Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area
A 750+ acre Marion County park on Lake Weir at 13275 SE 115th Ave, Ocklawaha. Swimming beach, boat ramp, fishing, two playgrounds, rentable pavilions (30–75 capacity), and nature trails with deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. $7/vehicle. April–Oct 7 AM–8 PM; Nov–Mar 7 AM–5 PM.
Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area at 13275 SE 115th Avenue, Ocklawaha, FL is a 750+ acre Marion County park on Lake Weir. Amenities include a designated swimming beach, a boat ramp, shoreline fishing, two playground areas, multiple covered pavilions (30–75 person capacity, with grills and tables, rentable through Marion County), nature trails, and abundant wildlife (deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, wading birds). Entry is $7 per vehicle. Hours: April–October 7 AM–8 PM; November–March 7 AM–5 PM. Phone: (352) 671-8560.
Welcome to Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area
Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area at 13275 SE 115th Avenue in Ocklawaha is one of Marion County’s premier waterfront parks — and at more than 750 acres, also one of the largest. The park occupies most of Carney Island, a peninsula that extends into Lake Weir in southeastern Marion County. The combination of a designated swimming beach, a boat ramp, and 750+ acres of mixed natural and developed parkland makes it one of the most well-rounded day-use destinations in the county.
Day-use facilities include a sandy swimming beach with gradual water entry, a public boat ramp for Lake Weir, shoreline fishing access, two playground areas, and multiple covered pavilions that accommodate 30 to 75 people each (with grills and picnic tables, rentable through Marion County Parks & Recreation). The pavilions are popular for family reunions, birthday parties, church outings, and corporate events.
The conservation side of the park’s mission is genuine — nature trails wind through the wooded interior of the island, and visitors regularly see resident deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles, plus the wading birds and ospreys that work the Lake Weir shoreline. Carney Island is open daily on seasonal hours (April–October 7 AM–8 PM; November–March 7 AM–5 PM) with a $7 per-vehicle entry fee. Call (352) 671-8560 for pavilion reservations.
What Carney Island Offers
Swimming Beach
Designated swimming area with sandy beach and safe water access. Popular family destination during warm months. Water quality is monitored for visitor safety.
Excellent Fishing
Lake Weir is known for quality fishing opportunities. Multiple fish species available. Shoreline and boat access available for anglers. Florida fishing license required.
Picnicking & Dining
Multiple picnic tables and pavilions provide shaded gathering areas. Perfect for family meals, group events, and social gatherings. Bring your own food or pack a picnic.
Nature Trails
Walking and nature trails throughout the park provide opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing. Scenic paths showcase the natural beauty of Lake Weir.
Park Facilities & Amenities
Recreation Facilities
- •Sandy swimming beach
- •Picnic tables and pavilions
- •Boat launch ramp
- •Fishing areas
- •Nature trails
- •Wildlife viewing areas
Support Amenities
- •Restroom facilities
- •Parking areas
- •Drinking water
- •Shaded areas
- •Park benches and seating
- •Accessibility features
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Carney Island is enjoyable year-round, with peak season during warm months (April-October). Summer offers the best swimming conditions. Fall and winter provide cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and nature walks.
What to Bring
Sunscreen, towels, water bottle, picnic food, fishing gear (if fishing), comfortable shoes for trails, hat for sun protection, and insect repellent. Bring cash for parking and any amenities.
Facilities to Know
Restrooms are available throughout the park. Check for drinking water availability. Pavilions can often be reserved for group events. Verify boat ramp conditions and access before arriving.
Safety & Regulations
Swim only in designated areas. Use proper fishing practices and have valid license. Be aware of wildlife. Follow park rules and respect natural areas. Check water quality status before swimming.
About Lake Weir
Lake Weir is one of Florida's largest natural lakes, spanning approximately 30 square miles. The lake is known for its clear waters, diverse fish species, and scenic shoreline. It's a major destination for water recreation throughout Marion County.
Size & Depth
~30 square miles, maximum depth 40+ feet
Fish Species
Bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and other freshwater species
Recreation
Swimming, fishing, boating, water sports, nature viewing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Carney Island?▼
Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area is at 13275 SE 115th Avenue, Ocklawaha, FL 32179. The 750+ acre Marion County park sits on Lake Weir — one of Florida's largest natural lakes — in southeastern Marion County. For information, call Marion County Parks & Recreation at (352) 671-8560.
What are the hours and entry fee for Carney Island?▼
Carney Island operates on seasonal hours: April through October 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM; November through March 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The day-use entry fee is $7 per vehicle.
Can you swim at Carney Island?▼
Yes — Carney Island features a designated swimming beach on Lake Weir with sand and gradual water entry. It is one of southeastern Marion County's most popular family swimming destinations during the warm months. Water quality is monitored; check current beach status before visiting.
Is there fishing and a boat ramp at Carney Island?▼
Yes. Carney Island has a public boat ramp providing access to Lake Weir, plus excellent shoreline fishing. Lake Weir supports largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and other freshwater species. A valid Florida freshwater fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older.
Does Carney Island have playgrounds and pavilions?▼
Yes. The park has TWO playground areas and multiple covered pavilions that accommodate 30–75 people, each with grills and picnic tables. Pavilions are rentable through Marion County Parks & Recreation at (352) 671-8560.
What wildlife can you see at Carney Island?▼
Carney Island's 750+ acres support a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors regularly see resident deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. Wading birds, ospreys, and turtles are common along the Lake Weir shoreline. The nature trails are particularly good for wildlife viewing in the early morning and late afternoon.