Marshall Hampton Reserve and Panther Point Trail
A sprawling nature reserve with diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic lake views, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for wildlife
Marshall Hampton Reserve and Panther Point Trail
Best Time
Prime time for wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling nature reserve with diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic lake views, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
"Beautiful reserve with plenty of parking and wildlife, a joy to walk."
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and have cow manure. Good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Bring bug spray & sunscreen
Essential for comfort, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewith_sunglasses:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panther Point Trail
Main trail system
A scenic, mostly easy trail offering diverse wildlife sightings and beautiful lake views.
Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the reserve
Spot alligators, bald eagles, and cows in their natural habitat.
Hammock Acorn Trail
Shaded trail section
Enjoy a cooler, shaded walk through the oak hammock, perfect for warmer days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trails
Wildlife Encounters & Best Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and have cow manure. Good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Bring bug spray & sunscreen
Essential for comfort, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewith_sunglasses:
Was brought here once and now I cannot find it!!
Proposed Polk County Expressway Threatens Bok Tower Gardens
Use the AllTrails app
Handy for navigating longer or less-marked trails. :iphone:
Look for wildlife early
Mornings are best for spotting alligators and birds. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and have cow manure. Good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Bring bug spray & sunscreen
Essential for comfort, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewith_sunglasses:
Use the AllTrails app
Handy for navigating longer or less-marked trails. :iphone:
Look for wildlife early
Mornings are best for spotting alligators and birds. :bird:
Check trail conditions
Some sections can be rough for horses. :horse:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Marshall Hampton Reserve for its beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and free entry. The trails are generally well-maintained and offer opportunities for various activities like hiking and horseback riding. Some find the trail navigation a bit unclear, and the entrance can be tricky to locate.
"A beautiful spot for a hike. Came here is two friends the other day for geocaching. We got to see two alligators. The lake was beautiful. We took the shorter 2 mi trail but there are longer options. Apparently horseback riding and bicycling are also welcome on these trails.
No cost to enter. There is a porta potty on site."
Jennifer Nanek
"The reserve is beautiful and there’s more than enough parking. My thoughts are that the turn in for the entrance is somewhat dangerous though and then also it is hard to understand where to go when you’re on the cattle ranch portion as well as maybe a welcome sign might help because if I had not known beforehand that I could walk in as well as seeing a couple walk in ahead of me I would not have been able to see such a different and interesting walking trail. It says follow designated specific trails in the cattle ranch trails but I couldn’t figure out if that meant follow the concrete road or follow the grass trail. Otherwise this nature preserve is beautiful and a joy to walk."
Hollie Miller
"Beautifully and well maintained trails. Some places are a bit rocky causing for a bit of tenderness on my horses hooves but other than that I highly recommend and will continue to return!"
Nikki Roberts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The entrance can be a bit tricky to find, with some users noting it's easy to miss. It's located near Circle B Bar Reserve. Some visitors have mentioned driving through a community to access it, but be mindful of after-hours access rules.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the reserve, making it convenient for visitors.
Access after dark might be restricted, especially if you're going through residential areas. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
Yes, the reserve is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the hike.
Some visitors have found the turn-in for the entrance to be somewhat dangerous. Pay close attention when approaching the reserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no cost to enter Marshall Hampton Reserve, making it a great free outdoor activity.
Specific operating hours are not always clearly posted, but it's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours due to potential access restrictions after dark.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, be mindful of potential restrictions for after-hours access, especially if navigating through residential areas.
There is a porta-potty on-site and one picnic table available for visitors.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The reserve offers multi-use trails that are generally rated as easy to moderate. Options include shorter loops and longer routes for more extensive exploration.
Yes, horseback riding and bicycling are welcome on the trails. Be aware of potential manure from cattle on some paths.
Visitors frequently report seeing alligators (including mothers with babies), bald eagles, armadillos, and cows.
Some visitors find it difficult to understand where to go, especially in the cattle ranch portions. Following designated trails is advised, but a welcome sign could improve clarity.
While sometimes rated moderate, many find the Panther Point Trail to be easier than expected. It offers beautiful scenery and wildlife opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Bird photographers have reported seeing multiple bald eagles within minutes of arriving, making it a prime spot for avian shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light and the most active wildlife. Keep an eye out for alligators and birds during these times.
The lake views are consistently described as beautiful. Venturing off the main trails can lead to more secluded and picturesque spots.
A telephoto lens for wildlife, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and plenty of battery power and memory cards. Don't forget your sunscreen and bug spray!
Yes, you'll likely encounter cows on the trails. Just be mindful of their space and any manure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
These trails are not just for hikers; they are also suitable for horseback riding and bicycling. If you're on horseback, be aware that some sections can be a bit rocky, potentially causing tenderness for your horse's hooves.
Abundant Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the reptiles and raptors, you're also likely to encounter armadillos scurrying through the underbrush. The reserve is also home to a herd of cows, which add to the rural charm of the landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit