10 Saltwater Lakes in The United States

Saltwater lakes have this unique quality that makes us rethink what we know about lakes. They mix marine and freshwater ecosystems in a way that's just fascinating. If you love exploring unique aquatic environments, these lakes are like a doorway to something exceptional. You can find these gems in some of the most beautiful and exciting spots in the United States. They create habitats for a diverse array of plants, animals, and offer recreational activities! From vast, shiny salt flats to calm, clear waters, they have a charm that invites you to explore. Some lakes are full of life in unexpected ways, while others are so salty that only the most formidable creatures can thrive.

Each saltwater lake has its own story, showcasing its unique geological and ecological features that make it a natural wonder. So, let’s explore some of the most unique saltwater lakes across the country together!

How Saltwater Lakes Are Formed

Unlike freshwater lakes, these salty bodies usually form in basins with no natural outlets. As water flows in, it carries dissolved salts and minerals. Since the only way for the water to leave is through evaporation, the salt concentration keeps rising, turning the lake into a saltwater lake.

The salinity levels can vary greatly. Some lakes are slightly saltier than seawater, while others rival the Dead Sea in salt concentration! While swimming can be allowed in some, always check the rules for each lake before diving in.

Great Salt Lake, Utah

The Great Salt Lake is perhaps the most renowned saltwater lake in the United States. Spanning approximately 1,700 square miles, it is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Its salinity fluctuates between 5% and 27%, making it saltier than the ocean, resulting in a wonderfully buoyant swimming experience! The lake also provides a haven for critical wildlife such as American Avocet and Great Blue Heron.

If you plan to visit, there are several fantastic spots nearby. Antelope Island State Park offers excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Be sure to check out the Spiral Jetty, an intriguing earthwork sculpture by Robert Smithson. Lastly, the Great Saltair, a historic resort, provides a glimpse into the region's leisure culture in the early 20th century. 

Mono Lake, California

Mono Lake is an ancient saltwater lake located in California's Eastern Sierra, boasting an impressive age of over 760,000 years! Its hauntingly beautiful landscape is particularly striking due to the tufa towers, unique limestone formations shaped by the lake’s alkaline waters. And here's an interesting fact: the salinity is nearly twice that of the ocean, making a swim here an unforgettable experience.

This lake is a vital habitat for millions of migratory birds and brine shrimp. You can delve into its rich ecosystem at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center. If you're fascinated by history, don’t miss the nearby ghost town of Bodie, which offers a glimpse into California's gold mining era. For the adventurous, the Mono Craters, a series of volcanic domes, await your exploration. 

Salton Sea, California

The Salton Sea may not be a natural lake, but it stands as California's largest inland body of water. Its story began in 1905 when the Colorado River overflowed its banks, flooding a desert region. With salinity levels 3.5% higher than those of the Pacific Ocean, the Salton Sea attracts a variety of unique bird species, including pelicans and cormorants, despite facing significant environmental challenges.

Due to these issues and its elevated salinity, swimming is not advisable. However, if you find yourself in the area, the Salton Sea State Recreation Area offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and camping. Be sure to visit Salvation Mountain, a vibrant, man-made religious monument that beautifully reflects the region's unique culture!

Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana

Lake Pontchartrain may technically be classified as a brackish estuary rather than a traditional lake, but its saline waters certainly deserve a mention. Covering 630 square miles, it connects to the Gulf of Mexico via the Rigolets and Chef Menteur passes. Its lower salinity makes it an ideal spot for enjoyable activities like boating and fishing.

Home to a rich variety of wildlife, Lake Pontchartrain boasts a unique blend of freshwater and saltwater, supporting a diverse ecosystem. Bottlenose dolphins are often spotted near Rigolets Pass, while blue crabs, shrimp, and oysters flourish in its waters, bolstering the local economy and enriching the region's culinary scene. Along the marshy edges, alligators can frequently be seen, and a wide array of bird species inhabit the lake’s shores, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers.

Great Salt Plains Lake, Oklahoma

If you’re searching for a hidden gem, consider visiting Great Salt Plains Lake in north-central Oklahoma. Nestled within Great Salt Plains State Park, this unique destination allows you to dig for selenite crystals. The lake features moderate salinity, making it an excellent spot for fishing and boating, though swimming is not recommended due to the salinity and the muddy lake bottom.

The area is also teeming with wildlife, particularly at the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds, including whooping cranes, pelicans, and snow geese, making it an exceptional location for birdwatching. You may also encounter white-tailed deer, coyotes, and various species of reptiles in the vicinity.

Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats are not a lake in the traditional sense; instead, they are the remnants of an ancient saltwater lake from the Ice Age. Spanning over 30,000 acres, this breathtaking white landscape features high salinity levels, contributing to its distinctive environment. Although swimming is not permitted due to the salt concentration and lack of water bodies, the flats provide an incredible playground for speed enthusiasts and photographers.

Nearby, you'll find the historic Wendover Airfield, which played a significant role during World War II and now operates as a museum showcasing its captivating history. Each year, Bonneville Speed Week attracts racers worldwide, all eager to shatter land speed records. Additionally, the Sun Tunnels, these large-scale art installations, infuse a unique artistic touch into the area’s raw beauty.

Lake Abert, Oregon

Lake Abert, tucked away in the high desert of southeastern Oregon, is a shallow alkaline lake unique due to its high salinity and particular ecosystem. While it’s not a swimming spot, it’s a haven for birdwatchers looking to glimpse fantastic birds like the American avocet and phalarope.

Just a short distance away, you can check out the town of Paisley, where they host the annual Mosquito Festival, yes, it is a quirky but fun celebration of the area's natural inhabitants. If you're into the outdoors, the Fremont-Winema National Forest has some excellent hiking and camping spots to explore. And don’t miss the chance to see the petroglyphs along the Chewaucan River, made by Native American tribes hundreds of years ago. It's a great way to soak in some history.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay, California

If you’re a wildlife or nature enthusiast, you must visit Don Edwards San Francisco Bay, an integral part of the larger San Francisco Bay Estuary. The brackish waters play a vital role for migratory birds, including the American Avocet and the Black-necked Stilt. While the bay's waters have moderate salinity, swimming is not allowed due to tidal currents and potential hazards.

Additionally, there are numerous wetlands nearby just waiting to be explored. Coyote Hills Regional Park offers scenic trails with breathtaking views of the bay. Be sure to stop by the visitor center, where you'll find fascinating exhibits about the bay’s ecosystem and the importance of protecting its delicate habitat. Lastly, don't forget to check out the Dumbarton Bridge, a remarkable engineering feat that is definitely worth seeing.

Pyramid Lake, Nevada

Don’t confuse Pyramid Lake with its more famous neighbor, Lake Mead. Pyramid Lake is a breathtaking desert oasis located on the Paiute Indian Reservation, renowned for its distinctive pyramid-shaped rock formations. Its saline waters provide a habitat for the rare Lahontan cutthroat trout. However, due to the lake’s high salinity and associated dangers, swimming is prohibited.

If you're interested in learning about the area's indigenous history and culture, be sure to visit the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Museum and Visitors Center. Fishing is extremely popular here, and you won't want to miss the annual Pyramid Lake Water Sports Festival, which showcases a variety of exciting aquatic sports. Additionally, nearby Anaho Island National Wildlife Refuge serves as a vital breeding ground for American white pelicans.

Laguna Madre, Texas

Laguna Madre, nestled along the breathtaking Texas coast, is a coastal lagoon that showcases a rich tapestry of vibrant ecosystems and stunning scenery. Renowned for its high salinity, the lagoon's waters are saltier than most oceans. While swimming is permitted in certain areas, caution is advised due to strong tides and potential hazards.

Stretching between South Padre Island and the mainland, this brackish body of water is home to the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, which attracts a plethora of migratory birds, including herons, pelicans, and the endangered roseate spoonbill. The area is also a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, with hotspots like South Padre Island Fishing Pier and Baffin Bay offering abundant species such as redfish and speckled trout. Explore the serene waters through activities like kayaking and paddleboarding at Lighthouse Lakes or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic shores of Isla Blanca Park.

Exploring the Salty Wonders

Saltwater lakes in the US offer stunning views, fun activities, and rich culture. Take the Great Salt Lake, for example, with its buoyant waters or the artistic landscapes of the Bonneville Salt Flats. These saline spots are perfect for adventure lovers and nature fans.

Swimming in the lakes, hunting for crystals, or checking out nearby historical sites each offer a unique experience. To dive in, consider joining a local tour or visiting nearby museums. So, why not embark on a salty adventure and discover the hidden gems of America’s saltwater lakes?