Best lakes around Forest City offers a selection of natural and man-made water bodies. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around these aquatic features. Visitors can find various types of lakes, from natural springs to park lakes. The landscape around these lakes often includes forests and natural habitats.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Forest City.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
I definitely recommend renting a kayak/canoe, it's worth it! Manatees, alligators, turtles, everything to see
1
0
Wekiwa Springs supplies this area with 42 million gallons of cool freshwater daily. Swimming and snorkeling are permitted in the sparkling waters of Wekiwa Springs, where the water stays at a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. This area is open from 8:00 a.m. until the park closes at sunset. Water tubes, floats, snorkels, goggles, towels, and sunscreen are available at the concessions to make your stay even more enjoyable. Please note that there is no lifeguard on duty.
0
0
Amazing place. You can take a “cool down” after trailing/hiking on area
0
0
Great place with course of potable water
0
0
Wekiwa Spring is a stunning natural attraction where you can cool off in the sparkling water or explore the scenic surroundings by canoe or kayak. Enjoy a picnic, spot wildlife and discover Florida’s natural beauty. I would definitely recommend to loop around the spring on a hike in Wekiwa Springs State Park.
0
0
You can cool off in the sparkling water or explore the scenic surroundings by canoe or kayak at Wekiwa Spring. Take a break, look for wildlife and take in Florida's stunning natural splendor. It's a good place to hike and explore around the spring. You will have to dismount your bike as you enter this area.
0
0
Prevatt Lake is a serene destination for hikers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Wekiwa Springs State Park. The lake is surrounded by pine flatwoods and sandhill habitats, home to many birds and wildlife. You can access the lake from the park’s campground or from the Volksmarch Trail, a hiking loop that connects several other trails in the park. Prevatt Lake is a great place to relax, picnic and admire the views.
1
0
Forest City offers a mix of natural springs, park lakes, and lakes surrounded by forests. These provide diverse settings for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Yes, Wekiwa Springs is a notable natural monument where you can cool off in the refreshing 72-degree Fahrenheit water year-round or explore by canoe or kayak. It's known for its sparkling waters and natural beauty.
Both Wekiwa Springs and Sand Lake, Wekiwa Springs State Park are considered family-friendly. Wekiwa Springs offers swimming and canoeing, while Sand Lake has an easy loop trail and picnic facilities. Additionally, Fountain in Lake Lily Park is a 10-acre park with a fountain, ideal for a relaxed family outing.
Yes, you can find several hiking opportunities. For instance, there's an easy 0.4-mile loop trail around Sand Lake, Wekiwa Springs State Park. For a more intermediate experience, the Volksmarch Trail at Prevatt Lake offers a scenic route through pine flatwoods and sandhill habitats. You can also find more extensive hiking trails in the region, such as the moderate Wekiwa Volksmarch Trail or the easy Wet to Dry Trail, which are part of the Hiking around Forest City guide.
The areas around lakes like Prevatt Lake, with its pine flatwoods and sandhill habitats, offer opportunities to spot various birds and other wildlife. The natural settings of these lakes are conducive to observing local fauna.
Yes, Forest City, NC, has excellent fishing options. Tom's Fishing Lake & Camping is a public pay fishing lake regularly stocked with catfish and carp, and it hosts fishing tournaments. Forest Lake (NC), approximately 22 acres, is also recognized as a good spot for anglers seeking various species.
Yes, Tom's Fishing Lake & Camping in Forest City, NC, offers camping facilities, including tent and RV sites with power and water hookups. Campers can also enjoy paddle boats exclusively.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and picturesque environments, the opportunities for cooling off in natural springs, and the diverse outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and fishing. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are frequently highlighted.
Sand Lake, Wekiwa Springs State Park, offers a tranquil spot with a viewpoint to admire the water and surrounding forest. It also provides facilities like picnic tables and restrooms near the parking lot for convenience.
Beyond hiking, you can find various outdoor activities. The region offers numerous routes for running, such as the moderate Wekiwa Main Hiking Trail, and cycling, including the easy Paint the Trail Artwork route. You can explore these options further in the Running Trails around Forest City and Cycling around Forest City guides.
Yes, for those visiting Forest City, NC, Tom's Fishing Lake & Camping provides tent and RV sites. Additionally, the area around Forest Lake (NC) offers options for accommodation, including RV rentals, making it suitable for weekend getaways.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities. For swimming in natural springs like Wekiwa Springs, the consistent 72-degree water makes it refreshing even on warmer days.


Still not found your perfect lake around Forest City? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.