Size
1,267 acres
Location
Northwestern Polk County, north of Bartow
About the Property
Named after a cattle ranch that once existed on this property, Circle B Bar Reserve was jointly acquired by the Polk County Environmental Lands Program and the District to protect the floodplain of the lake and to restore the Banana Creek marsh system. The property is maintained by Polk County. Much of property was converted to pasture, but remnant wetland communities can be found along Banana and Saddle creeks. Largest remnant natural communities are oak hammocks and various forested wetlands, primarily found in northeast corner of property.
Restoration projects are planned for the Banana Creek marsh system, which runs through the center of the property, and for an area of scrub on the southern portion of the site. The marsh system project will restore much of the original hydrologic function of the lands. The scrub restoration will benefit the numerous animals that utilize both wetlands and uplands during various phases of their life cycles.
Access and Parking
Located south of Lakeland on SR 540, entrance to park is on south side of road.
Hours of Operation
Daily from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. during standard time and from 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. during daylight savings time.
Restrooms and Water
Restroom facility located near main entrance. No water available.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking
- Oak Hammock Interpretative Trail (3.4-mile roundtrip) is an unpaved trail running from parking area to Lake Hancock.
- Lake View Trail (0.5-mile roundtrip from end of Oak Hammock Trail) is an unpaved spur trail running along the lake.
- Brochure describing trails available at trailhead.
Picnic Facilities
Picnic tables located along trail.
Nearby Recreation Lands
- Saddle Creek Park
- Tenoroc Fish Management Area
For More Information
Polk County Natural Resources Department, (863) 534-7377
