(See Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Park for more information.)
Size
21 acres
About the Property
Situated at the confluence of Dead River and Hillsborough River, this park is a pleasant place to unwind. Nature lovers appreciate a scenic two-mile trail alongside the Hillsborough River.
Access and Parking
- Located about 9 miles northeast of I-75. From I-75 exit at Fowler Avenue, travel east for 1.5 miles. Turn left onto US 301, heading north. Drive about 8 miles and look for Dead River Road on left. Follow this road 0.75 miles to a gate. If open, drive to parking lot at end of road — about 2 miles.
- Free admission, but donations to “iron ranger” appreciated. All donations go toward park improvements.
- Visitors may drive scenic entrance road to main parking area during normal operating hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
- ADA access and facilities available.
Hours of Operation
Daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for bicycle and pedestrian access. Vehicle access allowed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Restrooms and Water
Restroom, water fountain and telephone located by picnic area.
Pets
Must be on leash no more than 6 feet in length.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling
- 2-mile unpaved, elevated single-lane road.
- Bicycles allowed on river trail.
- Always yield to foot travelers.
- Do not skid.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Bird Watching
- Site 104 on western section of Great Florida Birding Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for more information.
Camping
- Primitive campsite available to youth groups by reservation only. Minimum of 6 and maximum of 30 campers allowed. Groups must have their own insurance.
- A 0.25-mile hiking trail for use by campers located adjacent to campground.
- Bathhouse and picnic facilities provided.
Fishing
- Available on Hillsborough River.
- Information regarding license requirements may be obtained from FWC.
Hiking
- 2-mile entrance road
- 2-mile natural surface river trail
Paddling
- Canoe launch is a short portage from parking area.
- Canoe landing upstream 1 mile at old Reagan home site.
- Hillsborough River State Park located further upstream.
- Downstream is Seventeen Runs, a primeval-feeling swamp. This portion of Hillsborough River State Canoe Trail is designated as a primitive trail. Experienced paddlers only. Deadfall obstacles are frequent, dry ground for rest breaks is hard to find and the many forking channels can easily disorient. Pay close attention to flow of river and look for trail markers.
Picnic Facilities
- Picnic tables located a short walk from parking area.
- Disabled individuals may contact park in advance for special vehicle access.
For More Information
- Hillsborough County’s Dead River Wilderness Park, (813) 987-6210
- Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, (813) 975-2160.
- Hillsborough River Canoe Trail maps available from Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways & Trails, 1-877-822-5208 (toll-free) or (850) 245-2052.
