Florida Rivers And Lakes

Florida has many rivers that provide ecological, commercial, and recreational benefits.

St. Johns River

The St. Johns River flows through northeast Florida and Jacksonville. Facts about the St. Johns River:

• At 310 miles long, it is one of the longest rivers in Florida.
• The St. Johns flows north instead of south like most Florida rivers.
• It provides an important habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife.
• The river allows commercial shipping to the port of Jacksonville.

Kissimmee River

The Kissimmee River is located in central Florida south of Orlando. Details about the Kissimmee River:

• It flows over 100 miles from Lake Kissimmee to Lake Okeechobee.
• The river was channelized in the 1960s for flood control but is currently being restored.
• It provides a unique habitat within the Kissimmee River valley.

Apalachicola River

The Apalachicola River flows south from Georgia into the Florida panhandle. Facts about the Apalachicola River:

• It forms part of the border between Alabama and Florida.
• The river has a rich floodplain ecosystem and supports extensive biodiversity.
• It provides opportunity for boating, fishing and paddling.

Major Lakes in Florida

Some of Florida's most significant lakes are:

• Lake Okeechobee: The largest freshwater lake in Florida, important for ecosystems and irrigation.
• Lake George: Located north of Orlando, part of the St. Johns River system.
• Lake Tarpon: Located near Tampa Bay, known for largemouth bass fishing.
• Lake Jackson: Situated north of Tallahassee, a shallow prairie lake.

Florida's rivers and lakes provide vast ecological and recreational resources as well as key drainage across the state. Learning about them offers insight into Florida's geography and environment.