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Hillsborough River State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 3,102 Google reviews · Running trail in Thonotosassa, Florida · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Hillsborough River State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
One of Florida's first state parks, this park has offered fishing & kayaking since 1938.
What runners say about Hillsborough River State Park
“The campground is well maintained, the sites are spacious, and it's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.”
“The park is absolutely gorgeous, whether you planning for a outdoor party or just wanted to take a stroll in the woods, it is a.”
“The trails were easy to follow, and the river views were beautiful and peaceful.”
“Walking through the park felt like stepping into another world, surrounded by tall trees, winding river paths, and the peaceful sounds of nature.”
Nice campground. They are updating fences and picnic tables. The river is great for kayaking but we did see 6 alligators on our paddle. Money must be tight because the road into the campground was full of potholes and a lot of structures had caution tape wrapped around them.
I had an amazing time visiting Hillsborough River State Park. The entire experience was refreshing and full of natural beauty. The trails were well-maintained and perfect for hiking, with just the right mix of challenge and ease.
We have been hiking in the trails here several times. Great little hike with several options on a beautiful river. There are camping facilities, bike and kayak rentals (to canoe with Gators) and playgrounds with picnic tables! A wonderful local place!!!
All the trails are open again except 1. From the hurricanes we had last year. Went exploring today and the river was so clear the wether was beautiful had a great time
Trail conditions & character
“The park is absolutely gorgeous, whether you planning for a outdoor party or just wanted to take a stroll in the woods, it is a.”
“From the parking to the restrooms to the picnic spots, it felt like the park was designed with care and thought for visitors.”
“Walking through the park felt like stepping into another world, surrounded by tall trees, winding river paths, and the peaceful sounds of nature.”
“Loop 2 was a little more spacious than loops 1 and 3.”
Plan your run at Hillsborough River State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Websitefloridastateparks.org
- Phone(813) 688-9500
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–5:30 PM |
Running trails near Thonotosassa
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lower Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area
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Nature preserve with picnic areas, over 60 mi. of forest trails & a river for canoeing & fishing.
Flatwoods Park
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Wilderness preserve with a 7-mile paved loop road for cycling & skating plus birding & picnic areas.
Wilderness Conservation Park Morris Bridge Site
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Pet-friendly park with hiking trails, boat docks, birdwatching & off-road cycling in a calm setting.
Zephyr Park
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Lakefront space for picnics and birthdays offering a playground, walking paths and a splash pad.
Shepard Park
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Park with basketball courts and playground, as well as a swing set.