Suspension Bridge at Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park

Class II rapids just a few minutes from downtown Tampa

Pool Closure

The pool is closed for maintenance with an anticipated reopening date in the summer of 2023. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Know Before You Go

Effective May 21, 2021: The ranger station at Hillsborough River State Park is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Exact change is necessary when paying with cash when the ranger station is closed. The Fort King Trailhead on U.S. 301, the café and the pool are closed. Tours of Fort Foster and kayak rentals are unavailable.

Stationary Bridge Closure

The stationary bridge is closed for repairs. Please check back for status updates.

Hours

8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees

$6 per vehicle

See all fees
 

Location

15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa FL 33592

Get directions

Contact Info

813-987-6771 or 813-326-5867

Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park

Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this diverse park offers a refuge from city life with seven miles of nature trails and wonderful wildlife viewing.

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Pay Online, Single-Use Day Pass

Come visit a breathtaking oasis of natural and historical significance. Stroll along the river rapids, enjoy camping, explore historic structures, share a picnic or view scenic landscapes. Hillsborough River State Park provides many opportunities for outdoor recreation. From fishing in the Hillsborough River to hiking or biking on the trails or picnicking under pavilions built in the 1930s, there is something for everyone here.

Besides enjoying a living history lesson, visitors can kayak or canoe class II river rapids, which are rare in Florida, and hike seven miles of nature trails.

Camping is another popular activity at Hillsborough River State Park, just a short distance from the bustling city of Tampa.

Plan Your Visit

Brian Pinson, Park Manager
Learn

Manager's Message

Whatever your favorite activity, from rigorous hiking along the Seminole trail, getting your pulse up on the exercise trail, relaxing while you float down the river or taking in the rich history of the Real Florida, we know you will love this park.
Fort Foster State Historic Site

Fort Foster State Historic Site

During the Second Seminole War, the purpose of Fort Foster was to defend the bridge crossing at the Hillsborough River and act as a resupply point for the soldiers in the field. The fort was garrisoned on and off from December 1836 through April 1838.

15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa FL 33592

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Camping
Camping
Camping Primitive
Camping Primitive
Camping, Primitive Group
Camping, Primitive Group
Fishing
Fishing
Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking
Hiking
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Horseback Riding
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Tours
Tours
Weddings
Weddings
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Campfire Circles
Campfire Circles
Campgrounds
Campgrounds
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Equestrian Trail
Equestrian Trail
Historic Site
Historic Site
Laundry
Laundry
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Parking
Parking
Pets
Pets
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Playground
Playground
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
RV
RV

Hillsborough River State Park Photo Gallery

View of Rapids
Hillsborough River
Kayakers enjoying the river
Bridge
River View
Kayaker
A view looking down the boardwalk.
A top down view of the Hillsborough river.
A view of the purple blazing flowers.
Learn

Wetlands Trail

Take your time walking the Wetland Trail as you take in the captivating landscape around you. Having all these ecosystems so close together provides a perfect habitat for a variety of flora and fauna.
A view of the rapids.
Learn

Splendor of the Hillsborough River

The Hillsborough River is a splendid example of the grandeur of natural Florida. Millions of gallons of water flow through the river each day, eventually making its way to Tampa Bay.

People Make the Parks

Celena Zimmerman, Assistant Park Manager

Staff Spotlight

As assistant park manager, Celena works to provide staff with the tools and support they need to offer amazing recreational opportunities for our visitors while preserving and protecting our cultural and natural resources.
Rick and Ruth Cheverie

Volunteer Spotlight

Rick and Ruth Cheverie have received the 2020 Short Term Project of the Year Award for Cultural Resources.
Hillsborough River State Park Preservation Society

Hillsborough River State Park Preservation Society

Friends Groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

This Park is Recognized by:

Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail

Park Map

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