• Spring & autumn

  Opening and Closing a Lake House for the Season

  Lake properties have a rhythm: open in spring, close in autumn. A written checklist turns two stressful weekends into routine ones.

• Water safety

  Swimming and Boating Safety on a Lake

  Lakes look calm and feel safe, which is exactly why people underestimate them. A few rules cover most of the risk.

• Water quality

  Blue-Green Algae: Know the Signs Before You Swim

  In warm weather some lakes develop algal blooms. Some can be harmful to people and pets, so it pays to know what to look for and where to check.

• Paddling

  Kayaking for Beginners on Calm Water

  A kayak is one of the best ways to see a lake: quiet, close to the water and simple to learn. Start small and calm.

• Rainy days

  Rainy Weekend Games at the Cabin

  Every lake weekend has a wet afternoon. Cards, board games and a home bingo session turn it into the part people remember.

• Weekend plans

  Resort and Marina Welcome Deals: What the Offer Really Includes

  Lake resorts, marinas and rental companies compete for weekend visitors with welcome deals. They can be good value once you read the conditions.