Hillsborough River State Park Tampa
Discover Florida's rare Class II rapids, a historic suspension bridge, and shaded trails at this serene state park near Tampa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Hillsborough River State Park Tampa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Florida's rare Class II rapids, a historic suspension bridge, and shaded trails at this serene state park near Tampa.
"An absolute treasure for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to escape into Florida's wild beauty."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes are recommended over sneakers for better grip on trails.
☀️ Arrive Early
Beat the Florida heat and potential crowds by arriving earlier in the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Suspension Bridge
Rapids Trail
Walk across this historic bridge for unique views of the river and surrounding nature. A true Florida rarity!
Class II River Rapids
Rapids Trail
Experience one of Florida's few natural Class II rapids, a thrilling sight and sound in this serene park.
+1
Kayaking & Canoeing
Hillsborough River
Paddle through tranquil waters, explore diverse wildlife, and enjoy the unique river landscape. Rentals are available.
+1Shaded Hiking Trails
Various trails
Explore miles of well-maintained, shaded trails perfect for hiking and spotting local flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Florida Heat & Crowds
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes are recommended over sneakers for better grip on trails.
☀️ Arrive Early
Beat the Florida heat and potential crowds by arriving earlier in the day.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Explore the river by kayak! Rentals are available within the park.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy lunch in shaded picnic areas; some visitors suggest bringing your own stove for trailside cooking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes are recommended over sneakers for better grip on trails.
☀️ Arrive Early
Beat the Florida heat and potential crowds by arriving earlier in the day.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Explore the river by kayak! Rentals are available within the park.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy lunch in shaded picnic areas; some visitors suggest bringing your own stove for trailside cooking.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The suspension bridge and river rapids offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Hillsborough River State Park's natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and unique features like the suspension bridge and river rapids. It's praised as a peaceful escape close to Tampa, offering abundant wildlife and opportunities for hiking and paddling. Some minor trail closures have been noted, but overall, it's considered a treasure for nature lovers.
"This is a really nice park. I wish I wouldn't have waited so long to visit it. The campground was clean with nice facilities. Laundry, dish washing sink, clean showers, vending machine for laundry soaps, electric and water hook ups. The sites are close together but each one is spacious. There are lots of nice trails to hike and walk along the river. The only downsides really were that 2 of the main trails were still closed from the hurricanes. Seems like it's been long enough that they would have them reopened by now. The two trails on the south side of the park, which could be connected by walk into a neighboring park to form a nice 6 mile loop, were opened. However, the connecting park and the adjoining road to it is also closed. So you end up doing two out and back hikes instead and never actually make it to the river. You can walk along the river in the north part of the park, but this is more of an easy public walking trail and it's not very long. Also they have a little store and you can rent kayaks and canoes, but unfortunately, not on Tuesday or Wednesday, as they are closed these days. Which seemed odd but I guess they are cutting costs and those are likely their slowest days(which is exactly why it a better to go on these days, but I guess the trade off is you won't be able to rent a canoe or kayak). So just a few minor issues but overall a beautiful park. Hopefully the trails will open up soon."
Victoria Violet
"Absolutely beautiful nature! A tragedy of mismanagement! The bridge from the picnic area across the river is closed due to damage from Hurricane Irma. Irma? That was in 2017! I didn't see a restroom just a few porta potties. Most trails are closed and the wetland trail is pretty boring and has no access to the river. The wetland trail continues into to the adjacent Dead River county park that seems to have river access but that county park is closed for quite some time. $6 to access very short trails is crazy but if they would put the money into the park I would gladly be paying. What is wrong with the state park system?"
Gottfried Kibelka
"Unfortunately, some of the trails were "temporarily" closed, but I enjoyed my visit here nonetheless. Trails have plenty of canopy helping to protect from the brutal Florida sun. The suspension bridge was a beautiful sight to see. The next trip here will likely include kayak rental to explore the park from the river. It's definitely worth a visit. I recommend hiking shoes vice sneakers. Depending on the season, I suggest an early arrival to beat the heat."
Berlin 1987
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hillsborough River State Park is conveniently located about 30 minutes from downtown Tampa. You can reach it by car via US-301 N.
Public transportation options to the park are limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
If you're coming from Orlando, it's about a 2-hour drive to Hillsborough River State Park, making it a feasible day trip.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors. Ensure you arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.
The park offers camping facilities, including sites suitable for RVs, with water and electric hookups.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park typically has a modest entrance fee per vehicle, often around $6, making it an affordable nature escape.
The park is generally open all day, but it's always a good idea to check the official Florida State Parks website for the most current hours of operation.
For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to camp or rent specific facilities, reservations are recommended.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the park entrance or checking the official Florida State Parks website for any applicable programs.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Hillsborough River State Park on leash, and they often enjoy walking the trails with their owners.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic suspension bridge, the rare Class II river rapids, and the diverse wildlife. Hiking and kayaking are also top activities.
The park offers several miles of well-maintained, mostly shaded hiking trails, including the Rapids Trail and Banyard Trail. +1
Absolutely! Kayak and canoe rentals are available, offering a fantastic way to explore the river and its wildlife.
Yes, there are shaded picnic areas with grills, perfect for a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
Visitors often spot alligators, turtles, various bird species like herons, and other native Florida wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. It's recommended to bring your own food for picnics or dine in nearby Tampa.
Yes, the park has picnic areas with grills, and some visitors enjoy cooking lunch on the trails with portable stoves.
For a wider selection of dining options, you'll need to head back towards Tampa, which offers a variety of restaurants.
Currently, there is no cafe or snack bar operating within the park. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is advised.
Yes, the park provides picnic areas with grills, making it suitable for barbecues.
📸 📸 Photography
The suspension bridge, the river rapids, and the diverse wildlife offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, with patience, you can capture images of birds, turtles, and even alligators in their natural habitat.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography, and also help avoid harsh midday sun.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Florida State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check park regulations for specifics.
Absolutely! The suspension bridge is a popular subject for photographers, offering unique perspectives of the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider kayaking or canoeing on the calmer sections of the river for a fun family activity. The chance to spot wildlife like turtles and birds will keep them engaged and excited. The park's well-maintained facilities and friendly atmosphere contribute to a stress-free family outing.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
+1Bring your binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for other native Florida wildlife. The well-maintained trails offer varying levels of difficulty, ensuring a rewarding experience for all hikers. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic beauty.
🛶 Paddlers & Water Lovers
+1While the rapids are exciting to see from the shore, the calmer sections of the river are ideal for paddling. It's a great way to experience the park's natural beauty from a different perspective and spot wildlife along the riverbanks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Hillsborough River
Kayaking and canoeing are highly recommended for a more intimate connection with the river. Rentals are available within the park, making it accessible for spontaneous adventures. Paddling along the tranquil waterways allows you to observe the abundant Florida wildlife, including various bird species, turtles, and even alligators. The park's canoe trail offers a serene experience, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
+2For those who prefer to stay on land but still want river views, the suspension bridge provides a fantastic vantage point. This historic structure, built during the Great Depression, offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding lush landscape. It's a popular spot for both leisurely strolls and photography, connecting different sections of the park and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Hiking Trails and Nature
The trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including cypress swamps and hardwood hammocks, providing opportunities to immerse yourself in Florida's natural beauty. Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of native flora and fauna, from towering oaks to vibrant wildflowers. Keep an eye out for the park's wildlife, which adds an extra layer of excitement to any hike.
Some trails, like the Rapids Trail, lead to scenic overlooks of the river and its rapids, while others, such as the Banyard Trail and Seminole Trail, offer different perspectives of the park's natural features. The park's commitment to maintaining these trails ensures a pleasant and accessible experience for all hikers.
Camping and Glamping Options
Beyond traditional camping, the park also features glamping options through partners like Timberline Glamping Tampa. This provides a more comfortable and luxurious way to experience the outdoors, with amenities such as comfortable beds and air conditioning. It's an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing modern comforts.
Whether you opt for tent camping or glamping, staying overnight allows for a more relaxed pace, enabling you to enjoy evening activities like stargazing or simply listening to the sounds of nature. It's a great way to make the most of what Hillsborough River State Park has to offer.
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