To be honest, I don’t understand how you can live by a beautiful lake and never swim in it.
I was born in Poland, where there are few lakes.
We knew where they were, and we went or drove there to swim in the cool water in the heat.
It’s a thrill!
And in Florida, where the sun bakes and summer is all year round, people don’t swim in the lakes, and there are reasons for this.
The first one, which I think you know, is crocodiles and alligators.
Although they do not live in all lakes in Florida,
Every year, several people die from crocodiles on the peninsula.
Usually, these are visiting tourists and children.
Those who underestimate the danger posed by bodies of water come close to the water, rinse their hands in it, etc.
Secondly, in Florida, where there is eternal summer, living creatures are “teeming” in the water.
Standing on the shore, you can see how the snake swims to the other shore and how the fish emerges from the water.
If you decide to swim, you risk going ashore with a catch—I mean, with worms in your shorts.
There are a lot of bacteria out there that can make you sick.
You can’t drink water.
That’s why today I give you a list of safe lakes in Florida.
And I am a little bit jealous of Florida residents because they do not need to take vacations and look for flights.
All you need for an exciting trip is a little gas in the tank and a couple of days off.
Are Any Lakes in Florida Swimmable?
Yes, there are some swimmable lakes in Florida without alligators or other dangers.
But many people bathe in pools and in the ocean, in which, by the way, there is also a danger—sharks—and swim with caution in rivers, where crocodiles can also swim.
But these creatures still love marshy, stagnant water.
The Best Lakes in Florida for Swimming
Warm Mineral Springs
The healing properties of this amazing lake have been known since ancient times.
The Indians revered this lake as sacred.
They called it the “Fountain of Youth”.
The official name of the lake is Warm Mineral Springs; it is located in Florida, on the side of the Gulf of Mexico, in the small town of North Port.
Rumor calls it enthusiastically surprised: “miracle!” Wonder Lake!
As you know, people’s love must be earned.
People from all over the world come here for treatment.
Particularly striking are the results of the treatment of arthritis and joint pain, sciatica, and rheumatism.
But ordinary stress is wonderfully removed!
Miracle Lake is a unique natural mineral spring with an area of 1.4 acres.
The lake is located in a beautiful place, surrounded by eucalyptus trees.
About ten million gallons of mineral water enter the lake per day.
The water temperature in the lake is constant: 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
This creates a special microclimate, so swimming in it is not only useful but also extremely pleasant all year.
Moreover, in the hot summer months, no matter how hot it is around, no one experiences heat while in the water.
But the height of the holiday season comes, of course, in autumn and winter.
Wakulla Lake
Wakulla Lake, or Better Springs, is one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, which is what makes Florida so unique.
Many people come here for swimming vacations as well as to take in the breathtaking surroundings and thrilling experience.
Devil’s Dev Lake
A hole in the ground opens the entrance to the cave, where there is an amazingly beautiful lake fed from an underground source.
The water in the lake is warm, and on cold days, steam comes out of the hole.
Thousands of years ago, the upper part of the cave collapsed, and until the cavity was filled with water, the cave was a trap from which animals and people who fell there could not get out.
The remains of prehistoric animals that fell there are still found at the bottom of the cave to this day.
You can’t just splash in the lake, but there are organized diving and snorkeling sessions (for adults and children over 6 years old).
But non-divers will not be bored either; above the cave there is everything you need to organize a family picnic.
Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs is another well-liked destination; it is situated in one of Florida’s top five state parks and is renowned for having one of the state’s best swimming lakes.
Orlando is about 20 minutes away.
Fern Hammock Springs
It is the refreshing tranquility of underground waters.
The Florida forest of Ocala hides from the sun, in the shade of trees, the enchanted world of underground sources.
The picturesque views will take your breath away.
More than 20 sand pockets in shallow water, connected by charming bridges, from which you can watch how crystal clear water, depending on the weather and time of day, becomes turquoise, sapphire, or sky blue!
This is a real oasis where you can enjoy nature in all its manifestations, including living in a tent, watching animals and birds in their natural habitat, swimming and sunbathing on a white sand beach, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
What is the Cleanest Lake in Florida?
Lake Tohopekaliga is officially the cleanest lake, but I still do not recommend swimming there.
One time, about 30 miles south of Orlando in the town of Saint Cloud, nine-year-old James Barney jumped off his bike and went for a swim in Lake Tohopekaliga.
It was a hot summer day; he had already visited this place, and when he felt a push, he decided that his friends were playing a prank on him.
But it was an alligator that was later estimated to be about nine feet long and weigh something like 400 pounds.
Luckily, instinctively, Barney started waving his arms around.
“I didn’t know what to do, so I immediately reacted and hit him a few times.
The crocodile retreated little by little, and, in the end, I had enough strength to open its jaws a little, “Barney told the press after the incident.
As soon as he cleared his way, he swam to shore, a friend called 911, and he was airlifted to the hospital.
Doctors treated wounds from three superficial bites and more than 30 tooth marks and removed one alligator tooth stuck in the skin.
Barney has made a full recovery and says he will never swim in Lake Tohopekaliga again.
Are There Any Lakes in Florida Without Alligators?
Yes.
These are mineral springs.
Many people have a rest in special resting places at springs, which are fenced in the water with a net.
In case a small crocodile, 30–50 cm, swims, they immediately command that everyone go ashore, and until the attendants catch the reptile, no one can enter the water.
And on the lake, Americans prefer to swim in kayaks or boats, ride catamarans, and fish.
Small flocks of birds roam along the shore.
There are benches so that you can enjoy the beauty and peace by the lake.
Are There Any Clear-Water Lakes in Florida?
Yes, for example:
Devil’s Dev: In the underground river, crystal-clear water is always warm throughout the year.
When the outside of the cave gets colder, steam begins to rise from the water, giving the impression of a diabolical smoking cauldron.
or, for example, Fern Hammock Lake with its clean and refreshing underground waters.
