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Hillsborough River State Park |
Hillsborough River State Park
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Manager's Message
Important Notice: Our Swimming Pool will be closed December 1, 2006 thru
February 2007. Closure is due to cold weather and water temperature, and to
facilitate maintenace and repairs.
Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park. One of Florida's original state parks.
Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corp. Hillsborough River State Park
is steeped in history and natural beauty. Many activities are available at the
park by which visitors can access and enjoy this area. Fort Foster, a replica of
an original Second Seminole War military fort, is open for guided tours on
Saturdays and Sundays. A visit to the Fort allows visitors to step back in time
to the days of when Florida was being settled by pioneers. The Fort Foster
Visitor Station houses a display of artifacts from the time period, and provides
the visitor with information about the operation of the Fort.
The natural scenic beauty of the park is astounding. Many trails offer the
visitor the opportunity to experience this first hand. A popular trail is the
Rapids Nature Trail. It meanders through oak hammocks to the edge of the
Hillsborough River at the point where an outcropping of limestone rocks has
created rapids. This area is a popular spot for photographers, and outdoor
enthusiasts. For enjoying the river by being on it, the park has canoe rentals
for visitor's convenience.
Hillsborough River State Park also offers 111 campsites, picnic areas,
pavilions, and the Spirit of the Woods Pool Side Café and Gift Shop. A swimming
pool with a capacity of 216 swimmers is also within the park. All of these
amenities are made available for our visitor's enjoyment.
From an afternoon picnic, an all day family reunion, an extended stay by
overnight camping, or a corporate gathering, Hillsborough River State Park
provides an exceptional setting in a natural environment for folks to relax and
reconnect with family, friends, and colleagues.
For the latest information on current conditions and sightings in the park click
on Current Conditions & Sightings
- Greg Toppin, Park Manager
Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park
Opened in 1938 as one of Florida´s first state parks, this park is divided by
the swiftly flowing Hillsborough River. Fort Foster, a replica of an 1837 fort
from the Second Seminole War, is located on the park grounds, adjacent to the
river. Fort tours are offered on weekends or with a reservation. The river
provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking; a canoe/kayak launch
is available on the river. Canoes can be rented at the park´s concession, which
also provides food, beverages, picnic supplies, and souvenirs. Hikers can walk
over seven miles along four nature trails. The Wetlands Restoration Trail
accommodates bicyclists and hikers. When the weather calls for it, visitors can
enjoy a refreshing swim in the park´s ADA accessible swimming pool. The park
offers full-facility camping and a youth/group tent campground. A primitive
campsite is available via foot trail; reservations are recommended. Located 12
miles north of Tampa and six miles south of Zephyrhills on U.S. 301.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Hillsborough River State Park, please call 813-987-6771.
Book Your Vacation Spot Now!
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Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Hillsborough River State Park is located 9 miles north of Tampa and 6 miles
south of Zephyrhills on US Highway 301. From I-75, Southbound from Ocala take
the SR 54. Exit #279 east to Hwy 301, travel South for 6 miles, and the park
will be on your right-hand side. From I-75, Northbound from Tampa take the
Fowler Ave. Exit #265 east to Hwy 301, travel North for 9 miles, and the park
will be on your left-hand side. From I-4, West bound take Exit 10 go north on CR
579 to US 301, follow the signs and go North 7 miles the park will be on your
left-hand side. From I-4, East bound take Exit 7 (be careful of the merges) and
go North on US 301 for 14 miles, the park will be on your left-hand side.
Park Fees
Admission Fees
$4.00 for up to 8 people per car.
Camping Fees:
$20.00 + tax
Hillsborough River State Park
15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa, Florida 33592
Phone: 813-987-6771
Fax: Contact Park for Number |
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