What is there to do in Groveland, Florida?

Groveland offers outdoor recreation at Lake David Park and the Palatlakaha River, cycling on the South Lake Trail, local dining downtown, and proximity to major Lake County attractions like Clermont's waterfront and Citrus Tower.

Is Groveland Florida worth visiting?

Yes — Groveland is a charming, fast-growing town on the western edge of Lake County with easy access to the South Lake Trail, scenic lakes, and small-town Florida charm without the tourist crowds.

What is Groveland Florida known for?

Groveland is historically known as a citrus-farming community in Lake County. Today it's known for rapid growth, the South Lake Trail cycling corridor, Lake David Park, and its proximity to Clermont's Chain of Lakes.

Where is Groveland Florida located?

Groveland is located in western Lake County, Florida, about 30 miles west of Orlando and 10 miles west of Clermont via US Highway 27.

Are there hiking or biking trails near Groveland Florida?

Yes. The South Lake Trail passes near Groveland and connects to Clermont and Minneola — a paved multi-use trail ideal for cyclists and walkers. The Green Mountain Scenic Overlook is also a short drive away in Clermont.

What lakes are near Groveland Florida?

Groveland sits among several lakes including Lake David (in town), Lake Groveland, and is close to the southern arm of the Harris Chain of Lakes. The Palatlakaha River connects several lakes in this region.

Things to Do in Groveland, Florida (2026 Guide)

Last updated: March 2026

Groveland, Florida is a growing small city in western Lake County with outdoor recreation, scenic lakes, and easy access to everything the region offers. Whether you're exploring the South Lake Trail by bike, fishing in one of the area's many lakes, or just soaking in the old-Florida feel of a town that's finding its stride, Groveland rewards visitors who slow down and explore.

Just 30 miles west of Orlando and 10 miles west of Clermont on US-27, Groveland is perfectly positioned as a base for Lake County adventures — without the weekend crowds you'd find in more touristy spots. Here's everything to do in and around Groveland in 2026.

🚴 Outdoor Recreation & Trails

South Lake Trail
Groveland's biggest outdoor draw is its connection to the South Lake Trail — a 14-mile paved multi-use trail linking Clermont, Minneola, and the surrounding area. Perfect for cycling, walking, and rollerblading, the trail passes through scenic Lake County terrain with lake views and gentle hills. Access from Groveland's eastern edge connects to the full trail network.

Lake David Park
100 S. Lake Ave, Groveland — This small but pleasant lakefront park sits right in the heart of Groveland. It has picnic tables, a boat ramp, and beautiful sunset views across Lake David. It's a great spot for a quiet afternoon, kayak launch, or family picnic. Free admission. Open dawn to dusk.

Palatlakaha River
The Palatlakaha River winds through western Lake County, connecting several lakes and offering exceptional paddling through cypress swamps and natural Florida scenery. Put-in points accessible from Lake David and nearby recreational areas. Bring your kayak or canoe for an unforgettable flat-water paddle.

Groveland Area Lakes
Groveland sits surrounded by lakes — Lake Groveland, Lake David, Lake Lucy, and more. Fishing for bass, bream, and catfish is popular among locals. Many lakes have informal access points. For guided fishing, several charter operators work out of nearby Clermont and the Harris Chain.

🏘️ Exploring Downtown Groveland

Groveland's small downtown along US-50 and Broad Street has been steadily growing. You'll find local restaurants, a few shops, and the historic Groveland City Hall. It's a quick stop, but the authentic small-town Florida character is worth a walk around.

Groveland City Hall / Historic District: 314 S. Lake Ave — The historic city hall area anchors Groveland's downtown with old Florida architecture.
Local Dining: Several casual restaurants and BBQ spots operate along US-50 and SR-19. Check local listings for current hours as this area continues to evolve.
Groveland Farmers Market: Seasonal; check with the City of Groveland for current schedules. Typically held downtown.

📍 Day Trips from Groveland

Groveland's location in western Lake County makes it a great launch point for exploring the region. Within 15–20 minutes you can reach:

Clermont Waterfront Park (10 miles east): The Clermont waterfront on Lake Minneola offers swimming, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and the famous triathlon venue. See our Clermont guide for full details.
Citrus Tower, Clermont: 141 N. US-27, Clermont — Florida's iconic observation tower with 360-degree views of the citrus-covered hills. A classic Florida stop.
Lake Harris / Harris Chain of Lakes (20 miles north): The largest lake system in Lake County, offering world-class bass fishing and boating. See our Leesburg guide for more.
Minneola (10 miles northeast): The hilltop city with views and access to the South Lake Trail system. A popular cycling destination.
Walt Disney World (20 miles southeast): For families making Groveland a base camp for theme park visits, it's a straightforward 25-minute drive to the Disney property.

🎣 Fishing in Groveland

Lake County is one of Florida's premier freshwater fishing destinations, and Groveland sits in the middle of it all. Target species include largemouth bass (the county's most prized catch), bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Lake David has a public boat ramp. The Palatlakaha River corridor offers excellent bass fishing in its weedy backwaters.

Best fishing access: Lake David Park boat ramp (free)
License: Florida freshwater fishing license required for anyone 16+. Purchase online at myfwc.com or at local tackle shops.
Season: Bass fishing peaks January–April. Panfish are active year-round.
Gear: Several bait shops operate in Clermont and Leesburg if you need to stock up.

🌅 Best Times to Visit Groveland

Like all of Lake County, Groveland is best visited October through April when temperatures are mild (65–80°F), humidity is low, and outdoor activities are at their peak. Summer (June–September) brings afternoon thunderstorms and high heat but also lush scenery and fewer visitors.

Spring (March–May): Ideal for outdoor recreation, wildflower blooms, and bass fishing. Peak season for the South Lake Trail.
Fall (October–November): Cooler temps return, festivals pick up across Lake County. Great cycling weather.
Winter (December–February): Best time for lake fishing. Snowbirds arrive, local events heat up. Expect mild days in the 60s–70s.
Summer (June–September): Hot and humid but lakes are perfect for swimming and paddling. Morning activities are best.

📌 Practical Info

Location: Groveland, Lake County, Florida 34736
Getting there: US-27 south from Clermont, or US-50 west from Orlando
Nearest airports: Orlando International (MCO) — 35 miles; Orlando Sanford (SFB) — 50 miles
Parking: Free throughout downtown and at Lake David Park
City info: cityofgroveland.org

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🗺️ Explore More of Lake County

Groveland is just one of many gems in Lake County. Explore more of the region with these guides:

Things to Do in Clermont, Florida — The Chain of Lakes capital, 10 miles east
Things to Do in Leesburg, Florida — Festival city on the Harris Chain, 20 miles north
Things to Do in Tavares, Florida — America's Seaplane City, 25 miles north
Outdoor Activities in Lake County — The full guide to hiking, biking, paddling, and more
Water Activities in Lake County — Kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and boating guides