8 Lakes That Are So Dangerous You’re Not Even Allowed to Swim

Lakes can be dangerous for all sorts of reasons. Your first thought may be dangerous animals, and there are several lakes that you cannot swim in due to alligators or even sharks (looking at you, Florida).

However, there are a surprising number of toxic lakes, exceptionally hot lakes, and even lakes with profoundly strong currents.

1. Lake Karachay, Russia

This lake in Russia was used as a dumping ground for radioactive waste during the Soviet nuclear program. As you might guess, this lake is still incredibly toxic today, with very high radiation levels. Just spending a short time near the lake can be fatal – never mind swimming in it.

This lake is sometimes referred to as the “Lake of Death” due to its high radiation levels. Its radiation levels are over 100 times higher than those found at Chornobyl.

2. Onondaga Lake, New York

While Onondaga Lake isn’t radioactive, it is full of industrial pollution after being used for decades as a dumping ground. Luckily, this lake has stopped being used for such purposes, and cleanup efforts are underway. However, it is nowhere close to being swimmable.

The toxic waste destroyed the lake’s ecosystem. High levels of bacteria and mercury are still found in the water, with many other toxins lurking just under the surface.

3. Lake Michigan, USA

The Great Lakes may seem like a great place to swim. However, Lake Michigan has a deceptively strong current that can be unpredictable. Rip currents can quickly pull swimmers away from shore and even be deadly.

According to last year’s data, 39 people drowned in Lake Michigan last year, making it easily the deadliest great lake.

4. Victoria Falls, Africa

Victoria Falls is another awe-inspiring lake that is far more dangerous than many people believe. Its churning waters are no place for a dip, as it has some of the strongest lake currents in the world. Hidden rocks make this lake even more dangerous! The last thing you want to do is be swept by the current and pounded against the rocks.

Many people have been swept over the falls to their deaths, too. It’s best to admire this waterfall from a safe distance.

5. Boiling Lake, Dominica

There are many hot springs around the world that you can take a relaxing bath in. However, Boiling Lake is not one of them. Its temperature regularly exceeds 193°F – plenty to burn and seriously injure anyone who touches the water. Even venturing too close can cause severe burns.

It’s not exactly a relaxing tourist destination, to say the least.

The only things that live in this lake are heat-resistant microbes. It’s also very acidic, which doesn’t make it any more swimable.

6. Vostok Lake, Antarctica

Miles under Antarctic Ice, Vostok Lake is a bit of a marvel. However, it isn’t somewhere you want to go swimming. Waters there are regularly -27°F, which can quickly cause hypothermia and death. Instant hypothermia is practically guaranteed.

Plus, this lake is miles under the surface, anyway. It’s under immense pressure, which is why it is water and not solid ice. Its lack of sunlight also makes it a bit off-putting for humans. While it may be cool to read about this lake, it isn’t something you want to visit.

7. Lake Okeechobee, Florida

Lake Okeechobee is an ecological haven for many species, but you probably don’t want to be swimming with many of these. It boasts one of the highest concentrations of alligators in the world, so you’re almost guaranteed to run into one if you decide to take a dip. The lake is also full of crocodiles, an equally dangerous species.

Occasionally, the lake may also be home to bull sharks, which are known to venture into the freshwater. These aren’t anywhere near as common as the reptiles, but they can be just as dangerous.

8. Lake Victoria, Africa

Lake Victoria is one of the largest lakes in Africa, so it may be tempting to take a dip. However, the lake is full of dangerous animals. It’s home to tons of hippos, which are astonishingly aggressive. They’ve been known to charge boats that stray too close, and their massive size isn’t to be messed with.

The lake is also home to parasitic diseases. The surrounding areas also leach runoff into the lake, leading to poor water quality and toxins.