The Most Alligator-Infested Rivers in the U.S.

There’s a high chance that you’ve paddled alongside alligators if you’ve been in the waters of the southeastern part of the U.S.—it doesn’t matter whether you saw them or didn’t. These reptiles have ruled the region’s wetlands and rivers for millions of years and have perfectly adapted to their slow-moving environments.

From the rivers of Florida to the deep bayous of Louisiana, there are many rivers that are infested by alligators. So, if you’re curious to know where these modern-day dinos live and thrive, let’s get down to this list right away!

Waccamaw River (North Carolina & South Carolina)

The Waccamaw River provides ideal conditions for alligators. They’re often seen in quieter and less disturbed areas, especially near cypress trees and marshes. The river's slow currents and abundant fish supply make it a prime alligator habitat.

Savannah River (Georgia & South Carolina)

Separating Georgia and South Carolina, the Savannah River’s swamps and marshlands create excellent conditions for alligators. These reptiles are often seen basking along the banks or floating near the surface, especially in the river’s less-developed stretches.

Nueces River (Texas)

Alligators thrive in the Nueces River’s lower reaches, where the water slows and wetlands expand. The mix of freshwater and brackish conditions provides a diverse habitat and allows these reptiles to coexist with a variety of fish and birds.

Brazos River (Texas)

The lower Brazos River is home to Texas's largest alligator population. Its slow-moving waters and nearby wetlands offer the right environment for these reptiles. Sightings are more frequent in marshy areas closer to the Gulf of Mexico.

Yellow River (Alabama & Florida)

The Yellow River provides an alligator-friendly environment with abundant fish and nesting spots. Visitors often see them along the banks, particularly in sections where the water is shallow and warm.

Perdido River (Alabama & Florida)

This river forms part of the Alabama-Florida border and flows through wetlands that support a healthy alligator population. These reptiles prefer remote areas, where they can hunt and nest with minimal human interference.

Congaree River (South Carolina)

Running through Congaree National Park, this river offers one of the best spots to see alligators in South Carolina. Its floodplain forests and still waters create an ideal environment where gators are often seen sunning on logs or lurking beneath the surface.

Ouachita River (Arkansas & Louisiana)

Stretching through two states, the Ouachita River features swamps and oxbow lakes perfect for alligators. They use these waters for hunting and nesting, often remaining hidden among the vegetation.

Sunflower River (Mississippi)

The Sunflower River supports a stable alligator population. The region’s wetlands offer the perfect mix of slow-moving water, vegetation, and prey. At night, gator eyes shine under flashlights, which reveals just how many inhabit the area.

Withlacoochee River (Florida)

This winding river moves through swamps and marshes that provide excellent alligator habitat. These reptiles are commonly seen resting on riverbanks or swimming just below the surface. They prefer quieter areas and would keep to themselves, especially if there’s boat traffic around.

St. Johns River (Florida)

As Florida’s longest river, the St. Johns has plenty of alligator-spotting opportunities in the state. Its slow flow and surrounding wetlands create a perfect environment where alligators thrive. These factors make alligators a frequent sight in both rural and developed areas.

Pearl River (Mississippi & Louisiana)

This river has some of the highest alligator densities in Mississippi, with over seven per mile in surveyed areas. Its extensive marshes and swamps provide ideal conditions, especially near the Ross Barnett Reservoir and stretches leading to Louisiana.

Millwood Lake (Arkansas)

This lake’s submerged timber and marshy edges are perfect alligator habitats. It’s also home to some of the state’s largest specimens, including a 1,380-pound gator caught here in 2012, which proves just how well they thrive in these waters.

Little River (Oklahoma & Arkansas)

The lower Little River features swamps and cypress forests and is one of the few places in Oklahoma where alligators live and thrive. Breeding populations are established near Millwood Lake, and sightings occasionally occur in adjacent wildlife refuges.

Maurepas Swamp (Louisiana)

Maurepas Swamp has a large alligator population and a vast wetland West of New Orleans. Conservation efforts aim to restore natural water flow to support this habitat further and ensure stable conditions for these reptiles.