Last Updated on July 22, 2025 by Travelationship
When the opportunity came up at work to travel to a conference, my hand shot up before I even heard where it was. Once I found the location, I immediately started researching what the area had to offer. Initially, my goal was to see an alligator or a manatee, but after further exploration, I settled on an alligator. With my goal selected, I explored the Tampa Bay area, keeping a keen eye out for Mr. Alligator.
Wild Parks in the Tampa Bay Area
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
Looking for an area to do some hiking, this could be your spot; with 27 miles of marked trails, it’s a perfect getaway from the city. Cyclists don’t feel left out; Starkey will accommodate you as well. A 6.7-mile paved trail runs through the park, connecting to the larger 42-mile Suncoast Trail. If neither of those options sparks your fancy, the park also has facilities for horse use on a 10-mile marked trail. Bird watchers should also note that it’s a site on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Starkey Wilderness Park has recorded over 140 bird species. My only complaint about the park was that some of the trails were not clearly labeled.
Location: 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, New Port Richey, FL 34655
Hours: 6:30 am to Sunset, Daily
More Info: Jay B Starkey Wilderness Park Website
Fort de Soto Park
This park has a little bit of everything. Located on a grouping of keys in southwest St Petersburg, you can find an old fort, kayaks & bikes to rent, two fishing piers, waterfowl galore, and white sandy beaches. The remnants of the fort are somewhat misleading; from the parking lot, it appears as though there is more to explore than there actually is.
The canons and various chambers in the back of the fort are your only points of exploration, save for a walkway over the top, which yields almost nothing. Be mindful in the cool, dark chambers; I found a three-foot snake in one of them. The soft, white sand beaches were lovely and perfect for a long stroll. Don’t be surprised by the gaggle of paparazzi; they are there for the birds. Honestly, I hadn’t seen that many large telephoto lenses outside of a nature special on the Discovery Channel. The park also offers a nice view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, St Petersburg, FL 33715
More Info: Fort de Soto Park Website
Myakka River State Park
This was my heaven; I spotted a gator before I even parked the car. My goal was to head straight for the lake and then explore from there, but the park road takes you over the river, and I could see three alligators just from the car window. After getting over that excitement, I proceeded to the lake to check my options. They had large airboats that you could ride on, the biggest ones I have ever seen; they probably could hold 30 people. Next to that, though, were kayaks and canoes. Instantly, I knew this was the way I wanted to see the lake. The agent at the counter was helpful in pointing out areas I could visit and the estimated times it would take to get there.
His information held, and I encountered 40-50 alligators in my roughly 70 minutes on the lake. The park comprises some 58 square miles of land, so if heading out on the lake is not what you had in mind, there are many other options. A nature walk includes a trip up into the treetops on a canopy bridge, topped off with a fabulous view from a lookout tower. Another option is a wooden boardwalk that takes you out over the lake in search of wildlife; this one is perfect for birdwatchers. Hikers can also explore trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie. Even a tram tour takes you out on a safari in the backcountry. The park even offers cabins for those who want to spend more time out with nature.
Location: 13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
Hours: 8 am – Sunset
More Info: Myakka River State Park Website
My Park Thoughts
For obvious reasons, my favorite park was Myakka, but each park provided exciting things to photograph and unique experiences. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend either of the parks I visited on my trip. Read about my hunt for street art in the Tampa Bay area.
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