Visitors to the Harris Chain of Lakes can enjoy various activities and the stunning natural surroundings of Lake Griffin, a 9,500-acre reservoir in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. It is the headwaters of the Ocklawaha River, featuring more natural shorelines than many other lakes in the chain, making it a haven for photographers and nature lovers. The lake is the terminus of a chain that includes Lake Harris, Little Lake Harris, Lake Dora, Lake Beauclair, Lake Carlton, Lake Eustis, and several connecting canals.
Lake Griffin’s shallow waters are ideal for smaller boats, and the lake sees significant boating activity, including power boats, pontoon boats, bass boats, canoes, and kayaks. The Harris Chain of Lakes has dams and locks to maintain water levels and facilitate boat passage. The Moss Bluff Dam on the Ocklawaha River keeps Lake Griffin’s water levels stable. Boaters can navigate the complex waterways thanks to a system of lighted directional signs.
The lake supports extensive recreational activities. Fishing is a major draw, with largemouth bass being particularly popular. Other fish species include crappie, bluegill, catfish, and sunfish. Several boat launch ramps offer public access, and private resort docks also provide launch facilities for a fee. Two marinas on Lake Griffin offer slip space, supplies, and fishing necessities. The Haynes Creek Canal connects Lake Griffin to Lake Eustis, and the Lake Griffin State Park provides a small campground under the shade of live oaks.
Lake Griffin State Park offers a peaceful escape from larger Florida vacation spots. The park has walking trails, and one of the oldest live oaks in the nation can be found here. The towns of Fruitland Park and Leesburg share parts of the lake’s shoreline, providing fishing piers, boat launch facilities, and various services, shopping, and entertainment options.
Improving water quality at Lake Griffin has included purchasing farmland to revert it to natural wetlands, which helps filter the lake’s water. These initiatives have led to a steady improvement in water quality. The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area near the lake covers over 7,000 acres of restored wetlands, offering excellent bird-watching opportunities and a 4.3-mile elevated drive for wildlife observation.
The Bourlay Historic Nature Park in Leesburg features a historic steamboat landing, a “shotgun-style cracker house,” and an 88-acre natural habitat for picnicking, trail walking, mountain biking, kayaking, and bird watching. Real estate options around Lake Griffin include existing homes, resort cabins, private rentals, and several hotels and motels. Comfortable RV camps and campgrounds complement the state park’s offerings for mobile travelers.