Great view of an alligator at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Circle B Bar Reserve is the perfect day trip for both Tampa residents looking to escape the congestion and also Orlando tourists who are looking for a relaxing day away from the theme parks. Located in Lakeland, the reserve is just an hour drive from both cities. Here you will enjoy a refreshing change of pace from the overcrowded tourist cities.

Beautiful Spanish moss tree at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

An alligator hotspot!

Circle B Bar Reserve is one of the nicest parks in the area. It also is one of the best places for spotting alligators in their natural habitats. We saw 10+ on our first visit, and this was in January (gators are more commonly seen during the earlier spring months). Luckily, the temps were a bit higher than normal, thus plenty of gators could be seen out basking in the sun (they prefer temperatures in the lower 80’s-low 90s). In fact, there are so many everywhere that you will come across the following Wildlife Crossing sign.

Wildlife crossing sign at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Hiking trails

Several miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes will give you the opportunity to get in a great workout and see plenty of wildlife. Bicycling the trails is another option, and in my opinion, a much better option on warmer days. You can cover all the trails much faster, get a small breeze, and not spend as much time in the sun. If you are not up for a hike or bike ride, you can always sign up for a 2 hour guided tram tour (due to the popularity of these rides, reservations are a must!).

Pretty green scenery along a trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
An attractive mix of palm trees and Spanish Moss Trees on the Shady Oak Trail

The scary walk along Alligator Alley

A walk down Alligator Alley is the must-do at this preserve. The 1.5 mile long trail is flat, easy, and mostly shaded. Alligators line both sides of the path, especially during the ideal weather conditions. What a great place to visit on your trip to Florida! Take advantage of this free opportunity to see alligators and other wildlife as opposed to paying big bucks for an airboat ride. Some are very easy to spot out, while others are more hidden. Keep your eyes open! Take a look below…

Alligator sighting at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Alligator sighting at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Alligator spotted between the trees at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Gator in the swamp at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Great back view of a gator at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Great side view of a gator at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Pretty lake views make your trek down Alligator Alley even more exciting. Take a few looks below.

Scenic lake views along Alligator Alley - at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Pretty lake views along alligator alley at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Bird flying over the lake - Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

A birdwatching oasis

Aside from alligators, Circle B is a prime spot for birdwatching. You will see many different species while walking the various trails. We were lucky enough to spot a bald eagle on our trip.

Bald eagle at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Take a look at the many different bird species you will possibly encounter on your visit.

Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Gopher tortoises are also commonly seen, so keep an eye out. Fortunately, they move super slow, so they are really easy to photograph!

Gopher tortoise at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

Aside from viewing wildlife, the refuge is in general a gorgeous place to walk around. It’s really nice to visit something so natural after visiting so many busy beaches and theme parks. You will come across all different types of ecosystems on the trails including: lakes, oak hammocks, marshes, and swamps.

Below are some of the pretty views you will experience at the preserve.

A beautiful canopy of Spanish moss trees at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Beautiful Spanish moss trees on the Shady Oak Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Cool looking moss tree at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Beautiful marsh views and lots of birds at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Serene views of a marsh at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland is a great spot for birdwatchers
Palm trees and moss trees on the trails at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Alligator Alley trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Swampy views down Alligator Alley at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Swampy views down Alligator Alley at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Windmill trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland Florida
A view of the Tree Hopper Trail at Circle B bar Reserve in Lakeland, florida
A long unshady trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Windmill trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Tree lined views along the Windmill Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Gorgeous trees lining the Shady Oak Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Palm trees on the Shady Oak Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Pretty tree canopy on the Shady Oak Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida
Gorgeous Spanish moss trees on the Shady Oak Trail at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida

A great daytrip from Orlando & Tampa

Next time you find yourself in the Orlando or Tampa area, be sure to take a side trip over to Lakeland to visit the beautiful Circle B Bar Reserve. The short hour drive is more than worth it for the wonderful scenery and abundant wildlife you will come across on your visit. If you are a fan of alligators, this is your place! Be sure to sign up for the tram ride well in advance as it sells out very quickly.

Alligator safety – Keep your distance!

Always keep in mind that alligators can attack at any time and the trails at Circle B are pretty narrow. Never walk too close to the edge and keep kids and pets far away from any freshwater. Read about some more Alligator safety tips to ensure a peaceful visit.

Location

Circle B Bar Reserve is located at: 4399 Winter Lake Road, Lakeland, FL 33803. Hours: Everyday from 5am to 7pm (8:30pm during daylight savings time). Pets are not allowed.

Call (863) 668-4673 to make your tram reservation.