What Should You Look for When Choosing a 3D Lake Map?

If you are looking for a 3D lake map, there are quite a few options out there. They may look similar at first, but there can be some pretty big differences in how they are made, how much detail they show and what the finished map looks like on your wall.

I make 3D wooden lake maps at Horn Dog Maps, and these are some of the things I would look at before buying one.

Start With the Lake Data

The first thing I would look at is what the map is actually based on.

A 3D lake map should show the shape and depth of the lake, not just its outline. The depth data is what creates the structure you see in the finished map, including the drop-offs, holes, points and other changes in the lake bottom.

Unlike other map makers who are buying cut files off of Etsy, I design all of my own map files using the actual depth data available for that specific lake. That gives me control over the detail that goes into each map instead of starting with someone else's file.

The finished maps are decorative pieces, not navigation charts, but I still want someone who knows that lake to recognize what they are looking at.

Look at How the Depth Is Shown

This is one of the biggest differences you will notice between 3D lake maps.

I build my maps layer by layer, with each water layer representing a different depth. I paint the shallower areas lighter blue and work toward darker blues as the water gets deeper.

My standard maps have eight layers. For people who want more detail, I also make High Definition maps with 15 layers. 

That extra detail can make a difference, especially on lakes with interesting underwater structure or when you are choosing a larger map where there is more room for that detail to show.

Lake Tahoe 3D wooden lake map showing the lake’s depth layer by layer.

Think About the Size of the Map

Before ordering a wooden lake map, think about where you are actually going to hang it.

I make my lake maps in six sizes, from Small through Gigantic. The right size depends partly on the lake and partly on the space you are trying to fill.

A smaller map can work well when you have a specific spot in mind or want something that doesn't take over the room. Larger maps give the lake more room to show detail and work well when you have a bigger wall to fill.

My three largest sizes, Extra Large, XXL and Gigantic, are also available in High Definition.

If you're trying to decide between sizes, I would start by measuring the wall. It is a lot easier to picture the finished map when you know how much space you actually have to work with.

Pay Attention to the Details Around the Lake, Too

The water gets most of the attention, but it isn't the only part of the map.

I laser etch the surrounding roads and lake information. Those details help give the lake some context and make it easier to recognize the places around it.

You can also choose from maple, cherry, walnut or black stained ash frames, so there are options depending on where the map is going to match your existing home decor style.

Find Out What Can Be Customized

If you want something added to your map, it is worth finding out what customization is available before you order.

I can personalize maps with details such as a cabin location, custom text, hearts or other markers. This is especially popular when someone is ordering a map as a gift or wants to mark the place their family has on the lake.

If you have something specific in mind, reach out. I can let you know what will work with that particular map.

Don't Forget About Hanging It

This isn't the most exciting part of buying a lake map, but it matters once you get it home.

Every Horn Dog lake map comes with a French cleat permanently installed on the back. It makes the map easy to hang securely and allows it to sit flush against the wall.

Make Sure Your Lake Is Available

I currently have more than 1,700 lakes in my catalog across all 50 states and Canada. 

You can browse the collections and search for your lake by name. If you don't see it, that doesn't necessarily mean I can't make it. I can often add lakes depending on whether the depth data I need is available.

If you have a specific lake in mind and can't find it, send me a message and I'll take a look.

“Absolutely love our custom map! Mitch was quick to respond, and kindly incorporated a number of tweaks to make the final product exactly what we were hoping for. The shades of blue really make it pop.” -Google Review from Alexander G. 

Choosing the Right 3D Lake Map

There isn't one 3D lake map that is right for everybody. A lot depends on the lake you want, where the map will hang, how much detail you want and whether there is anything you would like added to it.

Before you order, I would look at the depth data being used, how that depth is represented, the number of layers, the available sizes, customization options and how the finished map hangs.

Those are the same things I think about when I'm building them.

Browse the Horn Dog Maps lake map collection and find your lake.

Questions About Choosing a 3D Lake Map

Are 3D lake maps a good gift for a lake owner?

They can be, especially when you know which lake matters to the person you're buying for. I make maps for people buying for their own cabin or lake home, but I also make quite a few as gifts. If you're looking for ideas, I put together a guide to some of my favorite cabin gifts for lake lovers.

Do you make 3D lake maps for Wisconsin lakes?

Yes. I have quite a few Wisconsin lakes in my catalog, including lakes throughout northern Wisconsin and some of the state's larger and better-known lakes. You can learn more about my Wisconsin lake maps or browse the Wisconsin collection to look for your lake.

What else should I consider when choosing something for a lake house wall?

Size and where you're going to hang it are two of the biggest things I would think about. I wrote more about choosing pieces for different spaces in my guide to lake house wall decor.