• What is Florida known for besides its beaches and entertainment parks?
    • Florida is also well known for its large number of lakes that provide respite from busy daily lives.
  • What can visitors enjoy in Florida's lakes?
    • Visitors can enjoy winter activities for snowbirds, fishing, and various water sports like kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and nature observing.
  • What are the characteristics of Florida's lakes?
    • Florida's lakes range in size from large to small and are often shallow, providing great spots for fishing.

Best Time to Visit Lakes in Florida

  • March to May – Pleasant temps and low humidity, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
  • April & May – Ideal for boating and birdwatching before summer heat and storms roll in.
  • June to August – Hot and humid but great for swimming and water sports; afternoon storms are common.
  • September to November – Cooler weather and fewer crowds, great for hiking and paddling.
  • December to February – Mild winter conditions ideal for camping, wildlife viewing, and peaceful lake outings.

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Lake Crescent


Admire crystal-clear waters or hike forested trails for a romantic weekend escape.

Lake Crescent

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  • Where is Lake Crescent located?
    • Lake Crescent is in northeastern Florida and stretches over 15,960 acres.
  • What is Lake Crescent known for?
    • The lake is best known for its beautiful scenery and clean water.
  • What is the Crescent Lake Conservation Area?
    • Located at the lake’s south end, the 3,528-acre Crescent Lake Conservation Area provides water storage for the lake and protects wildlife.
    • Visitors can frequently see bald eagles, waterfowl, and osprey.
  • What activities are available near Lake Crescent?
    • Between the Crescent Lake Conservation Area and the nearby Haw Creek Preserve, visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, biking, and simple camping.
  • Can you fish in Lake Crescent?
    • Yes, fishing is available, and a good angler can catch bass, catfish, crappie, and panfish.
  • What makes Lake Crescent a great spot for nature photographers?
    • The scenery changes around every corner, with picturesque bold cypresses providing many photo opportunities.
    • Visitors can capture images of bald eagles ascending from their perches.
  • What types of boating are allowed on the lake?
    • The lake is enjoyed by kayakers, canoers, and bass boaters.
    • No motorboats are allowed.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Crescent?
    • View the Map.

Where to Eat:

Mel's River Pub Italian Grille & Liquor Store, 3 Bananas

Cypress Lake


Explore winding bayous or fish calm waters on a peaceful retirement trip.

Cypress Lake

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  • Where is Cypress Lake located?
  • What waterway is Cypress Lake a part of?
    • Cypress Lake is one of several lakes that make up 56 miles of the Kissimmee Waterway.
    • All the lakes in this waterway are shallow, often only six feet in depth.
  • What makes Cypress Lake a great destination?
    • The lake’s lush surroundings and diverse wildlife create a relaxed atmosphere even before you arrive.
    • It serves as a wintering ground for many waterfowl.
    • Bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks, and elegant herons make Cypress Lake a fantastic spot for nature photographers.
  • What is the best way to explore Cypress Lake?
    • Airboat rides are the most popular means of exploring the lake.
    • There are many boat tours available to introduce visitors to the lake’s diverse wildlife.
  • Is fishing available on Cypress Lake?
    • Yes, fishing is superb at Cypress Lake, with species such as black crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill.
    • Visitors can bring their own boat or rent one on the lake.
  • What can visitors expect when spending a day on Cypress Lake?
    • Whether you catch something or not, visitors will enjoy a lovely day on the tranquil water.
    • The experience includes sun in your face and a cold drink in your hand.
  • Where can I find a map of Cypress Lake?

Deer Point Lake


Paddle scenic shores or spot wildlife—perfect for an affordable outdoor family adventure.

Deer Point Lake

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  • Where is Deer Point Lake located?
  • What is the primary purpose of Deer Point Lake?
    • The lake primarily serves as a source of public water.
    • It is also used for irrigation and recreation.
  • How large is Deer Point Lake?
    • The lake stretches over 4,572 acres of water.
  • What recreational activities are available at Deer Point Lake?
    • Visitors can enjoy fishing, camping, canoeing, and much more.
    • The lake provides a lush, subtropical environment that makes it a popular getaway destination.
  • What wildlife can be found at Deer Point Lake?
    • The lake serves as an important watershed for wildlife and fish.
    • It is a nesting ground for osprey.
  • Is Deer Point Lake a good fishing destination?
    • Yes, it is a popular fishing destination known for its shellcracker.
  • Are there camping facilities at Deer Point Lake?
    • The lake has two fish camps and several primitive campsites.
  • What is unique about the canoeing experience at Deer Point Lake?
    • The lake features a 22-mile-long canoe trail on Econfina Creek.
    • The upper portion of the trail has rapids, providing a challenge even for experienced canoeists.
  • Where can I find a map of Deer Point Lake?

East Lake Tohopekaliga


Cruise wide waters or enjoy birdwatching on an easy spring nature trip.

East Lake Tohopekaliga

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  • Where is East Lake Tohopekaliga located?
  • How large is East Lake Tohopekaliga?
    • The lake is circular in shape and covers 11,968 acres.
    • It is the second-largest lake in Osceola County.
  • What water system is East Lake Toho a part of?
    • East Lake Toho is part of the chain of lakes on the Upper Kissimmee River.
    • Together, these lakes form the headwaters of the entire Everglades system.
  • What communities are located around East Lake Tohopekaliga?
    • The three communities on the lake are Narcoosee, St. Cloud, and Runnymede.
  • Why do tourists visit East Lake Toho?
    • The lake’s spectacular beauty attracts large numbers of tourists every year.
    • Its clear water and depths of up to nine feet create the perfect environment for outdoor activities.
  • What is the best way to explore the lake?
    • The best way to explore East Lake Toho is on an airboat, a flat-bottomed boat that glides over even the shallowest water.
    • Airboats bring visitors very close to the wildlife that inhabits the lake, including alligators.
  • What amenities are available at Chisholm Park?
    • Chisholm Park offers picnic areas, kids’ playgrounds, a ball field, a volleyball court, and a boat ramp.
    • Visitors can also enjoy a nice sandy beach.
  • What types of fish can be caught at East Lake Tohopekaliga?
    • The lake is a popular destination for fishing, offering species such as black crappie, catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish, and especially largemouth bass.
  • Where can I find a map of East Lake Tohopekaliga?

Johns Lake


Go bass fishing or kayak at sunrise during a quiet and cheap getaway.

Johns Lake

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  • Where is Johns Lake located?
    • Johns Lake is located between Orlando and Clermont in central Florida.
  • How large is Johns Lake?
    • The lake covers 2,419 acres.
  • How is Johns Lake divided?
    • Johns Lake is divided into east Black Lake and west Clear Lake.
    • The two sections are connected through a series of channels.
  • What makes Johns Lake great for boating?
    • The lake is fairly shallow and has a winding coastline that forms many coves and islands.
    • The mostly undeveloped coastline provides a peaceful and unspoiled setting.
  • Why is Johns Lake popular for fishing?
    • Bass fishing is the main attraction, drawing many fishermen to the lake.
    • The lake’s irregular bottom and fluctuating water levels create a perfect habitat for largemouth bass.
    • Other fish species found in the lake include black crappie, bluegill, and shellcracker.
  • Are there campgrounds at Johns Lake?
    • There are several campgrounds nearby, but none directly on the lake.
  • What is the Oakland Nature Preserve?
    • Located just north of Johns Lake, the Oakland Nature Preserve is a 120-acre park.
    • The preserve features wonderful hiking trails and a 3,000-foot-long boardwalk that extends deep into the native wetlands.
  • Are there golf courses near Johns Lake?
    • Yes, there are a number of first-class golf courses in the area.
  • Where can I find a map of Johns Lake?

Lake Apopka


Bike the wildlife drive or watch birds for an unusual day trip with kids.

Lake Apopka

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  • What is Lake Apopka known for?
    • Lake Apopka was once known as a world-class bass fishery with clear water and numerous fishing camps.
  • What caused the decline of Lake Apopka?
    • Agriculture, the construction of a levee on the north shore, and municipal waste from Winter Garden led to severe pollution.
    • By 1980, the lake had turned pea green in color, with frequent fish deaths.
  • When did efforts to restore Lake Apopka begin?
    • The Lake Apopka Restoration Act was initiated in 1985 to begin the recovery process.
  • What actions were taken to restore the lake?
    • The USDA and the St. Johns River Water Management District reclaimed most of the farmland and flooded the lake.
    • However, high levels of pesticides in the fish led to bird deaths, requiring the lake to be drained again.
  • How is Lake Apopka improving today?
    • A "marsh flow-way" system now filters the lake water, improving its quality.
    • Native plants have started to return, bringing fish populations back with them.
  • What outdoor activities are available at Lake Apopka?
    • There are several nature preserves in the area.
    • Visitors can explore three hiking trails and a 2.9-mile-long equestrian trail.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Apopka?

Blue Cypress Lake


See towering cypress trees or fish remote shores on an exciting weekend retreat.

Blue Cypress Lake

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  • Where is Lake Blue Cypress located?
  • How large is Lake Blue Cypress?
    • The lake stretches across 6,555 acres.
    • It is approximately seven miles long and three miles wide.
  • Why is Lake Blue Cypress named this way?
    • The lake is known for the cypress trees that surround it, giving the water a bluish glow in the bright morning sun.
  • What river does Lake Blue Cypress feed into?
    • The lake serves as the headwater of the St. Johns River, which eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
  • What kind of environment surrounds Lake Blue Cypress?
    • The lake is surrounded by 29,000 acres of swamps, marshes, and cypress forests.
  • What facilities are available at Blue Cypress Park?
    • Located on the lake's west bank, the park features:
      • Two boat launches
      • Two covered pavilions
      • A floating dock
      • Simple camping
  • What activities are popular at Lake Blue Cypress?
    • The lake is a popular spot for canoeing and hiking.
  • Is swimming recommended in Lake Blue Cypress?
    • The lake is never deeper than nine feet, but it is not great for swimming.
  • Why is Lake Blue Cypress a great fishing destination?
    • The lake is full of bluegill, chain pickerel, catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, shellcrackers, and warmouth.
  • What is Middleton's Fish Camp?
    • Middleton's Fish Camp is the only fish camp on the lake and offers:
      • Cabins and tent camping
      • Boat rentals
      • A bait shop
      • A boat ramp
      • A picnic area
  • Why is Lake Blue Cypress popular among nature photographers?
    • The lake features 130-foot-tall cypress trees covered in green moss, providing a stunning natural setting.
    • The area’s lively wildlife and lush environment make it a great location for photography.
  • Why do kayakers enjoy Lake Blue Cypress?
    • The large expanse of clear water is very attractive to kayakers.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Blue Cypress?

Lake Como


Relax by the water or paddle serene stretches—ideal for couples or retirement travelers.

Lake Como

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  • Where is Lake Como located?
    • Lake Como is located in Putnam County, Florida.
  • What makes Lake Como unique?
    • It is an unusually clear and blue lake.
    • It is home to very few plant and fish species.
  • How large and deep is Lake Como?
    • The lake covers 245 acres.
    • It has an average depth of 10 feet, which is fairly deep for a Florida lake.
  • What bodies of water and landmarks are near Lake Como?
    • To the east is Lake Crescent.
    • To the north is Dunns Creek, which eventually turns into the St. John’s River.
    • To the west is Welaka State Forest, a protected habitat for plants, birds, and animals.
  • What amenities and activities are available at Welaka State Forest?
    • The forest features campsites, picnic areas, and a dining hall.
    • There are many hiking trails, including the well-known Mud Spring Trail and Sandhill Horse Trail.
  • What is the Welaka National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium?
  • What attractions are available for birdwatchers?
    • The park features an observation tower and a ¾-mile interpretive trail.
    • The area is home to cranes, white ibis, bald eagles, and ospreys.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Como?

Lake Dora


Savor lakeside dining or take a boat tour on a romantic Florida trip.

Lake Dora

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  • Where is Lake Dora located?
    • Lake Dora is located in Eastern Central Florida.
    • It is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes.
  • What makes Lake Dora a popular destination?
    • The lake is very large, full of wildlife and fish.
    • It features miles of waterways for boaters to enjoy peaceful surroundings.
    • Since it is only a half-hour from Orlando, it can get busy with visitors escaping the city's hustle.
  • What is the history of fishing at Lake Dora?
    • In the past, Lake Dora was famous for first-class bass fishing.
    • About twenty years ago, agricultural run-off made the lake too polluted for fishing.
    • A massive restoration effort greatly improved water quality, returning most of the former agricultural land to wetlands.
    • The bass fishery is back, and fishermen can also catch black crappie, catfish, and bluegill.
  • What water activities are popular on Lake Dora?
    • The lake is great for water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and wind surfing.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Dora?

Lake Eloise


Visit waterside parks or enjoy scenic views on an affordable, easy spring outing.

Lake Eloise

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  • What makes Lake Eloise a charming destination?
    • Lake Eloise is lined with bald cypress trees smothered with Spanish moss.
    • The picturesque shore is dotted with quaint cottages, creating a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Where is Lake Eloise located?
    • Lake Eloise is part of the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes.
    • It is one of 554 lakes in Polk County.
  • What historical significance does Lake Eloise have?
    • Lake Eloise was home to Cypress Gardens, one of Florida’s earliest tourist attractions, which opened in 1936.
    • Cypress Gardens covered 167 acres and was home to 8,000 plant species from more than 90 countries.
  • What recreational activities are available at Lake Eloise?
    • The lake is a superb place for water skiing.
    • It is also a popular fishing spot, full of crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass.
  • How can visitors access Lake Eloise?
    • The lake can be accessed only through the canal.
    • There are several nearby boat ramps for convenient entry.
  • Where can I find a map of Lake Eloise?

Map:


Plan Your Trip


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