Best Lakes Near La Crosse, WI
11 lakes within 50 miles of La Crosse, ranked on agency water-quality readings.
11 lakes within 50 miles of La Crosse have nutrient and algae readings on record. Lake Tomah in Monroe County leads the set on measured water quality. 11 of the 11 have a recorded public access point.
A moderate cluster of 11 measured lakes lies within reach of La Crosse. Lake Tomah has the lowest nutrient and algae readings of the set.
The lakes below are sorted on measured water quality. If you have a specific activity in mind, swimming, kayaking, ice-fishing, family-fishing, the activity-specific sub-pages will filter further.
| Lake | Distance | County | Clarity | Depth | Fish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tomah | 37.8 mi | Monroe | — | 19 ft | 3 |
| Winona Lake | 26 mi | Winona | 2.6 ft | 38 ft | 24 |
| Target Lake | 1.8 mi | Houston | 5.1 ft | - | 0 |
| Lawrence Lake | 5.9 mi | Houston | 2.3 ft | - | 0 |
| Neshonoc Lake | 11.3 mi | La Crosse | 0.4 ft | - | 0 |
| Sidie Hollow Lake | 23 mi | Vernon | 12 ft | 22 ft | 3 |
| Unnamed Lake | 36.3 mi | Crawford | 1.2 ft | - | 0 |
| Robinson Pond | 40.6 mi | Jackson | 5.8 ft | - | 0 |
| Wazee Lake | 42.4 mi | Jackson | 30 ft | 350 ft | 0 |
| Halfmoon Lake | 44.2 mi | Wabasha | 5.1 ft | - | 0 |
| Upper Backwater Lake | 48.7 mi | Jackson | 3.5 ft | 19 ft | 6 |
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Cleanest Lakes Near La Crosse
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many lakes are near La Crosse?
There are 11 lakes with water-quality readings on record within 50 miles of La Crosse, Wisconsin. 11 of them have a recorded public access point and 10 have a clarity reading.
What are the best lakes near La Crosse for fishing?
4 lakes near La Crosse have documented fish species data. The best fishing lakes combine favourable water-quality readings with diverse fish populations. 2 lakes within 50 miles have 5 or more documented fish species.
Where to stay near La Crosse
Compare lakeside cabins, hotels, and vacation rentals near La Crosse — book a place close to the cleanest lakes in the area.
Top-rated places to stay near La Crosse
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Source: EPA National Aquatic Resource Surveys, 2026.