a river running through a lush green forest
Photo by Gary Cooper on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow

Mulberry, FL · Bank Access · Public

Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow is a public bank access on Carter Road Lake near Mulberry, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Bank Access

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

7:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow near Mulberry, Florida. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Carter Road Lake in Florida, Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms.

Getting here from Mulberry takes about 5 min, putting Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow?
Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow is a public bank access in Florida. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What activities are available at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow?
Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow?
The best time to paddle at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow?
Water conditions at Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow include calm, sheltered.
Is Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow good for beginners?
Yes, Loyce E. Harpe Park Primitive Boat Launch - Big Meadow is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 27.9218, -81.9655

Quick Facts

State
Florida
Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Mulberry
Get Directions

27.9218, -81.9655

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More Paddling on Carter Road Lake

1 other launch on this water body