A Tranquil Central Florida Lake at the Edge of the Theme Park Corridor
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Swimming
Why Rent On Lake Davenport
Lake Saint John is an oxbow of the Mississippi River, curving through Concordia Parish twelve miles west of Natchez in a landscape defined by alluvial patience and cypress shade. The lake runs six and a half miles from north to south, roughly half a mile wide, covering approximately 2,200 acres of clear, dark water at an elevation of 16 metres above sea level. It is deepest Louisiana, culturally and geographically: antebellum plantation ridgelines to the east, cypress and tupelo pressing close on every side, and the Lake Saint John Recreation and Water Conservation District in Ferriday managing the public infrastructure with the same unhurried confidence the river modeled for centuries.
On the water
The lake divides its days with Louisiana pragmatism: early mornings belong to the anglers working the cypress structure for largemouth bass, and afternoons open to water skiers and families crossing the lake’s open midsection. Average depth runs about 12 feet, with maximums approaching 37 feet — structure that sustains productive warm-water fishing year-round for crappie, bream, catfish, and bass. Kayaking the cypress margins at low light, when herons and wood ducks work the shallows, is among the quieter pleasures the lake offers. A Louisiana fishing licence is required; check current regulations at wlf.louisiana.gov before you arrive. Blue-green algae blooms have been recorded on both north and south shorelines — check Louisiana DEQ advisories before swimming, and keep pets out of the water during any active bloom.
What to do near Lake Saint John
Natchez, twelve miles east, is one of the most intact antebellum cities in the United States, with more than 1,000 pre-Civil War structures, the Natchez Trace Parkway trailhead, and a restaurant and live music scene anchored along the bluff above the Mississippi. Natchez National Historical Park encompasses the Melrose Estate and the William Johnson House, whose diaries document free Black life in antebellum Natchez with unusual clarity. The Frogmore Cotton Plantation near Ferriday offers one of the South’s most comprehensive agricultural tours, covering both the antebellum era and modern mechanized farming. Ferriday itself — birthplace of Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart — carries a musical legacy entirely disproportionate to its size, commemorated at the Delta Music Museum in town.
When to go and where to stay
Spring, from late February through May, is the prime fishing window as bass move shallow to spawn and the Concordia landscape greens before summer heat arrives. Summer brings warm water and active boating, with evening light dropping beautifully through the canopy. Fall, October through November, is an underrated return — bass fishing sharpens as the water cools, and the Mississippi corridor carries its most atmospheric quality. Lakefront cabins with private pier access are available in the Concordia Parish area. Browse Lake.com for cabin and vacation rental listings near Lake Saint John, and plan for a stay long enough to see the cypress at first light.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.16
- Max depth (ft)
- 16.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 111.55
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 3
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Hiking
- Fishing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Davenport has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Davenport. The information available does not mention any swimming areas or facilities at Lake Davenport, which is a public lake in Davenport, Iowa.
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Lake Davenport is a popular destination because of its proximity to Disney theme parks, only 12 miles away. It is also close to Orlando, about 30 miles, and is located in the rapidly growing Four Corners area where Lake, Orange, Polk, and Osceola counties meet. The lake’s good water quality and surrounding resort developments add to its appeal.
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Yes, you need a fishing license to fish in Lake Davenport, Florida. A freshwater fishing license is required to take or attempt to take native or nonnative freshwater fish. This applies to both residents and visitors who are 16 years of age or older.
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There is no public beach at Lake Davenport. The lake does not have formal public access, and it is primarily known for fishing and other water activities through private rentals and resort access. The area is mostly developed with resort properties and other private uses.
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Towns near Lake Davenport include Haines City, Winter Haven, and Lake Alfred. These towns are all located in Polk County, Florida, and are relatively close to Davenport. Lake Alfred is about 8.83 miles away from Davenport.