Romantic Days at Conservation Parks and Nature Preserves

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 Valentine’s Day is coming up – and if you’ve got a Valentine, Galentine, or just looking to Treat Yourself on February 14th – we have some ideas!


Bring Them to the Bouquet

Eureka Springs Conservation Park continues to be a favorite “hidden gem” of the county. They rotate much of the greenery you can see seasonally so your trip will be different every season. Take a stroll through the unique park and see stunning orchids, lilies, and more. It’s the perfect place for a sweet escape!

In our Nature Preserves be on the watch for wildflowers starting to bloom like Lyreleaf Sage (Salvia lyrate), Walter's Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum), and Coral Bean (Erythrina herbacea). They’ll put on a beautiful early show before the spring and summer wildflower season fully begins – but remember – look but don’t pick!


Get Away for the Night

Forget Netflix and chocolates– it’s time for campfires and s’mores. Cooking over a fire, cuddling up on chilly nights, stargazing – what a dream. We know the BEST place to do it – the Hillsborough County Conservation Parks!  Plan a stay at Edward Medard, EG Simmons, or Lithia Springs to truly “get away” this spring.

Grab your camping gear and learn more about camping at Hillsborough County here.


A Bicycle Built for Two

Okay, trail riding may not be the best for a tandem bike, but with miles and miles of trails open to cycling we’ve got plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs with your favorite person. Ready for some exciting off road adventure? Check out the bike trails at Flatwoods or Balm Boyette, or join up on a group or kid ride with S.W.A.M.P. Mountain Bike Club. Want a less intense bike ride? The Upper Tampa Bay Trail is always a great option! Click here for more info on biking in Hillsborough.


The Real Test

Some people say that building Ikea furniture is a test of whether a partnership is going to last – but not us. An excellent test of great partnership is a tandem kayak or canoe! Paddling together is both romantic and not for the faint of heart. In fact, some of our longest lasting couples have said it’s best to stick to single kayaks sometimes.

Good thing we have all of these options available; and for $25 for four hours you'll see some of the best places and views in our parks from the water! Watch for migrating birds at Lettuce Lake, playful dolphins at EG Simmons, or manatees at Upper Tampa Bay Park. Call the park ahead of time for availability of specific boats, all rentals are first come first serve. Rental information and more about places to kayak can be found here.


We hope you see you and your favorite people out at the parks and preserves soon!

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