Loyce E. Harpe Park Carter Rd MTB
A sprawling county park offering 15+ miles of mountain bike trails, sports fields, a dog park, and fishing spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for biking
Loyce E. Harpe Park Carter Rd MTB
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for biking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling county park offering 15+ miles of mountain bike trails, sports fields, a dog park, and fishing spots.
"It's amazing how much the landscape changes in some areas. "
Bring Your Bike! 🚴♀️
The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are a major draw; don't miss them!
Gator Watch! 🐊
Be aware of potential alligator sightings, especially near water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mountain Bike Trails
Over 15 miles of exhilarating trails with diverse landscapes, perfect for all skill levels.
Disc Golf Course
An award-winning disc golf course offering a fun challenge for players of all abilities.
DiOGi Dog Park
A spacious, fenced dog park where your furry friends can run and play freely.
Fishing & Kayaking
Enjoy fishing from the shore or a dock, or launch your kayak for a peaceful day on the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mountain Biking Paradise
Family Fun & Recreation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Bike! 🚴♀️
The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are a major draw; don't miss them!
Gator Watch! 🐊
Be aware of potential alligator sightings, especially near water.
Pack a Picnic 🧺
Plenty of picnic tables available for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
Explore on Foot 🚶
Even if you don't bike, walking the trails offers stunning views and varied scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Bike! 🚴♀️
The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are a major draw; don't miss them!
Gator Watch! 🐊
Be aware of potential alligator sightings, especially near water.
Pack a Picnic 🧺
Plenty of picnic tables available for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
Explore on Foot 🚶
Even if you don't bike, walking the trails offers stunning views and varied scenery.
Rent a Pavilion ☀️
Screened-in pavilions are available for rent, perfect for gatherings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Loyce E. Harpe Park's extensive mountain bike trails and diverse recreational facilities, calling it a 'nature haven' and a 'great county park.' Many appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the variety of activities available for all ages, from sports fields to a dog park. Some wish for additional amenities like basketball courts.
"From 15 miles of exhilarating mountain bikes paths to an award-winning disc golf course, Mulberry’s Loyce E. Harpe Park has something for everyone. The park has a dog park (DiOGi Park), baseball, softball and soccer fields. There is a skate park, playground, paved walking trails, a boat launching site,fishing, picnic tables and a screened-in pavilion that is available to rent."
Tiffany
"I really enjoy going there. A coworker suggested I check it out. Needless to say, it was worth it. While I highly recommend having a bike, it’s still cool to walk the trails on foot. It’s amazing how much the landscape changes in some areas. Sometimes it’s a jungle, other times it’s almost like a savannah. If you’re looking for a huge park, this’s for you. It’s a shame they don’t have basketball courts, though."
Ben Jackson
"What a beautiful area! It's close to town. Has lots of trails for mountain biking and spots to fish or kayak. Gorgeous. I can't get enough of the live oaks! Definitely a spot I'd go hang out at if I lived here. I am from Ohio."
Cassie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loyce E. Harpe Park is located in Mulberry, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park. Specific directions can be found using GPS or mapping applications.
Public transportation options to Loyce E. Harpe Park may be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle for the most convenient access.
The park has multiple access points, including the main entrance off Carter Road, which leads to various facilities like the softball fields and playground.
While specific RV parking details aren't widely publicized, the park generally offers sufficient parking. It's advisable to arrive early during peak times.
Loyce E. Harpe Park is a county park and generally free to enter. Some specific amenities or rentals might incur separate charges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Loyce E. Harpe Park is typically free. You don't need tickets to enter and enjoy most of the park's amenities.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Polk County Parks and Recreation website or local listings for the most up-to-date operating hours.
Standard park rules apply. Alcohol, glass containers, and disruptive behavior are generally prohibited. Always check local regulations for specific restrictions.
Yes, screened-in pavilions are available for rent. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially for weekend events.
The DiOGi Dog Park is typically included with park entry and does not have a separate fee. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park boasts mountain biking trails, a disc golf course, softball, little league, soccer fields, a playground, a skate park, paved walking trails, fishing, and a dog park.
The trails offer a variety of difficulty levels, with some sections being more challenging. Beginners can enjoy the paved walking trails or explore less technical sections of the bike paths.
Families can enjoy the playground, open spaces for play, and the dog park. The paved walking trails are also great for strollers.
Yes, there are spots for fishing from the shore or docks, and a boat launching site for kayaks and small watercraft.
Yes, the park features a dedicated skate park for skateboarders and BMX riders.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse landscapes, from lush 'jungle' areas to open 'savannah' like spots, offer great photographic opportunities. The mature live oaks are particularly picturesque.
With its natural habitats, the park is a good location for observing and photographing local wildlife, though sightings are not guaranteed.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
The changing landscapes along the mountain bike and walking trails provide varied scenic backdrops. The areas near the water are also quite lovely.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and park policies. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables. For larger gatherings, the rentable screened-in pavilions offer a comfortable space. The variety of sports fields also means there's often a lively atmosphere, perfect for kids who enjoy watching or participating in outdoor activities.
🚴♀️ Mountain Bikers
Many riders appreciate the park's commitment to trail maintenance. It's highly recommended to bring your own bike to make the most of the extensive trail system. Exploring these trails offers a unique way to experience the park's natural beauty.
🎣 Anglers and Kayakers
Remember to check local fishing regulations and licensing requirements before you go. The calm waters provide a relaxing environment for both fishing and paddling adventures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking Trails
Many visitors recommend bringing your own bike to fully experience the park's offerings. The trails are well-marked, but having a map or GPS can be helpful for navigating the extensive network. The changing landscape provides not only a physical challenge but also a visually stimulating ride, with mature trees and natural Florida flora creating a beautiful backdrop.
While the park is a haven for bikers, the trails are also enjoyable for hikers and trail runners. The paved walking trails offer a more accessible option for those who prefer to explore on foot, providing a different perspective on the park's natural beauty.
Family and Community Hub
For younger visitors, a playground offers a fun area to play and explore. The DiOGi Dog Park is a significant amenity for pet owners, providing a safe and enclosed space for dogs to socialize and exercise off-leash. This makes the park a truly inclusive destination for the whole family, including furry members.
Additionally, the park offers picnic tables and a rentable screened-in pavilion, making it an ideal location for family gatherings, birthday parties, and community events. The combination of recreational facilities and event spaces solidifies Loyce E. Harpe Park's role as a central gathering place for the local community.
Nature and Recreation
Visitors often praise the park's natural beauty, noting the presence of mature live oaks and the varied ecosystems encountered along the trails. The landscape's dynamic nature, shifting from dense vegetation to more open areas, contributes to a rich biodiversity, making it an interesting place for wildlife observation.
While the park is well-equipped for active recreation, it also provides a tranquil escape. The paved walking trails offer a peaceful way to immerse oneself in the natural surroundings, making it a versatile destination for both active pursuits and relaxation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit