The 10 Most Snake-Infested Lakes in the USA

The United States is home to a diverse array of lakes, many of which are teeming with wildlife, including snakes. While snakes play a vital role in ecosystems, their presence in large numbers can make certain lakes intimidating for swimmers, anglers, and boaters.

This article explores the ten most snake-infested lakes in the USA, providing details about the snake species found there, the lakes’ locations with addresses or GPS coordinates, and real quotes from X users who have encountered these slithery residents.

From venomous water moccasins to harmless water snakes, these lakes are known for their significant snake populations, based on reports, ecological studies, and online discussions.

1. Lake Okeechobee, Florida

Location: Okeechobee County, FL (GPS: 26.9470° N, 80.8032° W)
Address: Near 18500 FL-78, Okeechobee, FL 34974

Snake Species:
Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake, is notorious for its dense population of cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as water moccasins, a venomous pit viper. These snakes are often seen swimming or resting along the lake’s marshy edges. Non-venomous banded water snakes (Nerodia fasciata) and brown water snakes (Nerodia taxispilota) are also abundant, frequently mistaken for cottonmouths due to their similar appearance. The lake’s warm, shallow waters and abundant prey, like fish and amphibians, create an ideal habitat. Cottonmouths are aggressive when provoked, with a bite that can cause severe tissue damage or, in rare cases, be fatal.

Details:
The lake’s extensive shoreline, riddled with marshes and vegetation, provides perfect cover for snakes. Boaters and anglers report frequent sightings, especially in summer when snakes are most active. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission notes that cottonmouths are more common in the lake’s northern and western regions.

X Quote:
“Fished at Lake Okeechobee last weekend, saw at least 3 cottonmouths in an hour. Those things swim FAST. Not going back without boots!” – @FlaAngler22

2. Lake Martin, Alabama

Location: Tallapoosa, Elmore, and Coosa Counties, AL (GPS: 32.7369° N, 85.8736° W)
Address: Near 101 Shoreline Dr, Alexander City, AL 35010

Snake Species:
Lake Martin is a hotspot for northern water snakes (Nerodia sipedon) and cottonmouths. The northern water snake, though non-venomous, is often mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth due to its dark bands and aquatic habits. Cottonmouths thrive in the lake’s coves and shallow waters, where they hunt fish and frogs. The lake also hosts rat snakes (Pantherophis spp.), which occasionally venture near the water.

Details:
This 44,000-acre reservoir is surrounded by dense forests and rocky shorelines, offering ample hiding spots for snakes. Locals report that snakes are most active during spring and early summer, often seen basking on rocks or swimming near docks. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources advises caution near the lake’s quieter coves.

X Quote:
“Kayaking on Lake Martin is beautiful but those water snakes are EVERYWHERE. Saw one slither right by my paddle!” – @OutdoorGal_AL

3. Toledo Bend Reservoir, Texas/Louisiana

Location: Sabine Parish, LA, and Shelby County, TX (GPS: 31.5635° N, 93.7590° W)
Address: Near 2907 N Toledo Park Rd, Zwolle, LA 71486

Snake Species:
Toledo Bend is infamous for its cottonmouths and diamondback water snakes (Nerodia rhombifer). Cottonmouths are prevalent in the lake’s swampy areas, while diamondback water snakes, non-venomous but aggressive when threatened, are commonly seen in open water. The lake also has copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) near its wooded shores.

Details:
Spanning 185,000 acres, Toledo Bend’s vast size and mix of habitats—marshes, cypress swamps, and open water—support a thriving snake population. Anglers often encounter snakes while wading or fishing near submerged logs. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department warns that cottonmouths can be territorial during mating season (April–June).

X Quote:
“Toledo Bend is a snake paradise. Hooked a bass and a cottonmouth swam right up to my boat. Nope!” – @TxFishinFan

4. Lake Guntersville, Alabama

Location: Marshall and Jackson Counties, AL (GPS: 34.4231° N, 86.2056° W)
Address: Near 1155 Lodge Dr, Guntersville, AL 35976

Snake Species:
Lake Guntersville is home to cottonmouths, northern water snakes, and brown water snakes. Cottonmouths are particularly common in the lake’s marshy shallows, while water snakes dominate the open waters, feeding on fish and crustaceans. Non-venomous king snakes (Lampropeltis spp.) are occasionally spotted near the shore.

Details:
This 69,000-acre lake is a haven for aquatic snakes due to its extensive wetlands and abundant food sources. Snakes are most visible during warm months, often seen coiled on fallen logs or swimming near boat ramps. The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division recommends wearing protective footwear when exploring the lake’s edges.

X Quote:
“Love Guntersville for fishing, but those cottonmouths make me nervous. Saw one just chilling on a dock yesterday.” – @BassMaster_AL

5. Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma/Arkansas

Location: McIntosh County, OK, and Crawford County, AR (GPS: 35.3020° N, 95.5828° W)
Address: Near 15135 OK-150, Checotah, OK 74426

Snake Species:
Lake Eufaula hosts cottonmouths, diamondback water snakes, and rat snakes. Cottonmouths are frequently sighted in the lake’s muddy shallows, while diamondback water snakes are common in deeper waters. Rat snakes, though primarily terrestrial, are often seen near the lake’s campgrounds.

Details:
Covering 102,000 acres, Lake Eufaula’s mix of rocky shores and swampy inlets supports a robust snake population. Snakes are most active at dusk, hunting along the shoreline. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation notes that cottonmouth bites, while rare, require immediate medical attention.

X Quote:
“Camped at Lake Eufaula and saw a water snake every day. They’re harmless but still creepy!” – @OkieCamper

6. Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Texas

Location: Jasper, Angelina, and Nacogdoches Counties, TX (GPS: 31.0600° N, 94.1050° W)
Address: Near 7696 Sam Rayburn Pkwy, Brookeland, TX 75931

Snake Species:
Sam Rayburn is known for cottonmouths, diamondback water snakes, and copperheads. Cottonmouths are prevalent in the lake’s cypress-lined bays, while diamondback water snakes are often seen swimming or basking on logs. Copperheads are more common in the surrounding forests but occasionally venture to the water’s edge.

Details:
This 114,000-acre reservoir is surrounded by pine forests and wetlands, creating a snake-friendly environment. Boaters report frequent snake sightings in the lake’s quieter areas, especially near submerged vegetation. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department advises keeping a safe distance from snakes to avoid provocation.

X Quote:
“Sam Rayburn is gorgeous but those cottonmouths are no joke. Saw one swim right under my kayak!” – @TxPaddlePro

7. Lake Lanier, Georgia

Location: Forsyth, Hall, and Gwinnett Counties, GA (GPS: 34.1600° N, 84.0400° W)
Address: Near 1050 Buford Dam Rd, Buford, GA 30518

Snake Species:
Lake Lanier is home to northern water snakes, cottonmouths, and rat snakes. Northern water snakes are the most common, often seen swimming or resting on rocks. Cottonmouths are less frequent but present in the lake’s swampier areas. Rat snakes are occasionally spotted near docks and campgrounds.

Details:
Spanning 38,000 acres, Lake Lanier’s rocky shores and wooded surroundings provide ample habitat for snakes. Snakes are most active in summer, often seen near the lake’s many coves. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources recommends caution when swimming or wading in shallow areas.

X Quote:
“Lake Lanier is stunning but those water snakes freak me out. Saw one slither across the water like it owned the place.” – @GaLakeLover

8. Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana

Location: St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes, LA (GPS: 30.1900° N, 90.0900° W)
Address: Near 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126

Snake Species:
Lake Pontchartrain is a haven for cottonmouths, banded water snakes, and brown water snakes. Cottonmouths thrive in the lake’s brackish marshes, while water snakes are common in both fresh and brackish waters. The lake’s connection to wetlands makes it a snake hotspot.

Details:
This 630-square-mile lake is surrounded by marshes and bayous, providing ideal conditions for aquatic snakes. Snakes are often seen near causeways and inlets, especially after heavy rains. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries warns that cottonmouths can be aggressive if cornered.

X Quote:
“Fished at Lake Pontchartrain and saw cottonmouths everywhere. They’re bold, just swim right up to you!” – @NolaAngler

9. Lake Seminole, Georgia/Florida

Location: Seminole County, GA, and Jackson County, FL (GPS: 30.7800° N, 84.7800° W)
Address: Near 7585 Spring Creek Dr, Donalsonville, GA 39845

Snake Species:
Lake Seminole is known for cottonmouths, brown water snakes, and banded water snakes. Cottonmouths are common in the lake’s swampy areas, while water snakes dominate the open waters. The lake also hosts rat snakes near its wooded shores.

Details:
Covering 37,500 acres, Lake Seminole’s mix of marshes, cypress swamps, and open water supports a large snake population. Snakes are most active in spring and summer, often seen near boat ramps and fishing piers. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources advises caution in the lake’s shallower areas.

X Quote:
“Lake Seminole is a snake fest. Saw a cottonmouth and two water snakes in one trip. Be careful out there!” – @FlaGaFisher

10. Lake Texoma, Texas/Oklahoma

Location: Grayson County, TX, and Bryan County, OK (GPS: 33.8500° N, 96.6400° W)
Address: Near 3501 TX-91, Denison, TX 75020

Snake Species:
Lake Texoma hosts cottonmouths, diamondback water snakes, and rat snakes. Cottonmouths are common in the lake’s marshy inlets, while diamondback water snakes are frequently seen swimming or basking on rocks. Rat snakes are often spotted near campgrounds and docks.

Details:
This 89,000-acre reservoir is surrounded by rocky shores and wetlands, providing ample habitat for snakes. Snakes are most visible during warm months, often seen near the lake’s many coves and inlets. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recommends wearing protective clothing when exploring the lake’s edges.

X Quote:
“Lake Texoma is awesome for fishing but those water snakes are everywhere. Saw one swim right by my boat!” – @TexomaTales

Safety Tips for Visiting Snake-Infested Lakes

Wear Protective Gear: Use boots or waders when wading or walking near the shore to avoid snake bites.
Stay Alert: Watch for snakes on rocks, logs, or in the water, especially during warm months.
Avoid Provoking Snakes: Do not attempt to handle or disturb snakes, as even non-venomous species can bite.
Know the Difference: Learn to distinguish between venomous (e.g., cottonmouths) and non-venomous (e.g., water snakes) species.
Seek Medical Help: If bitten, seek immediate medical attention, especially for venomous snake bites.

Be Safe on Those Snake Infested Lakes

These ten lakes, from Florida’s Lake Okeechobee to Texas’ Lake Texoma, are renowned for their significant snake populations, particularly venomous cottonmouths and various non-venomous water snakes. While these snakes are a natural part of the ecosystem, their presence requires caution from visitors.

By understanding the species, their habits, and the lakes’ environments, you can safely enjoy these beautiful but snake-infested waters. The X quotes from real users highlight the prevalence of snakes and the need for vigilance, making these lakes both fascinating and formidable destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.