School May Be Out For Summer, But Learning and Discovery Are Year Round

Conservation Parks and Nature Preserve are accessible to all within a ten-mile radius of most residences in Hillsborough County. On Hillsborough County-managed lands, it is important to know the distinctions between the two types of site before heading out on your journey. Here are the shared similarities:

• Dogs must always be leashed on any Hillsborough County property. Wildlife, other hikers' dogs, and dog-shy visitors may not enjoy your pet's enthusiastic greetings as much as others.
  
  
• All Rules and Expectations must be followed while visiting.
  
  
• Each site has its own webpage where you can find any information needed prior to your visit.
  
  
• Hillsborough County provides monthly educational programming such as night hikes and guided paddles. Subscribe to the Trailblazer Newsletter to discover your next guided adventure!
  

Edward Medard Conservation Park Fishing Pier

Conservation Parks are perfect for family outings. Between primitive camping, paved trails, kayaking, fishing, nature centers, playgrounds, pavilions, and so much more, there's something for everyone! At Conservation Parks, knowledgeable Park Rangers work hard to maintain the many amenities provided to visitors. While our Parks are focused on conservation, many of these sites - not all - have a history of being disturbed by mining activities in the past. Because sections of these lands are considered "disturbed" and no longer native Florida habitat, structures such as restrooms, pavilions, and playgrounds were constructed where sensitive areas will not be harmed. Find a Conservation Park and view the Conservation Parks brochure.

Know before you go

• Have $2 ready! Conservation Parks require a $2 fee for entry per vehicle, up to 8 passengers. If you're a frequent visitor, annual passes are available here.
  
  
• If you have any questions about your visit, check the Park’s website or ask a ranger at the station.
  
  
• Amenity Camping is available at several of our Conservation Parks. Plan to get there when they open – camp sites are first-come, first-served. RV sites are also available.
  
  
• Pavilions are open, but some might be reserved. Remember to check at the ranger station before you head in or rent a shelter or room at least three days in advance.
  
  
• Conservation Parks hours vary with the season. Check out the hours before making the trip.
  
  
• Each Park has an individual webpage and is your best resource for information – closures, rules, and amenities may vary with each park and are listed on each park's webpage.
  
  

Rocky Creek Trails Nature Preserve

Because Nature Preserves are conserved for the purpose of protecting Florida native habitat, these sites are primarily managed for minimal impact to the land. You aren't likely to locate restrooms or playgrounds at these sites - they are "nature-centered". Nature Preserves are managed with habitat preservation as a priority, and sustainable recreation such as hiking trails are provided so visitors may enjoy the fruits of our conservation efforts. What you will often find is a parking area, a kiosk, hiking trails, and acres upon acres of wild Florida habitat. Nature Preserves provide an immersive experience that will leave you hooked on hiking and ready for more adventure! Find a Nature Preserve and view the Nature Preserves brochure.

Know before you go

• There are no ranger stations at these sites. Dedicated Land Managers perform tasks like prescribed burns, mowing the extensive trails, and treating invasive species each day throughout the week at various sites.
  
  
• Most Nature Preserves offer no bathroom facilities - if you find yourself needing one, be sure to pack out everything you pack into the site.
  
  
• Water is essential for hiking, especially during the hot summer months. Each individual should plan to bring enough water for the hike.
  
  
• Bugs and heat are a given. Plan to have bug spray and sunscreen on hand or wear clothing that will provide enough cover to prevent burns or stings.
  
  
• Pack in, pack out goes for everything! Some preserves have garbage cans in the parking area, but we recommend bringing a trash bag for anything you need to pack out.
  
  
• If you bring your dog along, it must be leashed at all times – preserves are filled with many species of wildlife, even if you don’t see them. Beware of snakes and other critters hiding in the grass where your dog wants to explore!
  
  
• Download the trail map to your cell phone prior to your hike or use a mapping app such as Avenza Maps - all of our maps are georeferenced and available on this app.
  
  
• Seasonally wet trails are always to be expected when hiking in Florida. Be sure to check each Preserve's webpage prior to your hike.
  
  

Let the exploration begin!