Published: July 28, 2025
Bartow, Fla. (July 28, 2025) — The Marsh Rabbit Run trail at Circle B Bar Reserve is closed until further notice due to active alligator nesting sites.
The Alligator Alley trail at Circle B Bar Reserve partially closed earlier this summer due to active alligator nesting sites. Visitors can still access the open portion of Alligator Alley up to the dock on Lake Hancock by taking the Shady Oak trail.
Alligator Alley typically closes during alligator mating and nesting season in the summer months, a time when alligators become territorial and protective of their nests and young.
For a location map and additional information on Circle B Bar Reserve, visit https://www.polk-county.net/park/circle-b-bar-reserve/. Those interested in obtaining additional information on trail closures should contact Polk County Parks and Natural Resources Division at (863) 668-4673.
Polk County Government owns and manages many environmental land sites throughout Polk County. The primary purpose of acquiring environmental land is to protect the water, wildlife, and wilderness and to manage these resources. Circle B Bar Reserve is a 1,267-acre property owned by Polk County and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The site is located on the northwest shores of Lake Hancock in Central Polk County. Nature-based recreation opportunities are available on many of these sites, and trails are an important amenity for visitors to environmental lands. Polk County Parks and Natural Resources Division staff monitor trails regularly and may periodically close them for management and safety reasons.