Tucked away in the heart of Clearwater, Moccasin Lake Nature Park is one of the last truly natural green spaces in Pinellas County—the most developed county in Florida. This 51-acre nature preserve offers a peaceful escape into what “Old Florida” used to look like, with shaded trails winding beneath centuries-old oak trees, boardwalks crossing cypress wetlands, and a remarkable raptor sanctuary caring for over 30 injured birds of prey.
Whether you’re a birdwatcher hoping to spot wild herons and woodpeckers, a family looking for an educational outdoor adventure, or simply seeking a quiet walk surrounded by nature, Moccasin Lake delivers an experience you won’t find at the beach.
Park Highlights
Birds of Prey Sanctuary
The park is home to the Moccasin Lake Raptor Sanctuary, which provides permanent care for over 30 non-releasable birds of prey representing 13 different species. You’ll see bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, screech owls, peregrine falcons, Mississippi kites, swallow-tailed kites, and vultures up close. One of their most famous residents is Elvis—possibly the longest-living vulture in captivity in America. The sanctuary also manages urban osprey nesting platforms throughout Pinellas County and works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release wild birds when possible.
Nature Trails & Boardwalks
Over a mile of well-maintained trails and boardwalks wind through diverse Florida habitats. You’ll walk beneath a canopy of massive live oaks draped with Spanish moss, cross wooden bridges over creeks and ponds, and stroll along the shores of the 5-acre lake that gives the park its name. The trails are easy to navigate and suitable for all fitness levels.
Wildlife Watching
Beyond the raptor sanctuary, the park teems with wild Florida creatures. Keep your eyes open for American alligators in the lake, gopher tortoises crossing the paths, raccoons, possums, and marsh rabbits. Birdwatchers regularly spot curlews, egrets, great blue herons, various woodpeckers, warblers, and jays. Free-roaming peacocks add a splash of color throughout the grounds.
Butterfly Garden & Turtle Pond
The park features a beautiful butterfly garden that attracts a variety of native Florida butterflies, plus a turtle pond where you can observe these ancient reptiles basking in the sun.
Interpretive Center
The newly renovated interpretive center houses educational exhibits about the park’s environment, live snake displays (including yellow and red rat snakes), and information about local wildlife. Staff and volunteers are happy to answer questions and share fascinating stories about the resident animals.
Playground
Families will appreciate the playground area where children can burn off some energy after exploring the trails.
Hours of Operation
The park is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that trails close to new visitors at 4:15 PM and the gate closes at 4:30 PM to allow everyone time to exit before closing.
The park is closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Admission & Parking
Admission: FREE
Parking: FREE — Ample free parking is available in the newly renovated lot near the entrance.
Park Rules
- No pets allowed (service animals are welcome)
- No fishing in the lake or ponds
- Stay on marked trails and boardwalks
- Do not feed the wildlife
- No smoking in the park
Best for Families
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is an excellent family destination. Here’s why kids love it:
- Up-close wildlife encounters: Children can see bald eagles, hawks, and owls just feet away at the raptor sanctuary
- Easy, stroller-friendly paths: Most trails and boardwalks are flat and accessible
- Free educational programs: The park offers school programs, guided hikes, and special events (check their schedule for upcoming programs)
- Playground: A dedicated play area for when little legs need to run
- Peacock sightings: Kids are always delighted by the colorful peacocks roaming the grounds
- Alligator spotting: The thrill of seeing a real alligator in the wild (from a safe boardwalk distance!)
Pro tip: Ask at the interpretive center about feeding times for the birds of prey—it’s a memorable experience watching the raptors eat!
Programs & Activities
The park offers a variety of educational and recreational programs:
- Guided nature hikes
- School field trip programs (Title I schools receive programs at no charge)
- Archery classes
- Guest speaker events
- Nature photography workshops
- Special seasonal events
The Clearwater Audubon Society operates out of the park and hosts regular meetings and birding events.
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring binoculars: This is a birdwatcher’s paradise
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: The trails are easy but cover over a mile
- Bring water and snacks: Especially during warmer months
- Apply bug spray: It’s Florida—mosquitoes are part of the experience
- Pick up a map: Grab one at the interpretive center to help navigate the trails
- Morning visits are best: Wildlife is more active, and it’s cooler during summer
- Visit on weekdays: Fewer crowds and more peaceful wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Free parking
- Clean restrooms near the entrance
- Interpretive center with exhibits
- Shaded picnic areas
- Outdoor patio with rocking chairs
- Gift shop with park logo merchandise
- Wheelchair-accessible nature center, boardwalks, and select trails
- Indoor meeting space available for rentals
Interesting History
Moccasin Lake Nature Park opened on August 7, 1982. Before becoming a nature preserve, this wetland wilderness area was being considered for low-income housing development. Fortunately, the City of Clearwater chose to protect this land for future generations instead.
The lake itself has an interesting origin—it was created accidentally during the construction of nearby U.S. Route 19 in the early 20th century. Engineers removed large amounts of dirt to build an embankment for an overpass, and the pit that remained filled with rainwater to become Moccasin Lake.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the area, consider visiting:
- Cliff Stephens Park — Just minutes away, featuring a disc golf course and more trails
- Aspirations Winery — Family-owned micro-winery in Clearwater rated #1 in Florida
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium — Home to rescued dolphins and sea turtles (about 15 minutes away)
- Downtown Clearwater — Dining, shopping, and waterfront activities
Contact Information
Phone: (727) 562-4315
Address:
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
2750 Park Trail Lane
Clearwater, FL 33759
Website: myclearwaterparks.com
Raptor Sanctuary: moccasinlakeraptorsanctuary.org
Driving Directions from Our Vacation Rental
From: 1731 Clearwater Harbor Dr, Largo, FL
To: Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL 33759
Distance: Approximately 5 miles
Drive Time: About 12-15 minutes
Directions:
- Head north on Clearwater Harbor Dr toward Clearwater Largo Rd
- Turn left onto Clearwater Largo Rd
- Continue north and turn right onto Drew Street (heading east)
- Turn left onto Park Trail Lane
- The park entrance will be on your right
Moccasin Lake Nature Park offers a rare glimpse into Florida’s natural heritage—a peaceful retreat where you can connect with wildlife and escape the bustle of beach tourism. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit. Don’t miss this hidden gem during your stay!
