Hillsborough River State Park

Exploring Hillsborough River State Park

Outdoorsy visitors and locals alike flock to Hillsborough River State Park, which sits about 20 miles northeast of downtown Tampa. The park offers Class II rapids (a rarity in Florida), camping, four nature trails totaling more than 7 miles, beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, and historic sites. This park provides recreation opportunities for everyone.

Visitor Experiences

Most visitors enjoy the scenic area and camping opportunities. Many also note that temperatures are warm (80-plus degrees Fahrenheit) for much of the year, with humidity and mosquitoes being common. Campsite amenities, such as showers and the bathhouse, are generally considered acceptable.

Park Information

Hillsborough River State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown every day of the year. There is a fee of $6 per vehicle carrying up to eight people or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle. Cyclists and pedestrians pay $2 to enter. There are also nightly fees for RV and tent camping and other accommodations. On-site parking is available. For more information, visit the park's website.

Fort Foster: A Historic Journey

History buffs might find Fort Foster State Historic Site particularly interesting while visiting the park. Originally built in the 1830s during the Second Seminole War, Fort Foster helped colonists maintain their bridge crossing at the Hillsborough River. Today, visitors can see a reproduction of the original fort. The site also features an interpretive center showcasing artifacts unearthed at the fort. Note that Fort Foster State Historic Site is only open for guided tours and special events.