What's the best lake to live on in the US?

[robertmee]

Just curious as to the opinions of the geographically diverse here...Our goal is to retire on lake front property someday. What are some good lakes in our country to consider? Things to consider:

Cost - Some lakes might as well be Beach front Malibu due to the command in prices

Water Level control - Don't want to be sitting on a mud puddle one year due to lack of rainfall

Convenience - Would be great to not be extremely rural and at least near some metropolitan area and an airport.

Climate - Lake's no good if you can only use it 3 months of the year.

We currently have property on Lake Gaston in Virginia and it meets three of the four. It's a bit rural for my liking, although it can be relaxing at times. But I travel for my job (I work out of home the rest of the time) and the hour+ drive to a major airport is a pain.