it’s a popular scuba diving destination, something you don’t find too often here in the Midwest. The lake is non-motorized, protecting the lake and those who use it.
There is a $5 per vehicle day pass fee for use of this state natural area, but for that cost, you’ll get access to the lake and beach as well as picnic area, more than 14 km of hiking paths and 5 km of bike paths. There’s also 12 campsites here that can be rented.
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This gorgeous, colorful lake is the perfect place for a relaxing summer day with your family, but if offers so much more if that’s something you’re looking for.
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Folks from all over the Midwest visit Wazee to get the chance to Scuba dive and explore this gorgeous, deep lake. If you’re not equipped for that, nearby Wazee Sports Center provides a wide array of dive courses and certification as well as equipment. They also rent kayak, paddleboards and other equipment to help enhance your day at Wazee.
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Scuba Diving requires training, knowledge and equipment and can be incredibly dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. This is a gorgeous spot with unmatched depth and clarity, but divers have to be careful and know the limits of their bodies and equipment. Having access to this kind of dive spot is a privilege and divers have to be trained and careful.
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This lake is chock full of marine life, which is what makes the diving so spectacular, but it also makes for great fishing. In Wazee Lake you’ll find trout, bluegills, catfish, walleye and smallmouth bass. There is one boat landing that can be used to go fishing or just to boat around the lake and enjoy the scenery.
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While the water is the main draw here, don’t forget your hiking boots and head out on the paths up and around the lake. There are some gorgeous overlooks and vistas and the sunsets here are A+.
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Though this place isn’t far from Black River Falls, it feels like a vacation much further away from home. This little oasis is the perfect getaway as summer winds down and kids head back to school. You’ll feel your stress melt away. There are picnic tables and small charcoal grills, so pack the makings of lunch and spend a full day in one of the most beautiful spots in all of Wisconsin.
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Everyone who visits Wazee Lake State Recreation Area marvels at how stunning the scenery is. You won’t be able to believe you’ve found such a stunning, peaceful place to relax and play so close to home.
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You’d be hard-pressed to find a better beach anywhere in Wisconsin. Everything is pristine and the experience is one that you’ll be telling friends about - but not too many as you want to keep this place as secret as possible.
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Pack the car up and forget about responsibilities, homework, yardwork and all the things that stress us out this time of year and head for a day of fun that you’ll remember long after the snow starts flying. You won’t regret taking time for this little adventure.
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Wazee Lake Recreation Area is located at N6302 North Brockway Rd., Black River Falls, WI 54615. Learn more about this wonderful spot from Jackson County’s website.
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Looking for more gorgeous Wisconsin beaches? Check out these sandy spots that look and feel like the ocean.
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