Fort Foster State Historic Site
Entrance to Hillsborough River State Park includes admission to the Fort Foster Interpretive Center. The center is open to visitors and contains exhibits interpreting the fort, the Seminoles, and the Second Seminole War. Tours to visit the actual reconstructed Fort Foster State Historic Site, which is located across the highway from Hillsborough River State Park, are held on weekends or by reservation.Fort Foster, and the bridge it protected, have been carefully reconstructed on its original site by the Division of Recreation and Parks. The fort is garrisoned by soldiers on special weekends where they perform their duties at the fort, explain its function, their personal views of the war and life as a soldier. Authentic replicas of their uniforms, weapons and other equipment used during the Second Seminole War are used during these recreations.
Explore the Outdoors
There are five trails in the park — River Rapids Trail, Baynard Trail, Florida Trail,Wetlands Restoration Trail and the Fort King Trail — where visitors can hike or bike. The Hillsborough River runs through the park providing multiple recreational opportunities, including fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Swimming is a great way to cool off after a hike and this park has a huge pool that accommodates over 200 swimmers.Picnic pavilions and playgrounds are available for visitors and large groups can even rent enclosed pavilions or a recreation hall equipped with a kitchen.
Campground
Hillsborough River State park has 112 campsites in three "loops." Each campsite includes water, electric, a picnic table and grill. Modern facilities in each loop include restrooms, showers and laundry equipment. While most of the campsites seem rather close, there are a few that offer more space and some privacy. The paved roads throughout the campground make for easy access and enjoyable walking or biking.A dump station is located within the campground. Pets are allowed in the campground, but must be confined, leashed and under control at all times. Other restrictions apply, including the important one of always picking up after your pet. The campground and its facilities are ADA accessible.
Reservations for the campground may be made up to 11 months in advance by calling 1-813-987-6771 or booking online at ReserveAmerica.com.
Directions
Hillsborough River State Park is located about nine miles north of Tampa and six miles south of Zephyrhills on U.S. Hwy. 301.From I-75 Southbound from Ocala, take the SR 54 Exit (Exit 279) east to Hwy. 301. Travel south for six miles. The park will be on your right.
From I-75 Northbound from Tampa, take the Fowler Avenue Exit (Exit 265) east to Hwy. 301. Travel north for nine miles. The park will be on your left.
From I-4 Westbound take Exit 10. Travel north on CR 579 to Hwy. 301. Follow the signs and travel north seven miles. The park will be on your left.
From I-4 Eastbound take Exit 7. Travel north on Hwy. 301 for 14 miles. The park will be on your left.
