A Glacial Gem

Nestled in the southwestern corner of New York, Chautauqua Lake stands as a natural wonder, positioned just a short distance, approximately six miles, from the expansive Lake Erie. Stretching gracefully from Mayville to Jamestown, with the charming towns of Bemus Point and Chautauqua nestled in between, this glacial lake holds a magnetic allure.

Spanning approximately 17 miles in length and boasting a width of up to two miles at its widest point, Chautauqua Lake covers an impressive surface area of around 13,000 acres. With an average depth of 25 feet, this pristine lake sits majestically at an elevation of 1,308 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest navigable water bodies across North America.

Fun on the Lake

Chautauqua Lake emerges as a haven for enthusiasts of water sports and sailing aficionados alike. Weekends witness lively regattas, while national sailing and rowing competitions find a distinguished home along its tranquil waters. Public boat launches and marinas dotting the shoreline cater to recreational sailors, inviting them to embark on adventures amidst the serene beauty of Chautauqua Lake.

Anglers, drawn by the promise of abundant catches, flock to Chautauqua Lake’s depths, where bass, perch, pike, and an array of species await. However, it is the elusive muskellunge, or muskie, native to these waters, that captures the hearts of dedicated fishing enthusiasts.

Local Attractions

Nearby, the renowned Chautauqua Institution beckons with its rich history and cultural significance. Established in 1874 as a haven for Sunday school teachers, this National Historic Landmark now hosts summer programs spanning arts, education, religion, and recreation, captivating visitors with its diverse offerings.

For a dose of nostalgia and family fun, Midway State Park stands as a beacon of amusement, proudly holding the title of the fifteenth-oldest continually operating amusement park, promising endless joy and laughter.

Prime Real Estate

With its tranquil beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities, Chautauqua Lake emerges as a prime destination for those seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you aspire to purchase a family home, a full-time retirement residence, or a vacation rental, Chautauqua Lake promises a lifestyle of unparalleled serenity and splendor.

Lake Information

  • Shoreline: 41 miles
  • Average Depth: 25 feet
  • Deepest Depth: 78 feet
  • Acreage: 13,156 acres
  • Water Level: Full Pool Year Round
  • Ownership: Public
  • Public Boat Ramps: 7
  • Counties: Chautauqua County
  • Fish: Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge Pike, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye
  • Sailing Clubs: Chautauqua Lake Yacht Club
  • Condos Available: Yes
  • Notable Events: Colors of Chautauqua Fall Harvest Festival, Chautauqua Lake Bass Tournament, Jamestown Public Farmers Market, Annual Haunted House behind the Chautauqua Mall, Veteran's Day 5K, Full Moon Paddle on Chautauqua Lake (Summer Months Only),
  • Landmarks: One of the most popular destinations along Chautauqua Lake's shores is the Chautauqua Institution. A National Historic Landmark, Chautauqua Institution was founded in 1874 as a camp for Sunday school teachers.Today, the summer programs are organized around arts, education, religion and recreation.
  • Permit is not required to use the lake.
    Jet skis are allowed.
    Motorized boats are allowed.
    Houseboats are not allowed.
    Boating restrictions (Yes). — Age to Operate Vessel, Speed and Wake Restrictions, Registration Requirements (See https://www.sheriff.us/boating-rules)
    Dock restrictions (Yes). — Must obtain permit and must be made out of approved material (See http://planningchautauqua.com/pdf/reports/Chautauqua_Lake_LWRP.pdf)

  • Resources Nearby

    Buffalo Niagara International Airport

    Phone: (716) 630-6000
    Address: 4200 Genesee St, Buffalo, NY 14225

    Erie International Airport

    Phone: (814) 833-4258
    Address: 4411 W 12th St, Erie, PA 16505

    Camp Chautauqua

    Phone: (716) 789-3435
    Address: 3900 West Lake Road Stow, NY 14785

    Chautauqua Lake KOA Holiday

    Phone: (716) 386-3804
    Address: 5652 Thum Road Dewittville, NY 14728

    Creek-N-Lake Camp

    Phone: (716) 753-7757
    Address: 5360 Meadows Road Dewittville, NY 14728

    Peachie's Lakeside Camping

    Phone: (716) 640-1068
    Address: 2286 W Lake Road Lakewood, NY 14750

    WIldWood Campground

    Phone: (716) 386-7037
    Address: 5006 Brown Road Bemus Point, NY 14712

    Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House

    Phone: (716) 386-2893
    Address: 72 Main Street Bemus Point, NY 14712

    Chautauqua Golf Club

    Phone: (716) 357-6211
    Address: 4731 Route 394 Chautauqua, NY 14722

    Chautauqua Point Golf Course

    Phone: (716) 753-7271
    Address: 5687 E Lake Road Dewittville, NY 14728

    Holiday Valley Resort

    Phone: (716) 699-2345
    Address: 6557 Holiday Valley Road Ellicottville, NY 14731

    Peek'n Peak Resort

    Phone: (716) 355-4141
    Address: 1405 Olde Road Clymer, NY NY 14724

    Bemus Point NYSDEC Boat Launch

    Phone: (716) 386-4398
    Address: 6 Lakeside Avenue Bemus Point, NY 14712

    Chautauqua Marina

    Phone: (716) 753-3913
    Address: 104 West Lake Road Mayville, NY 14757

    Holiday Harbor

    Phone: (716) 484-7175
    Address: 19 Avon Avenue Celoron, NY 14720

    UPMC Chautauqua WCA

    Phone: (716) 487-0141
    Address: 207 Foote Avenue Jamestown, NY 14702