moongazer849
While a little bit of a drive from the beach, it is a trip that won't disappoint! The lake seems to be quite large, but it's biggest and best feature is a boardwalk that goes out into and around a corner of the lake. We were the only folks there on a windy, but warm Feb day. There are identifying markers along the way explaining the trees and vines. It was interesting to see orange trees in the jungle -- bearing fruit too. Seems the park is a campground as well. Not sure how active it might be in the camping season, but the tranquility today was exceptional.
544lorenr
My family brought us kids here back when they had a swimming area in the lake and it was a lot of fun. Despite the bad press this park received in the past, it is still a lovely place to visit. It was very different from my childhood memories, and this particular time I went alone and no one else was at the park. It was so serene and the view over the lake is beautiful. There are some nice trails and picnic areas. I want to come back with my husband and have a picnic lunch!
decoratingplus
Had a fun afternoon on a cloudy cool November day. I was the only one out there. Did some geocaching fun, too. Was never too sure there weren't no gators or other creepy things out there. I think some animal hangs around due to the digging I saw on the trail. A couple older men showed up together and went into the park as I was leaving....kinda creeped me out.But still a lovely place and hope to bring back others one day!
366alexisr
I went here with my boyfriend and it was absolutely stunning. We just recently even decided this was going to be where we want to have our wedding. The only downfall of this beautiful park was the banana spiders in the trees. Other then that this had tons or trails, beautiful views and all around a perfect way to spend the day.
AutecAng
We went to Lake Ashby Park for a Cub Scout overnighter with a small group of boys. The group camping area was large and flat with a wooden picnic tables, fire ring, garbage cans and a water faucet. The bathrooms are located near the playground so it is a little bit of a hike to get there. No showers available.The park itself has a great playground with a volleyball court and a covered seating area. I think the covered seating area can be rented out so don't count on it necessarily being available. The boardwalk is probably the best part of the park. It is well-maintained and LONG. It goes out over the water for quite a ways and then back into the woods. There are signs that tell about different trees and plants. A good nature hike where you can see animals -- we saw birds, turtles and a raccoon. A great spot for fishing if you bring your own pole and bait.Negatives -- No swimming in the lake. The mosquitoes were horrible when we were there. The prehistoric shell midden is not really accessible any longer to see as it is in the middle of an area where poison ivy is prevalent.Overall a nice and quiet park. Not sure if we'd drive an hour from Orlando just to go to the park again but definitely worth a visit if in the area.
Jean-Paul88
Had no idea this place existed since a friend mentioned it. The boardwalk, the cypresses, the vegetation, the peace and quiet...a real joy to escape to
Bondoon2
Florida hikes web page shows the boardwalk hike. Lovely park, we saw otters, turtles, birds and maybe a snake in the water. No swimming per health dept. Camping, nice playground for the kiddies, flush toilets. Well maintained by personable folks. Geocaches in the park too. Best to go early if you want to spend time on the boardwalk over the lake. Lovely tropical shaded walks just in from the boardwalk.