Learn about the various types of parks and other recreation facilities we have around the County
Our Parks & Recreation and Conservation & Environmental Lands Management (CELM) departments are responsible for maintaining and running over 200 locations throughout the county that offer various recreational opportunities and amenities. Check out the parks and recreation facilities that you can find all over Hillsborough County.
Parks and Preserves
We offer many different types of parks and nature preserves.
Parks & recreation centers
These larger parks have recreation centers that are staffed by the Parks & Recreation department. Each center offers different classes and activities, like sports and after-school programs. Programs can vary by location, so check the individual park’s page to see what’s available.
Conservation parks
There are nearly 20 conservation parks across the county. These parks are larger and more developed than other County parks, with more amenities. They offer activities like hiking, biking, camping, and fishing, plus features like picnic shelters, horse trails, and boat launches. The CELM department staffs and maintains these parks.
Learn More About Conservation Parks
Nature preserves
We oversees 63,000 acres of preserved land that protects wildlife habitat and offers nature-based recreation, such as hiking and horseback riding. Most nature preserve access points have small, unpaved parking lots for a trailhead and no amenities other than a small kiosk to provide trail information. Most do not have restrooms or running water available. These locations are maintained by the CELM department.
Learn More About Nature Preserves
Neighborhood parks
These small, unstaffed parks are found in neighborhoods all across the county. Many have basketball or tennis courts, as well as playgrounds. The Parks & Recreation department maintains them.
Skate parks
If you’re all about ollies, kickflips, and dropping in, we’ve got you covered. Our skate parks are run by people who live and breathe skateboarding. Every year, we throw down a four-part Best Shredder contest to see who’s really got it. We also host summer skate camps at our Providence park. Want to level up your skills? Some spots offer lessons too. All parks are kept in shape by the Parks & Rec crew.
Learn More About Skate Parks & Teams
Dog parks
Not every park is meant just for humans. Dog parks are designed for our furry, four-legged friends. With separate access areas for small and large dogs, water fountains low enough for any dog to get a drink, dog washes, picnic tables, and shelters, both people and dogs can get away from it all for a little while. These locations are maintained by the Parks & Recreation department.
Recreation facilities and locations
If you are into playing sports, exercising, or boating, we've got locations you'll want to visit.
Sports complexes and athletic fields
Hillsborough County has the largest field management program in the state of Florida with over 290 fields. We also offer close to 50 sports complexes that can include multisport athletic fields and courts, concessions stands, restrooms, picnic shelters, and playgrounds. Many of these sports complexes and fields are home to youth and adult sports leagues where they practice, play, and hold tournaments. These locations are maintained and staffed by the Parks & Recreation department.
Fitness centers and zones
Fitness centers are located inside some of our recreation centers and offer professional gym equipment and activities available with the Parks & Recreation Wellness Access Pass for a small monthly fee. Fitness zones are free to use and located in parks and along trails, and each Fitness Zone has everything you need to get a full-body workout. These locations are maintained and staffed by the Parks & Recreation department.
Learn More About Rec & Fitness Centers
Boat ramps
We manage 16 public boat ramps with access to fresh water lakes and rivers, as well as Tampa Bay. Our boat ramps can handle both large and small boats. It's only $5 to use the ramps, and a $2 additional entry fee if launching from a conservation park. These locations are maintained and staffed by the CELM department.