Frequently Asked Questions about Hillsborough River State Park

Question: Do you have a boat ramp?
Answer: We have a hand portage canoe launch only. Tubes, jet skis and swimming are not allowed in the river. Small 5 horsepower motors are allowed.

Question: What does it mean on the Reserve America website by "non-reservable sites?”
Answer: A non- reservable campsite is one of 10% of the total sites available to rent that are available on a first come first serve basis. If, on the day of your arrival, any of these sites are available and are large enough to accommodate your camping equipment, then you may rent the site.

Question: Can canoes be rented at the park?
Answer: Yes, there are canoes to rent for $10/hr with a Florida Drivers License. Canoes can be rented from 10am –2pm on weekdays and 9am – 3pm on weekends. Canoes may not be reserved. A maximum of 3 people are permitted in canoes without exception for size and no pets are allowed. Flotation devices are provided with rental of canoe, children sizes are limited.

Question: Is the Pool open?
Answer: The pool is opened seasonally, in the warm months. In season the pool hours are 10am-4pm on weekdays and 9am-5pm on weekends. The pool is not available to reserve and all visitors, campers and day users, must pay the pool entrance fee. The fee to use the pool is $2.00 per day per person ages 6 years and up, children 5 and younger are free.

Question: Can picnic pavilions be reserved?
Answer: Yes, 6 pavilions are available to reserve for use during regular operating hours, the fees are $30.00 and $60.00 depending on size plus $5.00 for electricity (electric is not available at all pavilions) plus tax. Appropriate daily entrance fees apply to all entries in addition to pavilion rental fee. Contact the Ranger Station for availability at 813-987-6771.

Question: When can we check into our campsite?
Answer: If the campsite was vacant the night before your reservation then as early as 9am is fine to check in. If your campsite was occupied the night before then it would be available beginning at 1pm through till sundown and if it is a Friday or Saturday night then check in is available until 9:30pm for your convenience.

Question: Are Dogs allowed on the trails?
Answer: Yes, dogs are allowed on the trails as long as they are kept on 6 foot hand held leashes. Dogs are not allowed in primitive camp area, River’s Edge camping loops, any State buildings, Fort Foster, canoes, and special events.

Question: Can we collect firewood in the park?
Answer: Firewood collection is prohibited in the park because downed wood is a necessary part of the natural system. Firewood can be purchased as long as the supplies last at the ranger station for $6.00 per bundle.

Question: How can I get information on Fort Foster Historic Site at Hillsborough River State Park?
Answer: Click on this link - Fort Foster State Historic Site