McGough Nature Park aka The Narrows and Turtle Park

Published on 07/28/21: Ziplining with an owl in Pinellas County? Sounds like something my wife might dream up. She loves anything to do with animals, so far as even working the land animal show at SeaWorld Orlando years ago. In this case however, Colt and I really did zipline w/ an owl!

Okay, the owl wasn’t in our lap. He was being safely held by his handler & Colt stopped mid-zipline to safely observe, but it still got the big 👍 from Colt. This all happened at George C McGough Nature Park. Also referred to as “The Narrows” & “Turtle Park” for the large aquatic turtle population.

A Combo of Animals and Zip Line!

I recently mentioned Blossom Lake Park’s zipline. While that’s great for starters, the one at George C McGough is 2+ times as long! Additionally, this 26 acre park has a nature center w/ exhibits, Birds of Prey enclosures, turtle pond, 1 mile nature trail (+ side trails), a boardwalk over the intracoastal to watch boats, canoe launch, butterfly garden, plus friendly volunteers available for questions. All combined, Colt said this is his favorite park thus far. Granted, he’s the ‘glass half full type’ (we can often learn lessons from kids), though I can see why this would be tops on his list. I mean, it’s a combo of nearly everything we’ve seen, all together in one park. And the nature walk to the benches, overlooking the intracoastal, is possibly worth it on its own!

Close up encounters with owls!

Back to the owls. There’s an air conditioned nature center w/ various animals, plus enclosures w/ injured birds being cared for by the volunteers. One told us “I’m living my dream” as she walked w/ us holding one, telling us stories. While the park is free, there are donation buckets to help fund their goals. We often deny Colt’s requests for knick-knacks on adventures (“you got an entrance stamp, that’s sooo special”😂), though in this case he had free reign in their toy area, as it goes to a great cause. Stuffed Eagle, ‘growing’ lizard, squishy water animal…he lived it up.
Restrooms are avail, as are shelters for your get togethers. Dogs are not permitted (safety of the birds).

Google Reviews: 1693 with a 4.8/5 Average

Address: 11901 146th St N, Largo

Phone:  727-518-3047

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