Lake Rapel, Hydroelectric reservoir in Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins Region, Chile

Lake Rapel is a reservoir in the Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins Region, sitting at an elevation of roughly 360 feet (110 meters) above sea level. It gathers water from the Cachapoal and Tinguiririca Rivers and covers a wide area in central Chile.

Rapel Lake was created in 1969 when the Rapel River was dammed to feed the Rapel Hydroelectric Plant, which has a capacity of 350,000 kW. The reservoir holds 695 million cubic metres of water. Over the years it gave rise to tourism, with bathing beaches, summer houses and water sports.

The lake's shore is lined with balnearios and summer houses, and its waters host windsurfing, sailing, catamaran, water skiing, wakeboarding and fishing. Since 2011 the Central Interconnected System has kept the water level high in summer for tourists and residents, then lowered it in the low season to generate power.

Several access points along the shoreline offer boat and fishing equipment rentals for those planning a day on the water. Nearby facilities and dining spots help organize outings along the waterfront or on the lake itself.

Since 2011 the Central Interconnected System has regulated the lake's level, keeping it full in summer for tourists and residents and lowering it in the low season to produce energy at the Rapel Hydroelectric Plant.