(See Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Park for more information.)
Size
5,400 acres
About the Property
Best known for its seven-mile paved loop road, a shared-used trail, Flatwoods Park provides a welcome getaway from Tampa’s developed landscape. The Morris Bridge well field is located within the park, and well houses can be observed along the trail. A two-mile paved extension connects Bruce B. Downs Boulevard with the loop road. Flatwoods Park Trail is a paved 1-mile connection between Morris Bridge Road and the loop road.
Access and Parking
- Main entrance located about 5 miles northeast of I-75 on Morris Bridge Road (CR 579) at Flatwoods Park Trail. Flatwoods Visitor Center located 0.5 miles inside entrance. Additional parking available 0.5 miles further west where the loop trail begins.
- Bruce B. Downs Boulevard (CR 581) entrance located 1 mile northeast of I-75.
- Free admission, but donations to “iron ranger” appreciated. All donations go toward park improvements.
- Personal vehicles allowed in park where designated.
- ADA access and facilities available.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms, Water and Other Amenities
Restrooms, water, pay telephone, cold drinks, bike wash and picnic tables at Flatwoods Visitor Center. Four rest shelters with water coolers and paper cups interspersed along loop road.
Pets
Must be on leash no more than 6 feet in length.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling and Inline Skating
- Loop road gives bicyclists a woods experience.
- Off-road cyclists enjoy Wilderness Loop Trail (see Off-Road Loop Trail).
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
- Beware of pronounced lip on loop road shoulder and use extreme care when entering or exiting pavement.
- Use proper trail etiquette on and off pavement. Warn others when passing from behind. When stopping, move completely off trail. Use caution at blind corners and make your presence known. Pack out litter. Avoid muddy trails. Do not skid.
Bird Watching
- Site 102 on western section of Great Florida Birding Trail.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for more information.
Hiking
- Dogs and their owners favor 1-mile segment of Levee Road from Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to north end of loop road.
- Nature trails are short, easy walks.
- Long-distance runners and triathletes train on loop road.
- Cross-country runners and hikers enjoy Wilderness loop off-road trail and woods service roads in park. Beware of fast-moving bicycles.
Picnic Facilities
Picnic shelters, grills and tables available at several well houses.
For More Information
- Hillsborough County's Flatwoods Park, (813) 987-6211.
- Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, (813) 975-2160.
