Hillsborough River State Park: A Bit of Florida Wilderness Just Outside of Tampa
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Hillsborough River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest parks with an opening date back in 1938. Over 7 miles of hiking trails and a 2 mile walking/biking loop around the park allow you to lose yourself in this beautiful wilderness setting. I recommend taking some time to explore the natural side of this state away from the beaches, theme parks, and suburban congestion. The trails feel so remote (for Florida) that you will forget you are anywhere near a city. I love the peaceful views here of the wetlands and forests and the opportunity to see wildlife roaming free. If you love birdwatching, then you really need to plan a visit. It’s part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and is home to many endangered species including the Florida Scrub Jay.
It’s one of the best parks I have visited in the Tampa area thus far. The setting is very quiet, a world’s away from the beach congestion. You can easily spend the whole day here exploring the various hikes. This is one of my top picks if you are looking for a weekend escape from the beach/shopping/suburban/tourist crowds. The entire metro is pretty much loaded with chains today, so it’s always nice to have a few preserved natural areas to enjoy a bit of quiet time.
Park Habitat and Wildlife
Some of the ecosystems found within the park include: pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, floodplain swamps, grass ponds, and cypress swamps. Since moving to the state, I have enjoyed exploring “the other side of Florida.” The Tampa area really surprised me with the abundance of clean, well-maintained beautiful parks. The diversity of plant life gives you numerous opportunities for spotting various types of wildlife, whether it be gators or gopher tortoises (I’ve seen many of both at various parks). The trails at this park offer a much more rustic experience than other urban parks in the area, and I especially love the Rapids hike. There is nothing else like it in the metro.
Hiking Trails
There are over 10 miles of trails available, with both easy and longer options to choose amongst. Whether you are seeking a short nature stroll or an hour plus long adventure, you will find it here. Here is a list of the various hikes and the total distances.
- River Rapids Trail – 1.2 miles
- Baynard Trail – 1.1 miles
- Wetlands Restoration Trail – 1.6 miles
- Florida Trail – 3.2 miles
- Fort King Trail – 6.7 miles
I recommend starting with the rapids trail, a pretty easy and short pick for first time visitors. This trail gives you the opportunity to view the beautiful river up close. It’s one of the only places in the state where you can see rare Class II Rapids which alone makes it a must-do. You will likely see wildlife and lots of birds along the path. We even saw a gator at one point during the hike. I am sure we will see many more during a return winter visit when they are frequently seen sunbathing.
The best part about visiting this park (or really any other in the metro) is the chance to see a live gator. It’s so much more fun seeing these prehistoric creatures outside of a zoo. I’ve seen many during my time living here. Do keep your distance and do not allow pets anywhere near the water.
We saw various small forms of wildlife including birds and the turtle pictured below that is basking in the sun. The Rapids trail consists of an easy, shady walk through beautiful hardwood hammocks. It’s only a little over a mile and very flat with no hills, making it accessible for almost everyone. It’s one of those trails where you can take it easy and enjoy wildlife and bird watching as opposing to roughing it up a hard incline. Basically, you can focus all of your energy on enjoying nature rather than completing a workout.
The Wetlands Restoration Trail is open to both hiking and biking. This is the only trail open to cyclists. It’s a great pick for those experienced at mountain biking, however, others should be aware that it’s a tough ride with lots of long grass to trek through. It wasn’t my favorite trail in the park and I would probably skip it on my next visit. Nevertheless, the views are serene and peaceful, although shade is a bit limited. I recommend walking or biking this trail first when temps are cooler if you planning to hike multiple trails.
The Baynard Trail is another fantastic short, relaxing nature walk. It takes you over a historic suspension bridge, where you will be treated to more great views of the river.
Trails are quiet, clean, and very scenic. Just a warning – the mosquitoes are bad! Be sure to cover up all the way or use bug spray. I came home with 10+ mosquito bites.
The bike loop
The 2 mile loop around the park is absolutely beautiful. A few trips around on your bike is a must-do or you can opt for a nice easy stroll. It’s a flat, smooth, easy relaxing ride. If you do not have your own bike, you can rent one. A surrey rental is another unique way to explore the park. The 4 wheel surrey resembles an early automobile and is an interesting way to tour the park with your whole family.
Biking this tree-lined loop is probably my favorite thing to do at this park. It’s shady and there are plenty of beautiful trees which reminds me that the area is so much more than just a conglomerate of suburbs.
Other activities and attractions within the park include: a kayak and canoeing launch (no rentals), a community pool (extra fee), camping (112 sites – both RV and tent), fishing (bass and catfish most common), and a small interpretive center where you can explore some educational exhibits.
I recommend visiting this park if you are a local looking for a place to escape the traffic and suburban strip malls. It’s also a great pick for any tourists looking for something interesting to do off the beach. This is a great park to enjoy that wilderness vibe. You will leave feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, and fit after just a few hours here.
Tips for a great visit
*Bring with plenty of water, preferably a camelbak. It’s really hot during the summer season and hideously humid as well. Of course, it’s best to plan your visit during the fall or winter season.
*Bring a picnic lunch. There are plenty of scenic shady picnic areas.
*Wear bug spray or fully cover yourself. The mosquitoes are really bad, especially once you start sweating.
*Wear hiking shoes. Some areas of the trails can be muddy or slippery, especially The Wetlands Trail.
*Arrive early in the day to enjoy peace and quiet, as well as cooler temperatures.
*Bring a lock for your bike and park it at each of the trails instead of driving to each trail separately. The loop around the park will take you to the start of each trailhead.
*Wear light, loose colored clothing.
*Wear a hat and sunblock to protect yourself from the sun.
*If biking, get a proper tune up before heading out (check tire pressure, brakes, etc.)
*Plan at least half a day for the 6+ mile Fort King Trail. Arrive early in the morning to give yourself enough time. It will take much longer due to the intense heat and humidity. Avoid this hike during the spring and summer – it’s just too hot and humid to be out walking for this long.
Location & Parking Info
Address: 15402 US 301 in Thonotosassa
Parking is $6 per vehicle.
Dogs are allowed. They must be on a 6 foot leash. Keep them away from the water.
