Polk County Parks and Recreation
Polk County offers 40 parks and 11 mini-parks to its visitors as well as 40 boat launching sites, 120 sports fields, 27 youth athletic leagues with more than 12,000 participants.
Other great attractions include the Bone Valley ATV park, which offers offroad action for all levels of riders. The Historical and Genealogical Library in Bartow lets visitors discover the history of Polk County at one of the most extensive collections of its kind in the Southeastern United States. The Saddle Creek Park is a unique fishing spot which caters to freshwater fishing of all kinds, just keep your net ready. Check out these great locations which showcase a few reasons why Polk County is the place to get outside and explore Florida.
Bone Valley ATV Park
This park is a 200 acre tract of land which boasts 15 trails, as well as hill climbs and free riding areas to play host to all of your all-terrain vehicle whims. Polk County’s first ATV park, normal visiting hours are 8am- 7pm Friday through Monday, provides a thrilling weekend escape. Expansions are already scheduled with an additional 300 acres planned to turn this park into a well-known attraction for off-road lovers. Beginner level friendly, all are welcome at this great park.
Youth Sports
Youth leagues of a variety of sports use county-owned facilities for their games and practices. Youth Sports leagues those for include baseball, softball, football, basketball, and soccer. There are adult leagues available as well. For more information see their site.
Historical and Genealogical Library
The library, located in Bartow, is one of the largest genealogical and historical collections in the Southeastern United States. Over 40,000 items are in the collection including books, microfilm, and periodicals which all offer information about the genealogical history of the eastern United States. Opened in 1940, this collection also offers specific information pertaining to Polk county in particular, including historical photos, marriage records, newspapers, and more. Come check out the history of Polk county at this unique, and crucial resource center.
Saddle Creek Park
This extensive 740 acre fishing ground offers land for picnicking, boating, and of course, lots of fishing. Bank fishing is king here, with an abundance of frequently stocked channel catfish always just a bite away. Largemouth bass are also a highly popular catch, in addition to bluegill, redear sunfish, shad, and black crappie to name a small number. Catch and release is encouraged at Saddle Creek, so commemorative certificates are offered to describe your catch in detail. The TrophyCatch program offers recognition and prizes for particularly great catches of the 33 freshwater fish varieties, including largemouth bass.
Among many other places to visit, these three locations are all about exploring the recreational and historical side of Central Florida. Try them all and see what you take to, while meeting fellow Floridians in one of the Sunshine State’s most interesting areas to explore.