Top 5 Lakes around Clay
Best lakes around Clay offer diverse landscapes and historical points of interest. The region features a large lough with numerous islands, providing varied terrain for exploration. This area is characterized by its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, including ancient structures and maritime heritage. Visitors can find opportunities for scenic views and outdoor activities across its waterways and shores.
Best lakes around Clay
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a settlement that features two yacht clubs…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
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Forest Path Along Strangford Lough
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
Highlight • Monument
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Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
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Ringhaddy Sound
Highlight • River
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Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
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Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
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It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island, now in a state of ruin. To the south of Whiterock is Ballymorran Bay.
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Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
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If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.
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In the Caravan / Car park just on the shoreline you will find Toilets, and if you fancy a bit of refreshment there is a Pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, just to your left.
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Nice forest with great views of Strangford Lough. Easy signposted walks.
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The path leads you through a wall of gnarled, ancient trees - and the sea water flashes again and again between the trunks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Clay County are best for fishing?
Doctors Lake is a prime spot for anglers, offering the unique opportunity to catch both largemouth bass and redfish due to its brackish water. You can also find mullets, blue catfish, and channel catfish. Black Creek is excellent for black crappie and various panfish, while the St. Johns River provides lake-like fishing for both saltwater and freshwater species.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or parks in Clay County?
Yes, Doctors Lake Park offers public access with a 320-foot fishing pier and covered picnic areas, making it great for families. Near Lake Asbury, Ronnie Van Zant Park features a fishing pond (with a child present), dog-friendly trails, tennis courts, and basketball courts, providing diverse activities for all ages.
What unique natural features can I find among Clay County's lakes?
Kingsley Lake is a geological marvel, known for its nearly perfect circular shape and being Florida's deepest lake, formed by a sinkhole and fed by springs. Doctors Lake is notable for its brackish water, supporting a diverse fish population, and its connection to the St. Johns River. Black Creek is recognized as one of the cleanest creeks in the state.
Where can I access the lakes for boating or paddling?
Doctors Lake offers boat rentals, and Whitey's Fish Camp, connected to Doctors Lake via Swimming Pen Creek, also provides boat and kayak rentals. The St. Johns River, which connects to Doctors Lake, has numerous boat ramps for broader access to the waterways.
Are there any lakes with limited public access in Clay County?
Kingsley Lake, while geologically significant and pristine, has very limited public access. Approximately half of its shoreline is within Camp Blanding, a Florida National Guard installation, meaning access is primarily for those with valid military IDs.
What are the best times to visit the lakes in Clay County?
The mild Florida winters and pleasant spring and fall months are generally the best times to visit, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities like walking, fishing, and boating. Summers can be hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
Are there any dining options near the lakes?
Yes, Whitey's Fish Camp, located on Swimming Pen Creek which connects to Doctors Lake, is a popular spot for dining and also offers boat and kayak rentals.
Can I find walking trails around the lakes in Clay County?
While full circular walks around the larger lakes are not common due to private property, Doctors Lake Park provides public access with a pier and surrounding areas for strolls. Ronnie Van Zant Park near Lake Asbury also offers dog-friendly trails.
What historical sites are near the lakes in Clay County?
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural features, the area around Kingsley Lake, specifically Camp Blanding, hosts the Camp Blanding Museum, which offers historical insights into the region and the military installation.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Clay County's lakes?
The diverse ecosystems of Clay County's lakes and waterways support various wildlife. You can expect to see a wide array of fish species, including largemouth bass, redfish, crappie, and catfish. Birdwatching is also popular, with many species attracted to the water. Keep an eye out for local reptiles and amphibians as well.
Are there any opportunities for shrimping in Clay County?
Yes, the St. Johns River, which forms a significant part of Clay County's waterways and connects to Doctors Lake, is a popular spot for shrimping, especially during seasonal runs.
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