Circle B Bar Reserve
Explore a vast nature reserve in Lakeland, FL, with extensive trails, abundant wildlife like alligators and birds, and scenic beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Circle B Bar Reserve
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast nature reserve in Lakeland, FL, with extensive trails, abundant wildlife like alligators and birds, and scenic beauty.
"A nature lover's paradise with miles of trails and abundant wildlife, especially alligators!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging; arriving early is key to a stress-free visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the trails; flip-flops are not recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alligator Encounters
Throughout the reserve
Witness these 'modern dinosaurs' in their natural habitat, often seen basking or swimming.
Spanish Moss Draped Trees
Along the trails
Hike under the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss hanging from cypress trees.
Birdwatching Paradise
Marshes and lakefronts
Spot a variety of bird species, including blue herons and American bald eagles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gator Spotting Strategy
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging; arriving early is key to a stress-free visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the trails; flip-flops are not recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during hot Florida weather.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Essential during warmer months to ward off biting insects.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging; arriving early is key to a stress-free visit.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the trails; flip-flops are not recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during hot Florida weather.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent
Essential during warmer months to ward off biting insects.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Keep your camera ready for amazing wildlife photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Trails
The reserve is vast; plan for multiple visits to see everything.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Circle B Bar Reserve's natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife, especially alligators. Many appreciate the free entry and parking. However, some have been disappointed by a lack of wildlife sightings on certain visits, and parking can be a significant issue during peak times.
"Ok so for the 3 star rating. Now the place is absolutely cool looking for sure plenty of hiking trails that are very well maintained and definitely what's the word photogenic or something now I could probably easily rate it 5 stars but man we were so disappointed when we went , we saw pretty much nothing as far as wildlife, no gators, otters, bobcats which we figured we wouldn't see them due to the time of day but that being said it was pretty decently sunny and in the 80s so definitely figured we'd at least see some alligators and before going when we seen reviews on Google that it was a definite Hotspot to see them so as for that it was a let down. Like I said otherwise definitely a nice scenic place and I'm sure as far as the wildlife goes some days will be better than others ."
James Mars
"Love the area, it is very well kept, and the people who work here are super knowledgeable about the animals, trees and wildlife. You can bring your bikes or hike through the preserve. There are wild pigs/hogs and of course gators can be found in plain sight. Being alert is especially important here but I feel that makes it a better experience.
The preserve is enormous so plan on making multiple trips. F.y.i. Bring yourself plenty to drink and wear comfortable clothing. There are a lot of mosquitoes depending on the time of year so plan for that during the hotter season."
miguel mendez
"The park is just pure nature. It has a calm and relaxed ambience about it. Gators do roam around but they're not usually in your path. Oftentimes, they're swimming on their own, which is fun to watch. There are many different paths to walk and a lot of birds and other animals to see. It can get hot, so bring liquids. Parking is kind of a nightmare. That is the one thing that makes the experience much more stressful, so get there early. Pets are not allowed here due to gators and other animals. I gave this a 5, despite the poor parking. I wasn't sure how else to rate it. They need more parking here. If I recall, there is an inside mini-museum you can check out at certain hours but most of the experience is outside on the trails with nature."
Adam Phelps
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Circle B Bar Reserve is located in Lakeland, Florida. It's a popular spot for hikes between Tampa and Orlando.
Public transport options to Circle B Bar Reserve are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the reserve.
The reserve is situated between Lakeland and Winter Haven in Polk County, Florida. Specific GPS coordinates or 'Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland, FL' will guide you there.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can become a nightmare, especially on busy days. It's highly recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
Yes, biking is an activity offered at Circle B Bar Reserve, and you can bring your bike to explore the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Circle B Bar Reserve offers free entry and free parking, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for exploring nature.
The reserve is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. Visitors can simply arrive and explore the reserve.
While not always advertised, some visitors have mentioned workers providing information for future tours. It's worth inquiring at the Welcome Center or with staff on-site.
Pets are not allowed at Circle B Bar Reserve due to the presence of alligators and other wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, various bird species like blue herons and bald eagles, and sometimes wild pigs. +1
The reserve offers miles of well-maintained trails that meander through marshes, uplands, and lakefronts. Visitors can choose trails based on their desired length and scenery.
Absolutely! Circle B Bar Reserve is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with numerous species, including blue herons and bald eagles, frequently spotted.
Yes, fishing is one of the activities offered at Circle B Bar Reserve, along with biking and birdwatching.
Yes, it's considered a great place for families and kids to explore nature and see wildlife. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions or restaurants within Circle B Bar Reserve itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks or dine in Lakeland.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal amidst nature.
It's recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for longer hikes, as there are no food facilities on-site.
The closest dining options will be in the nearby city of Lakeland, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Information regarding alcohol consumption is not readily available, but it's generally advisable to err on the side of caution in natural reserves and check local regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire reserve offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the Spanish moss-draped trees to the diverse wildlife. The trails provide scenic backdrops.
Wildlife photography is very popular, especially capturing alligators, various bird species, and other native animals in their natural environment.
Generally, photography is encouraged to capture the beauty of the reserve. However, always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing them.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and potentially more active wildlife.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the reserve management or local regulations regarding drone operation in natural areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for capturing stunning shots. Be patient, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and be prepared for the elements, including potential heat and mosquitoes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Wildlife
The reserve is particularly renowned for its abundant wildlife, with alligators being a major draw. Travelers often report seeing them basking on the banks or swimming in the water. +1When exploring, remember that gators have the right of way, and maintaining a safe distance is crucial for both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Best Practices for a Memorable Visit
Comfort is paramount for enjoying the trails. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking, and avoid flip-flops.
While the reserve is a natural paradise, remember that pets are not allowed due to the wildlife. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit