Alafia River State Park
Activities at Alafia River State Park
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BicyclingThe Trails at Alafia River State Park were constructed by volunteers from the Southwest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers (SWAMP). They continue to maintain the trails. Visit SWAMP online or call the SWAMP hotline at (813) 689-5109 |
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BirdingAlafia River State Park is a very good place to see a variety of birds. Swallow-tail kites soar overhead all summer and wintering warblers enjoy our park during migration. During the fall hawk migration, from mid-September to mid-November you will see a variety of hawks soaring overhead. American Kestrels can be seen throughout the park during the winter. Woodpeckers abound in our forests including pileated, downey, red-bellied and red-headed woodpeckers. Eastern Bluebirds frequent our pine trees year round and the Eastern Meadowlarks sing from our fields as the osprey finish their nesting season overhead. View/print our bird list: Bird List |
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Camping, Equestrian
Twelve of the campsites in this campground are equipped for equestrian campers. There is a 12 stall horse barn available for campers. There is no additional fee to use the barn. It is first come, first serve basis. Alafia River's spacious paved campsites are outfitted with 20/30/50 amp electric service, water hook-up, a picnic table and a fire ring. Additional amenities include two picnic pavilions and an amphitheater. Pets are welcome, but must be confined, and on a leash (up to six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control at all times. |
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Camping, Full Facility
If you seek a camping spot where tranquility and peace are a must, look no further. The camping area is situated along the conifer-lined shore of Lake Alafia, which offers a spectacular view. This modern camping facility offers 30 family campsites, which can accommodate tents, pick-up campers, trailers and motor homes. Twelve of the campsites are equipped with accommodations for equestrian campers. Alafia River's spacious paved campsites are outfitted with 20/30/50 amp electric service, water hook-up, a picnic table and a fire ring. Additional amenities include two picnic pavilions and a newly built amphitheater. Pets are welcome, but must be confined, leashed (up to six feet in length) or otherwise under the owner's control at all times. Three campsites and campground restrooms are ADA accessible. |
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Camping, GroupPrimitive camping is available for organized groups. The sites are primitive and do not have running water, electricity or restrooms. The camping area is located along a hiking trail, and requires a 2-mile hike (round trip). A map and directions will be provided upon arrival. The camping area accommodates up to 30 people and 10 tents; a minimum of 8 people is required. The site includes a picnic table and fire ring with benches. Campers are required to pack in all food and water, and pack out all trash. Call the park for reservations at (813) 672-5320. |
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Canoeing & KayakingCanoeing and Kayaking are a popular activities in the Alafia River and the reclaimed lakes. Currently Alafia River State Park does not offer canoe rentals. |
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FishingAlafia River State Park offers numerous lakes for fishing. Bass, bluegill and catfish are among the fish that you may catch. Catch and Release is recommended for Large Mouth Bass. A fishing license is required for all freshwater fishing for people 16 and older. Please go to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission web site and get your fishing license online. |
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Geo-SeekingIf you fancy yourself a hunter of treasure or if you are looking for a fun activity to do with family and friends, Geocaching may be for you! Geocaching is a unique and fun way to do some exploring and treasure hunting yourself here in Real Florida at Alafia River State Park, where you will search your way through Xeric Hammock, Upland Mixed Forests and the banks of our blackwater stream for your Geocaching treasure. There are approximately 12 caches in the park scattered along our trail systems. This activity is suited to varying age groups and experience levels. To learn more about Geocaching you can visit their website at www.geocaching.com |
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Hiking/Nature TrailHiking is permitted on all the horse trails and some of the off-road mountain bicycle trails. |
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Horse/Equestrian TrailRiders can enjoy a relaxing day of approximately 20 miles of equestrian trails. The horse trails are well marked and wind around lakes, over hills and through wooded areas. The blue trail is a perimeter loop, the white trail runs north and south, the green trail runs east and west, and the yellow trails are island loops. Twelve of the campsites in this campground are equipped for equestrian campers. There is a 12 stall horse barn available for campers. The stalls are available on a first come, first serve basis. There is no additional fee to stall your horse. Alafia River's spacious paved campsites are outfitted with 20/30/50 amp electric service, water hook-up, a picnic table and a fire ring. Additional amenities include two picnic pavilions and an amphitheater. Pets are welcome, but must be confined, and on a leash (up to six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control at all times. |
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PetsPets are welcome at Alafia River State Park as long as they are kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash and are well behaved and under the owner's control at all times. |
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Picnic PavilionADA accessible picnic pavilions are available at the park. |
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PicnickingYou can enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch with a beautiful view. A playground, volleyball area and horseshoe pits are also available. Consumption of alcohol beverages is prohibited. |
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PlaygroundFor added enjoyment, the park has a childrens' playground conveniently located in the picnic area. The playground is equipped with two swing sets and numerous slides. |
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Restroom FacilitiesOvernight camping, ADA accessible picnic shelters and restroom facilities are available. |
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Showers, Day VisitorsShowers are located in the campground and available to campers only. |
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Wildlife ViewingWildlife viewing is possible on all the trails, the picnic area, and from the many lakes and the Alafia River, so bring your binoculars. |
