When we think of Florida, we think of its sandy beaches, luxurious golf resorts and vibrant nightlife. Florida’s beaches are some of the most attractive beaches in the world and attract thousands of tourists each year. Moreover, its lively nightlife and entertainment facilities make Florida one of America’s most vibrant states.
But, what most people don’t know about Florida is that it consists over 30,000 lakes. These lakes together span an area of more than 3 million acres. Interestingly, these lakes serve many uniquely wonderful purposes for different people.
Furthermore, many of them are part of state parks and serve as scenic campsites. So, the best lakes in Florida are mentioned below.
1. Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in the state, is renowned for being one of the best fishing spots in Florida. Lake Okeechobee, a massive 450,000-acre lake, stretches across five counties.
Moreover, this lake connects the Okeechobee Waterway to the Gulf of Mexico. Despite its huge area, Lake Okeechobee is relatively not very deep, averaging a depth of 9 feet.
2. Lake Tohopekaliga
Referred to as Lake Toho, Lake Tohopekaliga is one of the best lakes in Florida. This huge 22,000-acre lake is close to the city of Kissimmee and is a huge tourist destination in that area. Lake Tohopekaliga is full of natural amenities, like fishing and swimming.
Additionally, it offers beautiful hiking trails and a playground for kids. Lake Tohopekaliga is also quite well-known for being a fine picnic spot.
3. Lake Seminole
Along with stretching across two states, Florida and Georgia, Lake Seminole is the 3rd-largest lake in the state of Florida. This massive 37,500-acre lake was created by damming the Flint River.
In fact, this lake was created by the state authorities in order to achieve hydroelectric power. Alongside its hydroelectric generation, Lake Seminole is also a wonderful place for recreational activities like fishing, canoeing or swimming.
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4. Lake Istokpoga
Situated in Highlands County, Lake Istokpoga has a massive area of over 26,000 acres. One of the biggest lakes in the county, Lake Istokpoga stretches across three cities, Lake Placid, Lorida and Sebring.
Currently, Lake Istokpoga is the fifth-largest lake in the state and is one of the biggest tourist draws in Highlands County. Furthermore, popular species of fish in this lake include bluegill, crappie and largemouth bass.
5. Lake Apopka
Just 24 miles north of Orlando, Lake Apopka is one of the largest lakes in Florida, spanning over 30,000 acres. Lake Apopka is home to a beautiful array of wildlife which attracts visitors from all across the state.
Additionally, this incredibly massive lake acts as the headwaters for the Ocklawaha River and is full of a wide variety of fish.
6. Lake George
When it comes to scenic views, very few lakes on this list can rival Lake George. Spanning 46,000 acres, Lake George is the second-largest freshwater lake in the state.
Not only is Lake George massive, but it is also a very heavy fished lake that includes fish like bass and crappie. Additionally, Lake George stretches 12 miles and its western shores are surrounded by the Ocala National Forest.
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7. Lake Talquin
Part of Lake Talquin State Park, this lake spans an area of well over 10,000 acres. Lake Talquin is one of the best lakes in Florida for recreational purposes. Surrounded by green scenery, Lake Talquin offers its visitors relaxing natural amenities that include picnic spots and hiking trails.
Moreover, the most popular species of fish in this lake are perch, catfish and bream.
8. Lake Eustis
Located in the city of Eustis, this spring lake is named after its city. Lake Eustis connects to Lake Harris and spans an area of 7,000 acres. One of the best features of Lake Eustis is taking a walk alongside the shores of this lake during the sunset, which will offer visitors stunning views.
Additionally, popular activities on the lake include swimming, sailing, canoeing and kayaking.
9. Lake Harris
Fittingly Located in Lake County, Lake Harris is one of one thousand lakes in the county. The ecological value of this county to Florida is immeasurable, and Lake Harris is its largest lake. Spanning 13,800-acres, this lake is a hot spot for fishing.
Furthermore, Lake Harris is bordered by beautiful Cypress trees and sand hills, giving its surroundings an awe-inspiring scenic view.
10. Lake Kissimmee
Situated in Polk County, Lake Kissimmee is an absolute wonderland of natural wonders. Firstly, close by this lake are 13 different hiking trails that all lead to scenic views.
Moreover, this lake is situated alongside Lake Kissimmee State Park, which is full of beautiful pine and oak trees. Additionally, spanning over 35,000 acres, this is the third-largest lake in Florida.
11. Lake Parker
Lake Parker is one of the most popular lakes in the state and is located northeast of Lakeland. Spanning over 35,000 acres, Lake Parker is one of the largest in Florida, and the largest in Lakeland.
Additionally, Lake Parker is surrounded by recreational parks and beautiful lush green scenery. The most popular fish in this lake are bluegill and largemouth bass.
12. Newnans Lake
If you are looking for a beautiful lake which will provide you with glimpses of beautiful animals, then Newnans Lake is the lake for you. Moreover, the site of this lake is protected by Alachua County because of its unique wildlife.
Furthermore, natural activities around the lake include horseback riding, cycling and picnicking. Newnans Lake is situated near Gainesville, Florida.
13. Crescent Lake
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Crescent Lake is one of the most renowned lakes in Florida, located in the counties of Flagler and Putnam. This massive lake stretches 13 miles long and is 2 miles wide.
Moreover, the area of this lake is around 15,600 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in Florida. Previously known as Dunn’s Lake, this lake attracts some of the rarest wildlife in the state.
14. Blue Cypress Lake
Blue Cypress Lake, initially called Lake Wilmington, is one of the largest and most attractive lakes in Florida. Located in Indian River County, Blue Cypress Lake is the biggest lake in that county.
Furthermore, this lake got its current name due to the beautiful Cypress trees that can be seen around it. Moreover, Blue Cypress Lake is surrounded by a beautiful Cypress tree forest, swamps and marshes.
15. Lake Griffin
Lake Griffin is renowned for its scenic marshes and beautiful wildlife. Spanning over 9,000 acres, Lake Griffin is home to some of Florida’s trademark wildlife like crocodiles, turtles and coyotes.
The most popular ways of seeing this lake are canoeing or kayaking. Additionally, Lake Griffin offers beautiful hiking trails that will take visitors to scenic landscapes.
Florida’s lakes are full of large amounts of fish, making them hotspots for anglers. Additionally, the beautiful surrounding areas of these lakes offer lively recreational activities like swimming, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing.
For visitors, these lakes are a place of recreation and relaxation. While for wildlife, they are ecological gold mines that provide food and shelter.