Lake Kerr Boat Ramp
Public access at Moorhead Park (Marion County, 20740 NE 140 St., Silver Springs) on FR 88 — free boat ramp, bank fishing, pier, picnic tables, and restrooms. Gateway to the 2,830-acre Lake Kerr sinkhole lake in the northeastern Ocala National Forest.
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Lake Kerr Overview
Lake Kerr is a 2,830-acre freshwater lake in the northeastern Ocala National Forest in Marion County, Florida, with approximately 19 miles of shoreline. It is one of the larger lakes inside the national forest and draws anglers, boaters, and nature lovers from across Central Florida. The lake sits about 7 miles north of Salt Springs, making it a natural add-on to any trip to the Salt Springs Recreation Area.
Lake Kerr is a sinkhole lake formed by limestone erosion (NOT spring-fed). Surrounding shorelines are largely undeveloped, and the clear water over a sandy bottom provides outstanding visibility. Average depth is 6–14 feet with deeper holes that plunge more than 20 feet. Wildlife including osprey, anhinga, herons, and even the occasional river otter can be spotted along the forested margins.
Boat Ramp Location & Access
- →Location: The boat ramp is accessed via forest roads within Ocala National Forest, near SR-19 in the Salt Springs area. USDA Forest Service signage within the forest directs visitors to the launch site.
- →Ramp Surface: The ramp is a concrete boat launch suitable for trailered watercraft including bass boats, johnboats, and smaller pontoon vessels.
- →Parking: Trailer parking is available adjacent to the launch area. Arrive early on weekends and holidays, as space can fill quickly during peak season.
- →Fees: Some National Forest recreation areas require a day-use fee or America the Beautiful annual pass. Verify current fee requirements with the Ocala National Forest Supervisor's office before visiting, as fees can change.
- →Hours: Generally open during daylight hours. Overnight parking or use may be restricted — confirm with the Forest Service for current access schedules.
Fishing at Lake Kerr
Lake Kerr has a strong reputation as a quality fishing destination within Ocala National Forest. The lake's relatively undisturbed shoreline and healthy aquatic vegetation make it ideal habitat for a variety of sport fish.
Largemouth Bass
The primary draw for sport anglers. Lake Kerr produces quality bass, with some trophy-class fish taken from its vegetated coves and drop-offs. Early morning and dusk are peak feeding times.
Bluegill & Shellcracker
Plentiful throughout the lake, especially around grass edges and woody structure. Great for family fishing and light-tackle enthusiasts.
Catfish
Channel and flathead catfish inhabit the deeper sections of the lake. Bottom rigs with cut bait or chicken liver are popular for targeting catfish from the bank or anchored boat.
License Reminder: A valid Florida fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older fishing in Ocala National Forest waters. Licenses can be purchased online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or at local sporting goods retailers. Freshwater stamps may be required — verify current requirements with FWC before your trip.
Boating Rules & Safety
All Florida boating laws apply on Lake Kerr. In addition, USDA Forest Service regulations govern use within national forest boundaries. Key rules to keep in mind:
- •No-wake zones are enforced near the boat ramp and any designated swimming or recreation areas.
- •There may be horsepower or speed restrictions in certain sections of the lake — confirm current regulations with the Ocala National Forest office as rules can be updated.
- •All vessels must carry required Coast Guard safety equipment including life jackets for every person aboard, a fire extinguisher (if applicable), and proper lighting for low-visibility conditions.
- •Florida boater education requirements apply. Operators born after January 1, 1988 must carry a boater education ID card.
- •Pack out all trash. National forest rules prohibit littering, and keeping Lake Kerr clean protects the water quality and wildlife that make it special.
Swimming & Water Recreation
While Lake Kerr is primarily known for fishing and boating, visitors also enjoy swimming and paddling in its clear waters. There is no designated, lifeguard-supervised swim beach at the Lake Kerr boat ramp area — swimming is at your own risk. Kayaking and canoeing are popular low-impact ways to explore the lake's coves and observe wildlife without disturbing the natural setting.
If a supervised swim experience is your priority, the nearby Salt Springs Recreation Area offers a designated swim area in a natural spring with lifeguards on duty during operating hours — a great family-friendly complement to a day on Lake Kerr.
Nearby Camping
Lake Kerr's location in Ocala National Forest puts it within easy reach of several excellent camping options. Turning a day trip into an overnight stay is highly recommended — mornings on the lake before other boats arrive are some of the best fishing and wildlife-watching moments possible.
Fore Lake Campground
A primitive National Forest campground in the Lake Kerr vicinity, ideal for tent campers and small RVs seeking a secluded, nature-immersive experience. Minimal amenities — come prepared.
Salt Springs Campground
A more developed campground adjacent to the famous Salt Springs Recreation Area, offering electrical and water hookups, restrooms, and showers. Reservations strongly recommended during spring and fall peak seasons.
For more overnight options throughout Marion County, visit our Ocala camping guide.
Best Times to Visit Lake Kerr
Fall (October – November)
Widely considered the best time to fish Lake Kerr. Bass are actively feeding before winter, temperatures are comfortable, and crowds are lighter than summer.
Spring (March – May)
Bass spawn in the shallows, making sight-fishing possible in clear water. Wildflowers along the forest edges are at their peak. Popular with kayakers and paddlers.
Winter (December – February)
Cool, calm days offer peaceful boating and good bass fishing as fish move to deeper warm water. Crowds are minimal — one of the best kept secrets for fishing locals.
Summer (June – September)
Expect heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms. Early morning launches are highly recommended. Water temperatures peak, which can affect fish activity midday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Lake Kerr boat ramp located?
The public boat ramp on Lake Kerr is at Moorhead Park — a 2-acre Marion County park at 20740 NE 140 St., Silver Springs, FL 32134, accessed via Forest Road 88 (formerly FR 88, now sometimes designated FR 11). The park is operated by Marion County (NOT the U.S. Forest Service) and offers a free boat ramp, bank fishing, a pier, picnic tables, and restrooms.
Is there a fee to use the Lake Kerr boat ramp?
No — the Moorhead Park boat ramp on Lake Kerr is FREE. Marion County operates the park at no charge to users. A valid Florida fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Parking is limited for boat trailers, so locals recommend arriving early on weekends and during bass tournaments.
What fish can I catch at Lake Kerr?
Lake Kerr is best known for largemouth bass tournaments. The lake is a 2,830-acre sinkhole lake (formed by limestone erosion, NOT spring-fed) with a sandy bottom and approximately 19 miles of shoreline. Average depth is 6–14 feet, with bass-holding holes that plunge more than 20 feet. Anglers also catch bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), warmouth, and crappie.
Are there any boating restrictions on Lake Kerr?
Lake Kerr does not have a documented horsepower limit, but standard Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission boating rules apply. Boaters should always check for posted no-wake zones and respect other anglers and swimmers. Operators of vessels are required to have a Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card if born on or after January 1, 1988.
Is there camping near the Lake Kerr boat ramp?
The closest developed Ocala National Forest campground is Salt Springs Recreation Area (about 7 miles south of Lake Kerr), which offers both RV/tent sites and direct spring access. Lake Delancy West (primitive, OHV-focused) is also in the northern forest within reasonable driving distance off SR 19. Fore Lake Campground is on the OPPOSITE (western) side of the forest near Fort McCoy — not recommended as a Lake Kerr base.