Best lakes in Pasco County offer a diverse natural landscape with over 140 freshwater lakes, providing various recreational activities. The region features a mix of natural preserves, state parks, and engineered lagoons. These aquatic environments support activities like boating, paddling, and fishing, contributing to the county's outdoor appeal.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve covers over 110,000 acres across four counties. It also borders the Withlacoochee State Forest and Colt Creek State Park, to make a very large continuous protected area. Within this massive protected area, you'll find miles of trails and back roads to explore. There are multiple campgrounds, rivers, and lakes to explore. In short, it's an outdoors person's dream.
0
0
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park comprises a salt marsh area with trails winding through the inlets and bayous. It's a favored kayaking destination where you can either bring your own kayak or rent one on-site. Information boards are scattered throughout, allowing you to pause during your hike and gain insights into the area. At this juncture, there's been a bridge out, but if it's repaired and operational, you can seamlessly continue the loop to return.
0
0
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is a beautiful salt marsh area surrounded by inlets and bayous. There is a picnic area and a kiosk, where you can find information on trails or explore the park via kayak, a popular activity here. You can rent one on-site or bring your own. The park has a unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife, where you can see plenty of migratory birds who inhabit the area, and even spot some manatees.
0
0
Crews Lake is a peaceful place to visit with a lot to offer. You can bring the whole family and find something that everyone will enjoy. In addition to the standard fare you expect from a park like picnic areas, playgrounds, and trails, you can also climb the observation tower to lookout over the lake or ride the mini railroad (2nd Saturday of the month only).
0
0
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park comprises a salt marsh area with trails winding through the inlets and bayous. It's a favored kayaking destination where you can either bring your own kayak or rent one on-site. Information boards are scattered throughout, allowing you to pause during your run and gain insights into the area. At this juncture, there's been a bridge out, but if it's repaired and operational, you can seamlessly continue the loop to return.
0
0
The Conner Preserve is just under 3,000 acres and is an underrated spot for trail running. There are a few different trails and dirt roads that are closed to cars and are perfect for both trail runners and road runners. This is a great place to come for a long run for a longer tempo workout. While out on the paths, you'll run past reservoirs and wetlands and through meadows and rain forests. No matter your pace, you'll want to keep picking up your head and looking around.
0
0
Pasco County lakes offer a wide range of water activities. You can enjoy boating, paddling (kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding), fishing, and swimming. Specific locations like Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park are popular for kayaking, while Sunwest Park features cable wakeboarding and an Aqua Park.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Sunwest Park is particularly family-friendly with lifeguards, a sandy beach, and an Aqua Park. Crews Lake Wilderness Park offers trails, picnic spots, and even a miniature train ride on specific days. Sims Park also provides a playground and picnic areas.
Lake Pasadena is well-known as an excellent spot for fishing. Crews Lake Wilderness Park also offers good fishing opportunities. For those with private access, Big Fish Lake is a large body of water that suggests significant angling potential.
You can kayak or canoe at several lakes. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is a favored kayaking destination where you can rent equipment or bring your own. Moon Lake and Crews Lake Wilderness Park also provide access for kayaking. Mirada Lagoon is another option for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Absolutely. Many lakes are surrounded by extensive trail systems. For hiking, you can explore trails at Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, Crews Lake Wilderness Park, and Conner Preserve Wetlands and Trails. For more options, check out the dedicated guides for Hiking in Pasco County and Running Trails in Pasco County.
Moon Lake features a small boat ramp for launching small powered engine boats and canoe/kayak access. Sunwest Park offers public access to its spring-fed lake. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park also provides access for watercraft.
The diverse ecosystems around Pasco County lakes support various wildlife. At Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, you might spot migratory birds and even manatees. Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve is home to diverse wildlife within its vast protected area.
The cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (roughly November to April) are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Pasco County lakes, offering pleasant temperatures for hiking, paddling, and exploring. Summer months are hot and humid, but water activities like swimming at Sunwest Park or Mirada Lagoon remain popular.
Sunwest Park offers a unique experience with its spring-fed lake, extensive sandy beach, cable wakeboarding, and an Aqua Park. Mirada Lagoon is another unique, human-engineered lagoon providing clear, warm water for various activities, including scuba training.
Yes, Pasco County offers mountain biking trails. While not directly adjacent to every lake, areas like Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve have back roads and trails suitable for exploration. For specific routes, refer to the MTB Trails in Pasco County guide.
Many parks offer amenities for visitors. Moon Lake Park has picnic areas, a basketball court, and designated swimming areas. Sims Park features picnic areas, benches, a playground, and an amphitheater. Crews Lake Wilderness Park provides picnic spots, playgrounds, and an observation tower.
Yes, swimming is possible at certain locations. Sunwest Park has designated swimming areas with lifeguards. Moon Lake also has designated swimming areas, though swimming is at your own risk as there are no lifeguards. Mirada Lagoon offers clear, warm water suitable for swimming and other water sports.


Still not found your perfect lake in Pasco County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.