Contact Information
15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa, 33592
(813) 987-6771
Florida State Campgrounds
Reservations 1-800-326-3521
Hillsborough River State Park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1936 and opened to the public in 1938. This 3,383-acre park offers camping, picnicking, canoe rentals and seasonal swimming in an ADA accessible man-made swimming pool.
Nature trails allow visitors to wander through
hammocks of live oaks, sabal palms and hickories
which border the scenic Hillsborough River. The
trails are wide, however, caution should be taken
when walking the trails due to the erosion and exposed
roots which make the surface rough.
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.
Park Activities
Bicycling
Bicyclists are invited to ride on the 1.6 mile Wetlands
Restoration Nature Trail as well as the 2.2 mile
Park Loop and through the campgrounds. All visitors
are encouraged to wear helmets for their safety
and by law all children under 16 are required to
wear helmets when riding bicycles on the road.
Canoeing
Canoeing is a popular activity in the park. Visitors may bring their own canoe or rent one at the park. Florida Sports Paddling Club a local paddling club, enjoys the park’s river access and makes regular use of it, contact them for more information about club activities at Hillsborough River State Park.
Concessions
Canoes are available for rent at the park operated concession which also provides food, beverages, picnic supplies and souvenirs.
Fishing
Park visitors can fish in the Hillsborough River for bass, bream and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for all anglers.
Full Facility Camping
RV and Tent camping is available with electric on most of the campsites in our 108 site campground. Each site is equipped with water, a fire ring and picnic table. The Campground offers a dump station for your convenience since sewer hookups are not available on each campsite at this time. Pets are allowed with restrictions. Shopping is available at the park’s Outpost concession with basic food items and merchandise. Exhibits are located throughout the park. Swimming is available in ½ acre man-made swimming area. The park offers many planned activities year-round.
Guided Tours
Fort Foster is the only standing replica of a Second Seminole War Fort in the United States. Guided Tours of Fort Foster are offered; weather permitting, every weekend, Saturdays at 2 pm and Sundays at 11 am. The fees are $2.00 per person 13 years and older and $1.00 for children ages 6 to 12, children 5 years and younger are free. Meet at the Interpretive Center for the tour. If you have any questions please call the Ranger Station for more information.
Interpretive Programs
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and the former contact station the Interpretive Center has exhibits and artifacts describing the Seminole Indian Wars. The Interpretive Center is open everyday from 8am to 5pm for visitors to browse through.
Nature Trails
Visitors have 4 trails to choose from and 7. 3 total miles to hike. Biking is available on the Wetlands Restoration Trail exclusively. A trail map is available at the Ranger’s Station.
Picnicking
Visitors can picnic under one of the pavilions built by the CCC in the 1930s or at one of the other open picnic benches available throughout the park. Six pavilions are available to rent for $30 or $60 plus electricity fee where available. Call the Ranger’s Station for more information and availability at 813-987-6771. A fact sheet is provided for your information.
Primitive Camping
A primitive camp, located across the river is available via foot trail and reservations are recommended
Swimming
The park offers seasonal swimming in an ADA accessible man-made swimming pool. Pool fees are $2.00 per day per person for peoples ages 6 and up, children 5 years and younger are free, fees are paid at pool entrance. See Ranger Station for seasonal availability dates.
Wildlife Viewing
A variety of habitats in Hillsborough River State Park including pine flatwoods, floodplain swamp, hardwood hammock, cypress swamp, and grass pond allow for diverse plant and animal communities to be observed by our visitors. Weather on a trail or picnicking by the man-made swimming hole, bring your binoculars to get a good look at the wildlife. Additional information about identified animals seen in Hillsborough River State Park can be found in the Ranger Station.
Youth Camping
The youth camping area can handle groups up to 60 people at one time and costs $4.00 per person.