Florida has so much to offer, and Hillsborough County is no exception. Knowing where, and when to go is the secret behind seeing Florida’s wildlife first hand. It doesn’t matter if your a professional wildlife photographer, or just an everyday Joe looking for a new adventure, your sure to be satisfied.
Edward Medard Park
Phone: 757-3802
Located on: Turkey Creek Road (East Hillsborough County)
This park and reservoir was formerly known as Pleasant Grove. This reservoir offers everything including, fishing, camping, equestrian trails, a fishing pier, boardwalks, and freshwater swimming. There is a small island in the reservoir that can be reached by following the boardwalk. On that island is a wonderful observation tower where you can view all types of birds, and their nest. You will also find plenty of other critters throughout the park as well such as, squirrels, opossums, raccoons, and much more. The best place for nature to be seen is off the boardwalks, and on the footpaths. However, watch you step, you just might find a snake or two. Freshwater creatures can also be spotted near the shore line. Your certain to see turtles, fish, and maybe even an alligator or two. The best time to spot an alligator is on days when the park isn’t busy, and in the late afternoon into the night. If you have a boat, and like camping you can see plenty of alligators by shinning a spotlight on the water at night. The best time to visit Edward Medard Park is during weekdays, the park stays very busy on weekends especially during the summer months.
Lettuce Lake Park
Phone: 987-6204
Located on: Fletcher Ave
Lettuce Lake Park first opened in 1982. With 240 acres this park has something for everyone. You will find playgrounds, wooded picnic areas, fitness course, and more with in this little piece of heaven. You will also find an extraordinary boardwalk that winds though the woods and along the Hillsborough river. Along the boardwalk is an amazing multi-story observation tower which allows you get a birds eye view of the cypress swamp. Throughout the park you will find endangered birds, along with other critters such as the Gopher Tortoise. Lettuce Lake Park is perfectly designed to allow each visitor a chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings regardless of how crowded the park is. The best time to visit Lettuce Lake Park, especially if your looking to take photo’s, is during the week in the early morning except for when it’s cold out. If it’s colder then 70 degree’s wait until noon.
E.G. Simmons
Phone: 671-7655
Located at: 19th St. N.W (Off U.S. 41) South Hillsborough County
E.G. Simmons is a 469 acre park and preserve that has been popular amongst outdoor enthusiast since the min 60’s. This beautiful park offers water front camping, a boat launch, beach area, semi private fishing areas, and many places to picnic. E.G. Simmons park rest on the salt waters of Tampa Bay, surrounded by mangrove swamps. You will see many different types of birds nesting amongst the mangroves, and hunting for their next meal. Along the shore lines you can spot hermit crabs, and fish of all sizes. If your lucky you will find a few horseshoe crabs, jelly fish, and stingrays cruising close to shore. The beach area is the only place your allowed to swim, which keeps the rest of the park quite. BEWARE: E.G. Simmons Park has plenty of raccoons who have lost their fear of people. They will steal your lunch, and even drink your soda if you don’t watch it at all times! During the summer the park is packed during the weekends, however the wildlife don’t seem to mind it very much.
Keep these three parks in mind the next time you want to see nature at it’s best. Hillsborough County Florida has plenty to offer.
