13 Parks to Explore in Hillsborough County

Ballast Point Park is an idyllic place for visitors to explore and enjoy. Set along the shore of beautiful Tampa Bay, the park has something for everyone. From boat launches and kayak landings to a beachfront promenade, there are plenty of ways to appreciate nature. The park also includes shaded picnic areas, swings, and a playground for children. Guests can even watch for local wildlife from any number of scenic lookout points throughout the area.

The Bok Tower Garden is a beautiful botanical garden filled with colorful blossoms and winding pathways. It was built by Edward W. Bok, as a tribute to the beauty of nature and birds. Visitors can explore peaceful walking trails and gardens, to experience the tranquility of nature up close. There's also a 203 foot tall Singing Tower featuring dazzling carillon bells which chime every 30 minutes allowing people to bask in their soothing tones from almost anywhere on site.

The Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a refreshing spot for locals and visitors alike to take in the beauty of Tampa Bay. Located on East Bank of the Hillsborough River downtown, this 10-acre park features breathtaking views of the Tampa skyline, an interactive fountain where kids can cool off, an expansive stretch of green space perfect for picnicking and relaxing during Florida's sunny days, as well as cultural programming such as free concerts.

Dinosaur World offers a unique way for visitors, both young and old, to explore the prehistoric era. Located on over 20-acres of land, there are more than 150 life-sized dinosaur models spread throughout gardens and forests; an educational exhibit where you can learn about all phases of dino history; a Dinosaur Bone Dig Sandbox which provides an interactive experience with real fossils; various activities including a fossil find game that helps with problem solving skills.

Eureka Springs Park, is a beautiful and natural park that is perfect for spending a day outdoors. The sprawling grounds feature plenty of walking trails amongst the thick forestry, as well as some stunning waterfront views. There are also several attractions within the park such as Big Fish Lake and Eureka Springs Park Nature Center, where visitors can learn more about the local wildlife. Other activities include fishing, picnicking, birdwatching or other leisure activities.

Lettuce Lake Park is the perfect blend of recreational activities and scenic nature trails. With a range of outdoor experiences including canoeing and kayaking along the Hillsborough River, camping along its serene wooded sites, fishing and picnicking on banks of the shallow water lagoon, as well as hiking and biking through winding trails and an environmental education center for a deep dive into nature, there is something for everyone at this breathtaking park.

Lithia Springs Park offers all the delights of outdoor recreation, with a hint of Florida history. Visitors can take in the breathtaking beauty as they stroll along the 1/3 mile nature trail and enjoy the lush foliage, wildlife and springs that feed into nearby FishHawk Creek. In addition to its nature trail, other activities include kayaking, canoeing, fishing, picnicking and swimming at one of the area's multiple springs. The park was once part of an old plantation dating back to 1846.

Parque Jose Marti is an outdoor recreation area that offers visitors a chance for exploration and play. This park covers 125 acres of land with plenty open space for picnics, sports activities, and walks. The walking paths are lined with tall trees and benches for rest, providing a pleasant environment throughout the park. There are also two lakes in the park which can be used for recreational fishing. Parque Jose Marti is the perfect destination to entertain children of all ages.

Perry Harvey Sr. Park is an outdoor experience for the entire family to enjoy. With its bike trail, basketball court, picnic area, and playground set-up, there’s something for everyone at Perry Harvey Sr. Park! Spend a day here floating down the Hillsborough River on a rented canoe or kayak, play a game of hoops on the lighted basketball court near midday overlooking the river or take an afternoon stroll along the winding bike trail with stunning views of downtown Tampa.

Sand Serpent is a unique experience located near Tampa Bay, Sand Serpent offers one-of-a kind adventures for thrill seekers. Tourists can explore the area on various guided activities that take them through diverse trails of white sand, mangrove swamps filled with butterflies and hawks, and lush coastal wetlands along the Gulf of Mexico's shoreline. Tourists also have the opportunity to take guided Ecotours along some of Florida’s most remarkable rivers and waterways.

2.6-mile-long (4.2 km) open space and pedestrian trail development along the Hillsborough River . The Riverwalk extends along most of the downtown Tampa waterfront, forming a continuous path connecting multiple parks, attractions, public spaces, and hotels.

Upper Tampa Bay Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This 1,125 acre park boasts stunning and varied landscapes, including woodlands comprised of pinion pines and palmettos, wetlands brimming with wildlife, shoreline areas along two different bays, and plenty of open grasslands. Hikers are especially enticed by the 7 mile trail that guides them through different ecosystems, as well as numerous shorter trails that delve deeper into swamplands filled with tall grasses.

Water Works Park is an amazing place to visit and explore! In this unique park, visitors will find two beautiful nature trails, a kids' splash zone, playgrounds, and a picnic area perfect for families or large groups of friends. There are also many special events hosted at the park throughout the year, such as the popular 'Movies in the Park' series. The park also has majestic views of Tampa Bay that provide a perfect backdrop for an idyllic sunset picnic or walk along one of its nature trails.