Listed as a finalist for the 2018 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation, Tampa is proud of its parks and trails. To celebrate, we’ve listed five unique, hidden parks in the Tampa area.
These are fantastic places that even the locals might not know about. So, if you’re looking to explore the stunning nature of Tampa without the crowds, then this is your definitive guide.
- Eureka Spring Conservation Park is the only botanical park in Hillsborough County. Although relatively small at just 31 acres, the garden trails pass through many rare and unusual tropical plants. Stroll along the impressive boardwalk that winds through a beautiful forested wetland area. Stop by the rose garden, orchid room, and greenhouse. You can even take a picnic to enjoy.
- Purity Springs Park is a pocket-sized park with a glorious little crystalline blue pool just north of downtown Tampa. Purity Spring Park is one in a series of dedicated urban parks. The spring is only 21 feet across but is beautiful to sit near and enjoy a picnic under the looming oak trees. Or, perhaps rest on one of the many benches with a good book.
- Blackwater Creek Reserve is a beautiful secluded 2000 acre spot. If you’re looking for stunning natural beauty away from the hubbub of downtown, then this is a must visit. There are two hiking trails which cover 6 miles. Walk the routes, and you can expect to see many types of wild birds and animals including hawks, wild turkeys, deer and even gopher tortoise. Enjoy cypress domes, hardwood hammocks, wet prairies, and freshwater marshes in this quiet reserve.
- Moccasin Lake Nature Park is an urban nature reserve near Highway 19. This area of wilderness boasts 1 mile of wooded winding trails and boardwalks. During your visit be sure to stop by the butterfly garden to see the many fluttering critters and the turtle pond, which children especially will love. For the best lookout spot head to The Cypress Trail which leads to a bluff overlooking a large lake. The park with its 51 acres also features an educational nature center which includes rehabilitated bald eagles, owls, hawks, and vultures.
- Colt Creek, at 5000 acres has something for everyone to enjoy. There are more than 12 miles of trails shared by hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders. You can also fish on any of the three lakes. Colt Creek is home to many vulnerable plants and animals such as the Longleaf Pine, the gopher tortoise, and Sherman’s fox squirrel. Keep your eyes peeled, and you can also see American alligators, bald eagles, and the white-tailed deer.
Thanks to its location on the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa offers numerous picturesque parks just waiting to be explored. From hiking trails to water sports there is something for everyone to enjoy. Head there today, and you’ll be sure to see plenty of wildlife without the crowds.
So, grab your hiking boots and start exploring.