Suspension Bridge at Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park

Class II rapids just a few minutes from downtown Tampa

Park Reopening

Effective Feb. 24, 2025: Hillsborough River State Park has reopened. Most amenities, including canoe, kayak and bicycle rentals, are available. However, some amenities remain closed including the café, recreation hall, several campsites, two pavilions, the Baynard and Seminole trails and a portion of the Rapids Trail. Please adhere to all posted signage and avoid closed areas.

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

813-688-9500

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.

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 view Class II river rapids, which are rare in Florida, and canoe or kayak along the scenic Hillsborough River.  

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


Plan Your Visit

Kyle Easley
Learn

Manager's Message

Whether you hike the Seminole trail, get your pulse up on the exercise trail or float down the river, 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

Two beds inside the glamping tent at Hillsborough River State Park.
Service

Glamping = Glamorous Camping

Glamping is a getaway that combines modern comfort and the great outdoors.

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Camping
Camping
Camping
Camping
Camping, Primitive Group
Camping, Primitive Group
Fishing
Fishing
Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking
Hiking
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Horseback Riding
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
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 enjoy 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. An immense amount of water, millions of gallons to be exact, flow over through the river each day, eventually making its way to the Tampa Bay.

People Make the Parks

Chris Sardinas, assistant park manager at Hillsborough River State Park

Staff Spotlight

Chris is a Florida native, born in Miami but raised in Tampa. Chris has always had a passion for the outdoors and grew up fishing, camping and hiking throughout Florida.
Volunteer Awards

Volunteer Awards

Sandy is the recipient of the 2023 Volunteer Award for Visitor Services.
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.

Park Map

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