Subterranean Fish: Species Found in Underground Lakes

Photo courtesy of Aubtu

When it comes to freshwater aquatic life, there’s so much that’s still unexplored. Surprisingly, most of them won’t be found in the open waters outside your lake house. Many species of fish dwell only in underground lakes, often living in caves that are unreachable by boat. In fact, there are more than 200 distinct species of cavefish, also known as subterranean fish, existing on almost every continent besides Antarctica. However, due to their underground locations, this number only scratches the surface of the abundance of species that likely exist. Today, we’re taking a look at some interesting fish species found in underground lakes!

Alabama Cavefish

Photo courtesy of Outdoor Alabama

One unfortunate issue with fish species in underground lakes is their endangered state. More than 50 species are recognized as threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Among them is the Alabama Cavefish. These underground-dwelling fish live only in Key Cave which is located in Lauderdale County, Alabama. Their population sits at only 100 fish, making them one of the rarest cave-dwelling species in North America.

Dragon Snakehead

Photo courtesy of  Ralf Britz / Naturhistorisches Museum Bern via Smithsonian Magazine

Just last year, a new type of underground fish species was discovered. Living below the Indian state of Kerala, a plethora of intriguing fish exist – many of which are found nowhere else on earth. The recently-discovered dragon snakehead fish was originally seen in 2019 after tragic floods in the state. Thought to be part of the Channidae family, scientists dismissed it as a common cavefish and named it Gollum the character from Lord of the Rings. However, after scientists have examined this fish in further detail over the past few years, it has become evident that the fish belongs to an entirely new family of snakeheads: Aenigmachanna. The realization that the dragon snakehead fish has unique characteristics all their own is one of the most exciting discoveries about aquatic life in the last decade.

Mexican Cavefish

Photo courtesy of phys.org

There are two types of Mexican tetra: one is native to the Rio Grande, as well as other parts of Mexico and southern Texas. However, the other type of Mexican tetra (also known as Mexican cavefish or blind cave tetra) can be found in caverns and underground caves throughout the region. As a tough subtropical fish, they enjoy warm climates and feeding along the bottom of the lake. However, one of the most interesting things about the Mexican Cavefish is its evolution. Over time, this species has evolved to blindness. For most species, this transformation would be maladaptive and would only occur in a mutation. However, for the Mexican cavefish, the lack of eyesight is helpful for living in dark waters. Instead of attempting to see their surroundings, they get by using a lateral line system to detect changes in water vibrations. 

Hyaline Fish

Photo courtesy of Popular Science

While many subterranean fish species have existed for hundreds of years, the hyaline fish trumps them all. Documented almost 500 years ago in 1541, the hyaline fish is the oldest recorded species of obligate cavefish. Found only in Yunnan, China, this species is considered threatened. Like many other cave fish, it lacks scales and coloring, as well as external eyes. But the Sinocyclocheilus hyalinus’s most unique characteristic is its skull horn and dorsal hump.

Rattail Knifefishes

Photo courtesy of ResearchGate

Also known as glass knifefish, these fish live in freshwater streams in Panama and South America. However, a specific subspecies of glass knifefish, Eigenmannia vicentespelaea, specifically inhabit caves. This subterranean fish species is the only cave-dwelling member of the knifefish family. Unlike other knifefish, it has a translucent body and small eyes. Specifically, they can be found in caves near Sao Domingos, a city in the Goias state of Brazil. It’s endemic to this single cave system, meaning that these fish don’t exist anywhere else in the world. 

These underground fish species — plus thousands more like them — are all part of the freshwater systems we don’t see. Next time you’re on the lake, remember that there’s more to aquatic life than meets the eye!

The Basics of Greywater Systems

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When thinking of lake houses, visions of blue-green waters, sparkling with sunlight, may come to mind. The concept of greywater is probably last on the list. Although this isn’t the type of water that draws us to the lake lifestyle, it’s necessary to learn about as a lake homeowner who wants to stay sustainable. With more people using greywater systems, the demand for freshwater reduces, relieving the pressure on global water resources. To help you become more informed, we’ve consulted experts in the field to cover all the basics of greywater systems.

What is a Greywater System?

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Ever wonder what happens to the water you use for showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry? A greywater system is a plumbing system that allows you to recycle this water. After installing one in your home, this wastewater gets reused in sinks, toilets, and showers. Volodymyr Barabakh, co-founder and director of the Chicago-based real estate development company, Fortress Home, adds: “Greywater systems filter out water to make sure that water has been contaminated with bodily fluids is not reused in the home.” As such, your recycled water won’t be contaminated when it’s reused.

What are the Types of Greywater Systems?

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Let’s start with the simplest solution — a bucket. Also known as a manual refill system, this is the simplest greywater system solution that requires little skill. Rick Hoskins, founder of Filter King explains, “Instead of letting your greywater disappear down the drain, put it in the bucket. When the bucket is full, take it into the garden and water your flowers.” 

Another option is a greywater diversion device (GDD). This automated system redirects the water away from the drain and into the garden. Depending on the location, it can be powered either with pumps or gravity. Of the two, the gravity pump system is the most simple. Of course, this process assumes that your house is atop a downward slope. By contrast, a pump system is much more expensive. Usually installed within a home or underground, they rely on mechanical or electric pumps to transport water to the desired location. 

Finally, a Greywater Treatment System (GTS) is the most complex option. This system could be likened to having your own private water treatment plant. Rick adds, “The greywater is purified to the point where you could use it for surface-level irrigation.”

How Much Does a Greywater System Cost?

Image courtesy of Arch Daily

The cost of a greywater system will depend on the type of system you choose. Volodymyr says, “Gravity-based greywater systems can be relatively cheap, starting at $800 for materials if you were to do it yourself. Getting it installed professionally will probably cost around double this, so $1500.” By contrast, pump systems cost much more. It’s not uncommon for these to cost anywhere between $5,000 and $15,000. The most expensive choice is the GTS system, which would be at least $10,000 out of pocket.

What Should Lake Homeowners Know about Greywater Systems?

Photo courtesy of Inhabitat

Being a lake homeowner comes with additional considerations when it comes to greywater. First and foremost, you’ll want to keep the lake contaminant-free. Rick comments, “Graywater should not be released into lakes and rivers. The nutrients in greywater, which plants love, are pollutants in freshwater. If you produce more greywater than you need, add a switch that lets you easily send the excess down the drain.” Additionally, constructed wetlands can help create a filter between your irrigation zone and the lake. 

At Lake Homes, we’re all about sustainability! Recycling used water from your lake house is one of the best ways to give back to your garden. We hope this information helps get you started!

Best Birdhouse Kits for Your Backyard

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Having a birdhouse (or several) in your backyard is an excellent way to attract birds to your lake house. Plus, creating your own birdhouse can be a fun DIY craft activity for you and your family. But if you’re not an expert woodworker, what should you do? Luckily, there are several birdhouse-making toolkits available on the market. With these kits, you can get all the fun of building your own birdhouse and none of the stress. With most being kid-friendly and a few more upscale choices, check out our top five recommendations!

Toysmith Beetle & Bee Birdhouse Kit

Image courtesy of Amazon

This Beetle & Bee Birdhouse Kit from Toysmith is a fun, highly-rated craft project. The simple, straightforward design requires easy assembly without hardware requirements, perfect for kids ages 5 and up. It also includes a paintbrush to add fun designs to your birds’ new nesting place at the lake.

Window View Birdhouse Kit

Image courtesy of thebirdhousechick.com

This window view birdhouse kit allows you to get a close-up view of birds who visit your lake home. Made of natural Eastern white pine, this small birdhouse is made of durable, high-quality wood that’s built to last. In addition to its wooden parts, the kit comes with two suction cups for mounting onto your window. Just install the birdhouse onto the window, ideally one with curtains or blinds so birds won’t be distracted. Then, just watch birds flock to your hand-built home while you lounge in the living room!

Hapray DIY BirdHouse Kit

Image courtesy of Amazon

Why limit your backyard to just one birdhouse? The Hapray DIY Birdhouse Kit comes with four unassembled birdhouses. With the wooden materials, Bplus glue, and string, you have everything you need included in this kit. These birdhouses are made of high-quality plywood which is both non-toxic and eco-friendly. Now for the most fun part — it also comes with several 12×2 paints, plus a painting palate so you can mix colors to your heart’s content. With cons of colors and plenty of wood, you’ll add a bright, playful feel to your backyard.

Scout Regalia Birdhouse Kit

Photo courtesy of West Elm

For a more upscale option, check out this Scout Regalia Birdhouse Kit. Made of laser-cut birch plywood, it’s durable and made to last through the years. In addition to the wooden pieces, this kit also includes a paracord for hanging, as well as clear assembly instructions. Once you’ve put it together, there are several options for styling such as staining, clear coating, painting, or covering it in birdseed. Unlike many other birdhouse kits, this one has a more open-air design, making room for a wide variety of bird species.

Made By Me Birdhouse

Image courtesy of Walmart

This Made By Me Birdhouse is a perfect project for you and your kids at the lake. Easy to build, it comes with pre-cut wooden pieces and glue — no required tools needed. The kit also includes six paint colors, as well as little wooden accessories. Whether your birdhouse is lined with a green fence or decorated with small pink flowers, it’s time to get creative! It’s also a great opportunity to see how colors attract different birds. For instance, hummingbirds are attracted to reds and pinks, while bluebirds are (you guessed it) drawn to blue.

A Few Key Tips

Photo by Lubomirkin on Unsplash

To keep your experience as fun as possible, just be sure to read all the assembly instructions beforehand to make sure you have the proper tools. Also, it’s important to consider the durability of the materials. While cedar is perhaps the most sturdy, high-quality material, it’s also the most expensive. However, plywood is also an excellent option. Finally, determine what species of birds you’d like to see. For instance, bird feeders with smaller holed entrances will attract smaller birds like wrens, whereas birdhouses with more open spaces will bring in larger birds like sparrows. Whatever you choose, we hope you enjoy creating your birdhouse — and we hope the birds enjoy it just as much!

Limnology 101

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You’ve heard of oceanography, the study of oceans. And marine biology, the study of marine life. But you may be less familiar with limnology, the study of lakes. Limnologists working in this important field help advance scientific research about lake ecosystems, making huge contributions to the environments we love so dearly. Today, we’re taking a broad look at the field as a whole.

What is Limnology?

Limnologists who work for the State Hygenic Lab collect samples in a creek near Dewitt, Iowa. The researchers are Todd Hubbard (brown hoodie), Mark Johnston (white beard tan hat), Kyle Skoff (red beard), and Mike Birmingham (green shirt).

In short, limnology is the study of lakes. It’s closely related to the field of oceanography, which together with limnology, comprises the study of all aquatic ecosystems. While lakes are often the primary focus of this discipline, that’s not all that’s covered. The field of limnology includes all inland waters, including lakes (both salt lakes and freshwater lakes), rivers, wetlands, reservoirs, streams, and groundwater. If the word sounds confusing, that’s because it originates from the Greek word limne, meaning marsh or pond. Although people have been investigating lakes since ancient history, the field as an organized discipline was founded in 1892 by F.A. Forel, a Swiss scientist. He aimed to create a discipline for aquatic science that integrated studies of different types of lakes.

Where Do Limnologists Work?

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Limnologists work in both academia and applied work. In other words, some limnologists spend time conducting scientific experiments while others apply scientific knowledge to the “real world.”  In academia, limnologists engage in scholarly research including observational, comparative, and experimental studies. These scientists may also teach at colleges and universities, often near bodies of water. For instance, the University of California- Santa Barbara, ESF, and Western Michigan University are all water-proximal schools known for their limnology programs. In applied work, limnologists may lend their expertise to federal organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the National Park Service to help government bodies make scientifically informed policy decisions. They may also engage in consultation work in the private sector or at an environmental consulting firm. 

What Do Limnologists Study?

Photo courtesy of Grand Canyon University

Anything and everything about lakes! Limnologists investigate a wide variety of lake-related questions, and most limnologists have a specific specialty. For instance, they may study features of running water or key differences between lakes in various climates. Limnologists may also help answer questions like “How are lakes formed?” “How do lakes recover from coastal disasters?” and “What are the historical trends in ice coverage on lakes?” This type of research is normally conducted at academic institutions, often within an environmental science department, by limnologists with master’s or doctoral degrees. For instance, the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for Limnology and the University of Minnesota’s Limnological Research Center actively engage in scholarly research on these topics.

Why is Limnology Important?

Photo courtesy of Certified Wildlife Habitat

The field of limnology is integral to the well-being of lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and other non-oceanic ecosystems. Without this increasing body of knowledge about lakes, we would know far less about how to take care of our lakes. Specifically, limnology plays a major role in wildlife habitat protection, water use and distribution, water pollution control, and many other facets of lake sustainability. As lake lovers, we have a lot to learn from these scientists about the maintenance and care of these beautiful bodies of water. For more information about this important field, check out the International Society of Limnology and ALSO (Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography). And as always, we hope you continue to appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty of your lake area!

Wetsuits for Lake Swimming

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When going swimming at the lake, swimsuits are typically the most popular attire. You may associate wetsuits with ocean water, however, did you know that wetsuits can be used in any body of water? According to the National Geographic Society, the primary purpose of wetsuits is to retain body heat for the swimmers. Essentially, they act as a second skin to insulate your actual skin. As such, they’re perfect for swimming in water temperatures below 65 degrees. With a proper wetsuit, summer doesn’t have to be the only time you enjoy immersing yourself in lake water. Today, we’re reviewing top wetsuits for men and women! Let’s dive in (pun intended).

What to Look For

Photo courtesy of Wetsuit Outlet

There are a few key personal factors to think about before buying a wetsuit. First off, there’s the cut and thickness. While looking at options, you’ll likely be deciding among full cut, sleeveless, or short cut. The thickness of the material may range from 1 and 5 millimeters. These decisions largely depend on your lake’s climate. For instance, those living on Lake Michigan or another northern region may opt for a full cut (long-sleeved) wetsuit with higher thickness for maximum warmth, while folks on Lake Austin or a similarly warm climate may choose a sleeveless or short cut with thinner material. These factors will also help determine the wetsuit’s buoyancy. 

Another consideration is mobility. If your goal is to explore the lake waters at length, you’ll want to find a stretchy neoprene material and pick a cut that allows your shoulders to move freely. Typically wetsuits designed for open water swimming are made of stretchy, flexible material (especially compared to traditional wetsuits designed for surfing). However, an important distinction is flexibility and snugness. While you want some degree of movement, you don’t want a loose fit! Otherwise, bagginess could cause cold water to rush into the wetsuit (an occurrence called flushing). Keeping these considerations in mind, let’s take a look at some specific recommendations.

Zone3 Aspire

Image courtesy of Just Wetsuits

The Zone3 Aspire is a highly rated wetsuit for open-water swimming. In fact, it’s been rated 10/10 by both 220 Magazine and Triathlete Europe. Great for both professionals and beginners, this suit is known for its flexibility, buoyancy, and laser-cut collar design which allows for neck comfort. The thickness of 1.5mm allows for a comfortable amount of stretch, improving endurance and swimming speed.

TYR Hurricane Cat 1

Image courtesy of TYR

On the lower end of the price spectrum, compared to other high-end wetsuits, the TYR Hurricane Cat 1 is a great choice. Very popular, it’s ideal for racing and training, as well as recreation. Rest assured you won’t have to buy a new wetsuit anytime soon with this choice. It’s coated for added durability, while also featuring an abrasion-resistant design. The 100% slick skin neoprene coating achieves the perfect balance of lightweight comfort and warm insulation.

Openwater Core Hi-Vis Wetsuit

Image courtesy of Triathlete Sports

With this Openwater Core wetsuit, you’ll stay safe while swimming in open water. The orange panels are designed for maximum visibility, so you’ll remain easily identified in the open lake water. Plus, the neoprene material, between 2 and 2.5mm, provides both comfort and flexible movement. The cloth maintains body heat for longer periods of time, allowing you to stay warm in colder water. The icing on the cake – it’s made from eco-friendly materials for the health of both you and the lake environment.

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit

Image courtesy of mundo-surf

The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit is a great, low-price wetsuit that’s perfect for slightly warmer water. Although its original intent is for surfing, it can also be used for lake watersports such as waterskiing. Made with E5 neoprene, its durable fabric is high-performing and made to last. Plus, it comes with an internal key pocket so you can keep small valuables safe while you’re on the water.

3/2 Synergy Back Zip Wetsuit

Image courtesy of Billabong

This well-made wetsuit from the brand Billabong is another lower-price wetsuit that offers durable and strong material, as well as thermal retention. It’s made with a silicon stretch interior lining, which enhances the wetsuit’s strength without sacrificing the lightweight feature. Plus, it’s made out of 100% recycled exterior fabric, perfect for contributing to the sustainable clothing movement. 

When it’s cold outside at your lakehouse, these wetsuits will allow you to just keep swimming!

Best Binoculars for 2022

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Whether you’re observing wildlife on the lake, identifying constellations in the night sky, or just getting a close-up view of your surroundings, it’s essential to own a solid pair of binoculars. Depending on the activity, different features will be more important. For example, those interested in astronomy will want to pick binoculars with large objective lenses which produce powerful light-gathering abilities. However, for regular everyday use, you’ll want lighter binoculars with decent magnification. No matter your purpose, we’ve got a recommendation for you! Check out our top five best binoculars for Summer 2022.

Best for Day Hikes

Photo courtesy of photospecialist.com

For all those relaxing daytime hikes near your lake house, we recommend the Pentax AD 8 x 25 WP. There is nothing too glamorous about this pair. They’re not designed for serious birding or for examining subjects with precise detail. Rather, their assets are their compactness, waterproof coating, and relative inexpensiveness. They also have a multi-layer coating to ensure maximum light transmission.

Best for Spotting Wildlife

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The Swarovski Optik SLC Series is an excellent option for viewing wildlife. At a higher price point, it’s certainly a worthwhile investment. The company that manufactures these binoculars created a signature quality lens called Swarovision, which offers a wider view for better peripheral vision. Another asset of the Swarovski is the sharp color and clear vision — perfect for getting detailed, up-close pictures of the wildlife in your backyard. Built with durable materials, these binoculars are also wear-and-tear resistant, so you can enjoy the views for years to come.

Best for Turbulent Weather

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If a little stormy weather doesn’t stop you from looking out at nature, you’ll want to try the Athlon Optics Midas MD. These durable binoculars can sufficiently withstand humidity, dust, and intense weather conditions. Further, its focus dial can adjust reliably across a wide range of depths, allowing for sharp, close-up views. Its advanced coated lenses allow for better light transmission as well. And of course, given its design to withstand less-than-ideal weather circumstances, these binoculars are waterproof.

Best for Stargazing

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Admiring the night sky is one of the great perks of owning a lake home. Away from the city, you can find much brighter constellations. For getting an even clearer view, the Canon 10X42L IS WP is a perfect choice. Due to the gyro-stabilization feature, they achieve an anti-wobble effect. According to Space.com’s review, this feature makes you “feel like they’re being held on an invisible tripod.” The downside to these binoculars is their bulkier weight, which is true for most binoculars designed for nighttime use.

Best for Sitting in Nature

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For everyday use, the Olympus 10×42 Pro is a great choice for simply observing the natural world around you. Compared to other binoculars, these are relatively compact, lightweight, and versatile. With top-notch high-performance optics, they have amazing close-up abilities. Specifically, you can look at subjects as close as 1.5m away. Further, they’re waterproofed and nitrogen filled which prevents fogging. Although the power isn’t quite as strong as more heavy-duty binoculars, they are perfect for everyday use. 

From wildlife to constellations, there’s no shortage of astounding aspects of nature. With these top binoculars for summer 2022, you can get a close-up view of all of it.

Types of Wood for Grilling/Smoking

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One of the greatest joys of summer at the lake is grilling delicious recipes in the backyard. While hardwood coal and gas grills are reliable and consistent heat sources, they’re not the secret to flavorful meats. Emma, an experienced home cook from the Puget Sound region, says, ” What produces the unique flavor of grilled food is the wood. When planks of wood are set over a source of heat, they release smoke that emits a specific flavor.” However, the wood you choose depends on your meat and desired flavor profile. For instance, hickory gives off strong, rich flavors, which is perfect for steak, but the light flavor of cedar is excellent for swordfish. At Lake Homes, we’re here to help you identify which types of wood are best for your grilling needs.  

Hickory

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When cooking meats for longer periods, hickory is one of the most popular choices. Its strong flavor, similar to bacon, pairs excellently with beef, pork, and chicken. It adds a unique, dark color to these meats. Smoking, grilling, and BBQing with hickory are most common in the midwest and south due to the prevalence of the hickory tree in this region. In fact, most of the 18 species are native to Eastern North America. The pecan tree is a type of hickory tree that cooks sweeter flavors and burns for shorter periods of time. However, be careful with how long you keep meat on the grill. Too long, and the hearty flavor will turn into bitterness.

Oak & Walnut

Photo courtesy of theshopsatwillowpark.com

Because they are both heavily flavored woods, oak and walnut create similar flavor profiles for your meat of choice. Both of these woods produce an intense smoky flavor when grilling at the lake. Most commonly, oak and walnut work best with tough game meats like deer, which won’t be overpowered by the stronger wood. Like hickory, the meat can become bitter if overdone. The meat will also develop a dark brown coloring quickly, so with this cooking method, be sure to keep an eye on it, so you get that nice, crispy flavor.

Cedar

Photo courtesy of beginnergrilling.com

Grilling on cedar wood is not a novel concept. In fact, its roots are in Northwest Native American culture. Tribes in the Pacific Northwest would catch and tie the local Alaskan sockeye salmon to a wooden plank, then let the smoky cedar flavors absorb into the fish. But before starting to cook, there’s one essential precursor you can’t forget. “You have to dampen the plank first,” says Emma, “That’s what helps the smoke come out. Otherwise, it could spontaneously burst into flames.” Just soak the plank a few hours ahead of time to avoid an unfortunate accident. In addition to salmon, cedar is also excellent for cooking white meat such as chicken and pork. The gentle cooking process helps these meats to keep their juicy qualities, making for a flavorful meal.

Alder

Photo courtesy of thecollectiveoutdoors.com

Alder wood is known for its combination of a light smoky taste with some hints of sweetness. Compared to hickory and cedar, the decreased intensity of the smokiness makes alder wood an excellent choice for fish such as tilapia, smelt, tandoori shrimp, and trout. The alder wood’s sweetness also doesn’t overwhelm the lighter taste of seafood or vegetables. So, if you’re up for some delicious fish tacos or tuna salad for lunchtime at the lake, alder wood is a perfect choice.

Applewood

Photo courtesy of dishnthekitchen.com

In addition to cherry wood, apple wood is the most commonly used fruit wood used for cooking. It’s excellent for delicate foods such as fish, but they also do well with pork, lamb, and beef because each of these meats is well complemented by its light, sweet flavor. In short, applewood’s combination of smoky and sweet flavors provides a well-balanced palette. It adds a hint of sweetness to meats that would be absent with other grilling woods. 

Whether you’re cooking pork on applewood or BBQing on hickory, the best part of grilling in the summer is having fun with family and friends. Emma comments, “My family and I would always get smoked salmon in Seattle. The regional-specific flavors always remind me of home.” With the smell of smoky meat and the sounds of lighthearted conversation filling the air — and, of course, a delicious plate of food in front of you — we hope you enjoy creating these lasting memories at the lake.

Boat House Design Ideas

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock via Sacra Custom Homes

When your boat isn’t in use or you’re away from your lake house, a boat dock plays an essential role in storage and protection. But what if you want even more security from boat theft? Or maybe you want to keep it secure during high winds or a torrential downpour? 

Enter the boathouse. Like a top deck covering your boat dock, boat houses have many benefits besides providing extra protection for your boat. For instance, boat houses offer more entertainment space for you and your guests. They also provide safer access to your boat dock, with stairs and railings. If you’re considering installing a boat house at your lake home, check out these design ideas!

The Open Concept One

Photo courtesy of Wahoo Docks

An open-concept boat house is perfect if your lake house is located in a milder climate with nice weather year-round. Since this design can include two or more levels, you’ll be able to double your outdoor space. Whether you want to dip your toes in the water or get an aerial view from above, this boat house style has multiple options for relaxing. In particular, a top deck is a perfect place for lounge chairs, a diving board, and an outdoor swing. Meanwhile, the bottom deck can be reserved for boat access.

The One With Garage Doors

One way to design your boat house is to lean into the garage concept. Essentially, a boat house could be conceptualized as a garage for your boat. The door design resembles the same style as a typical garage in this design. The dark green tones with wooden doors provide a sense of comfort, and the circular side windows add a nautical flare. The only difference is a floor of water instead of cement.

The One with Indoor Vibes

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

In lake house interior designs, bringing the outdoors in is a big trend. However, what about bringing the indoors out? With this boat house design, you can bring your living room to your lakefront. This style has two entrances, one specifically for the boat and the other for your lakeside lounge area. It’s also versatile — perfect for a social gathering with drinks or an “on deck” waiting area for the next boat ride.

The Simple One

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

For those seeking a simple, rustic style, this boat house design is for you. There’s nothing too showy or over-the-top about this look, and that’s precisely what makes it so refreshing. This design will work exceptionally well if your lake house isn’t on a high incline. All you need is wooden boards, a small roof to cover your boat, and a few Adirondack chairs. Who needs a flashy boat house when the lake is the main event?

The Classic One

This boat house design from Lake Guntersville, Alabama, features a classic American look. This style is stately and timeless, with a symmetrical structure and white railings. The covered bottom deck allows maximum boat protection, while the top tier serves as an entertainment venue. Complete with white umbrellas and chaise lounge chairs, your guests will enjoy this amazing view.

The One That Has It All

Photo courtesy of Pattymac.ca

Located on Lake Rousseau, Florida, this modern-style boat house is essentially a second home. The mix of open and covered spaces creates a dynamic style, and the clear railings make for a chic flair. This boat house design has it all: garage doors, two decks with lounge chairs, a hot tub, a bedroom, and a living room. If you frequently host guests at your lake house, it’s a perfect way to give them their own hotel-inspired living space while you take over the main home. 

We hope these styles inspire you to build a boat house you love!

Best Lake Vacation Destinations for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Previously on our blog, we covered the best lake vacation destinations for relaxation. You can lay back at these lakeside retreats and enjoy the scenery. But for some people, the easygoing atmosphere may feel too slow. Maybe you’re the first out the door on a hiking trip, always ready to explore the wilderness. You’d rather spend all day exploring a new mountain than being inside reading a book. Check out these top five lakes for outdoor enthusiasts! If this describes you, we’ve got you covered.

Moosehead Lake, Maine

Photo courtesy of Destination Moosehead Lake

Philosopher and writer Henry David Thoreau referred to Moosehead Lake as “uninterrupted.” Its 120-mile stretch of water (the second largest in New England following Lake Champlain) winds through gorgeous mountainous scenery, reasonably untouched by man-made features. For the best hiking, Mount Kineo offers plenty of different trails for all experience levels. If you’re an advanced hiker, you won’t want to miss the Pinnacle Pursuit – a six-mountain hiking challenge with incredible views that are worth the arduous effort. And, of course, as its name suggests, you’re bound to catch glimpses of wildlife such as moose, falcons, loons, and otters.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Photo courtesy of National Park Service

Along the south shore of Lake Superior, on Wisconsin’s northernmost point, sits the Apostle Islands. These gorgeous sandstone cliffs and sea caves are only accessible by boat. Further, camping is the only accommodation while staying on these islands, making them a perfect destination for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to more lighthouses than any other National Park. If you enjoy bird watching, bring binoculars while on the island – you’ll likely find plenty of new birds to identify. The archipelago gets more than 240 species of winged visitors every year. You’ll need to plan your visit in advance, but it’ll be well worth the trip.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Photo courtesy of Visit Chelan County

On average, Lake Chelan sees 300 annual days of sunshine. At this iconic lake destination in the Pacific Northwest, it’s rare that you’ll ever take a rain check on hiking plans. Besides the sunny weather, Lake Chelan is close to Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park. Immersed in these stunning alpine landscapes, you’ll have an abundance of hiking trails at your fingertips. These national parks offer over 250 miles of trails for mountain bikers, hikers, motorcyclists, and horseback riders. There are plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding on the water. In short, if you can’t get enough of nature, Lake Chelan is the place to be.

Lake George, New York

Photo courtesy of Adirondack Almanack

Lake George is nicknamed “Queen of the American Lakes” for a good reason. Although the town of Lake George is small and quaint, its natural surroundings are expansive. Located near the Adirondack mountains, it’s known for its proximity to stunning foliage and mountainous views. If you own or rent a lake house along its 32-mile shoreline, you’ll have access to countless outdoor activities – whitewater rafting, motorcycling, horseback riding, hiking – you name it! And if you need a day off, head to Million Dollar Beach along Lake George’s shore.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of Southern Trippers

Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure offers both gorgeous lake views and 1,000 acres of wilderness. The scenery is so outstanding that Lake Lure has been a movie destination for shooting Dirty Dancing, The Last of the Mohicans, and other films. To get a good look at everything, climb up Lake Lure’s Chimney Rock for expansive views. Overall, the abundance of hiking trails and nature activities make this southern lake a perfect spot for outdoor lovers. 

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! We hope you enjoy your next lake vacation at one of these top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.