[2] The open areas of the lake are relatively free from native vegetation, although hydrilla can occasionally be an issue and algae is abundant.

There is a substantial American alligator presence along the shoreline feeding on one of the largest colonial wading bird rookeries in central Florida.

[2] The maroon settlement of Minatti (meaning "manatee") was established on the south shore of the lake east of Saddle Creek after the First Seminole War.

[5][6] Oponay, an Ocmulgee Lower Creek Chief, allied with Red Stick leader Peter McQueen, lived across the lake about two miles away from the village of Minatti.

[citation needed] He originally lived on the Flint River in Southwest Georgia prior to the First Seminole War and was an associated of Neamathla.