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New York State's Lakes

New York is blessed with thousands of crystal lakes for the idyllic lakeside vacation, perfect for swimming, waterskiing and boating. Cruises are popular on many of the larger New York State lakes. Many communities have private lakeside rentals and resort hotels.

Chautauqua Lake in Western New York offers camping, resorts and sailing. Chautauqua Institution (716/357-6200) is a world famous educational and recreational retreat. For more information, contact Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau, 800/242-4569.

The 11 Finger Lakes, which Native Americans believed were formed by God's hand pressing into the land, are set amongst rolling countryside rich with vineyards. The lakes, with Native American names like Seneca, Cayuga and Keuka, host lakeside communities with such European names as Naples, Geneva and Ithaca. For regional information, contact the Finger Lakes Association, 800/548-4386. For information on lakeside cottages on Canandaigua, Keuka and Seneca lakes, contact Yates County information at 800/868-9283.

Lake Champlain, New York's northeastern boundary, is delightful for sailing and boating. See if you can spot the mysterious mythical monster, lovingly known by lakeside residents as "Champ." For more information, call the Plattsburgh and Clinton County Chamber of Commerce, 518/563-1000.

Lake George in the Adirondacks is "queen of the American lakes." This 32-mile long beauty provides abundant opportunities for camping, boating, even para-sailing. The resort village of Lake George offers shops, restaurants and entertainment arcades. Spend an afternoon or evening on one of several sightseeing cruises on Lake George, highlighting the lake's natural resources and history. For more information, contact Warren County Public Information, 800/365-1050.