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Hillsborough River State Park

 About Hillsborough River State Park

Trees hang over and reflect in the water. Photo by Joseph Kaye

A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER

Kim Tennille

During the summer this is a very busy place, but away from the main picnic area, the crowds thin allowing one to become immersed in Nature's embrace. When your hiking gear is collecting dust and you know a nice walk in the outdoors would do your body and soul some good. Hillsborough River State Park is where you can go to breathe the fresh, fragrant, pine flatwoods air for a short renewing walk. In the summertime, this park is alive with visitors enjoying the beautiful Florida environment and taking a dip in our ½ acre swimming pool. Year-round this historic place built in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corp CCC will fulfill your need for the great outdoors. We offer an easy hike/walk on our rapids trail as it parallels the Hillsborough River water's edge or you might decide to take a more advanced hike on our 3.3 mile section of the Florida trail. There are several benches along the rapids trail, each offering a scenic view to enjoy while resting or taking a little extra time to absorb your lush, green surroundings. It's always fun to explore these paths and listen to the sounds of nature. Parking lot #3, near our recreation hall is a great place to stretch your legs after a brisk walk or sit at a picnic table for lunch. There are even covered pavilions to get out of the rain. For those with four-footed friends, dogs are allowed on leash. You can fish in the park, year-round, but a current fresh water fishing license is necessary. The river shore is for fishing only, no swimming in these areas please.

We hope you will come out and visit the Real Florida!

The Center for Autism & Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida has designated the Hillsborough River State Park/Florida Park Service an autism-friendly state park.

This 3,383 acres property became the Tampa Bay areas first autism-friendly state park after CARD-USF provided training to Florida Park Service staff members. The training covers topics such as autism spectrum disorders and strategies that enhance the experience while visiting the park.

The Division of Recreation and Parks is committed to making all reasonable efforts to ensure that its facilities, programs and services are accessible to, and usable by, people of all abilities. The Center for Autism & Related Disabilities has made a commitment to provide information and consultation to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and related disabilities.

CARD-USF provides technical assistance, training, and support for families, professionals, peers, and individuals with autism and related disabilities throughout 14 counties in Southwest Florida.

For more information: Center for Autism and Related Disabilities Department of Child and Family Studies College of Behavioral and Community Sciences University of South Florida 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. MHC 2113A Tampa, FL 33612-3899 Phone: (813) 974-2532 Fax: (813) 974-3290 Toll-Free Florida Only: 1-800-333-4530 Email: card-usf@fmhi.usf.edu

DESIGNATIONS

The Great Florida Birding Trail Logo

GETTING HERE

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.

GET INVOLVED

CONCESSIONAIRES

  • Hillsborough Park Pool Side CafĂ© - Contact Debbie Giles Manager
    Contact Debbie Giles, (813) 986-3322
    15402 U.S. 301 North
    Thonotosassa, FL 33592

PET POLICY

  • Florida State Parks Pet Policy
  • Pets are permitted in all outdoor areas of the park and must be kept on a six-foot handheld leash at all times. Please clean up after your pets. Service animals are welcome in all areas and buildings of the park, as required by law.