Off U.S. 98 and just past Spring Lake, Lake Istokpoga Park is truly a hidden gem tucked away in Highlands County. Tranquil, quiet, and peaceful are just some of the words you can use to describe this stunning park.
The drive in takes you into a beautifully wooded landscape. The fishing pier and boardwalk are a short walk from the large parking area. Just off the parking lot are the restrooms and picnic area. Large shade trees cover the picnic area, with some of them also covered by pavilions, with plenty of green space to enjoy.
A shaded path – a boardwalk really – takes you from the parking lot to the fishing pier and boardwalk on the lake. Nature trails can be explored just off the boardwalk. Stand still under the canopy of cypress trees and you will hear the songbirds singing. If you love birding trails, the park’s trails are offer a variety of birds look for, including osprey, egrets, limpkins, snail kites, sand hill cranes, bald eagles, and more! If you enjoy nature photography, then bring your camera!
The park has a boat launch, and the fishing pier is a great place to cast a line. The boardwalk and fishing pier are prime spots to take in the lake views. If you plan to enjoy some walking or time out on the water, be sure to bring mosquito repellant, sunscreen and bottled water with you.
Amenities include:
- Picnic Facilities
- Bathrooms
- Nature Trails
- Large Fishing Pier and Boardwalk
- Double Boat Ramp
The Lake
Nearly 28,000 acres, lake Istokpoga is one of the best fishing lakes and the fifth largest lake in the state of Florida. Anglers travel from all over the state and nation to fish Istokpoga. Birds of many species fly its massive boundaries and alligators of all sizes roam its marshy flatlands. The average depth of Lake Istokpoga is four to six feet, and it is fed by two creeks, Arbuckle and Josephine.
LAKE ISTOKPOGA GRID MAP
istokpoga.org/Files/GridMap.asp
(Compliments of the Friends of Istokpoga Lake Association, Inc.)
Lake Istokpoga Boat Ramp
Highlands County Partner Agency Ownership/Access Government Owned for General Public Use
Latitude 27° 26.5476’ Longitude 81° 17.1792’
Region – Southwest
Water Type- Freshwater
Ramp Construction – Poured in Place Concrete
Ramp Condition – Good to Excellent
Ramp Capacity – Double Lanes
Parking
Vehicle with Trailer 45
Vehicle Only 0
Handicap with Trailer 2
Handicap Vehicle Only 1
Parking Surface
Asphalt
Parking Condition
Good
Dock
Launch