From Olympic training grounds to scenic retreats, discover the perfect balance of sports excellence and Florida’s beauty in Lake County.
Nestled in the heart of the state, Lake county offers a unique blend of natural beauty and top-notch training facilities, making it a haven for athletes of all kinds. Whether you’re gearing up for the Olympics or aiming for a personal best in a triathlon, the County welcomes you with open arms.
According to Lake County’s Sports Tourism Manager Andrew Grant, the county boasts facilities that have hosted Olympians like Justin Gatlin, Tyson Gay and emerging star Noah Lyles at the National Training Center.
The National Training Center in Clermont serves as a hub for various sports, including track and field, swimming, soccer and weightlifting.
For golf enthusiasts, Lake County offers premier courses at places like Howey-In-The-Hills’ Mission Inn Resort and Club and Montverde’s Bella Collina, a luxurious gated lakefront and golf community. Nearby, the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy offers the world’s premier junior golf academy, summer and winter golf camps and training for pros, amateurs and adults. And the recently opened Clermont National, akin to Topgolf, provides a dynamic experience with a driving range, restaurants and renovated course dubbed ‘The Grove.’
For basketball enthusiasts, the Big House in Tavares stands tall as the largest facility for indoor basketball and volleyball tournaments. This venue has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents, some who went on to make their mark in the NBA.
Lake County’s dedication to sports tourism includes hosting national championship events and attracting world-class and Olympic athletes.
But Lake County prides itself on being more than just a sports destination, hence its tagline: “Real Florida, Real Close,” a reference to our natural beauty. When athletes and their families take a break from training, they can explore historic downtowns in Mount Dora and Clermont or embark on ecotourism adventures at destinations like Alexander Springs.
Lake County offers a plethora of recreational activities. The Clermont Performing Arts Center is the county’s largest venue for outstanding performance of music, theater and the arts. Fishing enthusiasts can explore the Harris Chain of Lakes, known for both professional and amateur fishing. The county’s diverse landscapes also cater to thrill-seekers, with options like jet skiing, boating, and off-road experiences at places like Revolution Off-Road Experience in Groveland.
For those seeking a break from the adrenaline rush, Lake County presents numerous walking and biking trails and nature getaways like Clermont’s Lake Louisa National State Park and the Florida Scrub-Jay Trail, Leesburg’s Pear Park Wildlife Conservation Area and the Trout Lake Nature Center in Eustis.
Plus, Lake County, which is only a 30-minute drive from Orlando’s major attractions, provides visitors with the best of both worlds — training excellence and proximity to renowned theme parks.
As Lake County continues to grow and evolve, with new additions like Olympus—a community and global destination combining health, wellness, fitness, sports, hospitality and entertainment—on the horizon, it remains an ideal destination for athletes, families and nature lovers alike.
“Lake County is turning into more of a fast-paced area, but it’s still a beautiful destination. It has a lot to offer and it’s fairly close to the major attractions that are in Orlando,” Andrew says.
The Discover Lake website, www.visitlakefl.com, serves as a comprehensive guide for planning your stay, with information on everything Lake County offers. If seeking prime sport opportunities, please visit www.sportsplanningguide.com.
The following lists, compiled with help from Lake County officials, highlight places to train and play throughout Lake County and beyond.
Lake County Sports Complexes, Training Facilities and Recreational Parks
Clermont:
Brandy Johnson’s Global Gymnastics Academy
1113 Citrus Tower Blvd.
352.241.9300
www.brandysgymnastics.com
gymnastics
Clermont Arts & Recreation Center
3700 S. U.S. Hwy. 27
352.394.3500
pickleball, basketball, swimming, aquatics, cornhole, cheer/dance, robotics, esports
Lake Hiawatha Preserve
450 12th St.
352.394.3500
disc golf, running, cycling
Lake Louisa State Park
7305 U.S. Hwy. 27
352.394.3969
adventure racing, triathlon, cycling, running, swimming, fishing
Orlando Health National Training Center
1935 Don Wickham Dr.
352.241.7144
www.usantc.com
swimming, synchronized swimming, soccer, lacrosse, track and field
Palatlakaha Recreation Park
1250 12th St.
352.394.3500
soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, running, cycling
Waterfront Park
330 3rd St.
352.394.3500
triathlon, cycling, open water swimming
Eustis:
Palmetto Point Park
1651 Getford Rd.
352.589.4040
disc golf, running, soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, football
Leesburg:
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR Park)
5336 University Ave.
352.253.4950
pickleball, soccer, softball, running cycling, baseball, basketball
Palmetto Street Complex
310 S. Palmetto St.
352.728.9885
tennis, shuffleboard
Sleepy Hollow Recreation Complex
2775 Hollow Lane
352.728.9885
baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee
Venetian Gardens
109 E. Dixie Ave.
352.728.9885
bass fishing, watersports
Minneola:
Minneola Athletic Complex
13930 Education Ave.
352.253.4950
baseball, softball, soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee
Mount Dora:
Lincoln Avenue Community Park
1200 N. Unser St.
352.735.7183
disc golf, mountain biking, cycling, baseball, tennis, swimming, softball
Recreation & Nature Park
1550 E. 9th Ave.
352.735.7183
disc golf, running, cycling, mountain biking
Sorrento:
East Lake Sports & Community Complex
24809 Wallick Rd.
352.243.9800
soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, running, cycling
Tavares:
Fred Stover Sports Complex
490 Clifford St.
352.742.6181
baseball, softball
Hickory Point Recreation Facility
227341 SR. 19
352.324.6141
bass fishing, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, flag football
The Big House
1544 Lane Park Cutoff
352.562.7878
www.bighouseusa.com
basketball, volleyball
Woodlea Park Sports Complex
2770 Woodlea Rd.
352.742.6181
baseball, softball
Wooton Park
2770 Woodlea Rd.
352.742.6181
fishing, water sports, running, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboard
Umatilla:
North Lake Regional Park
40730 Roger Giles Rd.
352.771.5929
baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, disc golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, cycling
Places to visit when training is done
Clermont:
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards produces some of the best wines in the state. Tour the facility, participate in a wine tasting and enjoy live music on weekends.
Take a boat tour on Lake Minneola, one of the top attractions in Clermont. A boat tour is a great way to explore this beautiful lake while enjoying the scenery and wildlife.
The unique Presidents Hall of Fame museum showcases presidential memorabilia, including a replica of the Oval Office. This is a great place to learn more about American history.
The Florida Citrus Tower is an iconic Clermont landmark offering great views of the surrounding area from its observation deck.
The Clermont Historic Village, a group of beautifully preserved historic buildings turned museums located in downtown Clermont, bring the area’s local history to life.
Crooked River Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve offering wonderful opportunities for bird watching, hiking and picnicking.
Golf! Clermont is home to several world-class golf courses, including Legends Golf & Country Club, Clermont National Driving Range and the Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club.
Eustis:
Ferran Park is a beautiful waterfront oasis on Lake Eustis that features a playground, picnic areas, a boat ramp and a walking path.
The Eustis Historical Museum features exhibits on Eustis area history, art and culture.
Take a scenic boat tour of the beautiful waterways and lakes surrounding Eustis to get a unique perspective of the area.
Attend a festival or event: Eustis hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the GeorgeFest celebration in February, which is the oldest continuous festival in Florida.
Leesburg:
Venetian Gardens’ picnic areas, playgrounds, walking paths and boat ramps on Lake Harris make this lakefront park a must-visit for locals and visitors.
Rogers Park on Lake Griffin offers a playground, picnic area, fishing pier and boat ramp.
Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (PEAR) Park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and a dog park.
Lake Harris Park on the shores of Lake Harris offers a boat ramp, fishing pier and picnic area.
Skate World is a family-friendly roller skating rink offering public skating sessions, lessons and special events.
Leesburg Public Library offers a range of programs and events for kids, including story times, crafts and other educational activities.
Mount Dora:
Lake Dora offers opportunities for boating and fishing from the shore or on water as well as other water sports.
The city has several parks and trails, including the Palm Island Park and the Mount Dora Trail, that are ideal for hiking, picnicking and other outdoor activities.
Golf at one of the city’s popular courses, including the Mount Dora Golf Club and the Deer Island Golf and Lake Club.
Mount Dora hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival and the Mount Dora Spring Festival.
The city has numerous bike trails, including the Mount Dora Trail, which offers a scenic and relaxing ride through the city and surrounding areas.
The IceHouse Theatre offers live performances of plays, musicals and other productions throughout the year.
Tavares:
Tavares has a well deserved reputation as the Seaplane Capital of the World because of its extensive waterways and seaplane tours.
Tavares is located on the shores of Lake Dora, which is part of the beautiful Florida Harris Chain of Lakes, made up of lakes and the canals that connect them.
Lakes in and around Tavares provide excellent boating and fishing opportunities with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish and bluegill.
Tavares has several parks and recreation areas, including Wooton Park, site of several festivals and events throughout the year and Hickory Point Recreational Park, which offers sports fields, picnic areas and a boat ramp.
Tavares has a charming historic downtown with boutique shops, restaurants and cafes.
Golf
Lake County is a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels, with numerous courses to choose from – many with stunning views of natural surroundings. Here are some of the top golf courses in the county:
Mission Inn Resort & Club features two championship golf courses, El Campeón and Las Colinas. Both have been ranked among the top courses in Florida.
Bella Collina Golf Club is a private club featuring an 18-hole, Nick Faldo-designed course with stunning views of Lake Apopka.
The award-winning RedTail Golf Club in Sorrento was designed by Dave Harman and offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience.
Kings Ridge Golf Club in Clermont offers a unique golfing experience – three nine-hole courses that can be played in different combinations.
Palisades Country Club in Clermont features rolling hills, stunning views of Lake Minneola and a challenging layout.
Deer Island Country Club in Tavares is a fun and challenging experience that features a unique island green.
Boat Ramps:
From the vibrant lakes of Clermont to the serene waters of Eustis and the peaceful canals of Mount Dora, Lake County offers a boat ramp for every type of boating adventure. So, set your compass towards Lake County and let those boat ramps be your gateway to beautiful waterways.
Groveland:
The Arnold Brothers Boat Ramp provides easy access to the Groveland waterways, which makes it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Astatula and Astor:
The Astatula Boat Ramp is a reliable choice for launching into the lake. Astor has two ramps: the Butler Street Boat Ramp and the Lake George Boat Ramp. Both provide effortless entry into Astor’s beautiful water bodies.
Clermont and Winter Garden:
The John’s Lake Boat Ramp and the Palatlakaha Boat Ramp offer simple access to the vast lake network Clermont is famous for, ensuring an enjoyable boating experience.
Eustis:
Eustis, home to several scenic lakes, boasts three boat ramps: Lake Dalhousie Boat Ramp, Lake Yale Boat Ramp West and Marsh Boat Ramp. Each ramp provides efficient entry to stunning lakes.
Umatilla:
The Lake Holly Boat Ramp in Umatilla is your ticket to the tranquil waters of Lake Holly. It’s a popular spot for a peaceful day of boating or fishing.
Tavares and Mount Dora:
In Tavares, the Lake Jem Boat Ramp offers easy access to the beautiful Lake Jem, while in neighboring Mount Dora, the McDonald’s Canal Boat Ramp ensures smooth entry into enchanting canal waters.
Water Sports:
Lake County, Florida is home to over 1,000 lakes, making it a great destination for water sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Here are some popular water spots in the county.
With so many lakes to choose from, boating is a popular activity in Lake County. You can rent a boat or bring your own and explore the many waterways, including Lake Harris, Lake Eustis and Lake Dora.
Lake County is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of fish species including bass, crappie and catfish. Fish from the shore or a boat and enjoy the scenic views while waiting for a bite.
Lake County has many quiet and scenic waterways that are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The Dora Canal and the Wekiva River are popular spots.
Paddleboarding is a fun way to explore Lake County. You can rent a paddleboard or bring your own and enjoy the peacefulness of the water.
Lake County offers exceptional opportunities for excitement through waterskiing and wakeboarding. Lake Minneola is a popular spot for both activities.
Hikes and Trails:
Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual stroller, Lake County’s many trails offer an invigorating blend of nature, serenity and adventure. Step onto these trails and let the magic of the county’s natural beauty leave a lasting imprint on your heart.
Northeast Lake County
Mount Dora:
This charming town is home to the Tremain Street Greenway Trail, a picturesque pathway that allows for leisurely strolls and bike rides. Nearby, the Lincoln Park Trail provides a serene walking experience amid lush greenery.
Eustis:
The Ferran Park Lake Walk is a delightful waterfront trail with stunning views of Lake Eustis, while the Pine Meadows Trails wind through a lush woodland landscape. Nearby, the Neighborhood Lakes Trail offers a peaceful walk through natural Florida landscapes.
Sorrento:
The Mount Plymouth Bike Route provides an engaging journey for biking enthusiasts, weaving through the town’s attractive residential areas and green spaces.
Paisley:
The Clearwater Lake Trail offers a delightful exploration around the lake. And the Florida National Scenic Trail is a must-visit for its stunning views and challenging terrains.
Umatilla:
The North Lake Trail’s beautiful views of Lake Eustis provide a great setting for both hiking and biking. Nearby, the Lake May Reserve Trail and Lake Norris Conservation Area offer immersive nature experiences with paths winding through diverse ecosystems.
Leesburg:
Leesburg is home to the Marsh Park Trail, Sylvan Shores Park Trail and Palmetto Point Park. Each is known for unique hiking experiences amidst serene natural settings.
Eustis and Altoona:
On the outskirts of Eustis and Altoona, the Pine Forest Park Trail and Sunset Island Park Trail offer pleasant walks through charming parks, providing a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Leesburg:
Leesburg serves as a hub for several delightful trails. The Venetian Gardens Trail and Venetian Gardens Islands Trail provide stunning waterfront views and peaceful strolls, while the Leesburg-Wildwood Trail is an engaging route for biking and hiking. The PEAR Park Trail offers a serene nature walk amidst a beautiful park setting.
Tavares:
Tavares is home to the Tav-Lee Trail, which is perfect for a refreshing bike ride or a leisurely stroll. The Sleepy Hollow Trail provides a tranquil walk through scenic landscapes, while the Lake Idamere Park Trail offers a refreshing nature hike around a picturesque lake.
Lake Jem:
The Lake Jem Trail promises a wonderful outdoor adventure that allows hikers to explore a diverse range of natural landscapes.
Eustis:
The Captain Haynes Trail and Haynes Creek Trail both provide fascinating journeys through natural areas and waterways.
Fruitland Park:
The Gardenia Trail and Gardenia Trail Sumter Connector offer beautiful hikes through serene park settings with the chance to spot a variety of wildlife.
Astor:
The Emeralda Marsh – Bull Hammock Trail and the Emeralda Marsh – Wildlife Drive are exceptional for nature lovers that provide close encounters with diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems.
Lady Lake:
The Central Lake Trail and the Twin Lakes Trail provide a wonderful blend of natural beauty and engaging hiking experiences.
Clermont:
Clermont offers a wealth of trails. The Clermont Legacy Loop Trail, Hancock Trail and South Lake Trail all provide engaging biking and hiking experiences with stunning views. Ferndale Preserve, with its beautiful walking paths, promises a serene retreat for nature lovers. The Grassy Lake Trail and Palatlakaha River Park offer the chance to appreciate diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Astatula:
The Lake Apopka Loop Trail, which provides a unique blend of scenic views and challenging terrain, ends at the Clay Island Trailhead on Carolyn Lane in Astatula. The loop, which extends to Apopka, is perfect for an adventurous day of hiking or biking.
Montverde:
The Montverde Greenway Trail is a wonderful option for a leisurely stroll or bike ride that offers a pleasant journey through the town’s picturesque landscapes.
Mascotte:
The Black Still Lake Trail and Citrus Grove Trail provide an immersive outdoor experience that leads hikers through scenic landscapes and peaceful natural areas.
Groveland:
The Wilson Lake Trail makes for beautiful and relaxing hiking or biking along a peaceful pathway in lush natural settings.
Polk City:
The General James A. Van Fleet Trail in Polk City, which runs through the Green Swamp wildlife management area in Lake County, is a hidden gem offering a scenic and tranquil route through central Florida’s captivating natural landscapes.
Minneola:
The Clay Island Loop Trail and Pasture Reserve Trails allow hikers to explore the city’s beautiful natural surroundings, with stunning views and a variety of wildlife to spot along the way.
Seminole County and Orange County
On the outskirts of Lake County, the Seminole-Wekiva Trail and West Orange Trail provide delightful hiking, biking and exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes.
Conservation areas:
Lake County’s conservation areas are living testaments to the region’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. These sanctuaries provide an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature in its purest form. Whether you’re an avid hiker, birdwatcher, or simply a lover of the great outdoors, Lake County’s conservation areas await to offer you a truly remarkable journey.
Eustis:
Eustis is home to two incredible conservation sites. The Pine Meadows Conservation Area offers an immersive experience within its stunning natural landscapes, while the Lake May Reserve is perfect for wildlife viewing, birdwatching and hiking.
Groveland:
The Pasture Reserve promises a peaceful outdoor experience, with beautiful meadows and woodland trails making for delightful nature walks.
Paisley:
The Ellis Acres Reserve is a peaceful retreat offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. This nature reserve is perfect for bird watchers and those seeking a serene connection with nature.
Sorrento:
The Neighborhood Lakes Reserve provides an inviting natural environment with scenic trails ideal for leisurely walks, jogs, or bike rides.
Leesburg:
PEAR Park is a versatile conservation area offering a variety of amenities, including nature trails, a wildlife habitat and a canine exercise area. It’s a splendid spot for families, nature lovers and dog owners.
Ferndale:
Ferndale Preserve is known for its picturesque hilltop views of the surrounding lake and marshland. The preserve’s trails provide a serene and scenic hiking experience that nature enthusiasts will love.
Mount Plymouth:
The Mount Plymouth Lakes community is known for a charming conservation area that offers peaceful lakeside views and walking paths that provide a delightful escape from the bustling city life.
Minneola:
The Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead is a must-visit for its breathtaking panoramic views and well-maintained trails that offer an invigorating hike through captivating terrain.
Dog Parks:
Lake County has several dog parks where you can bring your furry friends to socialize and play off-leash. The following are a few of them.
The Lake Idamere Dog Park in Tavares features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water fountains, shaded areas and agility equipment.
Paws Park at Lake Myrtle in Leesburg features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water fountains, shade structures and a walking path.
Mascotte Dog Park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as agility equipment, benches and shade structures.
The Hickory Point Recreational Facility in Tavares features a small dog beach area where dogs are allowed to swim and play in the water.
