Hillsborough River State Park

Campsites are wet

Due to the ongoing rain throughout this past week and another 5 inches expected according to the local weather report, the campgrounds are extremely flooded. The trails are open, however they are muddy and full of thirsty mosquitos so bring good shoes and bug spray. The pool will be open between the thunder and lightning so plan on making it a wet day.

Seasonal Fort Foster Tours

Tours of Historic Fort Foster are currently being offered the third Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. Tickets must be purchased at the ranger station before the tour and are $2 per person. For larger groups reservations can be made and accommodations may be possible for separate tours.

Hours

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

Fees

$6 per vehicle

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Location

15402 US 301 N.
Thonotosassa FL 33592

Get directions

Contact Info

813-987-6771

Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park

Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this diverse park offers a refuge from city life with its seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water.

Historic Hillsborough River State Park was established in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp and is one of Florida’s oldest state parks. Kayakers enjoy class II rapids, a rarity in Florida and Fort Foster offers a glimpse into Florida’s rich history.

Fort Foster State Historic Site is part of Hillsborough River State Park, though located on the East Side of US 301 from the park. Fort Foster is a reconstructed fort from the Second Seminole War. Due to the sensitivity of this historic site, experiencing Fort Foster is ONLY available, weather permitting, via ranger-guided interpretive tours.

Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the park's ADA accessible swimming pool. Swimming pool hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is $4 per person. Pool will open seasonally in the summer. Please contact the park for swimming pool informational updates at 813-987-6771.

Our Interpretive Center is located in the original 1930's Entrance Station of Hillsborough River State Park and offers a glimpse into the Second Seminole War and life at Fort Foster. Over 100 artifacts are on display from the Fort Foster Historic Site which offer an understanding of both sides of the conflict between the Seminole nation and the US military. The center is open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., daily.

The park offers full-facility camping and a youth/group tent campground. A primitive campsite is available via foot trail; reservations are always recommended.