Moccasin Lake Nature Park
A 51-acre nature preserve in Clearwater, FL, featuring shaded trails, a raptor sanctuary, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 51-acre nature preserve in Clearwater, FL, featuring shaded trails, a raptor sanctuary, and abundant wildlife.
"This park is really well great. (Fake sound effect)"
Donate for Conservation
Support the park's efforts to maintain its ecosystem and care for rescued animals. Donations are greatly appreciated! :heart:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are mostly smooth with boardwalks, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the 51 acres. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Raptor Sanctuary
Outdoor enclosures
See rescued birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and owls up close. A fascinating and educational experience for all ages.
Shaded Nature Trails
Throughout the park
Explore 51 acres of tranquil, oak-lined paths and boardwalks offering beautiful vistas and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Butterfly Garden
Designated garden area
A small but lovely garden buzzing with butterflies, offering a peaceful spot for quiet observation.
Wildlife Viewing
Marsh areas and ponds
Spot gopher tortoises, snakes, turtles, and various bird species in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for distant alligators too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Spotting
Embrace the Educational Aspect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donate for Conservation
Support the park's efforts to maintain its ecosystem and care for rescued animals. Donations are greatly appreciated! :heart:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are mostly smooth with boardwalks, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the 51 acres. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Bug Spray
Especially during warmer months, insect repellent can enhance your comfort on the trails. :smilingfacewith3hearts:
Check Park Hours
The park is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM but is closed on Mondays. Always verify current hours before visiting. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donate for Conservation
Support the park's efforts to maintain its ecosystem and care for rescued animals. Donations are greatly appreciated! :heart:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are mostly smooth with boardwalks, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the 51 acres. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Bug Spray
Especially during warmer months, insect repellent can enhance your comfort on the trails. :smilingfacewith3hearts:
Check Park Hours
The park is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM but is closed on Mondays. Always verify current hours before visiting. :clock1:
Look for Gopher Tortoises
These fascinating creatures are often seen along the trails. Remember to observe them from a distance and never feed them. :turtle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Moccasin Lake Nature Park for its tranquil, shaded trails, beautiful Vistas, and the fascinating raptor sanctuary. It's considered a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and educational exhibits. Some find the park small, but its charm lies in its well-maintained natural setting and educational focus.
"1 hour worth of trails
Small butterfly garden
Education areas with animals
Clean bathroom
Plenty of areas to sit and picnic
Tranquil little Park setback in the neighborhood, but the views once you get there couldn't be overstated. The amazing trail system is well taken care of and boasts plenty of boardwalks with beautiful Vistas. Small creeks and a river run through this park wonderfully pinpointed by a few ponds. There are some sunny areas, but it's mostly a beautiful shaded walk through the woods. I definitely wasn't expecting there to be an Aviary showing off some of the areas bird culture, which was pretty amazing and educational."
rex donahough
"I loved this park. They have rescued birds-of-prey here. We watched them feed the owls. It was fascinating . They have a blind falcon and other beautiful birds that have found a safe home here. There's really nice hiking trails and a butterfly garden, but the highlight was the marsh area. We saw so much wildlife! I can't wait to go back."
Cathy Morris
"What an experience for any raptor lover! We found the trails to be very pleasant. Can’t believe we can access 51 acres of bliss."
Brigitte Ferdinandsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is located at 2750 Park Trail Ln, Clearwater, FL. It's easily accessible right off Gulf to Bay Boulevard, making it convenient for local visitors.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. It's generally sufficient for visitors, though it can get busier during peak times or special events.
Information on public transport accessibility can vary. It's best to check local Clearwater transit schedules for routes that may service the park's vicinity.
Absolutely! Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a great option for a half-day or full-day trip from Tampa, offering a refreshing nature escape.
Yes, Moccasin Lake Nature Park is part of a larger network of Pinellas County parks, including John Chesnut Senior Park and Philipe Park, which are great to combine for a day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. However, it is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
While the park is free to enter, donations are highly encouraged to support conservation efforts and the care of the resident wildlife.
No, advance booking is not required for general park entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
Yes, the park often hosts educational programs, including raptor feeding demonstrations. It's advisable to check their official schedule for upcoming events.
The park has a comfortable building available for programs and private parties, which can be reserved. Inquire with park management for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park features approximately 51 acres of well-maintained trails, including shaded walking paths and boardwalks that offer beautiful Vistas of the ponds and creeks.
You can spot a variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, snakes, turtles, geckos, numerous bird species, and even distant alligators. The raptor sanctuary is a major highlight.
Yes, there is a small but very nice playground area suitable for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Yes, the park has clean restrooms available for visitors.
The park features an environmental education center with exhibits on local wildlife and the park's ecosystem, including a notable raptor sanctuary.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park offers plenty of areas to sit and picnic, making it ideal for bringing your own food and enjoying a meal amidst nature.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. There are no on-site food vendors.
Being located in Clearwater, FL, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area offering various dining options.
Typically, parks have regulations regarding alcohol. It's best to check the park's specific rules or contact them directly for clarification.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's common for nature parks to have water fountains. Bringing a reusable water bottle is always a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalks offer scenic Vistas of the lake and surrounding nature. The raptor sanctuary and butterfly garden also provide excellent subjects for photography.
Drone usage may be restricted in nature parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's recommended to check park regulations or contact them before flying.
You can capture images of birds of prey, gopher tortoises, turtles, and various other local fauna. Early morning or late afternoon light is often best.
The park's shaded trails, ponds, and creeks offer a serene natural landscape that can be beautiful for photography, especially during golden hour.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for photography, and also increase your chances of seeing active wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Raptor Sanctuary
The sanctuary is a testament to the park's commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and education. It’s not just about viewing; it’s about understanding the vital role these predators play in the ecosystem. The enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats as much as possible, providing a comfortable environment for the birds.
When visiting, remember to be respectful of the animals and their space. Photography is encouraged, but flash should be avoided to prevent disturbing the birds.
Exploring the Nature Trails and Wildlife
You'll find a mix of smooth walking paths and scenic boardwalks that wind through the preserve, offering beautiful Vistas of small creeks, ponds, and the lake itself. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse local wildlife that calls Moccasin Lake Nature Park home. Gopher tortoises are frequently spotted along the trails, and the marshy areas are teeming with turtles, snakes, and a variety of bird species.
Beyond the trails, the park features a small butterfly garden, providing a tranquil spot to observe these delicate creatures.
Family-Friendly Features and Education
The environmental education center is a major draw for families. It houses exhibits that teach children about local flora and fauna, and the raptor sanctuary offers a captivating look at birds of prey.
The presence of clean restrooms and picnic areas further enhances the family-friendly atmosphere, allowing for comfortable and enjoyable outings. Visiting Moccasin Lake Nature Park can be a highly educational experience for children, sparking curiosity about wildlife and conservation. It's a great place to combine a fun park visit with learning about Florida's natural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit