Hillsborough River State Park
Hillsborough River State Park is Tampa’s wilderness escape—a 3,383-acre natural paradise featuring Florida’s rare Class II river rapids, just 30 minutes from downtown. Paddle through whitewater unusual for the Sunshine State, explore the Second Seminole War’s Fort Foster, and camp at 112 wooded sites along the scenic Hillsborough River. One of Florida’s original state parks (1936), this CCC-era treasure preserves a slice of old Florida where subtropical forests meet rushing waters.
📢 February 2026 Status Updates
- Hurricane Milton Recovery: Park reopened Feb 24, 2025; some trails still closed
- Burn Ban: In effect since Jan 16, 2026 (grilling allowed)
- Drought Alert: Stage 1 since Jan 28, 2026
- Swimming Pool: CLOSED since 2022 (may not reopen)
- Still Closed: Café, rec hall, Baynard & Seminole trails, portion of Rapids Trail
Class II Rapids – Florida’s Only!
| Rapids Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Class | Class II (rare for Florida!) |
| 🛶 Kayak/Canoe Rentals | $20-35/hour (single, tandem, canoe) |
| 🚀 Launches | 3 kayak/canoe launches into river |
| 📍 Tip | Turn back at 17 Runs section due to obstructions |
| 🚗 Downstream | Shuttle to John B. Sergeant Park for longer trips |
🛶 Own Equipment Welcome!
Bring your own kayak or canoe! Three launch points provide access to the Hillsborough River. Rentals available through park concessionaire (services still being restored post-hurricane).
Fort Foster Historic Site
| Fort Foster | Details |
|---|---|
| ⚔️ Era | Second Seminole War (1836) |
| 🏴 Purpose | Defense & resupply point |
| 📍 Location | East side of US 301 from main park |
| 🎭 Today | Living history demonstrations |
Camping – 112 Wooded Sites
| Campground Features | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Sites | 112 (some still closed post-hurricane) |
| ⚡ Electric | Most sites have hookups |
| 💧 Water | Available at sites |
| 🔥 Fire Rings | Yes (check burn ban status!) |
| 🚿 Facilities | Hot showers, restrooms, laundry |
| Reservations | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 FL Residents | Book up to 11 months ahead |
| 📅 Non-Residents | Book up to 10 months ahead |
| 🏕️ Primitive Site | Available via foot trail |
Trails & Nature
| Trail Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Total | 7+ miles of hiking trails |
| ⚠️ Closed (Feb 2026) | Baynard Trail, Seminole Trail, portion of Rapids Trail |
| 🚲 Biking | Bicycle rentals available |
| 🌿 Ecosystem | Subtropical hardwood hammock, river swamp |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry Fee | $6/vehicle, $4/single occupant, $2/pedestrian |
| 📐 Size | 3,383 acres |
| 📍 Location | 30 min north of downtown Tampa |
| 🕐 Hours | 8 AM – Sundown, 365 days/year |
| 🏛️ Established | 1936 (CCC-built, one of FL’s first) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hillsborough River State Park have rapids?
Yes! Hillsborough River State Park features Class II rapids—a rarity in Florida! The river’s limestone outcrops create genuine whitewater conditions. Kayak and canoe rentals are available ($20-35/hour), or bring your own equipment. Three launch points provide river access. It’s one of the few places in Florida where you can experience real rapids.
Is the swimming pool open at Hillsborough River State Park?
No. The swimming pool has been closed since 2022 and as of February 2026, reports indicate it may not reopen. The park does not currently have a swimming area. For swimming, consider nearby Little Manatee River State Park or one of Tampa Bay’s beaches.
Is Hillsborough River State Park fully open after Hurricane Milton?
Mostly open. The park reopened February 24, 2025 after Hurricane Milton damage (October 2024). However, as of February 2026, some facilities remain closed: the café, recreation hall, several campsites, two pavilions, and portions of trails (Baynard, Seminole, and part of Rapids Trail). Kayak/canoe/bike rentals are available. Check official sources before visiting.
What is Fort Foster at Hillsborough River State Park?
Fort Foster is a historic site within the park commemorating a Second Seminole War (1836) military post. It served as a defense and resupply point during the conflict with the Seminole people. Located on the east side of US 301 from the main park, it features living history demonstrations that bring this frontier military era to life. It’s a unique historical aspect that sets this park apart.
Can you have a campfire at Hillsborough River State Park?
Check current conditions. As of January 16, 2026, a burn ban is in effect for Hillsborough County including the park. Outdoor grilling is the only exception. Additionally, a Stage 1 Drought Alert was issued January 28, 2026. Always verify current fire restrictions before your visit—conditions can change based on weather.
🌊 Tampa’s Whitewater Escape
Paddle Florida’s rare Class II rapids, explore Seminole War history, and camp in subtropical forests—all 30 minutes from downtown Tampa. Visit the official Hillsborough River State Park website for current closure updates and campsite reservations.
