Upper Tampa Bay Park

Natural Oasis

Situated on the Double Branch Peninsula, about three miles southeast of Oldsmar in Hillsborough County, Upper Tampa Bay Park spans 596 acres of preserved Florida wilderness. Bordering Old Tampa Bay and Double Branch Creek, this conservation area offers a genuine piece of coastal Florida's natural beauty.

The park is a mosaic of diverse ecosystems - mangrove forests create tangled wooden labyrinths at the water's edge, salt marshes stretch out in grassy expanses, freshwater marshes bubble with life, coastal hammocks provide shaded retreats, and pine flatwoods stand tall throughout. This ecological diversity supports countless plants and animals, making wildlife sightings common during visits.

Trails and Critter Spotting

Three distinct trails wind through the park, each offering a different Florida nature experience. The Bobcat Trail (0.7 miles) takes you across a stark yet beautiful salt barren, while the Otter Trail (0.4 miles) hugs the edge of a teeming salt marsh. For a quick nature fix, the Eagle Trail (0.3 miles) guides you through classic Florida landscape of slash pines and palmettos.

These family-friendly paths feature helpful signs identifying the native flora and fauna - some even have QR codes you can scan for deeper dives into the ecosystem. Sturdy boardwalks extend through the mangroves in several sections, offering peaceful bay views that might have you reaching for your camera.

Keep your eyes peeled for gopher tortoises lumbering along, various birds soaring overhead, the occasional bobcat slinking through the underbrush, and if you're really lucky, manatees gliding through the waterways. Just a heads-up: Florida's insects can be enthusiastic, especially when it's warm, so don't forget your bug spray!

Park Amenities

While Upper Tampa Bay Park keeps development minimal to protect its delicate ecosystems, you'll still find everything needed for a rewarding day outdoors.

The nature center has exhibits about the park's environment, history, and geology. The live animal displays feature fish, snakes, turtles, and other Florida natives that inhabit the park.

If you've got little ones in tow, there's a playground with equipment for various ages - swings, slides, and climbing walls to burn off energy. There's even a charming small lending library where you can borrow a book for some reading time in nature.

For meal times, covered picnic shelters scattered across the park come equipped with grills and plenty of seating. Planning a gathering? You can reserve these shelters ahead of time. There's also a volleyball court if your group is feeling competitive.

On the Water

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtfully designed canoe and kayak launch that provides access to Double Branch Creek and Old Tampa Bay. There's a cleaning station and accessible dock for getting in and out of the water.

You can bring your own watercraft or rent canoes and kayaks directly from the nature center. Single kayaks run about $25 for four hours, with double kayaks also available for those who prefer paddling with a partner. These waterways are prime spots for watching aquatic life and trying your luck with game fish like red drum and snook.

The marked water trails through the mangroves offer a serene paddling experience, but better signage would be helpful for navigation. If fishing is your thing, cast a line from designated areas, including the boardwalk.

A Glimpse into the Past

Beyond its natural beauty, Upper Tampa Bay Park holds significant historical value. The park encompasses the Upper Tampa Bay Archaeological District, which earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

When you walk these grounds, you're treading on land once inhabited by the Tocobaga Indians from roughly 900 A.D. until the 1500s. You can still see shell mounds left behind by these early Floridians - silent testaments to those who came before.

Good to Know

Entry to the park costs just $2 per vehicle - a small price for access to such a diverse natural space. The facilities are well-maintained with clean restrooms near the picnic areas, playground, and inside the nature center.

Dog owners will be happy to know that four-legged friends are welcome on 6-foot leashes. Parking is generally plentiful, and you might encounter the park rangers, who are known for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge about this special place.