Decide Who Uses the Lake

• Opportunities for activities can be a big plus.Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
  
  A lake with a design for a private homeowner can vary greatly from that of a public community. It's important to understand the people who will use the lake. If it's a public community, include many opportunities for activity, such as a walking trail along the lake, a boat rental area, an exercise facility with large windows for a view of the lake, a play area for children, a boardwalk with small restaurants, or a shaded picnic area. If the lake is for a large number of people, include a wide variety of activities. If the lake is for a small private group of people or private homeowners, you still may want to include a few activity opportunities.
  
  

Evaluate the Number of Lake Users

• The number of activity opportunities may hinge on how many will use the lake facilities.Jupiterimages ?/Polka Dot/Getty Images
  
  The number of lake users determines the type of activities around the lake and determines how many of these activities are available. If the lake will serve a large community, it may need multiple restaurant areas, multiple boat ramps, multiple picnic areas and multiple walking trails. For a private community, it may need just one of each or only a few activity opportunities.
  
  

Assess the Needs of Lake Users

• Separate louder and quiet lake areas.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  The needs of people who will use the lake vary as well. Many lake-goers enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. If the lake is for a public community, areas with loud activities, such as a boardwalk with restaurants, should be separate from the peaceful ones. It should also have multiple boat ramps so that those with large boats who don't live on the lake can have easy access. A lake for a small, private community may also need a few areas for peaceful activity.
  
  

Consider the Surroundings of the Lake

• Know your community before determining whether the lake will have traditional or more modern surroundings.Digital Vision./Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  The group of people who use the lake may also determine the overall appearance of it. Arguably the most basic form of enjoyment that comes from the lake is its setting in nature. This is a theme that all lake developments should maintain. If the community of people seems more modern, incorporate that in the structure of activity facilities without sacrificing the value of nature. This enhances the entire enjoyability of the lake.