Southeast Region•State Capital: Tallahassee

Lakes in Florida

Florida possesses over 30,000 freshwater lakes formed in limestone sinkhole basins, including Lake Okeechobee, the second-largest freshwater lake within the contiguous US. Explore interactive maps, depths, surface areas, public boat ramps, and fishing spots for lakes across Florida.

Estimated Water Bodies
30,000+
Freshwater Basins
State Capital
Tallahassee
FL
Largest Cataloged Lake
Lake Okeechobee
467,200 acres
Deepest Cataloged Lake
Lake Okeechobee
12 ft max

Interactive Lake Map of Florida

Florida Lake Directory

Showing 1 verified lake in Florida

Sun setting over the vast reed marshes and open water of Lake Okeechobee Florida
Natural Freshwater
Normal Conservation Pool

Lake Okeechobee

Palm Beach, Martin, Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee County, FL

Area
467,200 ac
Max Depth
12 ft
Elevation
15 ft

Lake Okeechobee, locally nicknamed "The Big O," is the second-largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely within the contiguous 48 states, spanning roughly 730 square miles. Encircled by the 143-mile Herbert Hoover Dike built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Okeechobee forms the liquid heart of South Florida's ecosystem and is renowned for trophy largemouth bass fishing in vast marsh reed beds.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lakes in Florida

What is the largest lake in Florida?

Lake Okeechobee is the largest lake in Florida documented in our verified directory, spanning roughly 467,200 acres.

How many lakes does Florida have?

Official hydrological estimates catalog over 30,000 named lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and impoundments across Florida.