Hillsborough River State Park: Class II Rapids & CCC Suspension Footbridge Hike
Visit on your scheduleDec 1 – Feb 28 · 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Open 365 days a year from 8:00 AM to sunset; CCC Museum open Wednesday–Sunday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Hillsborough River State Park15402 US-301 N, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 · 19.4 mi approx. from TampaDirections
All ages; flat, well-shaded trails; suspension bridge accessible with all-terrain strollers
With admission$6 per vehicle (up to 8 people); $4 single-occupant vehicle; $2 pedestrians and bicyclists
About this adventure
Located just northeast of Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park opened in 1938 as one of Florida's original state parks, developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It protects one of the only natural Class II river rapids in Florida, where churning tannic water cascades over jagged limestone formations beneath towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Families can hike the iconic River Rapids Nature Trail (1.2 miles) crossing the historic wooden suspension footbridge that sways gently over the river. Winter brings refreshing daytime highs in the low 70s, making it prime season for spotting river otters, wild turkeys, and wading birds along seven miles of multi-use trails. The park features a heritage CCC museum, modern playgrounds, spacious shaded pavilions with stone barbecue fireplaces, and canoe rentals.
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