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The quintessential guide to Lakeland’s lakes
The sun setting on Lake Hollingsworth is one of our favorite sights. | Photo by @chelseamansfield
This is, arguably, the most important guide a Lakeland resident can read. After all, what would Lakeland be without the lakes? It would be a much shallower place, that’s for sure.
We have pulled together this definitive guide to Lakeland’s lakes. Did you know there are 38 of them? For each section, we’re taking a deep dive into a specific lake.
Lake Hollingsworth
Some of Lake Hollingsworth’s notable features include a 3-mile walking and biking trail and views of Florida Southern College, First Presbyterian Church, and wildlife. There are no public restrooms, so plan accordingly.
Looking to get on the water? The lake has one boat ramp. It is a popular fishing location — find fishing maps available online — and is often home to water skiers, paddle boarders, and leisurely boaters.
Those not ready to dip their toes in can also try hammocking around the lake between trees, rollerblading along the path, or stepping off the path and pausing at the boardwalk.
Lake Morton
Viewing Lake Morton wildlife at sunset is a Lakeland staple.
Meet the swan capital of our city (and as far as we’re concerned, the world). Lake Morton is both at the heart of downtown Lakeland and Swan City culture.
We can’t talk about Lake Morton without talking about its famous swans, which have called Lakeland home for nearly 100 years. In the 1950s, Lakeland’s swan population was dwindling. The Queen of England sent Lakeland a pair of her royal swans, and the rest is history.
Sitting at the center of the East and South Lake Morton historic districts, the lake is home to everything from annual events like the Swan Roundup to year-round picnicking, strolling, and birdwatching.
