Bill Frederick Park and Pool at Turkey Lake051

It's amazing that this park, more commonly known as Turkey Lake, is so close to the theme parks and yet feels so far away. It is by far one of the best parks in the Orlando area.

The location is beautiful and offers picnic areas, disc golf, hiking trails, a bike path, and shaded areas. Three large children's playgrounds offer hours of fun for kids of all ages. Swimming is available in a pool overlooking the lake.

If you ask anyone "in the know" where to take your kids fishing, the answer is almost always Turkey Lake Park. The lake is stocked with bass and other species of fish, so little ones have an easy time making their first "catch." Bring your own poles, or rent equipment at the Bait Shop, which is open Thu-Sun, 7am-11am, and has almost everything you need... the exception, believe it or not, being live bait - you'll have to bring that on your own. While kids don't need a license to fish, anyone over 16 needs to obtain a fishing license. Most bait-and-tackle shops and sports retailers (like Wal-Mart, K-Mart, and Sports Authority) sell licenses.

Camping is also abundant in the park with 36 RV sites. Family sites with picnic tables and barbeque pits are available, or rent a cabin to increase the comfort factor.

The All Children's Farm offers a look at ranch life in the 1800s and park visitors can also observe the farm animals (but note that kids cannot pet any of the animals).