Hillsborough River State Park Is A Tampa Nature Getaway

Experience Kayaking and Wildlife Minutes East of Tampa

Looking for a natural Floridian escape but don't want to travel too far from Tampa? Look no further than Hillsborough River State Park, a haven encompassing just under 3,000 acres to the east of Tampa!

Full to the brim with wildlife, the park is just minutes from historic Ybor City & Plant City. Feel free to stay in one of these cities, or bring your RV or tents out to HRSP - with spaces dedicated to camping, you can spend your nights among the Florida wildlife here!

If you're not sure what to do at Hillsborough River State Park, there is no shortage of choices - between hiking, on-road/off-road biking, kayaking, and a pool (yes, you read that right) you'll never be starved for something to occupy yourself.

While kayaking through the river, enjoy views of Floridian wildlife such as alligators, turtles and birds! Plus, the scenery is breathtaking - surrounded by trees on all sides, this is a perfect place to clear your head.

For more experienced kayakers, HRSP boasts a course called "The 17 Runs" - a decidedly difficult swampy obstacle course sure to provide a challenge. And for newbies, you don't even need to bring your own equpment - HRSP provides kayak and canoe rentals at the primary launch area, just adjacent to a concession building to satisfy your stomach.

For those that are more comfortable on land, there is an abundance of hiking trails at the park. From the bridge near the park playground (yep, there's a playground too) hikers can access the Florida Trail, the Baynard Trail, the River Rapids Trail, the Wetlands Restoration Trail, and the Fort King Trail!

If you want to get off your feet, bicycling is permitted on the Wetlands Restoration Trail - and you can rent bikes from the concession building if you haven't got your own.

There is obviously plenty to do at Hillsborough River State Park, and just a short drive from Tampa it makes the perfect weekend getaway! Be sure to visit next time you're looking to get "lost" amongst the Florida scenery and wildlife.