Adventure & Safety Tips

Visitor Guidance and Information

Planning an adventure is not complete without a few tips and a bit of advice from the locals that know the land and waterways.
Gain some guidance by reading the tips below.

Alligator Safety and Awareness:

Here are practical alligator-safety tips for visitors in DeSoto County, Florida, based on commonly recommended guidance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and local norms for rural, freshwater areas:

  • Assume all freshwater may contain alligators. Lakes, rivers, canals, ditches, retention ponds, and even small creeks can host them.
  • Stay at least 30 feet (10 meters) away from any alligator you see. They can lunge quickly over short distances.
  • Do not swim in areas known to have alligators, especially:
    • At dawn, dusk, or night (their most active feeding times)
    • In murky water or where visibility is poor
  • Do not let children or pets near the water’s edge. Alligators are more likely to target small animals.
  • Keep pets leashed and several feet back from any shoreline.
  • Never let dogs swim in ponds, lakes, rivers, or canals.
  • Avoid walking dogs near water at sunrise/sunset.
  • Never feed an alligator. It’s illegal in Florida and causes them to lose fear of humans.
  • Don’t approach, harass, or try to move an alligator.
  • Don’t retrieve balls, frisbees, or fishing lures from the water’s edge if an alligator is nearby.
  • Be cautious when casting or retrieving fish—alligators may approach if they associate anglers with food.
  • Don’t hang fish scraps off docks; always dispose of them in trash cans.
  • Stay aware of the shoreline when launching kayaks, jon boats, or paddleboards.
  • If you see an alligator that appears aggressive, large, or in an inappropriate place (like a yard):
  • Call the Florida Nuisance Alligator Hotline: 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286)
  • Do not attempt to handle the situation yourself.
  • Seasonal Notes for DeSoto County
    • Warm months (March–October) mean increased alligator activity and movement.
    • During mating season (April–June) alligators are more territorial.
    • During dry periods, they may travel across land in search of water—spotting one on a road or lawn is not unusual.

Fishing Information for Visitors:

  • The Peace River is the county’s main fishing draw. Expect bass, bluegill, shellcracker, catfish, and gar.
  • Fish around deep bends, fallen trees, and sandbars—these hold game fish year-round.
  • During warmer months, look for moving water; in winter, target deeper holes.
  • Best Baits & Techniques For Bass
    • Soft plastics like worms, creature baits, or flukes in natural colors.
    • Spinnerbaits and topwater frogs early morning or dusk.
    • Work lures slowly in colder months; faster retrieves in summer.
    • For Panfish (Bluegill, Shellcracker)
      • Live bait: crickets, worms, small minnows.
        Small beetle spins, jigs, or tiny poppers if fly-fishing.
    • For Catfish
      • Nightcrawlers, cut bait, chicken liver.
        Fish the deeper outside bends of the river.
  • This is gator country. Avoid fishing right on the water’s edge at dawn/dusk.
    • Don’t wade in the river.
    • Keep stringers and bait away from the shoreline
  • Visitors aged 16 and over must have a valid fishing license.
Local Bait Shops

Up River Adventures | Horse Back Adventures, Kayaking, Family Fun

Peace River Campground Arcadia, FL | Camp, Canoe, Fish, Fossil Hunt, RIde ATVs, RV Campsites

Guidance for Fossil Hunting:

  • Get Your Fossil Permit
    • Florida law requires a Fossil Permit from the Florida Museum of Natural History if you plan to collect vertebrate fossils (like mammal bones or teeth).
    • Shark teeth and invertebrate fossils can be collected without a permit, but it’s best to have one since Peace River is rich in Ice Age mammal fossils.
  • Know What You Might Find
    • Shark teeth (including megalodon, tiger, and bull sharks).
    • Ray and fish fossils.
    • Ice Age mammal remains such as mammoth, mastodon, horse, bison, and even giant sloth bones.
    • Occasionally, Native American artifacts may surface—these should be left undisturbed as they are protected.
  • Bring the Right Gear
    • Sifter and shovel: Gravel beds along the river hold most fossils.
    • Mesh screens: A ¼-inch mesh works well for shark teeth.
    • Water shoes or boots: The riverbed can be rocky and slippery.
    • Buckets or bags: For safely storing finds.
  • Best Hunting Locations
    • The Peace River is the prime spot in DeSoto County.
    • Look for gravel bars and shallow areas where fossils accumulate.
    • Guided tours (airboat, swamp buggy, or canoe) are available if you want expert help locating fossil-rich areas.
  • Practice Responsible Fossil Etiquette
    • Respect private property: Only hunt in public areas or with landowner permission.
    • Leave the environment as you found it: Don’t dig into riverbanks or disturb vegetation.
    • Safety first: Watch for wildlife (alligators, snakes) and be cautious in moving water.
  • Timing and Conditions
    • Fossil hunting is best during dry season (winter and spring) when river levels are lower.
    • After heavy rains, gravel beds may shift, revealing new fossils.
  • Extra Tip
    • If you’re new to fossil hunting, consider booking a guided fossil tour in DeSoto County. Local experts provide tools, transport, and knowledge of the best fossil-rich sites, making it easier to find treasures like megalodon teeth or mammoth bones. For guided tours, click here: Up River Adventures | Horse Back Adventures, Kayaking, Family Fun

Other Visitor Tips:

  • Outdoor Adventures
    • Morgan Park – A peaceful riverside park with walking trails, picnic areas, and access to the Peace River. Great for kayaking or simply enjoying nature.
    • Brownville Park – Known for its boat ramp and camping facilities, this is a favorite spot for launching into the river or spending a night under the stars.
    • Jungle Doria’s Wildlife Park – A family-friendly attraction where you can see exotic animals and learn about Florida’s wildlife.
  • Local Flavor
    • Joshua Citrus Inc – A must-stop for fresh Florida citrus, juices, and homemade treats. It’s a slice of authentic Florida agriculture and a fun place to taste local products.
  • Unique Experiences
    • Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo – One of the oldest and most famous rodeos in the state. If you’re visiting during rodeo season, this is a cultural highlight not to miss.
  • Parks & Recreation
    • Desoto County Parks & Rec – Offers multiple recreational facilities and community events.
    • DeSoto Veterans Memorial Park – A quiet, reflective space honoring veterans, perfect for a respectful visit.
    • McSwain park – A smaller local park, ideal for a casual stroll or a quick break.
  • Visitor Ideas
    • Explore the Peace River: Fossil hunting, canoeing, and airboat tours are popular here.
    • Historic Downtown Arcadia: Browse antique shops, boutiques, and enjoy local dining.
    • Pack for the outdoors: Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and water—DeSoto’s adventures are mostly outside.
    • Timing matters: Rodeo season and citrus harvest times add extra excitement to your trip.
    • Unplug & relax: DeSoto County is slower-paced compared to Florida’s coastal cities—lean into the tranquility local noises, such as the sound of cicadas.