The 20 Biggest Lakes in Florida (2024 Guide)

Florida is famous for its beaches and theme parks, but the state is also home to more than 30,000 lakes. Whether you’re an angler, a nature photographer, a kayaker, or simply looking for a peaceful weekend escape, Florida’s lakes offer something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the 20 biggest and most noteworthy lakes in the Sunshine State.

1. Lake Okeechobee

Lake Okeechobee is the largest lake in Florida and the second-largest freshwater lake entirely within the contiguous United States, covering approximately 730 square miles (around 467,000 acres). Despite its enormous surface area, it is famously shallow, with an average depth of just 9 feet.

The lake is a natural freshwater body and forms the heart of the South Florida ecosystem. It connects to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico via the Okeechobee Waterway, a 154-mile cross-state route popular with boaters. Lake Okeechobee is one of the premier bass fishing destinations in the United States — largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish are abundant, and the lake regularly hosts major fishing tournaments. The best access point for visitors is Clewiston on the southern shore. The lake is also surrounded by a 110-mile hiking and biking trail along the Herbert Hoover Dike.

2. Lake George

Lake George is the second-largest lake in Florida, covering roughly 46,000 acres in Marion and Volusia counties. It sits along the St. Johns River, which flows northward into the Atlantic Ocean — one of the few major American rivers to do so. The lake is broad but shallow, with depths typically ranging from 3 to 12 feet.

Because the slow-moving St. Johns occasionally allows brackish water to mix in, the lake supports an unusually diverse range of aquatic plants and wildlife. Largemouth bass, striped bass, and bluegill are the most commonly caught fish here. The lake sits adjacent to the Ocala National Forest, giving visitors access to a wide range of additional outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

3. Lake Kissimmee

Lake Kissimmee covers approximately 34,900 acres in Osceola and Polk counties and is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, a series of interconnected lakes that feed into the Kissimmee River and ultimately Lake Okeechobee. The lake is known for its striking blue waters and is a well-known destination for largemouth bass fishing, attracting anglers from across the country.

Lake Kissimmee State Park sits on the western shore and offers camping, hiking trails, boating ramps, and excellent wildlife viewing. Visitors frequently spot bald eagles, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and sandhill cranes. The lake is also popular for kayaking and canoeing, and developed facilities around the lake make it a great destination for romantic weekends or family getaways.

4. Lake Istokpoga

Located in Highlands County, Lake Istokpoga spans approximately 27,500 acres, measuring roughly 10 miles long and 5 miles wide. With an average depth of 4 to 10 feet, it is one of the larger shallow lakes in the state. The banks are lined with interesting coves and inlets that reward exploration by boat.

Lake Istokpoga is a serious fishing destination, particularly for largemouth bass. Bass boats and airboats are available to rent nearby. Be aware that boat traffic around the most popular fishing spots can be heavy on weekends, so early morning visits are recommended.

5. Lake Seminole

Lake Seminole is a reservoir covering approximately 37,500 acres, straddling the border of Florida and Georgia. It was created between 1947 and 1957 with the construction of Jim Woodruff Dam, where the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers meet to form the Apalachicola River. The dam was originally built for navigation and hydroelectric power generation.

Today, Lake Seminole is a popular recreational destination for residents of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. It offers fishing, boating, scenic hiking and biking trails, and excellent wildlife viewing. The lake is well known for its clear water and diverse ecosystem, and its trails are regularly enjoyed by joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers.

6. Lake Harris

Lake Harris covers more than 13,700 acres in Lake County and is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes, one of Central Florida’s most celebrated fishing systems. It sits approximately 31 miles from the Walt Disney World resort area, making it easily accessible for visitors to the Orlando region.

The lake has private homes along its southern bank and commercial properties to the north. Two public boat ramps provide access. Lake Harris is a strong bass fishery and regularly attracts tournament anglers. The lake also connects to other lakes in the Harris chain, making it ideal for extended boating excursions.

7. Lake Griffin

Lake Griffin in Lake County covers over 9,500 acres and is fed by the Ocklawaha River. It is a long, shallow lake with two public marinas offering boat launch ramps and fishing supplies. The surrounding Lake Griffin State Park includes a campground shaded by large live oaks, as well as hiking trails through varied natural habitats.

Lake Griffin has faced water quality challenges related to agricultural runoff over the years, but ongoing restoration efforts have improved conditions significantly. Nature photographers are drawn to the lake’s natural surroundings, and fishing remains the primary attraction for most visitors.

8. East Lake Tohopekaliga

Commonly called “East Lake Toho,” this lake covers nearly 12,000 acres in Osceola County, southeast of Orlando. It is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, fed by the upper Kissimmee River system. The lake is known for its good depth by Central Florida standards, with some areas reaching around 14 feet.

East Lake Toho is an excellent family destination. The shoreline park features a boat ramp, picnic areas, and a children’s playground. Airboat tours and flat-bottomed boat tours are available for wildlife viewing. Anglers can expect largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the state.

9. Lake Blue Cypress

Lake Blue Cypress spans more than 6,500 acres in Indian River County, about 20 miles west of Vero Beach. It is fed by the headwaters of the St. Johns River and is renowned for its scenic beauty — ancient cypress trees rise dramatically from the water’s surface, and sunrise over the lake is considered one of the most photographed natural scenes in the region.

Blue Cypress Lake Park on the western bank offers two boat launches, a floating dock, covered pavilions, and a campsite. The lake is popular for hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. It is also a productive fishery for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, shellcracker, catfish, chain pickerel, and warmouth.

10. Lake Apopka

At approximately 30,000 acres, Lake Apopka in Orange and Lake counties is one of the largest lakes in Florida. It was historically one of the finest bass fishing lakes in the southeastern United States. However, decades of agricultural runoff caused severe water quality degradation, resulting in algae blooms that give the water its characteristic greenish tint.

Major restoration efforts have been underway since the 1990s and wildlife has rebounded significantly, particularly birdlife. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is now one of the best birding locations in Florida. Fishing is still popular here, though the lake is no longer at its historical peak. Ongoing cleanup work continues to improve water quality year by year.

11. Lake Dora

Lake Dora is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes in Lake County, covering over 9,000 acres. It is located just 30 minutes from Orlando, making it a popular weekend escape for city residents. The charming town of Mount Dora sits on its northern shore and is well worth exploring, with antique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

The lake is ideal for jet skiing, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and windsurfing. Fishing is popular, though water quality challenges in recent years have affected fish populations. Boat tours of the lake and the surrounding waterways are a particularly enjoyable way to experience the area.

12. Crescent Lake

Crescent Lake in Putnam County covers over 16,000 acres and is one of the largest natural lakes in northern Florida. It is well known for its clean water and beautiful natural scenery. The Crescent Lake Conservation Area helps protect both the water quality and the surrounding wildlife habitat.

During winter months, the lake attracts migrating birds including bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl species, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Outdoor activities include camping, biking, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing for crappie, catfish, panfish, and bass.

13. Cypress Lake

Cypress Lake in Osceola County covers over 4,000 acres and is formed by a series of interconnected shallow water bodies, most with depths of around six feet. Its shallow, warm waters make it popular for swimming, and the lush surrounding vegetation creates a scenic and relaxing environment.

The lake supports a diverse range of wildlife, including waterfowl and eagles, and is a popular subject for nature photographers. Airboat rides are one of the best ways to explore the lake and its surrounding ecosystem. Anglers will find largemouth bass, black crappie, and bluegill in good numbers.

14. Deer Point Lake

Deer Point Lake in Bay County covers over 3,500 acres and serves an important dual purpose — it functions as both a public water supply reservoir and a recreation area. The water is maintained at subtropical temperatures year-round, making it comfortable for outdoor activities in most seasons.

Visitors come for camping, fishing, and canoeing. The lake has two fishing camps on its shores, making it easy to set up for a day or weekend of angling. It can get busy during long weekends, so planning ahead is advisable.

15. Johns Lake

Johns Lake lies between Clermont and Oakland in Orange County, covering more than 2,400 acres. The lake has an irregular shape and is divided into several interconnected sections linked by channels, stretching approximately 3 miles in total length. Its shoreline remains largely undeveloped, with only a small number of private residences tucked along peaceful stretches of bank.

The lake is relatively shallow, making it suitable for swimming and recreational boating. It is particularly popular among bass anglers. No designated campgrounds exist at the lake, but primitive shoreline camping is possible for those seeking a more rustic experience.

16. Lake Eloise

Lake Eloise in Polk County covers approximately 167 acres and has been a tourist destination since 1936, making it one of the oldest continuously operating attractions in Florida. It is best known as the home of Cypress Gardens, one of Florida’s pioneering theme parks, though the site has since been redeveloped.

The lake is home to more than 8,000 plant species and features a picturesque shoreline. It is accessible to boaters via a canal, with nearby boat ramps available. Fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie is popular here, and the lake can get lively on weekends.

17. Lake Jackson (Tallahassee)

Lake Jackson in Leon County near Tallahassee covers over 4,500 acres and is one of Florida’s most fascinating lakes from a geological standpoint. Approximately every 25 years, the lake drains dramatically through two sinkholes in its sandy floor — a natural phenomenon unique to this part of Florida’s karst landscape. The sinkholes can drain the entire lake in a matter of days.

When full, Lake Jackson is a productive fishery and a beautiful natural setting. The surrounding shoreline parks offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, water skiing, and sailing. The lake’s dramatic periodic draining events, while unusual, are entirely natural and part of what makes this one of Florida’s most interesting geological features.

18. Lake Iamonia

Lake Iamonia is a prairie lake located northeast of Tallahassee in Leon County. As a prairie lake, it is naturally shallow — averaging around five feet in depth — and it shrinks or drains almost completely during dry seasons. The best time to visit is during the wet season when the lake is full and its natural beauty is at its peak.

The shallow, vegetated waters create ideal habitat for wading birds and frogs, and the lake functions as an important breeding ground for fish. Fishing contests are held here periodically during the wet season. The surrounding landscape of water plants and wetland vegetation makes it a lovely destination for nature lovers and photographers.

19. Lake Rosalie

Lake Rosalie is located in Polk County in West Central Florida and is one of the state’s quieter, less-visited lakes. Fed by water from the Kissimmee River system, the lake’s surrounding wetlands have expanded over time and now support a rich variety of wildlife including egrets, ospreys, cranes, eagles, and alligators.

A small number of homes dot the shoreline, and a few campgrounds exist nearby, though they see relatively little traffic. The lake’s undisturbed character makes it a genuine nature retreat. Bass fishing tournaments are occasionally held here, and it remains a worthwhile destination for anglers seeking a quieter experience away from busier lakes.

20. Lake Como (Putnam County)

Lake Como in Putnam County covers approximately 245 acres and is known for its unusually clear, blue water by Florida standards. The lake has an average depth of around 10 feet and supports a variety of fish and aquatic plant species. An adjacent wildlife forest and an observation tower offer additional ways to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings.

A community aquarium created as part of a local school educational program is one of the lake’s more unusual features. During winter, the lake is a great destination for birdwatchers, as migrating species including bald eagles, ospreys, white ibis, and cranes visit regularly. Fishing is popular here year-round.

Final Thoughts

Florida’s lakes are as diverse as they are numerous. From the vast expanse of Lake Okeechobee to the geological wonder of Lake Jackson and the quiet beauty of Lake Rosalie, there is a Florida lake to suit every type of visitor. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, a family weekend, a kayaking adventure, or simply a peaceful escape into nature, these 20 lakes are an excellent place to start exploring the wilder side of the Sunshine State.

Have you visited any of these lakes? Let us know your experience in the comments below.