Main Page - Hillsborough River State Park

Manager's Message

Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park, one of Florida's original state parks. Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corp, Hillsborough River State Park is steeped in history and natural beauty. Many activities are available at the park which visitors can access and enjoy. Fort Foster, a replica of an original Second Seminole War military fort, is open for guided tours on Saturdays and Sundays. A visit to the fort allows visitors to step back in time to the days when Florida was being settled by pioneers. The Fort Foster Visitor Station houses a display of artifacts from the time period and provides the visitor with information about the operation of the fort.

The natural scenic beauty of the park is astounding and many trails offer the visitor the opportunity to experience this first hand. A popular trail is the Rapids Nature Trail. It meanders through oak hammocks to the edge of the Hillsborough River at the point where an outcropping of limestone rocks has created rapids. This area is a popular spot for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. For enjoying the river by being on it, the park has canoe rentals for visitor's convenience.

Hillsborough River State Park also offers 112 campsites, picnic areas, pavilions and the Spirit of the Woods Pool Side Café and Gift Shop. A swimming pool with a capacity of 216 swimmers is also within the park. All of these amenities are made available for our visitor's enjoyment.

The gift shop is open 9am-5pm seven days a week. The concession is open for breakfast and lunch daily from 9am-4pm. Canoes and bikes can be rented from 9am –3pm and all rental equipment must be returned by 4pm. The pool will be open daily, weather permitting from 9am till 5pm. ATTENTION: The pool will be closed for maintenance 12/1/08-12/14/08.

From an afternoon picnic, an all day family reunion, an extended stay by overnight camping or a corporate gathering, Hillsborough River State Park provides an exceptional setting in a natural environment for folks to relax and reconnect with family, friends and colleagues.

For the latest information on current conditions and sightings in the park click on Current Conditions & Sightings

- Kim Tennille, Park Manager

Welcome to Hillsborough River State Park

Opened in 1938 as one of Florida´s first state parks, this park is divided by the swiftly flowing Hillsborough River. Fort Foster, a replica of an 1837 fort from the Second Seminole War, is located on the park grounds, adjacent to the river. Fort tours are offered on weekends or with a reservation. The river provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking; a canoe/kayak launch is available on the river. Canoes can be rented at the park´s concession, which also provides food, beverages, picnic supplies, and souvenirs. Hikers can walk over seven miles along four nature trails. The Wetlands Restoration Trail accommodates bicyclists and hikers. When the weather calls for it, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the park´s ADA accessible swimming pool. The park offers full-facility camping and a youth/group tent campground. A primitive campsite is available via foot trail; reservations are recommended. Located 12 miles north of Tampa and six miles south of Zephyrhills on U.S. 301.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Hillsborough River State Park, please call 813-987-6771.

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Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

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.