The following parks and trails are free and open dawn to dusk unless otherwise indicated.
A.L. ANDERSON PARK, 39699 U.S. 19 N., Tarpon Springs (727-943-4085). This 128-acre site includes a boardwalk and nature trail, boat ramp, playground, picnic shelter and restrooms.
ALDERMAN'S FORD, State Road 39, south of State Road 60 in Hillsborough County (813-757-3801). This 1,500-acre site marks the branching of the Alafia River into its north and south prongs. The Ford is one of the area's most popular canoeing sites and features several picnic areas connected to a hiking/biking trail and a self-guided nature tour. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
ANCLOTE KEY STATE PRESERVE, offshore, 3 miles west of Tarpon Springs. Call Caladesi Island State Park office for additional information (727-469-5942). The northernmost barrier island off Pasco County, Anclote Key offers beach lovers the beauty of undeveloped, less-traveled shoreline. There are a few tables and barbecue grills, but no running water or other amenities. Accessible only by boat.
BOYD HILL NATURE PARK, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg (727-893-7326). This 245-acre area includes group camping, picnic and playground facilities, though the focus of the park remains the nature trail and environmental education study center and library. Trail admission costs $2 for those 18 and older, $1 for ages 3-17. Open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Tues.-Thurs.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun.
BOCA CIEGA MILLENIUM PARK, 12410 74th Ave. N., Seminole (727-588-4882). At the entrance to this park is the Pinellas County Millennium Time Capsule. The 184-acre park includes an observation tower, a canoe launch, picnic shelters, restrooms and bicycle/pedestrian paths. Wooden boardwalks are scheduled to open early this summer. The park's marshy layout has its environmental benefits as well: the five ponds on the park property serve to treat stormwater runoff and hydrate the wetlands before running off into Boca Ciega Bay. Open 7 a.m. to dark.
BROOKER CREEK PRESERVE, 3620 Fletch Haven Drive, Tarpon Springs (727-453-6900). This 8,500-acre wilderness preserve is located in northeastern Pinellas. It's only "sort of" open to the public, though mainly for hikers and horseback riders; however, volunteers offer two-hour organized hikes on Saturdays at 9 a.m. Tour size is limited; call 727-453-6910 to reserve a spot and get directions.
CALADESI ISLAND STATE PARK, 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin (727-469-5918). 650-acre Caladesi Island features a largely undisturbed beach on the Gulf side and a dense mangrove shallow on the bay side. The island is covered with windswept dunes topped with sea grasses and pines, scrub palmetto and large, moss-draped oak trees. Overnight camping for boaters is available, and a concession store offers some snacks and supplies. Ferry service ($8) departs hourly from Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area.
CASPERSEN BEACH COUNTY PARK 4100 Harbor Drive S., Venice (941-951-5572). Meander through marshes and mangroves on a pleasant 2-mile walk through this 113-acre park by the ocean. Caspersen's a great place to pick up shells and prehistoric sharks' teeth, and picnic tables sit at the end of the trail. Open from sunrise to sunset.
CRYSTAL RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, 1502 S.W. Kingsbay Drive, and CRYSTAL RIVER STATE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE, 3400 N. Museum Point, Crystal River (352-795-3817). The clear, spring-fed waters around this refuge are a favorite among scuba divers, manatees, fish and bird watchers. The archaeological site includes a museum of artifacts and some of the largest Indian mounds found in Florida. Guided walking tours are available (call the museum), but require reservations two weeks in advance. Visitor center opens 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, park open 8 a.m.-sunset.
DADE BATTLEFIELD STATE HISTORIC SITE, 7200 C.R. 603, Exit 314 off I-75 (352-793-4781). This site marks one of the bloodiest battles of the nation's Indian Wars during the 1800s. A museum contains artifacts and exhibits about the battle. The surrounding park contains horseshoe and volleyball courts, a picnic ground, and a large rental hall and kitchen. Camping is not allowed. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset; museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $2 per car.
DE SOTO NATIONAL MEMORIAL, 3000 75th St. N.W., Bradenton (941-792-0458). This site commemorates the landing of Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto in 1539. The visitor's center shows a 21-minute film, De Soto in America, throughout the day, and there's a half-mile, self-guided nature trail through a mangrove swamp. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
EUREKA SPRINGS PARK, 6400 Eureka Springs Road in Hillsborough County (813-744-5536). This 38-acre botanical park features a greenhouse, trellised walks, interpretive trails and a picnic area. The prime attraction remains the large collection of rare and unusual plant life collected and nurtured by the late Albert Greenburg, who donated the property to the county over a quarter-century ago. The park's open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
FORT DE SOTO PARK, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde (727-582-2267). This 1,136-acre park encompasses five islands at the mouth of Tampa Bay. Camping, fishing, boating and swimming are the most popular pastimes, and the park service offers most every modern amenity. Two fishing piers and a bait store attract anglers, while the remains of an early fort poke out of the sand at the southern tip of Mullet Key. There's a donation box for visitors, with money benefiting the Friends of Fort De Soto.
FRED HOWARD PARK, 1700 Sunset Drive, Tarpon Springs (727-943-4081). This 155-acre bayside park offers fishing, swimming, playground activities, sheltered picnic area, and a ball field with restrooms and shower facilities. Open 7 a.m. to sunset.
HILLSBOROUGH RIVER STATE PARK, 15402 U.S. 301 N., Thonotosassa (813-987-6771). This 3,980-acre park follows a good stretch of the Hillsborough River and offers visitors a deep glimpse into the charm of old Florida. Native flora and fauna — including alligators — abound in this area and are easily spotted by the quiet seeker. Canoe rentals ($8 per hour/$20 for four) and two large camping sites make this a popular, sometimes crowded destination.
HOMOSASSA SPRINGS WILDLIFE PARK, 4150 S. Suncoast Parkway, Homosassa (352-628-5343). This 210-acre state wildlife park features an underwater observatory, boat trips, nature trails, alligator programs, manatee programs and animal encounters. Creatures you can spot include manatee, alligators, crocodiles and Florida snakes. Strolls along the nature trails sometimes offer glimpses at bear, bobcats, otters and cougars (which remain at a safe distance). The park's name derives from its central attraction, a huge spring from which millions of gallons of fresh, clear water bubble every hour. Also includes a children's education center. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (ticket gate closes at 4 p.m.). Admission costs $9 for adults, $5 for ages 3-12. Kennels and strollers are available.
HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK, 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin (727-469-5942). One of the few northern barrier islands accessible by car in Pinellas, Honeymoon Island features a popular beach and nature trail, plus facilities for fishing and picnicking. Open 8 a.m. to sunset. Admission costs $8 per carload (up to eight people).
INDIAN MOUND PARK 210 Winson Ave., Englewood (941-474-3065). Take the self-guided tour through this 10-acre park to learn about the indigenous Indian population which occupied the territory between 400 B.C. to 1350 A.D. Twenty-two educational stations along the trail indicate the types of plants the Indians used in medicine, food and dyes.
J.B. STARKEY'S FLATWOODS ADVENTURES, 12959 S.R. 54, Odessa (813-926-1133 or 877-734-WILD). Discover the ecosystems found at the Anclote River Ranch via a two-hour buggy tour. Learn about the history of Odessa, the Starkey family and cattle ranching. The tour includes a walk through a cypress swamp and costs $15.75 for adults, $14.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12. Specialty tours include bird watching, native plants and photography, which vary in cost.
JELKS PRESERVE North River Road, Venice (941-486-2547). Look for gopher tortoise burrows, wild flowers and Florida scrub jays along the 3.3-mile loop trail at Jelks Preserve. Hike through native habitats including scrubby flatwoods, oak hammocks, pine flatwoods and seasonal marshes. The preserve is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.
JOHN CHESNUT SR. PARK, 2200 Eastlake Road, Palm Harbor (727-669-1951). This 255-acre park on the eastern shore of Lake Tarpon features a canoe trail, two playgrounds and more than 3 miles of trails and boardwalks. Formerly known as Brooker Creek Park, Chesnut Park is entirely separate from Brooker Creek Preserve; a golf course is wedged between the two. The park is open from 7 a.m. to dark.
JOHN S. TAYLOR PARK, 1100 Eighth Ave. S.W., Largo (727-588-4847). Surrounding the Taylor Reservoir and Lake, this 122-acre park offers boating, fishing, exercise trails, ball fields and a playground. A sheltered picnic area with restrooms is available, and there's also an entrance to Pinellas Trail from the park. Open 7 a.m. to dark daily.
LAKE PARK, 17302 N. Dale Mabry, at Van Dyke Road, Lutz (813-264-3806). This 600-acre park boasts five lakes, a cypress swamp and several pine and hardwood stands. In addition to fishing and boating, recreational opportunities include a BMX track, a radio-control car track, archery range, horse arena, picnic shelters and equestrian facilities. Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
LAKE SEMINOLE PARK, 10015 74th Ave. N., Seminole (727-549-6156). This 323-acre park borders the eastern shore of Lake Seminole and offers boating, fishing, softball, jogging/exercise trails, playground facilities and sheltered picnic areas. Leashed pets welcome. Open 7 a.m. to dark.
LEMON BAY PARK AND ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood (941-474-3065 or 941-316-1172). A favorite location for weddings, this picturesque park is situated on 48 acres of Lemon Bay and 196 acres of undeveloped land. Dedicated to nature study, the park has an environmental center where classes are held regularly. Also, guests can enjoy the butterfly garden, fishing, nature trails and picnicking on the grounds. Hours vary.
LETTUCE LAKE PARK, 6920 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa (813-987-6204). This 240-acre riverside park offers a scenic boardwalk, fitness and biking trails, and an observation tower for bird watching. This is a very popular, often crowded destination. Open 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
LITHIA SPRINGS PARK, 3902 Lithia Springs Road, Lithia; 10 miles east of Brandon (813-744-5572). This Hillsborough County park sits on the Alafia River and offers overnight camping (water, electricity), fishing, canoeing (but no canoe rentals) and swimming. Food is sold in the picnic area, while a bathhouse makes even a quick dip in the cool spring waters quite convenient. Open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily.
LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK, 215 Lightfoot Road, Wimauma (813-671-5005). This 2,400-acre park includes 5 miles of steep shoreline along the Little Manatee River, a 34-site campground (water, electricity) and horseback trails. Fishing, hiking and canoeing are the favorite pastimes. Admission costs $4 per vehicle. Open 8 a.m. to sunset.
MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS, 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota (941-366-5731). Sarasota's world-renowned orchid and bromeliad center features 150 display gardens, including the Tropical Display House. Summer events include Reggae on the Bay concert, juried photo exhibition and International Orchid Conservation Congress. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission costs $12 for adults, $6 for kids 6-11.
MAXIMO PARK, 34th Street and Pinellas Point Drive, St. Petersburg (727-893-7335). At the tip of the Pinellas peninsula, this 70-acre waterfront park meets the shores of both Tampa Bay and the mouth of Frenchman's Creek. The park offers excellent boating and fishing opportunities, as well as historical and environmental points of interest. The beach area includes picnic and playground facilities. Open from sunrise to sunset daily.
MEDARD PARK, 5726 Panther Loop, Plant City; 2 miles south of State Road 60 off Turkey Creek Road (813-757-3802). This 1,370-acre park has a collection of old mine pits that were converted into a large reservoir some 20 years ago. Most noted for excellent fishing, the park also features camping, playground, swimming, boating and horseback trails. Open 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri., and 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. and Sun.
MOCCASIN LAKE NATURE PARK, 2750 Park Trail Lane (off Drew Street, east of U.S. 19), Clearwater (727-462-6024). This nature park offers 50 acres of wooded area, a large educational facility with nature classes, and sheltered picnic facilities. At 8 a.m. the first Saturday of each month, the park offers a guided birdwalk; at 7:30 p.m. the second Wednesday, visitors can take night walks through the park. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. and Sun.
MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK 13207 S.R. 72, Sarasota (941-361-6511). Over 37,000 acres of Florida wilderness, wildlife trails, canoeing, biking and camping. Spot rare birds, bobcat, deer and fat alligators. Take an airboat tour on the Gator Gal or a Land Tram safari tour. Stop by the visitor's center or go on a guided walk with a ranger. There's plenty to see and do at this treasured state park. Park hours are 8 a.m. to sunset daily.
MYAKKAHATCHEE PARK 6968 Reisterstown Road, North Port (941-316-1172). Bird watching, canoeing, hiking and picnicking are just a few of the activities guests can partake of at this park.
OSCAR SCHERER STATE PARK U.S. 41, 6 miles south of Sarasota, Osprey (941-483-5956 or www.dep.state.fl.us/parks). This park stretches over 1,300 acres that include scrubby flatwoods, mesic flatwoods, tracts of depression marshes, pine forests and a blackwater stream called South Creek. Florida scrub jays abound here, along with bobcats, river otters, bald eagles and alligators. Take the self-guided nature trail, dip into the freshwater lake, rent canoes or have a picnic at this lovely park. Also on the premises, the Lester Finley Nature Trail is a special trail built to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities. Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. Admission costs $4 per carload of up to eight people.
PHILIPPE PARK, 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor (727-669-1947). Named for Count Odet Philippe, who introduced citrus culture to Florida, this 122-acre park is one of the prettiest in the area. It offers a boat ramp, fishing, picnic facilities, a nature trail, two playgrounds and ball fields with restrooms. Part of the original Philippe plantation, the park also claims a large Indian mound, where one can sometimes find old arrowheads, implements and other artifacts left from the earliest natives of the Bay area. There's also a great view from the top of the mound. Open 7 a.m. to dark.
PINELLAS TRAIL, 12020 Walsingham Road, Largo (727-549-6099). Converted from an unused railroad corridor, this 34-mile paved trail is a favorite among hikers, bikers, skaters and more. The trail begins in St. Petersburg and winds northward through Largo, Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor and Tarpon Springs. The trail includes mile markers, water fountains, benches and other various amenities.
SAND KEY PARK, 1060 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater (727-588-4852). This 95-acre beachfront park is overwhelmingly popular during the sunny, temperate seasons and offers a stunning view of the sun setting across the Gulf of Mexico. Open from 7 a.m. until dark and lifeguards are on duty every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition to swimming and fishing, the park features a boardwalk, a playground, a picnic area, great bird watching, restrooms, showers and umbrella/cabana rentals. Metered parking is 75 cents per hour.
SAWGRASS LAKE PARK, 7400 25th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-217-7256). This site boasts nearly 400 acres of natural land that encompasses both Sawgrass and Arrow lakes. The park features a boardwalk/nature trail, an outdoor classroom, environmental education center and lots of trees and squirrels. Picnic facilities and restrooms are also available. Open 7 a.m. to dusk daily.
SHAMROCK PARK AND NATURE CENTER 4100 W. Shamrock Drive, Venice (941-486-2706 or 941-316-1172). Eighty-two glorious acres offering fun activities for active and non-active types alike. Sporty types can jog the trails and play tennis or basketball. Those less inclined to break a sweat can take leisurely strolls through preserved natural habitats for endangered plants and animals, or just swing at the playground. Nature study classes are offered at the environmental center.
SIMMONS PARK, 2401 19th Ave., 2 miles northwest of Ruskin on Tampa Bay (813-671-7655). This 469-acre bayside park features mangrove shallows and beach line along the shore, making it a popular area for water sports. A boat launch and an 88-site campground with water and electricity are available. Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
T. MABRY CARLTON RESERVE 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice (941-486-2547 or 941-316-1172). The reserve contains 117 acres of land for your recreational pleasure. Spot wildlife as you hike on nature trails, then stop off and have a sweet little picnic.
UPPER TAMPA BAY PARK, 8001 Double Branch Road, Tampa (813-855-1765). This 600-acre preserve includes an environmental study center jointly operated by the county Parks Department and Hillsborough Community College. The site includes brackish and saltwater marshes, oyster bars and a mangrove forest — viewable from a boardwalk. Though most of the area is preserved, three nature trails, a playground and picnicking facilities are available. Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
WALSINGHAM PARK, 12620 102nd Ave. N., Largo (727-549-6142). Split by a 100-acre lake, this 350-acre park features boat launches and parking for boat trailers, as well as six picnic shelters, restrooms and playgrounds. The park is partially landscaped with sidewalks through the magnolia, pine and oak trees. Open 7 a.m. to dark.
WEEDON ISLAND STATE PRESERVE, 1500 Weedon Drive, St. Petersburg (727-579-8360). A half-dozen surrounding islands complement this 3,164-acre shore preserve. Mangroves, birds and abundant sea life make Weedon most popular with nature watchers, though visitors also enjoy fishing from the preserve's pier. For info on guided hikes, call 727-453-6500. Open 7 a.m. to sunset.
WILDERNESS PARKS, a series of parks spread throughout Hillsborough County (813-975-2160). The 17,000-acre Wilderness Parks offer picnic areas, fishing and canoeing opportunities, and trails for biking and hiking. The area is noted for abundant wildlife, including many rare or endangered native species. Hours vary from park to park.
WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER PARK, 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd., 7 miles east of Dade City in Pasco County (352-567-0264). This heavily wooded 406-acre area features picnic shelters, playgrounds, a fishing dock, primitive camping area, a reconstruction of an Indian village, an observation tower and 12 miles of nature trails. Swimming and water recreation are popular, too.
WITHLACOOCHEE STATE FOREST, Forest Headquarters at U.S. 41 and County Road 476 in Hernando County (352-754-6896). The Withlacoochee State Forest incorporates several separate sites surrounding the town of Brooksville. Its greatest features are the dozens of trails — for hiking, nature walks, canoeing, horseback riding and bicycling — widely ranging in length. The forest's Croom district includes camping and recreation sites, one of the nation's finest motorcycle parks (permit required) and a large area for dogs. Informative brochures describing the features of the various districts are available from the forest headquarters.
This article appears in May 13-19, 2004.