Mattie Kelly Park & Nature Walk
A tranquil bayou wetlands preserve with a scenic nature walk and a fishing pier, perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Mattie Kelly Park & Nature Walk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil bayou wetlands preserve with a scenic nature walk and a fishing pier, perfect for outdoor relaxation.
"Beautiful scenery with a poorly maintained park and boardwalk."
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Oyster shells on the shore can be sharp. Wear water shoes for safe exploration along the water's edge.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Caution
Some boardwalk sections may be worn. Watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nature Walk Boardwalk
Bayou Wetlands Preserve
Stroll through serene woods on a charming boardwalk, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Fishing Pier
Waterfront
Cast a line or simply enjoy the picturesque water views from this well-situated fishing pier.
Picnic Areas
Various locations
Relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty, with ample space for picnics and gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Potential Boardwalk Wear
Park Refresh Underway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Oyster shells on the shore can be sharp. Wear water shoes for safe exploration along the water's edge.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Caution
Some boardwalk sections may be worn. Watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings.
🎣 Fishing Gear Ready
The pier is ideal for fishing. Bring your gear to enjoy crabbing and angling in the bayou.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenic picnic spots. Pack your lunch and drinks for a relaxing outdoor meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Oyster shells on the shore can be sharp. Wear water shoes for safe exploration along the water's edge.
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Caution
Some boardwalk sections may be worn. Watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings.
🎣 Fishing Gear Ready
The pier is ideal for fishing. Bring your gear to enjoy crabbing and angling in the bayou.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenic picnic spots. Pack your lunch and drinks for a relaxing outdoor meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mattie Kelly Park & Nature Walk is a beautiful spot with great potential, featuring a serene nature walk and a popular fishing pier. While many appreciate the natural scenery and peaceful atmosphere, some visitors have noted areas needing maintenance, particularly on the boardwalk and in the surrounding brush. Exciting park refresh plans are underway, promising future improvements.
"Update!!!!! This park is already in the planning stages for a refresh and update! How exciting!!!! I can't wait to see it improved.
Beautiful scenery with a poorly maintained park and boardwalk. There are several spots that seemed about to rot all the way through when I stepped on them. The water and surrounding brush has trash all through and the educational placards are illegible. This park has so much potential, hopefully the city will step up and fix it up."
Amanda Bullington
"This is a very beautiful park and well maintained. It has a small walking trail on a bridge through the woods. On the other side of the park, there is a fishing pier with beautiful views of the water. There are public restrooms available at the boat launch nearby."
Birdy Bayless
"It was a nice little walk. Dont get the in bay without shoes on we cut our feet on the oyster shells on the rocks along the shore."
Jennifer O'Rourke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mattie Kelly Park is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. It's located in a bayou wetlands preserve, offering a tranquil escape.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of reaching the park.
The park is situated within a bayou wetlands preserve. Specific road access details are best found via GPS navigation to the park's address.
The park is generally well-marked. Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended to ensure you reach the correct entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Mattie Kelly Park & Nature Walk is typically free, allowing easy access to its trails and fishing pier.
Park hours can vary. It's advisable to check local listings or the park's official website for the most current operating times.
No, the nature walk and the park itself are generally free to enter, making it an accessible outdoor activity.
While there are picnic areas, reservations are usually not required. It's first-come, first-served, so arriving earlier is recommended.
Standard park rules apply, such as respecting wildlife and maintaining cleanliness. Specific restrictions are usually posted at the park entrance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include walking the nature trail, fishing and crabbing from the pier, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic bayou views.
The nature walk is a relatively easy boardwalk trail, suitable for most fitness levels. However, some sections may show wear.
Public restrooms are available, often located near the boat launch area adjacent to the park.
Yes, fishing and crabbing are popular activities at the park's pier. Remember to check local regulations and licensing requirements.
As a bayou wetlands preserve, you might see various bird species, aquatic life, and other local fauna in their natural habitat.
📸 📸 Photography
The fishing pier offers beautiful water vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset. The boardwalk through the woods also provides lovely nature shots.
Absolutely! The wetlands setting is ideal for capturing diverse flora and fauna, birdwatching, and serene landscape photography.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Early mornings can also be stunning with soft light and fewer visitors.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's crucial to check local park regulations and FAA guidelines before flying a drone.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for the boardwalk, and a polarizing filter for water shots would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas, making it a full afternoon outing. While the fishing pier is fun, supervise children closely, especially near the water and be mindful of the oyster shells along the shore.
🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
The nature walk also appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a peaceful environment for birdwatching and enjoying natural landscapes. The wetlands setting is rich with biodiversity, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nature Walk
While the boardwalk is generally accessible, some reviews mention that certain sections might be showing signs of wear. Visitors are advised to be mindful of their footing. The educational placards along the trail, intended to inform visitors about the local flora and fauna, are reported to be illegible in some areas, which is a point of improvement for the park.
Despite these minor issues, the nature walk remains a highlight for many, offering a tranquil experience away from the hustle and bustle. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, quiet contemplation, and appreciating the natural beauty of the Florida wetlands.
Fishing and Crabbing Opportunities
Visitors have shared experiences of enjoying the pier for both fishing and simply taking in the scenic views of the water. It's important to note that some reviewers caution about oyster shells along the shoreline and near the water's edge, suggesting that wearing water shoes can prevent cuts. Always check local fishing regulations and licensing requirements before you cast your line or set your crab traps.
The pier is also a fantastic vantage point for enjoying the sunset or observing the local marine environment. It’s a simple yet rewarding amenity that adds significant value to the park experience for those who enjoy being on or near the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit