23 Lakes in FLORIDA (Captivating, Scenic & Historic)
Whether you enjoy nature or just like being close to water, lakes are great places to visit any time of the year.
In Florida, you can enjoy your favorite hobbies, like walks on trails around the lake, fishing, boating, or even swimming.
Also, you get to experience the serenity of nature and watch animals and plants interact in their habitat without any human disturbance.
Visiting a lake makes you feel like a part of nature, and you can choose to see many lakes in Florida.
Keep reading to learn more about these beautiful lakes you can visit in the Sunshine State.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Beaches in Florida.
Lakes in Orlando, Florida
1. Lake Ivanhoe
This is a 124-acre lake in Orlando with a park close to it.
Since it is a vast lake, there are sections in it, some busier than others.
Also, there is construction work at some parts close to the lake that you cannot walk through because of the work there.
Overall the lake, and the park named after it, is the perfect place to enjoy scenic moments by yourself, enjoy your own company and watch nature do its thing.
There are antique stores you can visit around the lake, funky shops like Rock n Roll Heaven, restaurants like Greek Corner, and a way to see what old-time Florida looked like.
You can rent a kayak and enjoy kayaking in the lake some mornings.
Location: Orlando, Florida
2. Lake Tohopekaliga
This lake is over 20,000 acres and is famous for bass sightings and fishing.
The lake gets its name from the word Tohopeka which literally means fort and has its highest point in Orlando.
It is linked to several canals in Florida and has sights like Lakefront Park and Lakeshore Boulevard close to it.
The lake has a lot of animal species, like alligators, waterfowl, and turtles.
There are benches close to the lake where you can sit and observe the atmosphere, watch birds, and enjoy the interactions between these animals.
It is linked in the South to Cypress Lake, another lake in Florida.
You will encounter different things entirely depending on which side of the lake you visit.
A children’s playground and miniature lighthouse are at the west end of the lake.
Location: Orlando, Florida
3. Lake Orlando
Named after the city it is found, this 177-acre private lake is in the Little Wekiwa Watershed.
Around the lake are notable places like the Rosemont community, an urban green community that is inclusive to all people.
There is the Lake Orlando Golf Club, a prominent golf club established in 1970 and served the residents of Rosemont until 2014, with the decline of golf as a sport globally.
The surrounding spaces around the lake are not occupied.
The people of Orlando are working hard to build facilities like Rosemont Community Centre and more schools for the city while maintaining green space in the region.
Plans are underway to increase investment into the little city, the value of houses, and the values associated with people living in that space.
Location: Orlando, Florida
4. Lake Conway
This public lake flows through Edgewood in Orange County that flows all the way from Arkansas into Orlando.
Florida State Wildlife Commission created the lake, one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States.
It is home to many fishes like the flathead catfish, the bass, the blue catfish, the blue gill, and the crappie.
The lake acts as a reservoir and has significant inflows from many creeks in the United States.
Lake Conway is an excellent location to fish; however, there are challenges faced by new boaters who need to become more familiar with the layout of the water body.
A nursery pond in the lake ensures that the fish reproduce early and are allowed to grow so that fishing can continue.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Also see our article on Kayaking in Florida.
Lakes in Tallahassee, Florida
1. Lake Talquin
The lake is a reservoir in North Florida between two counties called Leon and Gadsden.
It is an artificial lake created by a hydroelectric generating station and is still used currently to generate hydroelectric power.
The name Talquin is the combination of the names of the two cities that border the lake, namely Tallahassee and Quincy.
Dam construction in the lake creates the power used by the hydroelectric company.
Aside from being a lake, Lake Talquin has a state forest; both places are beautiful to visit and observe nature at its finest.
The lake is home to Florida State University’s rowing club, The Crew Club.
There are numerous types of fish that you can find in this lake, so it is a perfect place to spend your day fishing bass, catfish, and bream, among other species.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
2. Lake Iamonia
This large prairie lake in Leon County was created due to a movement in the earth’s tectonic plates during the Pleistocene epoch.
Due to the age of the lake, it is still being studied for traces of ancient cultures and vegetation.
There has been evidence of various animal remains of extinct animals like the bear-dog and the ancient camel.
The lake is said to have been the home of early Native Americans, particularly the Weeden Island culture, an ancient culture dated to 750 AD.
Its nutrient-rich lake bottom was once used for cattle grazing during dry periods in previous centuries.
Currently, animals in and around the lake include many species of mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
This lake is one of the cleanest lakes in Florida due to its oligotrophic nature.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
3. Lake Lafayette
Lake Lafayette is a famous prairie lake in the Eastern region of Tallahassee that dates back to the Pleistocene time.
As time passes, water in this historic lake continues to decline and empty into the St Mark’s River.
The lake is considered one of the earliest archaeological sites in the United States, and many artifacts are exhibited in museums around America.
Some parts of the lake have been sold to private individuals and companies, and some of these sections have been emptied out and used for other purposes.
At Lake Lafayette, you can do many activities to have fun, such as visiting the heritage trail park nearby named after the lake.
You can enjoy hiking, picnicking, biking, fishing, and kayaking in this beautiful park.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
4. Lake Munson
This lake in Leon County primarily flows from and to the Munson Slough.
It was historically called Munson’s Mill Pond before it was finally named a lake.
Unfortunately, due to the Tallahassee waste system, this is one of the most degraded lakes in Florida.
There is a Preserve park nearby called Gil A Waters Lake Munson Preserve Park, where you can get boats to borrow if you are interested in going through the river.
The lake also has some bass which you will definitely enjoy fishing.
Various trees like Willow and Cypress can be seen around the lake, and this natural environment has birds like egrets and wood storms around the lake perimeter.
A dam has been constructed on the lake since the early 1950s.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
5. Lake Jackson
Like many other lakes in Florida, this shallow lake dries out during intense dry weather.
It is located in the Red Hills region, a Tallahassee region with many hills.
There are no outflows for this lake, but there are some sinkholes from where the water can flow.
When the weather is not dry, the lake can go as deep as almost thirty meters above sea level.
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is very close to this lake, so you can visit there to see some of the archaeological exhibits in the park.
The state park is an essential archaeological site in Florida that holds information about a now-extinct culture called Fort Walton Culture.
In this park, there is a public plaza and many individual residences.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Also see our article on Swimming Pools in Florida.
Lakes in Sebring, Florida
1. Lake Sebring
You would think this lake is named after the place it is found, but no, it is not named after Sebring; it is named after the person who developed Sebring called George Sebring.
The freshwater lake is entirely natural and is close to another lake called Lake Jackson.
Many canals connect Lake Sebring to Lake Jackson and another lake called Little Red Water Lake.
If you enjoy fishing, you can fish bowfin, crappie, bass, and other fish species at this lake.
You can also rent a boat and ramps to get to the areas where you would prefer to fish.
Safety is always encouraged, and you are not allowed to swim in the lake as there is no swimming beach at the shore of the lake.
Location: Sebring, Florida
2. Lake Istokpoga
Lake Istokpoga passes through sites like Loriga, Sebring, and Lake Placid.
The freshwater lake, which measures over 25,000 acres, has inflows from Josephine Creek and Arbuckle Creek.
In surface area, this is one of the largest lakes in Florida; however, it is a very shallow lake with a maximum depth of only three meters.
Because of its extreme shallowness, the lake is quite dangerous in windy weather and for boaters who have yet to become familiar with its terrain.
There are two islands on this lake called Big and Bumble Bee.
Since fishing and boating are prevalent in this lake, there are many fish camps available that you can book ahead and stay in during your fishing trips.
You can also rent cabins or bring your recreational vehicle for your stay.
Location: Sebring, Florida
3. Lake Josephine
This is a freshwater lake in Highlands County in Florida, where narrow canals join three bodies of water and form this whole lake.
There are trees and some separate residential areas that border the lake.
At the northeast border is an RV resort named after the lake, mainly for people who want to visit the lake for some time and need a place to stay.
There are three different places around the lake where you can rent boats to go on the lake to fish, and there are various kinds of fish.
Numerous small islands and islets can be found in the lake, and you could visit them.
The lake, over a thousand acres, can be found between Sebring and Lake Placid in Florida.
Location: Sebring, Florida
Also see our article on Ice Skating in Florida.
Lakes in Lakeland, Florida
1. Lake Hollingsworth
Lakeland City has some of the most maintained lakes in Florida, and Lake Hollingsworth is definitely one of these lakes.
The lake is situated at the right of South Florida Avenue and at the left of Bartow Road.
It is the perfect place for individuals to fish, swim, relax, and have fun in the water.
Aside from doing fun water-related activities, you can also run or bike near the lake.
A bike trail surrounds the lake, so you can unwind by walking or biking the path.
Water flows out of the lake to Saddle Creek and Peace River.
Close to this lake is the Florida Southern College, so you can observe and appreciate the buildings on the campus.
Bird watching is also a way to pass the time when visiting this lovely lake.
Location: Lakeland, Florida
2. Banana Lake
Originally known as Mud Lake, the lake now currently known as Banana Lake was named after the bananas planted in that region in the 1890s.
The lake is situated in a suburban area in Southeast Lakeland and is surrounded by various agricultural and residential sites.
Around the lake are other lakes like Lake Stahl and Little Banana Lake.
A golf course is also on the border of this Banana Lake.
The Banana Lake has a park at its other border containing restrooms, walking trails, a fishing pier, a boat ramp, and picnic tables and shelters.
This park has a parking lot, so you can park there even when it is the lake you want to visit.
Lake Stahl is connected to Banana Lake through a little canal.
Location: Lakeland, Florida
3. Lake Parker
As the largest lake in Lakeland, Lake Parker has several inflows from multiple lakes in Lakeland, like Lake Bonny and Lake Mirror.
Pesticides are regularly used to control hydrilla, an invasive water thyme.
Water from this lake flows through Roaring Brook, a brook in the United States.
The lake was named after one of the first settlers in Lakeland, Streaty Parker.
For recreation, you can either spend your time fishing or boating.
There are two fishing piers and three boat ramps by the lake stocked with various fish species like crappie, blue gill, and largemouth bass.
Several parks are located close to the lake, so you can spend some time there having an enjoyable time by yourself or with friends and family.
Location: Lakeland, Florida
4. Lake Mirror
This clear water lake was named after its physical attribute because it is as clear as a mirror.
There is a recreational center by the lake called the Lake Mirror Complex.
The lake is a great place to visit as you enjoy its gardens and wildlife.
There are fascinating art pieces that will interest and intrigue you.
It is great to travel here with friends and family; the atmosphere is lovely and peaceful.
Since the lake is close to downtown Lakeland, you are near numerous restaurants and other fun places that you can visit to enjoy the tourist attractions of Lakeland.
You can observe many animals like ducks and birds while sitting on the benches around the lake erected close to manicured hedges.
Location: Lakeland, Florida
Also see our article on Skiing in Florida.
Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida
1. Lake Evalyn
This lake in Kissimmee is a great place to chill, spellbound, and enjoy the lake’s calm waters.
Lake Evalyn is close to a Publix restaurant, and you will surely find many friendly people willing to let you know your way to places around here.
The neighborhood where this lake is found is very peaceful and friendly, with many places to purchase the necessary items you need at the lake.
This lake is a perfect place to unwind while watching the birds that fly close to the lake.
There is a nicely paved walking trail where you can walk around the lake and enjoy yourself while at it.
Benches allow you to take a break from walking and relax and enjoy the stunning view.
Location: Kissimmee, Florida
2. Lake Toho Tackle
In addition to being a splendid lake, Lake Toho Tackle, as seasoned fishers fondly call it, is a well-known fishing site that is a must-visit for fishing enthusiasts.
Most fish caught in this river are of remarkable size and weight; they include huge basses, carp, and other big fishes.
The lake has a fishing company of the same name close to it that usually provides the marine products and other equipment you need to tackle the fish.
Captain Bill Whippie is the world record holder for catching the biggest Lake Toho bass.
There is also a marina close to the lake, an excellent place to relax and down a few beers while lazily looking at the water and having the time of your life.
Location: Kissimmee, Florida
3. Lake Kissimmee
Lake Kissimmee is known almost exclusively for bass fishing, especially in Osceola County in Kissimmee.
The lake has a state park that contains many animal wildlife species like white-tailed deer, bald eagles, alligators, turkeys, and cranes.
Cow Cap is a favorite among many visitors, where you would learn about Florida cowboys in the 1876 era.
Access to the lake through Joe Overstreet Road is known for its many sightings of birds like black vultures and fast cranes.
The lake has small-sized islands, with the largest being Brahma Island.
Other islands in the lake include Strum Island, ox Island, rabbit Island, and bird island.
When visiting central Florida, this lake is something you have to add to your list of things to encounter.
Location: Kissimmee, Florida
Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in Florida.
Lakes in Jacksonville, Florida
1. Doctors Lake
This water body in Jacksonville is connected to St John’s River, an estuary that collects water from many lakes.
Though not an actual lake, Doctors Lake contains salty water and is still used for fun water activities like water skiing, boating, and fishing.
Places like Jacksonville, Lakeland, Orange Park, and Clay County are on different borders of this water body.
The Florida Department of Health advises that people should not swim in the water despite multiple tests saying that the water is good enough to swim in.
Common fish in Doctors Lake are yellowmouth, speckled trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, and blue gill.
Frogs are in the lake, so you must be careful when fishing so the frogs do not steal all your bait.
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
2. Kingsley Lake
This lake is reputable and recognized as Florida’s highest and oldest lake.
With its almost perfectly round shape, the lake measures up to 2000 acres of surface area while still being thirty meters deep.
The lake is situated by the edge of trail ridge, a well-known waste management formation at Jacksonville.
Its circular shape has earned it the nickname silver dollar lake by pilots who see it from the sky as an almost perfect circle.
Florida National Guard uses a camp called Blanding on the right side of the lake for training their cadets.
The lake is situated very close to Jacksonville and Gainesville, and Palatka.
Scholars who have studied the lake’s geology see it as being initially formed as a sinkhole.
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
3. Marco Lake
This former claypit turned into an artificial lake is in Jacksonville in the hidden San Marco Town.
The lake is one of the most beautiful places seen by everyone who has discovered it.
It is such a well-kept secret that even some locals have never heard of it.
This stunning lake is a great place to enjoy nature while relaxing your body and mind.
It is located in downtown Jacksonville and was initially created after San Marco was designed.
During this time, Stockton, one of the initial people in this new town, dug a canal out of St John’s River and created what is now seen as Marco Lake.
For many years after it was created, the lake still needed more features like docks, and thus the problem was solved when nearby houses added ports to the lake.
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
4. Lake Mandarin
Lake Mandarin in Jacksonville is a place that is known for more than its lake; this location is mainly known for its excellent real estate opportunities in its surrounding community.
Around the lake are so many real estate opportunities, so people are always coming to check out the houses and condos to buy.
While doing this, they can then visit the quaint lake.
The lake is closed to the public, so you must know somebody who lives in the community and can claim you as their guest; otherwise, you may not be granted entry to see the lake.
This lake is in Duval County, and many people who get to live here own their homes and so are more conservative than not.
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Water Parks, Splash Pads, and Outdoor Activities in Florida.
Looking beyond Florida? Check out our article on the best Lakes in Illinois and the most scenic Lakes in New York.