Circle B Bar Reserve is a beautiful and serene park located southeast of Lakeland on 1,267 acres of land. It is a prime destination for hiking, bird watching, and cycling, offering a very nice hike and a calm, relaxed ambience. Visitors can see lots of wildlife like alligators, birds of prey, raccoons, rabbits, and armadillos, often from the preserve’s pier or shoreline. There are many different paths to walk, each with educational boards, and an indoor Polk Nature Discovery Center with a mini-museum and play area. The experience is incredibly hot, with some walks miles in the full sun, so bringing liquids is essential. While some routes are shaded, more water fountains or shade areas would be nice. Parking is kind of a nightmare and much more stressful, so arriving early is recommended. Pets are not allowed due to the gators and other animals. Despite the poor parking, it is a peaceful, refreshing, and easy-level park, well worth the free trip as a step away from everyday stress.
