Top 5 Lakes around Desoto Lakes
Lakes around Desoto Lakes, Florida, are characterized by a mix of quiet, residential waters and larger, publicly accessible lakes in the broader vicinity. The area offers diverse aquatic environments, from private lakes within the community to expansive public parks centered around significant bodies of water. These lakes provide various recreational opportunities, including water sports, fishing, and nature observation. The natural landscape features both developed park settings and more serene, forested areas with unpaved trails.
Best lakes around Desoto Lakes
- The…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Nathan Benderson Park Lake
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Celery Fields Observation Hill
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Nathan Benson Park Lakeside Trail (Eastern Shore)
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Braden River Nature Park
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Bill Robinson Lakeside Loop
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Tips from the Community
Celery Fields is a popular spot for all types of recreationalists in the Sarasota area. The Observation Hill portion of the park (north side of the road) features rolling hills and grassy paths, while the southern side of the road features double-track paths around some reservoirs.
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This trail takes you along the eastern shore of Nathan Benson Park and is made of crushed shells, providing a smoother and softer surface for your run. If you prefer running on pavement, there's a parallel paved trail, offering plenty of options for your run.
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Apart from when there are special events going on (like triathlons, regattas, plane competitions, etc.), Nathan Benderson Park is a completely free park, open to the public seven days a week. The centerpiece of the 600-acre property is without a doubt the 400-acre reservoir. A couple different paths and a road loop around the lake.
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Celery Fields is a popular spot for all types of recreationalists in the Sarasota area. The Observation Hill portion of the park (north side of the road) features rolling hills and grassy paths, while the southern side of the road features double-track paths around some reservoirs.
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Braden River Nature Park is a more low-key spot to enjoy Florida's natural beauty. Fishermen have caught bass here in the ponds around the park, and gopher tortoises, ospreys, and red-shouldered hawks frequent the area. This nature park is more off the beaten path, so it may be an opportunity you can enjoy all to yourself.
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The Bill Robinson Lakeside Loop is the name given to the paved path that circles around Nathan Benderson Park. There is a separate trail made out of crushed shells that runs parallel to the paved path pretty much the entire time. Both paths are great for walking, and the crushed-shell path sees a bit less traffic than the paved trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Desoto Lakes, Florida?
The area around Desoto Lakes features a mix of quiet, residential lakes, and larger, publicly accessible lakes. You'll find diverse aquatic environments, from private community lakes to expansive public parks centered around significant bodies of water like Nathan Benderson Park Lake.
Which lakes are best for water sports and active recreation?
Nathan Benderson Park Lake is a premier destination for water sports. It's known for its 2,000-meter sprint rowing course and offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The park also frequently hosts athletic competitions and events.
Are there any serene or less crowded lakes for nature observation?
Yes, Braden River Nature Park, featuring Trophy Lake and Otter Lake, offers a more tranquil and natural setting. It's a low-key spot ideal for enjoying Florida's natural beauty, wildlife watching, and fishing in a peaceful environment.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
At Braden River Nature Park, you might spot gopher tortoises, ospreys, and red-shouldered hawks. Manatees have also been seen near the dam. The natural settings around these lakes provide habitats for various local species.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Absolutely. Nathan Benderson Park Lake is very family-friendly, offering a playground, picnic shelters, and rentals for various watercraft. Braden River Nature Park is great for family picnics and gentle nature walks.
Where can I find trails for walking, running, or cycling near the lakes?
Nathan Benderson Park Lake boasts seven miles of trails looping around the lake, suitable for walking, running, rollerblading, and cycling. You can also find unpaved loops through forests at Braden River Nature Park for a more rugged experience. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Desoto Lakes or Road Cycling Routes around Desoto Lakes guides.
Are there any easy hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, for easy hikes, consider the trails around Nathan Benderson Park Lake, including the Bill Robinson Lakeside Loop, which has both paved and crushed shell paths. Braden River Nature Park also offers pleasant, unpaved walking paths. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Desoto Lakes guide.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails near the lakes?
The Bill Robinson Lakeside Loop at Nathan Benderson Park is a paved path that circles the lake and is considered wheelchair accessible, offering a smooth surface for enjoyment.
What are the best viewpoints to enjoy the lake scenery?
For scenic views, visit Celery Fields Observation Hill, which features rolling hills and grassy paths around reservoirs, providing elevated perspectives of the landscape. The trails around Nathan Benderson Park Lake also offer continuous lake views.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Desoto Lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Nathan Benderson Park Lake has designated fishing areas and a fishing pier. At Braden River Nature Park, Trophy Lake and Otter Lake are known for bass fishing, with catch and release recommended for Otter Lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from the active water sports and events at Nathan Benderson Park Lake to the peaceful nature observation and wildlife spotting at Braden River Nature Park. The well-maintained trails and scenic viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.
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