Size
1,284 acres
Location
Eastern Hillsborough County, east of Brandon
About the Property
After mining phosphate in the 1960s, the American Cyanamid Company donated the majority of this property to the District in 1969. The mine site was excavated across a 2-mile length of the Little Alafia River. In 1970, a dike and a control structure were built to create the 700-acre reservoir, which offers some flood protection along the Alafia River. In 1972, under agreement with the District, Hillsborough County developed this site as one of its largest regional parks. Originally known as the Pleasant Grove Reservoir Park, the property was renamed the Edward Medard Park and Reservoir in 1977 to honor a District Governing Board member.
Edward Medard Park is a popular recreation area, hosting 500,000 visitors annually, with the 700-acre reservoir being the main attraction. A boardwalk fishing pier leads to an observation tower across reservoir.
Access and Parking
- Entrance on Turkey Creek Road, one mile south of SR 60 (Brandon Boulevard).
- Free admission, but donations to “iron ranger” are appreciated.
- 12 parking areas distributed throughout park.
- ADA access and facilities available.
Hours of Operation
Daily from 6 a.m. to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
Restrooms and drinking water facilities located at various locations around park.
Pets
Must be on leash no more than six feet in length.
Recreational Opportunities
Bicycling and Inline Skating
- Paved park road.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Boating and Paddling
- Multi-lane boat ramp and docks.
- Boats must be off water 30 minutes before park closing.
- Reservoir is an idle speed, no-wake area to protect public safety and prevent erosion.
- Bulrush has been planted on submerged islands as fish attractors. To ensure plant establishment, do not run boats through these marked areas.
Camping
- Fee for camping. No reservations.
- Campers must register 30 minutes before closing.
- 40 campsites — RV, tent and group sites.
- All campsites are full service — table, water, electricity and fire ring.
- Restrooms, showers and dump station available.
Equestrian Use
- One-way, 3.25-mile bridle path.
- Water available in equestrian staging/parking area.
- Horses may be trailered in or rented at a stable adjacent to the northwest corner of property.
- Each rider must carry proof of current negative Coggins test.
Fishing
- Available by boat, along the banks of reservoir and on 730-foot pier/boardwalk, which is ADA accessible.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements. Special park policies may also apply.
- Permits for after-hours fishing available from park office.
Hiking
Available on all roads and trails.
Park Facilities
- Playground equipment and horseshoe pits.
- Children enjoy Sacred Hills, an area of spoil mounds from past mining activities.
Picnic Facilities
- 3 picnic areas with tables, grills and restrooms.
- Covered shelters available.
Nearby Recreation Lands
- Alafia River State Park
- AldermanŐs Ford Park
For More Information
Edward Medard Park, (813) 757-3802
