We saw a lot of wildlife including massive gators, rabbits and a raccoon and tons of different birds. It was very peaceful. read more

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What a wonderful, beautifully maintained, park! We were awed on the hiking trail we looped around on. The wildlife we saw was pure joy. There are interpretive signs, as well as warning signs (alligators, snakes, etc) along the way which was an added bonus. Although there was a huge number of vehicles in the parking lot, we barely ran across other hikers. The pathway we took, about a 2.5 mile loop, had minimal foot traffic. The paths are wide, wide enough for worker or emergency vehicles. We enjoyed this park very much and plan to return, albeit most likely NOT in the dead of the Florida summer heat/humidity. We are not that "adventurous" hahaha. We are very blessed with the County and State parks we have here, that's for sure! read more

This place never ceases to amaze me! Every time I come here, I have a different kind of experience. That's what I love about it, you never know what you're going to get. I can't wait for my one day where I get the shot to see an alligator sunning himself on the walkway. My children and I still come here on a regular basis to see all the different kinds of wildlife we can count while we're there. It's quite a fun experience! read more

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One of my favorite nature walks! I've seen birds, alligators, snakes -- there's always something to see. The path is easy to follow. It's quiet, but there are usually a lot of other people walking with you. If someone is looking at anything interesting, they usually point it out to passersby. Everything goes in a convenient loop, but the last stretch of trail is an open grassland with little tree cover, so it's a very intense walk towards the end. I recommend bringing an umbrella for this portion, if only to provide some shade. read more

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Great place to enjoy nature and get a little exercise all at the same time! Beautiful Spanish moss covered trees, along the wide path. You can bike walk and I believe it would be a great place for those in wheelchairs and/or scooters to enjoy nature as well. read more

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This was genuinely the coolest nature preserve I have ever stepped foot in. My mom and I walked the Alligator Alley (2.3 mile loop) and saw a total of 7 gators (3 of which were babies), 5 armadillos, tons of turtles, and tons of incredible-looking birds. If you want to see a gator, this is the place to go. You get beautiful views, gators, and more incredible wildlife. Please give this place a visit if you are in Florida! 10/10 recommend. A nice plus is that it is totally free! (Parking and entry) read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Close-up of a baby gator lying on a log. - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Circle B Bar Reserve is easily one of my favorite places to hike. The trails are incredibly peaceful, offering a perfect escape into nature. Every visit feels like a mini-adventure, it's not uncommon to spot a few gators sunning near the water, which adds an exciting, authentic Florida experience. The park is well-maintained, and you can tell the staff take pride in preserving the beauty of the area It's a photographer's dream and a nature lover's paradise. If you're looking for a place to reconnect with nature, get a good walk in, and maybe see some amazing wildlife, Circle B never disappoints. read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Gator sunbathing - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

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Wow! This place is amazing! I'm not from Florida so had never been to a place like this before. My brother and his wife took us here recently because we all enjoying walking trails and they thought we'd enjoy seeing all of the interesting birds here. They warned us there is a path referred to as "Alligator Alley" but I was really excited to check it out! As we walked, we did see, and were amazed by, a wide variety of beautiful birds - like White Ibis, Great Blue Herons, and Great Egrets. But we all stood in awe as a regal Bald Eagle flew overhead! And as we gazed out into Lake Hancock, which the trail ran along, we started seeing more and more alligators lurking about. At one point the trail narrowed and was sandwiched between the lake on one side and a marsh on the other. It truly felt like we were experiencing something pre-historic! And yes, we were about to enter Alligator Alley! Alligators are known to cross this path and if they decide to hang out in the middle, trail walkers must wait until the gator is ready to move along. It was really exciting to come across a gator (looking very well-fed) doing just that! We could see a couple ladies a ways back on the other side of this guy that had been waiting 15 minutes. But luckily we only had to wait a couple minutes before he decided to leave. Parking is free and so is access to the paths. I would love to come back here again! read more

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Great trails with views of the wildlife and it's just beautiful. The front has the info desk and some other cool things to check out and learn.. read more

I was here although time didn't allow me to explore the area like I wanted too so I basically completed a slow drive through. This is definitely a popular spot the parking areas were completely filled and lot of the visitors with their cameras in hand explored the common areas. I found it impossible to not stop in after looking at the reviews and photos being I was in the area and it's definitely a place I would love to return to in the future and hike the trails after only experiencing this beautiful green space through the windshield... read more

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A really great place to hike in. We hiked for about two miles but there were many more trails to hike. The birds along the lakeshore were amazing. Also found an armadillo looking for food along the trail. Very nice free park and amazing trails. read more

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Best park in Lakeland, heck best park I have been to! Free parking, free entry, picnic area, educational area, tours via cart (look up days and times), they host tree planting days, invasive species days (you pull out the plants/weeds), etc. They are open ALMOST year round (check times but usually open in summer/early fall 5:30-8:00 and adjust a bit in winter). Quite a large park, around 1200 acres. It used to be a cattle ranch and you will always see birds, (99% chance of seeing at least 1 alligator) in Lake Hancock. At times you may have a HUGE alligator run (slowly walk in front of you...the 2nd time we were here a 13 foot alligator walked in front of us and just his tail popping back into the water...was cool but also made you think the amount of weight!!!!!) Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature reserve (rules; No pets, No balloons, No music and don't be a Darwin Award Winner...don't go within a few inches of the water to get a better photo of the gators, don't throw food at the Gator to try and get it to react, don't send your grandkids down closer to the water for a better photo (OMG grandpa what were you thinking), well, you get it...as my 2nd cousin from Boston would say, "don't be a freakin' igit"! Trails Shady Oak Trail -- (1.3 miles, Easy, Shaded) This trail takes you through an oak hammock, where you can watch for cabbage palms wrapped in trumpet vines, live oak branches covered with resurrection ferns, Spanish moss + the butterfly orchid. Might see a rabbit, boar or take a photo or two..nice in the shade Lost Bridge Trail -- (0.5 miles, Easy, Mostly Shaded) This trail leads you through an oak canopy to a long boardwalk that gives you a feeling of 'walking on water' through the swamp. Alligator Alley -- (1 mile, Easy, Mostly Shaded) This trail leads you through an oak canopy and wonderful for family photos!! Marsh Rabbit Run -- (0.7 miles, Easy, Partially Shaded) This trail takes you past a shallow marsh where you MAY see spoonbills, white ibis + red-bellied woodpeckers. Watch for otters + turtles Heron Hideout -- (0.5 miles, Easy, Little Shade) This trail crosses the marsh + can either return you to the Discovery Center or provide the shortest way to the marsh (in summer...take the short path unless you want to lose 4 pounds in water weight)! Eagle Roost -- (0.7 miles, Moderate, No Shade) This trail takes you through an uphill habitat under restoration with planted longleaf pines and wiregrass. Reptiles + birds. Moderate for Florida but easy incline but OMG in summer bloody hot after 8:30 am Wading Bird Way -- (0.7 miles, Moderate, No Shade - blue herons + white pelicans Windmill Whisper -- (0.4 miles, Moderate, Some Shade) This trail takes you through an oak hammock that connects to Wading Bird Way and Shady Oak. Otter Trail -- (0.2 miles, Easy, Shaded) This trail you may find owls be on the lookout! Wildlife; according to the literature..I've seen a few and the lovely people who give tours point these beautiful creatures out! alligators, eagles, osprey, red shouldered hawks, wild turkey, barred owls, wood storks, white ibis, sandhill cranes, moorhens, pied-billed grebes, black-necked stilts, red-bellied woodpeckers, bobwhite quails, eastern meadowlarks, savannah sparrows, American kestrels, great blue herons, American white pelicans, sandpipers, spoonbills, great egrets, ducks and other waterfowl and wading birds. You might also see otters, bobcats ( I have been here 60 times a have not seen a bobcat, a family from London came 1x and BAM - saw a bobcat right near the parking lot - hate them just a tiny bit)... grey fox, armadillos, squirrels (gray and fox varieties), frogs, turtles, black racer snakes, five-lined racerunner lizards + other reptiles. Go, enjoy the heck out of it, bring water, a hat, watch for thunderstorms and know in summer you will sweat! But it is a wonderful and beautiful place! read more

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I couldn't have been more impressed with this place! I came with some students and friends on an "adventure walk" and had a wonderful time. The parking was Plentiful and easy. The facilities at the welcome center were great (clean bathrooms, wildlife display, maps, etc.). There were plenty of picnic tables and pavilions with shade. The cool thing is that the signs along the trail routes are abundant and clearly labeled. I saw people biking, hiking and taking lots of photos. Be prepared to be one with nature and be VERY close (honestly, too close for my comfort at times) with alligators, wild boar and so on. It's worth the drive from wherever you are. Check it out. Oh yeah and they're known for the massive 13-15 ft gator... read more

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I read about this place in the New York Times, and was thrilled that our local Tampa friends had visited Circle B often, and were also expert birders! A former ranch, Circle B Bar Reserve started as a nature preserve in the early 2000's, and is something to see. We made a stop at the Information Center for restrooms and a water fillup, grabbed a map, and a helpful local gave us a few tips right away! We barely left the area and spied a newly killed snake underneath a tree, and a mama hawk was feeding pieces of it to her baby up in the tree! We hadn't even reached a path yet. Took the path that hugs the Lake, saw herons of all variety, cormorants and other birds (which our map had pictures of as a nice visual guide), a few gators floating in the Lake, and a raccoon eating turtle eggs right on the path. On our return a huge gator crossed the sandy path, to go into the stream; and that was truly something to see up close! Like, prehistoric! While that Lake path is fairly shaded, the other paths we walked were not. Wear sunscreen, hats, bring lots of water. There was a bobcat in the Reserve that week, and a gentleman was keeping watch of her den, and said the bobcat came right up to him to check him out the day before. We saw a family of sandhill cranes w/a young one, and got some great pro pics. We did not get to see the family of wild pigs, that apparently were hanging around the entrance. But there's more wildlife here than you can shake a stick at! This was truly a highlight of my trip to Tampa, and a must for nature lovers, and a good option for families. Highly recommended! read more

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Jogging, running, bicycling are all great here. The bird, alligator and other animal watching are amazing fir families, tourists, and photographers . Alligator alley is so much fun, and the alligators walk behind you or in fro t of you. It's truly magical. read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

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I have lived in Lakeland there years now and for some reason never made it over to Circle B until the end of this year (2020). What a mistake! I was really missing out on such an awesome, completely free experience! In just one visit where I didn't even see half of the area I saw SO much! Almost double digit gator spottings of all sizes. One was even blocking the trail path we were on so we had to turn around, lol. Saw a ton of different birds, and some giant woodpeckers that were so dope. Lots of raccoons that run around on the paths a few feet away from you with absolutely no regard for being so close to a human, it was actually really comical. We heard some wild hogs squealing but unfortunately didn't see them this time. There was just so much to see and observe, in such a peaceful and natural area, wow I loved it. Can't believe this luscious, lively place is bacislly tucked into my backyard. read more

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Great park to hike and see Florida wildlife. Signage for parking could be a little better but once in the park enjoy nature read more

This is my new favorite place for a walk. I love that the trails are all marked perfectly and they are a comfortable place to walk. I love that I got to see so many different birds. I love that the trees, the foliage and the water are all breathtaking. Yes there are alligators, but I see them everywhere. Every path has different plant species and views, with each one topping out the next. The lake is way bigger than I expected. All the marshy type areas are so pretty, I just wanted to sit and watch them. We walked for 2 hours and logged 5 miles and still didn't walk all the trails. The crowds were small on a Tuesday morning so we felt comfortable being there. There were many photographers around and everyone was so friendly pointing out things. The eagles nest is huge and we saw 2 eagles. Also saw sand hill cranes with their baby, u,triple herons and ducks, ibis and egrets. Also ma y birds we had no idea what they were. The paths are wide enough for 2 people to walk side by side, so that was nice. I wish they didn't allow bicycles, as it was annoying having them come behind us and us having to find a space to move over for them. Will definitely be back. read more

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Of all of the parks/reserves that I have hiked in the greater Tampa area, this is the best. It has everything. First of all of the wildlife sightings are many and they are amazing. There are tons of birds of all types (including eagles), turtles, alligators and lots of other creatures. The scenery is beautiful and offers a haven to all. The trails are marked better than any other park and are maintained well. This is a very popular place and there were dozens of cars parked near the main trailhead area. However, we never felt that it was crowded. Bicyclists are permitted on many of the trails, which is a little annoying since they tend to startle the wildlife as they rush by. I will certainly return. read more

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I wouldn't say there's too much to recommend this place, but at the same time, there was nothing wrong with it either. The free parking was pretty swell. Seemed to be plenty of spaces to choose from. A number of trails, none very long or strenuous, all pretty flat in elevation. Did see a couple of crocs close to the trail (one was a mama with babies!) so that was fun/exciting, especially for a out-of-stater like myself. A few cranes and herons. Also some mosquitos cuz of all the marshland around, so come prepared with bug spray. There are paper maps at select locations and maps on signs with decent frequency; you're unlikely to get lost at any point. Could've been more picturesque. I usually take lots of nature photos but few of the sights along our walk inspired me much. Ah well. read more

This is probably one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. Because it has a lot of special meaning to me as well. The beautiful nature, the wildlife, the trails, everything here is so beautiful. If you are looking for gators while visiting Florida, this is the place. You can see many of them in their habitat (just don't disturb them). They won't bother. You can see wild boars with their families. Birds with their families. Humans with their families. It's just so amazing how we are all animals living on this earth together and when you come to circle b bar reserve it's like everyone is living in synchronicity. Living in peace. It just feels like peace here. Definitely come here if you love nature and want to see wildlife in their own habitat. read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Love hiking, nature, and the wild life? This is for you. With the different trails you are able to spent hours here. The weather will however play a major role how you will experience it. Bring water, water, and water. Apply sunscreen and bug sprays you will have a great time spotting alligators, turtles, raccoons, fishes, all kinds of birds and a beautiful scenery. We took the shady oak and alligator trail, love to come back and do the whole trail one day. read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

Circle B is an amazing free wildlife reserve. We visit every time we are in Central Florida. Today we took a President's Day hike through the park, near the lake and down the Alligator Alley trail. Even though the park is closed on Mondays, the trails are still open. Today, we were thrilled to see many, many alligators (some right next to the trail), raccoons, turtles, and many types of birds. We saw more wildlife at Circle B today than on our trip to the Everglades. Highly recommend this park! read more

Absolutely amazing. We were there for 3 hours and could have stayed longer if we had time. We saw over 22 species of birds. Many more we could not identify. Saw tons of alligators and even an armadillo. Ran into some folks giving a tour and this made the experience even more enjoyable. Easy walk with so much to see. Would absolutely visit again. read more

One of my favorite places to go for a nice walk with the camera! There is always something different to see. Go early because some of the trails don't have a lot of shade and it gets super hot. read more

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Great place for a relaxing nature walk. Almost guaranteed to see wildlife if you go around dawn or at dusk. Plenty of canopy so the sun isn't too bad. Bugs are the usual for Florida. Clean park, restrooms, and great information center. Some sandy and muddy areas depending on weather. Not completely stroller or wheelchair friendly. Some of the short paths close to information center are harder bottoms and easier for strollers. read more

This is the most amazing hike I have ever taken in Florida and I have hiked a lot. The Circle B Bar Reserve used to be a working cattle ranch. In 2000, the 1,267-acre property was jointly purchased by Polk County and the Southwest Florida Water Management District and turned into a nature preserve. It was purchased to help maintain the Banana Creek marsh area. Trails from the old ranch still cut across the preserve, giving you easy access to the marshy, lakefront and upland environments but the wetland habitats feeding the Peace River basin have been fully restored. You are right in the midst of a swamp and a marsh system that is home to a lot of wildlife. Trails wrap around Lake Hancock and wind through Banana Creek Marsh. If you do all the trails you will hike or bike a total of 6 miles but you could do as little as a half mile. On the preserve is the Polk Nature Discovery Center which was completed in 2008. It contains interactive displays about the plants, animals, and ecosystems of the reserve. Environmental and education programs are also held here. As as I was walking in I saw a adorable armadillo snuffling around. I wanted to hit the best trails so I spoke to volunteer Sharon who advised me that her favorite trails were Alligator Alley and Marsh Rabbit Run. According to the Circle B Bar Preserve website trails include: Shady Oak Trail -- (1.3 miles, Easy, Shaded) This trail takes you through an oak hammock, where you can watch for cabbage palms wrapped in trumpet vines, live oak branches covered with resurrection ferns, Spanish moss and the butterfly orchid. The hammock provides food and shelter to many types of animals and birds. Lost Bridge Trail -- (0.5 miles, Easy, Mostly Shaded) This trail leads you through an oak canopy to a long boardwalk that gives you a feeling of 'walking on water' through the swamp. The trail ends by taking you past the old cattle pens, a reminder of the past uses of this site. Alligator Alley -- (1 mile, Easy, Mostly Shaded) This trail leads you through an oak canopy to a long boardwalk that gives you a feeling of 'walking on water' through the swamp. The trail ends by taking you past the old cattle pens, a reminder of the past uses of this site. Marsh Rabbit Run -- (0.7 miles, Easy, Partially Shaded) This trail takes you past a shallow marsh where you may see many types of wading birds including spoonbills and white ibis. Several dead trees bear the chisel marks of red-bellied woodpeckers. Watch for otters and turtles using the fallen logs to bask in the sun. The former Banana Creek Canal runs along the south side of this trail. Heron Hideout -- (0.5 miles, Easy, Little Shade) This trail crosses the marsh and can either return you to the Discovery Center or provide the shortest way to the marsh, where you can see birds like sandhill cranes, moorhens and black-necked stilts. Eagle Roost -- (0.7 miles, Moderate, No Shade) This trail takes you through an uphill habitat under restoration with planted longleaf pines and wiregrass. Reptiles and birds such as bobwhite quails, eastern meadowlarks and American kestrels are commonly seen. Be sure to take water on this trail on hot summer days. Wading Bird Way -- (0.7 miles, Moderate, No Shade) This trail runs along the deepest waters of the marsh system and boasts some of the best wildlife observations. Watch for great blue herons, great egrets and large groups of migratory wading birds such as the American white pelican. Windmill Whisper -- (0.4 miles, Moderate, Some Shade) This trail takes you through an oak hammock that connects to Wading Bird Way and Shady Oak. Otter Trail -- (0.2 miles, Easy, Shaded) This trail connects the Otter parking lot to the main parking lot at the Discovery Center. It is impossible to get lost. There are signs everywhere on how to get back to the visitors center. On the Lost Bridge Trail I ran into two baby wild hogs. ON Alligator Alley I saw hundreds of alligators and birds including soaring eagles, red shoulder hawks, osprey, anhingas, cormorrants, and great blue herons. I also saw a raccoon. A giant alligator crossed the trail right in front of me! Owls nest in the trees by the parking lot. If you are lucky you may see roseate spoonbills, otters, bobcats, grey fox, squirrels (gray and fox varieties, I have always wanted to see a fox squirrel), frogs, turtles, and black racer snakes. This place is just amazing and it is completely free. Just bring a lunch that you can enjoy at one of the picnic tables. The only drawback is the bathrooms are portable toilets. Now that I know how incredible it is here I am going to come back when I can spend the whole day. It is absolutely worth the drive. read more

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The 3 of us had never been here before...all I can say is..."WOW" The pristine grounds, the trails to special places, the Spanish moss swaying from the trees, photo ops galore...memorable times under Florida's blue-blue sky. We saw numerous birds that were a photo taker's dream. We didn't see any gators which was not a disappointment because we live in Florida and have seen gators before. Our time spent was delightful and we highly recommend this adventure...take your camera with. read more

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An awesome place for nature lovers. Be sure to bring your camera because you are sure to find multiple photo opportunities on your walk. It is a 2-3 mile walk round trip if you go to alligator alley, so be sure to wear comfortable attire. There were a plethora of different bird, fish and turtle species, along with the main attraction- alligators. We even ran across a very calm raccoon on our way back to the car. Be aware that this is a nature reserve and you are going to be engaging with animals in their natural habitats, free of cages/ fencing etc. read more

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We went on a Monday so we walked the trails (inside is closed on Monday's) tons of gators and the best views for a hike. Most of the walk was covered. Alligator alley had so many to view in the lake and we had 3 very close, within 5 ft of us on the trail. That got the heart pumping a little. Lots of birds and butterflies. Remember to bring your water. We will visit again. What a great place to get back to nature. read more

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After bioluminescent kayaking, I visited Circle B. Upon entering the park, I was greeted by a rabbit & the first hints of the sunrise, which resembled an aurora borealis. In the dark, I strolled along a trail, which had me feeling as though I was in Jurassic Park- without perpetual death threats. I found the heavy vegetation & musical creatures delightful. At Lake Hancock, I found alligators, a variety of birds, & a vibrant sunrise. Although one may easily be distracted by all the beauty, please watch your step, considering there was a snake on the trail. This snake was likely a non-venomous, brown water-snake. A future encounter may require a bit more caution. Looking forward to visiting Circle B again. Thank you for a wonderful morning! read more

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Nature/wildlife reserve. Picnic shelters are available. Learning center with interactive displays. Restroom and water fountain available in learning/discovery center. Take water with you! Very sunny and little shade. We were soaking wet with sweat. Dont litter while there as it can harm the animals. Bring walking shoes not sandals as you will walk on gravel, In some areas. Pocket size maps are available and QR code scan so you can see where you are in the area. Only suggestion i have would be to add a gift shop. read more

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This was an experience we'll never forget!!! From being literally in the middle of nowhere, to having no stroller for the majority of the expedition, no map, not the right shoes for some of us, getting rained on and having to be very aware of our surroundings. We didn't encounter as much wildlife but we did come across alligators, hawks, eagles, herons, turtles, ducks, butterflies and squirrels. There were tons of pig tracks but we didn't see any. I wish we would have seen some owls (love them) and armadillos or raccoons (don't really like either but it would have added to the experience). There are picnic tables and shelters by the parking lot, I'm pretty sure you can host birthday parties here. The one thing I recommend to make this 5 stars, in my particular case since I have small kids, is a little more guidance along the trails. Maybe some maps so that you know where you should turn next. We ended up walking about half hour one way and decided to turn around because we really didn't know in which way to continue our course. It would have been nice to go a different direction but, because we didn't have our stroller and i have two 2 year olds, we walked back the same way that took us there. Other than that this is something we've never experienced before and I'd come back for another visit when I'm in the area. Did I mention it is free? Who doesn't love a free experience? Highly recommend it to nature lovers. read more

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You cannot get any better than this preserve. The site is amazingly beautiful, I only wish I had taken more pictures here. I biked along the trail seeing gators, birds, and general wild life. Part of the trail is open and then it turns into almost a tunnel of trees which was my favorite part. The sun peeking through the tall trees and your engulfed with gorgeous scenery. Lovely! read more

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I freaking love this place! We go every chance we get. Lots of trails to walk or even bike ride. Some, however, should be left to more advanced riders as the terrain can get a little tricky. But if you want to take a stroll and see some wildlife, this is the place! It's free, so pop in any day and pick a trail. Some notes: bring water! It gets hot and the trails can get long! Beware that it has lakes and swamps so... mosquitoes! Also, be aware of the gators, venomous snakes and other creatures. Just watch where you're putting you're feet and stick to the trails. There are picnic areas at the front and even an educational building that is open during the week, I believe. They also offer a "train" ride at set times. I'm amazed by the number of people I've met from the area who've not been to Circle B. Give it a try at least once. Florida is home to some amazing wildlife and this is the perfect place to experience it! read more

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First time this year came here for a walk today a 20 minute walk or hike, we had fun and saw some birds, few butterfly and 2 alligator!! I recommend this place if you in the area for a walk or a hike!! We will be back I hope!! read more

Great place to recommend for the family to have a great time. just make sure you're ready with lots of water and a towel to wipe the sweat . read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

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Such a great place! And it's free!! I'm new to FL and this was one of my first adventures. I didn't see any gators but my friend's sister lives in Lakeland took me and she told me she had a snake fall out of the tree and in front of her once. There's definitely a lot to walk. It's nice. The path along most of the lake was closed due to hatching season. The people that work inside are really friendly too. I can't wait to come back! But their spiders can definitely be downsized! Wow. read more

Circle B Bar Reserve - Hiking Near Me - Lakeland, Florida

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I love this place. It's great for peaceful walks. I've not tried my hand at fishing here but since it's on Lake Hancock, I'd say probably not going to catch anything you want. This is also where the "Hannibal" gator was at so just look out. I've not personally had any encounters but al wyd good to be safer than sorry. A little off the beaten path but not really, it's off Winter Lake Rd. Heading to Winter Haven. The walkways are wide and clear and you'll run into shaded spots and places to sit. The biggest attraction for me though is how picturesque it is. This is definitely a great place to take landscape or lifestyle photos so bring your camera and enjoy yourself! read more

I met friends at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland so they could take wild life pictures. I don't have a nice camera; just used my iPhone and I still got a lot of neat pictures. We walked one circle pathway that was about 2.5 miles. It took us about an hour because we stopped to look at animals. I felt lucky to see a wild pig a couple times. I'm not an avid birder but I do enjoy looking at birds in their natural habitats. We saw so many small gators close by in the marshy waters and many more larger gators out swimming in lake Hancock. The park is free. Parking is also free. I'd like to go back and take the other route. Worth the drive from Orlando read more

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