Hillsborough River State Park
Park Florida state park protecting river corridor and rapids
Just northeast of Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park features river paddling, hiking, a boardwalk across cypress swamp and short Class II rapids on the Hillsborough River.
Hillsborough River State Park is a Florida state park protecting a stretch of the Hillsborough River and surrounding upland habitats near the Tampa metropolitan area. It preserves riparian forest, river corridor and recreational facilities.
The area was set aside to protect the river corridor and to provide public recreation; park development over time added trails, boat access and visitor facilities to support outdoor use.
The park sits northeast of the city of Tampa along the Hillsborough River within Hillsborough County in west-central Florida.
- Activities: Park amenities focus on river-based recreation with marked trails and facilities for paddling and picnics along the Hillsborough River.
How to Get to Hillsborough River State Park #
Hillsborough River State Park is about 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Tampa, accessible via US‑301. From Tampa, take US‑92/US‑301 towards Thonotosassa; the park’s address is listed for GPS. The park has parking and picnic facilities and is managed by Florida State Parks.
Tips for Visiting Hillsborough River State Park #
- Paddle the Hillsborough River early in the morning for wildlife sightings - otters and wading birds are most active.
- Use the nature center's interpretive maps to choose among the easy boardwalks and longer paddling routes.
- Visit in spring for wildflowers and migratory bird activity.
Best Time to Visit Hillsborough River State Park #
December through April offers the most comfortable conditions for hiking and paddling; summer is hot and stormy but full of life along the river.
Weather & Climate near Hillsborough River State Park #
Hillsborough River State Park's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 9°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1291 mm/year), wettest in August.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (174 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (186 mm).
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (205 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (160 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
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