Top 5 Lakes around Howey-In-The-Hills

The lakes in the Harris Chain, including Little Lake Harris, Big Lake Harris, and Lake Griffin, are characterized by diverse natural features. Big Lake Harris, for instance, boasts unique steep hills along its northern shoreline and is surrounded by sandhills and cypress trees, which are uncommon in much of Florida. Little Lake Harris is known for its largely undeveloped natural beauty, while Lake Griffin is considered the most natural of the chain with minimal development.

The lakes offer a wide range of water activities. Boating and fishing are very popular, especially bass fishing on Little Lake Harris, Big Lake Harris, and Lake Griffin. You can also enjoy kayaking on Little Lake Harris, or explore the Lake County Blue Ways canoe trail on Lake Griffin. Big Lake Harris also provides opportunities for waterskiing and tubing.

Yes, the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook offers gorgeous views over Clay Island and Lake Apopka. It's a great spot to take in the expansive natural landscape.

The Harris Chain of Lakes is renowned for fishing. Little Lake Harris is a popular spot for bass fishing, and Big Lake Harris is particularly known for some of the best bass fishing in Florida. Lake Griffin is also very popular with bass and crappie fishermen, benefiting from a large-mouthed bass stocking project.

Yes, there are several trails available. The Lake Apopka Loop Trail is a 34.4-mile trail suitable for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, offering views of the lake, marshes, and bluffs. Another option is the Clay Island Loop Trail, a 10-mile multi-use loop through the Lake Apopka Restoration Area. For more cycling routes, you can explore guides like Cycling around Howey-In-The-Hills.

The area is rich in wildlife, especially around Lake Apopka. Along the Lake Apopka Loop Trail, you can see hundreds of alligators, various birds, otters, and other animals. The Lake Apopka Hammock is also an excellent place for bird watching.

Yes, Griffin Park in Howey-in-the-Hills provides public access to Little Lake Harris with a boat ramp, finger piers for tie-up, and playground equipment, making it a family-friendly destination. Public boat ramps are also available at Hickory Point near the Howey-in-the-Hills bridge for Big Lake Harris, and at Herlong Park for Lake Griffin.

Lake Griffin stands out as the most natural of the Harris Chain lakes, with minimal development along its extensive shoreline. It is a crucial part of the Ocklawaha River basin and offers a more tranquil boating experience. Ongoing restoration efforts have significantly improved its water quality and aquatic habitats.

The Mission Inn Resort, located on Little Lake Harris, features a lakeside marina and dining options. On the southern shore of Big Lake Harris, the Yalaha Bakery provides a pleasant spot with views of the lake, offering a place to relax and enjoy a bite.

Trails like the Lake Apopka Loop Trail are mostly flat and follow levees through wetland cells. The Clay Island Loop Trail is mostly hard-packed double track, alternating between views of Lake Apopka and wooded areas. The Lake Apopka Hammock offers a mostly woodland hike with sections bordering wetlands.

Yes, public boat ramps are available for Big Lake Harris, including those at Hickory Point, conveniently located near the Howey-in-the-Hills bridge, providing easy access for boaters.