The Top 9 Reasons Florida Has the Best Lakes in the Country

Introduction

Often much larger than reservoirs or ponds, lakes are located worldwide. What differentiates a lake from a pond or other stagnant body of water is its ability to separate into three thermal layers. This means the body of water is large and deep enough to have at least three distinct sections of different temperatures at different depths. While this determining factor is helpful when identifying lakes, they still come in all different shapes and sizes. Lakes can be skinny, wide, shallow, deep, clear, murky, and more. Some lakes even differ when it comes to saltwater and freshwater.

Located on the southeastern tip of the United States, Florida is home to over 30,000 lakes. Ranging from pond-sized to the third-largest in the entire country, these lakes collectively encompass around 4,688 square miles. While these lakes are numerous, they also have a lot to offer. Keep reading to discover the top nine reasons Florida has the best lakes in the country.

1. – Natural Beauty

Although Florida is most well known for its stunning beaches, it is also home to some breathtaking lakes. The lakes in Florida have clear blue waters and are surrounded by stunning wildlife with lush forests and grasslands. Some Florida lakes even have sandy beaches that feel just like the coast. Lakes such as Rainbow Springs and Wakulla Springs have especially clean, clear water that makes great spots for swimming or relaxing by the shore.

2. – Size and Depth

Another amazing feature of the lakes in Florida is their extreme diversity when it comes to size and depth. One of the smallest lakes in Florida, Lake Poinsett, encompasses just over six and a half square miles and has a maximum depth of only 12 feet. Although this lake is small, houses and neighborhoods still surround it due to its beauty and opportunity for great water activities. On the other hand, Florida is also home to the third-largest lake in the entire United States other than the Great Lakes. Lake Okeechobee is situated in the center of the state and spans an amazing 730 square miles. The deep blue waters of the lake reach a maximum depth of 12 feet and are surrounded by green marshes. This lake is a prime example of why Florida has the best lakes in the country.

3. – Water Quality

Because Florida is home to so many lakes, the water quality varies depending on the specific body of water. Larger lakes experience more water pollution due to boating, fishing, and general recreation. However, the state also contains many small freshwater lakes. The cleanest lakes in Florida are spring-fed, untouched by boat or sewage pollution. Residential areas often surround these lakes because of their pure, inviting nature. A good example of this is Lake Gertrude, located just north of Orlando.

4. – Biodiversity

Another reason that Florida has the best lakes in the country is their incredible biodiversity. Many lakes in Florida are eutrophic, which are usually shallow bodies of water with muddy bottoms. Although these waters are often murky rather than clear, do not be fooled by their appearance. Eutrophic lakes contain an abundance of nutrients, including high volumes of phosphorus and nitrogen. These nutrients make a great habitat for all kinds of wildlife, ranging from microscopic to massive. While these lakes are amazing for supporting life, the clearer waters in Florida also house thousands of species of fish and other animals. Because the state contains both saltwater and freshwater lakes, the bodies of water can sustain almost all aquatic creatures. The teeming ecosystems of Florida lakes are vast and diverse, making them a wonderful resource for learning and exploration.

5. – Recreational Opportunities

The many large lakes in Florida provide great chances for recreational activities. Because lakes don’t have unpredictable waves and tidal stages of the ocean, water sports are often better suited for them. Water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and kayaking are all great ways to enjoy Florida lakes when a break from the beach is needed. In addition to traditional water activities, several water parks have been built on the banks of Florida lakes. Guests can go down water slides, zipline, jump off of high docks, and much more. The extensive selection of recreation opportunities on the state’s lakes proves why Florida has the best lakes in the country.

6. – Fishing Opportunities

When deep-sea fishing gets old, turning to Florida’s lakes may be an exciting new opportunity. The stagnant, clear waters of certain lakes in Florida make it much easier to see the fish below the surface and offer a much higher rate of success. Other lakes, such as Lake Ocklawaha, have shallow waters that concentrate many fish in a singular area, making it much easier to catch them. While easy catching may be exciting for some, others may want a challenge. Well, the larger lakes in Florida provide a great challenge for spotting and luring fish. Many coves and inlets surrounding the lakes offer chances to explore and experience various levels of difficulty. Another great feature is the presence of freshwater lakes in the state. These lakes house different species of aquatic life than the ocean, ensuring that eager fishermen never catch the same fish twice.

7. – Scenic Trails and Parks

While Florida lakes themselves may be amazing, what about the areas that surround them? Thousands of trails ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced circle the many lakes within the state. These paths offer a great opportunity to experience the lakes from a new viewpoint, and maybe see some of the animals that live on the water’s edge. Aside from trails, several lakes in Florida are located within state parks. One park in particular, Lake Louisa State Park, is the perfect example of this. The park has plenty of opportunities to explore the area around the lake including camping, luxury camping, horseback riding, and more. The presence of these trails and parks is perfect for people who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the lakes without having to get into the water.

8. – Cultural and Historical Significance

The rich history and culture that surround these lakes are another reason why Florida has the best lakes in the country. Many of the Florida lakes were once occupied by Native American tribes, and are still significant to those people groups today. Diving deeper into the history of the lakes reveals stories of new cultures, exploitation, conservation efforts, and more. While it may not seem like it, researching Florida lakes can uncover many truths about the country’s history, the importance of respecting nature, and various Native American cultures.

9. – Community Engagement

The final reason why Florida has the best lakes in the country is the opportunity they provide for community engagement. The lakes possess the ability to bring people of similar interests, such as water sports or hiking, together to form new bonds. The desirable real estate surrounding the lakes forms tight-knit neighborhoods where long-lasting friendships can be created. All in all, the community that the lakes foster makes them all the more enjoyable.