The Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area may be known best for its urban attractions and famous beaches, but a stunning array of natural spaces beyond the white sands are just as spectacular.
Venturing outside the city limits, and sometimes even within them, beautiful parks and preserves can be found. Each has its own unique charm. Some have miles of trails winding through Florida scrub and hammock habitats, while some offer views of marshes and seas that seem to stretch as far as they eye can see. Some give the opportunity to stare straight into the past with historical landmarks, while some seem so remote it is like stepping into another world.
All provide the chance to escape the hustle and bustle, soak in the sun and views, exercise in the great outdoors and simply enjoy all that he wild Florida scenery has to offer.
Hillsborough River State Park
Speaking of scenery, this park located just minutes from downtown Tampa nails it. With rushing river rapids, serene fishing ponds and rare flowers around every corner, Hillsborough River State Park is a tranquil oasis.
The versatile park offers various recreational trails, including biking, equestrian and hiking trails. Fishing is also a popular activity, with bass, bream and catfish being the most commonly seen fish.
Pack some treats and picnic under one of the park’s pavilions that were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Be sure to bring binoculars to observe the diverse animal and plant life throughout the park.
At the end of a long day of exploring and seeing all the sights within this beautiful park, camp out under the stars at the park’s campground equipped with running water, fire rings, picnic tables, hot showers, restrooms and laundry facilities.
Philippe Park
Philippe Park is the go-to park for history buffs and nature lovers alike. As the oldest park in Pinellas County, visitors can learn about its rich history while enjoying numerous other amenities.
The park is home to the largest Native American mound in the Tampa Bay area. Built by a tribe known as the Tocobaga, this sacred ground is listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks and gives visitors a glimpse into the life of Native Americans many years ago.
Another facet of Philippe Park’s rich history is that it was once a part of the estate of Count Odet Philippe, a successful businessman who introduced citrus and cigar making to Tampa Bay.
Aside from a history lesson, visitors can experience various amenities including fishing, picnic shelters, a softball field and playgrounds for little ones. Sitting back and reveling in the park’s quiet tranquility is always an option, too.
Terra Ceia Preserve State Park
For an outdoor adventure deep in Florida’s wilderness, Terra Ceia Preserve State Park is the place to go. Visitors can take a glimpse into an untouched Florida ecosystem, with 2,000 acres of freshwater and saltwater wetlands, mangrove forests, marshes, mudflats and more.
Hike the nine miles of trails throughout the park, fish in the fresh or saltwater ponds or kayak the waterways, winding in and out of mangrove forests while catching a glimpse of native wildlife.
As the park completes its habitat restoration, more amenities will be added, including additional hiking trails, boat ramps and interpretive kiosks.
Lettuce Lake Conservation Park
This local favorite in Hillsborough County packs a punch. A 1 ¼-mile paved exercise trail gives visitors the option to skip the treadmill and hike or bike in the fresh air along the peaceful landscape.
Rentable picnic shelters complete with tables and barbeque grills make for the perfect setting for an outdoor party, or just a place to rest and have a bite to eat. Explore scenic waterways by kayak or canoe and get up close and personal with the aquatic birds and wildlife that call Lettuce Lake their home. The park even offers rentals for those who come sans kayak or canoe.
A trip to Lettuce Lake Conservation Park would not be complete, though, without visiting the observation tower that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the park. Bring binoculars or a camera, because alligator sightings — do not worry, from a safe distance — are not uncommon.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
This 8,000-acre park威而鋼 tucked in Western Pasco County, just east of North Port Richey, is a bustling hub of activity.
The park connects to the 42-mile Suncoast Trail, so there is plenty of room for hiking, biking or even inline skating. Explore the park via horseback on the 7 ½-mile long equestrian trail or walk the designated bird trail, where more than 177 species of birds can be found.
A volleyball court and horseshoe pits allow for some friendly competition, and a playground provides the perfect diversion for children. The park lays out the options for campers, with tent camping, primitive camping and cabins for rent.
Fort De Soto Park
The long stretches of pristine white beaches, five islands to explore and a variety of amenities and activities make Fort De Soto Park an idyllic spot for those who want to get away from it all. This 1,136-acre park is a destination in and of itself. Nearby campsites and hotels make it possible to make a trip last longer than just a day.
Lay out in the sun and make the most of those sandy shores, because visitors will find Fort De Soto’s beaches less populated and more peaceful than the more developed beaches up the coast. Take an easy stroll, brisk jog or cycle on the seven-mile nature trail, or explore the waterways by kayak or canoe to catch a glimpse of manatees, dolphins, aquatic birds and other native creatures.
Another reason Fort De Soto is such a local favorite: It is one of the only beaches in the area that allows dogs to run, splash and play — no leash required. The park even provides a pup play area, the Paw Playground, where hoses and drinking water are available.
Relax and unwind at the snack bar and gift shop, where anything from ice cream to fishing tackle is available for purchase.
Behind this land of leisure, though, is a rich history. At the heart of the park lies the real Fort De Soto, a fort that was built during the Spanish-American War and is the park’s namesake. Walk through the firing galleys and artillery holds or climb to the top of the fort to see a panoramic view of the park.
Crews Lake Wilderness Park
This small, but peaceful, park is a hidden gem in Pasco County. What this park lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. Stroll through the botanical garden that is a favorite spot of exotic birds and butterflies.
Bike the paved cycling trail or hike the nature trails that run deep into the Florida wilderness. Playgrounds, softball, baseball and basketball courts and picnic areas are just a few of the amenities that can be found at Crews Lake Wilderness. There is also a miniature train for children that runs through the park and can be rented for birthday parties.
John Chestnut Sr. Park
Built in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this park covers 255 acres of lush Florida landscape in Pinellas County. Nature enthusiasts will love the variety of wildlife that can be found —racoons, alligators, hawks and tortoises are some of the most commonly seen creatures throughout the park.
Sitting adjacent to the park is the scenic Lake Tarpon, where visitors can boat, kayak or canoe. The park also offers a number of other amenities to make for a full day of activity, including a boardwalk that leads over waterways and through forests, 13 picnic shelters, two playgrounds, horseshoe pits, a softball field and a dog park.
Egmont Key State Park
Primitive island with historic ruins? Check. Clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling? Check. Shorelines covered with beautiful seashells? Check. Egmont Key State Park makes for an ideal beach day for the adventurous at heart.
This secluded island at the mouth of Tampa Bay, reachable only by ferry, allows visitors an escape to explore and revel in its unspoiled natural beauty. Splash, play and snorkel at the shore, or hike through the ruins of Fort Dade, a military outpost from the Spanish American War.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island is just as lovely as its name suggests. Just a short drive from Tampa, this state park is secluded while still offering all the comforts from home. Five miles of beaches, 3 ½ miles of wooded hiking trails, a nature center where visitors can learn about the history of the park and enjoy a breathtaking view from the elevated observation deck, two cafes and a gift shop are just a few of the many amenities that can be found at this local favorite.
Honeymoon Island is also known as a birdwatcher’s paradise because of the diverse variety of birds that can be found on the island, including snowy egrets, great blue herons, oyster catchers and many more. Plan for a picnic on the beach at sundown, because the sunsets are a cannot miss.
By Shelley Akins
