Doctors Lake, despite its name, isn’t a typical lake—it’s a brackish water body connected to the St. Johns River through an inlet. Spanning a large area, it offers plenty of room for watersports and anchoring spots, making it one of the top locations for tubing and relaxing on the St. Johns River.
Watersports
Doctors Lake is our top pick for watersports, with ample space for tubing, zup boarding, and other activities. For wakeboarding, a trip down to Black Creek is recommended, as the water is typically calmer there.
- Boat: If you are part of Freedom Boat Club, any of their boats at Julington Creek marina will do just fine in towing a tube. If you have a bigger party, go with the pontoon. If you want performance the 239 DFS is our choice.
- Conditions: Doctor’s Lake is not always flat, more choppy than Black Creek. This is best for Towable Tubes.
- Ground: The ground can be really muddy, so bring water shoes.
- Equipment: Get a ski tow bridle if your boat does not have a ski tow pole and if there is a lot of water being sprayed from a bridle, get a booster ball.
- Lifejacket: Always make sure your riders are wearing a life jacket.
- Spotter: Make sure you have another passenger to be a look out.
Picnics
Picnics on a boat are always a good time, find any good spot to anchor and have a blast. Use a bridge to hide from the sun if need be.
- Cooler: Get a decent cooler to keep your food and drinks cold.
- Utensils: These are forgotten half the time, make sure you have some.
- Sloppy: Have easy beach food to eat like a sandwich or sub. Having a burger or something greasy on a boat is not ideal.
- Cleanup: Don’t forget a bag for trash, napkins, or wet wipes for the little ones.
Location
Doctors Lake is easily accessible from Julington Creek Marina, located just across the St. Johns River. Its proximity keeps the gas bill low, making it a convenient destination for a day on the water.
- Conditions: The lake should always be a little calmer than St. Johns River
- Algae: The Lake has had blue-green algae issues before, do a quick check on the Algae Bloom Dashboard.
- Gas: A super easy ride from Julington Creek, should save you time and money getting there.
Floats
Bring along your favorite float and take some time to relax in the water. The lake’s serene environment provides a great setting for drifting and lounging.
- Tube: Intex River Run Inflatable Floating Tube Water Raft for Lake River Pool is the tubes we got, you can tie them together, come with a headrest and cupholders.
- Other uses: If you do buy your own set of tubes, can also bring them to springs in Florida which saves some cash.
Fishing
Doctors Lake’s warm waters are ideal for topwater lures, and it’s home to crappie, bass, and trout. Right at the entrance to the lake, on the right side, is a great spot for catching bait. Just remember that a fishing license for Clay County is required, which can be easily obtained online from Florida Fish and Wildlife.
- Bait: Excellent spot for throwing a cast net for bait right next to the entrance.
- Fish: Bass are very popular here as well as crappies and bluegill.
Crowds
What sets Doctors Lake apart is the wide-open spaces, which allow everyone to spread out. This makes it an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy a quiet picnic or some sunbathing. While you’ll see some watersports in action, the area remains generally peaceful and uncrowded.
- Crowds: Super empty before noon on weekends, tends to pick up afternoon.
- Space: Plenty of open space to tube or anchor.
Conclusion
Doctors Lake offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top destination for watersports, fishing, picnicking, and family fun on the St. Johns River. With its easy access from Julington Creek Marina, spacious areas for tubing and anchoring, and peaceful surroundings, it’s a hidden gem for those looking to escape the more crowded parts of the river.