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Hillsborough River State Park

15402 N US Highway 301, Thonotosassa, FL

Hillsborough River State Park offers a unique Florida camping experience featuring rare Class II river rapids and a CCC-built suspension bridge.

Established in 1938, Hillsborough River State Park provides a scenic retreat just 30 minutes outside of Tampa. The park is best known for its rare Class II river rapids and a historic suspension bridge constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Spanning over 3,000 acres, the landscape includes live oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps, with seven miles of multi-use trails available for hiking and biking. The campground consists of three loops providing 112 spacious sites, each equipped with water, fire rings, picnic tables, and 30- or 50-amp electrical hookups. Amenities include modern restrooms with hot showers and laundry facilities in every loop, as well as a centrally located dump station. For those interested in history, the park serves as the site for the reconstructed Fort Foster, a Second Seminole War fortification that offers interpretive tours. Visitors can explore the blackwater river via canoe or kayak rentals or enjoy fishing year-round. The park's diverse ecosystem is home to alligators, blue herons, and various turtle species. Notable nearby riding includes the Green Swamp motorcycle route, a popular local loop that winds through protected watersheds and offers a break from the surrounding urban traffic.

Quick Facts

  • Established in 1938 as one of Florida's first state parks.
  • Features rare Class II river rapids and a CCC-built suspension bridge.
  • 112 campsites with 30/50-amp electric and water hookups.
  • Maximum RV or trailer length is 50 feet.
  • Includes seven miles of nature trails for hiking and biking.
  • Home to the reconstructed Fort Foster Historic Site.

Common Questions

What type of hookups are available at the campsites?

The 112 sites offer water hookups and either 30- or 50-amp electrical service.

What is the maximum vehicle length allowed in the campground?

The maximum length for RVs and trailers is 50 feet.

Are there laundry facilities on-site?

Yes, laundry facilities are available for registered campers within each of the three campground loops.

Can I rent canoes or kayaks at the park?

Yes, watercraft rentals are available for exploring the Hillsborough River and its rapids.

Is there a dump station at the park?

Yes, a centrally located dump station is provided for the convenience of campers.

Are pets permitted in the campground?

Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash up to six feet long and under physical control at all times.

What is the entrance fee for the park?

The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for up to eight people, or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle.

Is the park open every day?

Yes, the park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sundown.

Are there showers available for campers?

Each campground loop includes restrooms equipped with hot showers.

What unique natural feature can I see here?

The park features rare Class II river rapids, which are a highly unusual sight in the state of Florida.

Can I visit a historic fort at this location?

The park is home to the reconstructed Fort Foster, a fortification from the Second Seminole War.

How long are the hiking and biking trails?

The park offers seven miles of multi-use trails that wind through various ecosystems including cypress swamps and oak hammocks.

Is fishing allowed in the park?

Fishing is permitted year-round in the Hillsborough River with a valid freshwater fishing license.

What is the history of the suspension bridge?

The iconic suspension bridge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s to provide access to the north side of the river.

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