Go on an Adventure and Explore the All New Playground at Lettuce Lake Park!
Lettuce Lake Conservation Park is located just a few short miles from the University of South Florida campus in Tampa. More than half of the park lies in the natural floodplain of the Hillsborough River, which consists of a hardwood swamp forest.
The park is the perfect spot to spend the day hiking, canoeing, wildlife sightseeing, AND they recently built a brand-new playground, complete with a climbing area and scavenger hunt. It’s definitely on our list of top parks in Hillsborough County. Keep reading to find out why.
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What is there to do at Lettuce Lake Park?
Check out the Nature Center
The Nature Center is located just before the entrance to the boardwalk and we highly recommend stopping there before hiking or exploring the boardwalk. It’s a great spot to educate yourself about the park, Florida’s habitats, and all the different animals you might encounter at the park. Around the back of the Nature Center, make sure to check out their nature garden where you can identify all sorts of different plants and flowers that are commonly grown in our area.
Explore the Boardwalk
One of our favorite things to do at the park is to walk the 3,500-foot boardwalk. The boardwalk is surrounded by a swamp forest on one side and the Hillsborough River on the other.
As you walk, keep your eyes peeled since you’ll definitely see tons of Florida wildlife in the forest and the water! On our recent visit, we saw alligators from babies to big ones, a variety of different types of birds, and even banded water snakes!
About halfway down the left side of the boardwalk, there’s a three-story observation tower that provides panoramic scenic views of the Hillsborough River. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and take in the stunning surroundings.
Note: pets and bicycles are not allowed on the boardwalk
Get Some Wiggles Out on the Playground
In April 2024, the park introduced its brand-new playground! Two new side-by-side playgrounds feature activities for kids of all ages. The playgrounds include climbing structures, swings, and adaptive and sensory equipment. There’s also a scavenger hunt where kids can look for items around the playground.
The whole structure is set on astroturf meaning little ones will get less dirty!
One thing we do love about Lettuce Lake Park is the amount of shade the trees provide all throughout the park. However, the new playground is not settled under a shade structure so be prepared during warmer months. However, it’s surrounded by benches and pavilions, giving you the perfect place to cool off and enjoy a snack after all that playtime.
Next to the playground is a wide-open field area that’s perfect for running around, playing soccer, and more!
Go Canoeing or Kayaking
Canoes and kayaks are available to rent at the park’s entry station and are a great way to get up close to some of Florida’s aquatic birds and wildlife. Required life vest, paddles, and whistles are provided as well. The cost is $25 for 4 hours and $10 for each additional hour.
Take a Hike!
There are plenty of great walking trails around Lettuce Lake Park that are perfectly shaded by an abundance of trees. You can also walk the 1.25 paved exercise trail, complete with a fitness course and exercise station.
Details
Address:
6920 E. Fletcher Ave.
Tampa, FL 33637
Hours:
Spring & Summer: 8 am-7 pm
Fall & Winter: 8 am-6 pm
Cost:
There is a $2 per vehicle (up to 8 people per vehicle).
Website: Lettuce Lake Conservation Park
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Unless noted, all images were taken by Brie Gorecki.