Wild Score: Explore Hillsborough County's Wild Side at Lettuce Lake Conservation Park

Always know before you go! We've introduced the Wild Score to rate Hillsborough County’s conservation parks and nature preserves on a scale of 6 (tame) to 30 (wild). A high score doesn’t mean that spot is “better,” just that it’s more wild- if you’re looking for a more developed, people-centered experience, you’ll want to look for parks and preserves with a lower Wild Score. 

We’ll use 6 metrics for this rating system, scored from 1 (most developed, most tame, etc.) to 5 (most wild). We’ll break down each rating for you and explain exactly how the park or preserve got its score.

A ruby-throated hummingbird sips nectar from firebush flowers at Lettuce Lake Conservation Park

This month we rated Lettuce Lake Conservation Park in Tampa. This beautiful 240-acre park on the floodplain of the Hillsborough River is a favorite of walkers, joggers, families, wildlife photographers and paddlers. The 3,500 foot boardwalk runs through often-flooded riverine hardwood swamp, where (from a safe distance) visitors can see some of Florida's most exciting wildlife species, from alligators to endangered birds and more. Kayak and canoe rentals are available, or visitors may bring their own vessel to enjoy a leisurely paddle up the Hillsborough River. Playgrounds, restrooms, and picnic shelters provide a comfortable experience for visitors and park rangers are available every day of the week to give directions and information to those less familiar with the park. 

 Ecosystem Quality: 3 (relatively good)

The hardwood swamps of Lettuce Lake Park were once dominated by huge cypress trees, but these ancient giants were almost entirely clear-cut by the early 1900s. Only a few large cypress trees remain at the park, but the banks and floodplain of the river are still full of many other native swamp-dwelling plants and animals. The rest of the park, mostly made up of hardwood hammock and pine flatwoods, provides some of the only contiguous wildlife habitat in all of Tampa. Disturbance by humans and invasive species has taken its toll on this park, like many others, but Lettuce Lake still boasts some beautiful examples of wild Florida habitat. 

Wildlife Sightings: 5 (lots of wildlife!)

Although habitat here isn’t perfect, Lettuce Lake Park is a much better place for wildlife than city streets! Because much of the surrounding area is so developed, it’s no wonder that many species of wildlife abound at this park- this is one of the only decent areas of habitat around. It’s rare for visitors at this park to NOT see at least one alligator. Lettuce Lake’s boardwalk is the perfect spot to view some of Florida’s most beloved wading birds, including the bright pink spoonbill and the rare and threatened wood stork. To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, walk the boardwalk along the river in the cooler hours of the morning.

Trail Surface: 2 (smooth and easy)

Not every surface in this park is paved, but the vast majority of trails here are smooth, wide, and very easy to hike. The boardwalk and paved trail are, of course, comfortable for even the most inexperienced of hikers. If you want some more excitement, try venturing off the beaten path and onto the unpaved hiking trails! These unpaved areas still provide an easier hike than many other unpaved trails in Florida- you’ll mostly encounter dry, well-packed dirt with no tall grass or obstacles to block your way. As a bonus, the park’s spreading oak trees provide lots of shade on even the sunniest Florida day.

Trail Markings: 1 (very clear)

It’s impossible to get lost on the paved loop or boardwalk at this park, and the unpaved trails cross the paved loop and the road in multiple spots, making it easy to find your way back to your starting point. This is an excellent spot for beginners to get a great hiking experience without worrying about following trail blazes or using a detailed trail map. If you have any issues or questions on the trail, a ranger is always available to help! Just call the ranger station’s phone number- cell phone service is excellent all over the park.

Comforts and Amenities: 1 (very comfortable)

Lettuce Lake Park has multiple restrooms, picnic shelters, tables, and playgrounds available for the comfort of every visitor. You’ll never be too far from a place to sit and picnic, rest, or just relax and enjoy nature. Parking lots are available all throughout the park for those who want to see the sights without too much walking, and restrooms are kept clean and tidy throughout the day by hardworking park rangers. There are even several fitness stations along the paved trail for those looking for a good outdoor workout spot.

Solitude: 1 (lots of company)

If you’re looking to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty without being all alone in the woods, Lettuce Lake Park is definitely for you. Even on weekdays the boardwalk and paved trail are popular destinations for families and walking groups, and on the weekends the park can get very busy. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, visiting the park on a weekday morning is your best bet- the gates open at 7 AM. You’ll still see a few people along the boardwalk, though, as this is the best time of day for wildlife photography!

Additional WILD scores can be found here. We'll add one per month until all of our sites have a WILD score!