Hillsborough River State Park

From I-75, southbound from Ocala, take Exit 279 and head east on State Road 54 to U.S. Highway 301; take U.S. Highway 301 south for six miles; the park entrance will be on the right.

From I-75, northbound from Tampa, take Exit 265, head east on Fowler Avenue to U.S. Highway 301; take U.S. Highway 301 north for nine miles; the park entrance will be on the left.

From I-4, westbound from Lakeland, take Exit 10, go north on County Road 579 to U.S. Highway 301; take U.S. Highway 301 north for seven miles; the park entrance will be on the left.

• Admission Fees
  • $4 for up to 8 people per car.
• Camping Fees
  • $20 + tax

Built between 1934 and 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corp, Hillsborough River State Park became one of Florida's first state parks when it opened to the public in 1938. The park is made up of 1,040 upland acres and 2,343 wetland and submerged acres for a total of 3,383 acres. The park is also home to Fort Foster, a replica of an original Second Seminole War military fort which houses a display of period artifacts. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays.

Hillsborough River State Park boasts 112 campsites, many picnic areas and pavilions, a swimming area complete with a poolside cafe and gift shop and many other amenities.

Favorite park activities include:

• Bicycling - Bicyclists can enjoy the 1.6-mile Wetlands Restoration Nature Trail, a 2.2-mile park loop or ride through the campground area.
• Canoeing and Kayaking - Visitors enjoy paddling down Hillsborough River which winds through the park. The river flows over outcroppings of Suwannee limestone, creating a series of rapids. For those who do not have their own canoe, rentals are available in the park.
• Camping - Both RV and tent camping is available. Most campsites have electric and are equipped with water, a fire ring and picnic table. The campground offers a dump station. Pets are allowed with restrictions.
• Hiking Trails - Visitors can stroll along the river on boardwalks or enjoy a hike through cypress swamps, pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. Hikers may spot wildlife such as gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, owls, bobcats and deer.
• Swimming - Seasonal swimming is offered in an ADA accessible man-made swimming pool. Pool fees are $2 a day per person for ages 6 and up. Children 5 years and younger are free.

Picnicking at Hillsborough River State Park is particularly popular. Visitors can enjoy a meal beneath one of the pavilions built by the CCC in the 1930s or at one of the other open picnic benches found throughout the park. Pavilions are available to rent for $30 or $60 plus electricity fee where available. For larger groups, a recreation hall is available for rent.