The Chelyabinsk region offers numerous accessible lakes for residents of Yekaterinburg seeking summer recreation. Despite the prevalence of paid beach access, options for both paid and free relaxation can be found within a two-hour drive.

Lake Itkul, just 100 kilometers from Yekaterinburg, features pine and birch forests, mountains, and the Shaitan-Kamen rock formation. Visitors can choose from tent camping, recreation centers, or guest houses in nearby villages.

Irtysh Lake, the second largest in the Chelyabinsk region, boasts rocky shores, transparent water, and numerous islands. The western shore is forested, while the eastern shore features meadows and the “White Gali” stone formations. Recreation centers are available along the shore. Nearby is Travakul Lake, connected to Irtysh by straits.

Lake Kaldy, while not exceptionally scenic, offers a convenient coastline for swimming and free tent camping. It features sandy beaches, good fishing, and crayfish. Recreation centers are also available.

Bolshie Allaki provides an opportunity to combine relaxation with history, as ancient sacrificial altar rock paintings are located on the southeastern shore. However, the area offers little shade.

Alabuga Lake, near Lake Kasli, is known for its allegedly medicinal water due to its hydrocarbonate ions of calcium and magnesium content. Access requires navigating a dirt road, and recreation centers are located near the nearby Lake Bolshie Kasli.

Lake Uvildy, 180 kilometers from Yekaterinburg, is favored for its clear water, good fishing, and gentle shore. Wild camping is possible with paid or free access, and boat and catamaran rentals are available at recreation centers.

Akakul, located near Kyshtym and Ozersk, features a small area with small islands. Sandy shores host numerous recreation centers, and wild camping is also possible.

Arakul Lake, situated in the north of the Chelyabinsk region, is known as the “lake between the mountains.” Its water remains cold due to numerous springs. The Arakul Shihan rock massif is located nearby, but access requires navigating challenging forest roads, and caution is advised.

While exploring options outside Yekaterinburg, swimming in the city’s reservoirs is not recommended due to sanitary concerns.