Staff Answer
Aug 24, 2026 - 01:24 PM
Yes, American alligators do live in and around Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, particularly in freshwater and brackish areas such as Gator Lake, ponds, marshes, and quiet backwaters. Seeing one while kayaking is possible, but encounters are uncommon, and alligators generally avoid people. Keep a safe distance, never feed or approach one, and avoid paddling too close to the shoreline if you spot an alligator. Kayaking is permitted from designated access points into Little Lagoon and Gator Lake there safely.
