Lake Griffin State Park

Lake Griffin State Park is a 620-acre park located in the Leesburg area about an hour from Orlando with swamp and sandhill habitat at the edge of Lake Griffin.

The park's grounds contain a large lawn area with a playground and picnic tables set beneath a grove of expansive oak trees draped with Spanish moss. A boat ramp and canoe launch offer visitors access to Lake Griffin, which lies at the far side of the narrow Dead River and its marshy environment. Canoe and kayak rentals are available as well.

The park offers boat tours seasonally between November and March for an additional cost, as well as offering private guided kayak and canoe tours of the marsh area. A covered picnic pavilion inside the park is also available for rent.

There are about 2 miles of hiking trails in the park along two trails. One trail is a short walk leading to the Mammoth Live Oak, believed to be Florida's second-largest tree and thought to be between 300-500 years old.

The state park campground contains 40 sites, all with water and electricity and some with sewage. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset, and there is a $5 entry fee per vehicle. More information can be found at the park's website or by calling 352.360.6760.