Circle B Bar Reserve

The Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature preserve comprising 1267 acres and part of Polk County's Environmental Lands Program.  Located near Lakeland it includes oak hammock, freshwater marsh, hardwood swamp and lake shore.  A great variety of bird life calls it home including a nesting bald eagle population.  It is also home to alligators (big 'uns) and bobcats.  Park hours are 6:00am 'til 6:30pm year round and admission is free last I checked.  The entrance is located at 4399 Winter Lake Road (SR 540) a short distance from US 98.  From I-4 take exit 27 onto the Polk Parkway (570), take exit 10 off the parkway and merge onto SR 98 (Bartow Road) south and drive about a mile and turn left on Winter Lake Road.  Bring food and water since there are no concessions other than restrooms at the ranger post.  Follow the link below for more info.  

 http://www.polk-county.net/subpage.aspx?menu_id=52&id=6040