Explore the map of Florida with rivers, lakes, and geographical / physical features which is clearly marked on the map.
Major Rivers of Florida
Alafia River
Apalachicola River
Aucilla River
Blackwater River
Caloosahatchee River
Econlockhatchee River
Escambia River
Hillsborough River
Indian River
Kissimmee River
Myakka River
Ochlockonee River
Peace River
Santa Fe River
St. Johns River
St. Marks River
Steinhatchee River
Suwannee River
Waccasassa River
Withlacoochee River
Florida Rivers
Florida has a very well developed river system which is an important part of the state’s environment, industry and history. There are more than 1,700 named rivers, streams and tributaries and these waterways are a significant part of Florida’s complex terrain, supporting life, play, and supply much needed water for farming and cities. The largest river is the St. Johns River, which is almost 310 miles long, and is the only river in the state that is entirely within the state. Other important rivers are the Suwannee River, the Apalachicola River, the Kissimmee River, and the Peace River, all of which are important for the hydrology of the area. Some of these rivers are fed by wetlands or from underground aquifers, thus, they are an important part of Florida’s water cycle.
Major Rivers and Their Importance
The North flowing St. Johns River is one of the few rivers in North America and is important for Florida’s water management for drinking water, transportation, and recreation. It is a large fishery and a source of fish, manatees and birds, and is a major ecological corridor. The Suwannee River is a limestone river which is 246 miles long and it flows from the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico. The Apalachicola River is a major water source in the Florida Panhandle and is the source of one of the most productive estuarine systems in the United States. The Kissimmee River was once a meandering river but was channeled for flood control and is now being restored to its natural state as part of a large restoration project. The Peace River in southwest Florida is significant for phosphate mining, agriculture and water supply but has been hurt by water use and pollution.
