Boats, Boards, and Sunscreen

Lake life means different things to different people, but if you grew up in Wisconsin, you already know what it feels like to go Up North. It’s that first sigh of relief when you get “north of 8,” pull onto the dirt driveway and see the lake through the trees.

You might’ve heard that the Eagle River area is home to the Largest Chain of 28 Connected Freshwater Lakes®. Ya, you heard that right … but what matters most are the moments those lakes hold. This is where families teach first casts at sunrise, where someone always calls “race you to the water” and where phones tend to stay in the cabin while the day is measured in boat rides, swims, and even naps.

We know the Chain and hundreds of other area lakes are constantly top of mind to many of our visitors, and for some, it’s the main reason they come back year after year. With so many ways to get on and alongside the water, it’s easy to build a weekend that feels like the lake days you grew up with and the ones you want your kids to remember.

Whatever your lake personality, there’s something waiting for you here. From fishing, motorboating, and jet skiing for smile‑seekers, to pontoon cruises and sandbar stops, to paddle boarding, waterskiing, or simple “book on the dock” time with your feet in the water.

Here are a few ideas for where to float the next time you’re in town.

People gather outside a lakeside restaurant decorated with patriotic bunting, with several boats docked along the waterfront and a large "Big Red" tube visible.

Lakeview Dining

Whether you’ve been on the lake all day or just arrived in town, a meal on the Eagle River Chain of Lakes has a sure-fire way of turning into a core memory..

For lunch, consider the Wisco Tot‑chos and/or Chanti burger and fries while enjoying a beverage at the Chanticleer Inn lunchtime beer garden. Located on the west end of Voyageur Lake, Chanticleer Inn gives you that classic “boats drifting by while you eat” view. Sweetwater Spirits, located on Highway 45, is a sports bar with a great view of Duck Lake. Sweetwater is exactly the kind of place where you can keep one eye on the big game inside and the other on anglers chasing their own version of a win just outside the windows.

If you’re looking for a great way to get around on the Chain without worrying about who’s driving next, try The Bub Water Trolley. For just $40 a day, passengers get a pass to cruise the lakes and visit more than half a dozen locations! Perfect for planning a dock‑to‑dock dining route with family or friends.

Don’t want to limit yourself to the Chain? Explore more spots where the lake is part of the table with this guide to great dining options on the water.

Several pontoon boats and people on kayaks are gathered on a lake under a partly cloudy sky, with trees and houses visible along the shoreline in the background.

Getting Stuck on a Sandbar

In Eagle River, “getting stuck on a sandbar” is one of those problems people secretly hope for. Beaching the pontoon, canoe, or whatever vessel you prefer is usually just the beginning of a very good day. Coolers come out, playlists go on, kids wade and splash in the water.

One of the top sandbars in the area is just east of Eagle River on the northern part of Catfish Lake off Highway 70 near Boat Sport Marine. If you don’t have your own boat, Boat Sport Marine has a top tier rental fleet so you’re not left watching from shore.

Another local favorite is near the boat launch on the north side of Eagle Lake, off Chain O Lakes Road. From here, you get a sandbar level view of Eagle River area landmarks on the shoreline.

Local tip: Pick your sandbar, pack sunscreen, snacks, cards (or travel cribbage board), and circle these spots on your map before you arrive.

Two people sit on a wooden swing facing a lake, surrounded by trees and cabins, with a boat visible on the water in the background.

Lodging with a View

Falling asleep to the sounds of the lake is unmatched! Honestly. Waking up next to the water might be even better. For many visitors, that first dock coffee or loon spotting is the moment their Eagle River weekend truly begins.

Several resorts around Eagle Lake have made quite a name for themselves as lake‑life home bases. Eagle Waters Resort has become a go-to destination for overnighters, diners, and weddings, with a full service feel that works beautifully for multi‑generation trips and “everyone meets at the same place every year” traditions.

On the north side of Eagle Lake rests Peaceful Pines Resort, which, as the name suggests, offers a quieter experience with rustic cabins ideal for slow mornings, board games, and long walks back from the dock.

Wildwood Outdoor Adventure & Camping has well maintained camping sites and rentals, plus events and classes right on the lake for families who want their days full of playing, learning, and campfire storytelling (which of course includes s’mores).

If you’d rather stay in a beautiful house on a lake, explore the range of Hiller Vacation Homes in the area, from simple cabins to luxury homes, perfect for creating a “this is our spot” tradition you return to year after year.

One of those who loves to do a little research on where to stay on the Chain before you book, use this handy “on the chain” lodging search to find the view that matches your family’s lake rhythm.

Start Living the Lake Life Again

So what are you waiting for? Life is worth really living, and for many in Wisconsin, that starts with getting back to the lake. With dozens of ways to get on the water and hundreds of shore-ly good memories waiting in the queue, it’s easy to see why so many families promise themselves, “We’ll be back here next year.” And we can’t wait to have you.