Paddling the Hillsborough River in Tampa

The Hillsborough River offers one of the most scenic paddling experiences in the Tampa area. This waterway flows through lush wilderness, past towering cypress trees, and provides opportunities to see native wildlife such as alligators, turtles, and wading birds. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the river’s calm waters and gentle current make it a great location for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Adventure Guide to Paddling the Hillsborough River

1. Hillsborough River State Park
Located about 30 minutes northeast of downtown Tampa, this state park features several miles of paddling trails surrounded by Florida’s natural beauty. The slow-moving waters make it a great place for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can navigate around tree falls and explore side creeks. Rental canoes and kayaks are available at the park, and there are convenient launch points for personal vessels.

2. Sergeant Park to Morris Bridge Park Route
This 7-mile stretch is a favorite among paddlers looking for a mix of peaceful water and light adventure. Along the way, you'll pass through dense cypress swamps where Spanish moss drapes over the water, creating a quiet, secluded ambiance. Expect to see alligators basking on logs, herons wading in the shallows, and even the occasional river otter. The put-in is at Sergeant Park, and the take-out is at Morris Bridge Park, both equipped with parking and restroom facilities.

3. John B. Sargeant Park to Trout Creek Park Route
For a shorter trip, this 3.5-mile paddle offers a 1.5 to 2-hour journey through serene waters and shaded areas. Perfect for families and less-experienced paddlers, the gentle current allows for a relaxing ride downstream, with plenty of stopping points to take in the scenery and snap photos of wildlife.

Local Insights

The Hillsborough River holds cultural significance as a historical transport route for Florida’s early indigenous communities.
Keep an eye out for the ancient cypress trees, some of which are over 500 years old.
Manatees occasionally venture upstream, particularly in warmer months.

Visitor Tips

Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and increase wildlife sightings.
What to bring: Sunscreen, waterproof bags, insect repellent, snacks, and plenty of water.
Driving directions: From downtown Tampa, take I-75 North for 20 minutes to reach John B. Sargeant Park or Hillsborough River State Park, depending on your chosen route.

Reviews

Timothy Caine5 years ago

Can never get enough of the water . Always a place to relax your mind .and see nature.

Rich Heglin4 years ago

All Day pass for the water Taxi is the best way to explore for the day.

Dman9fp 16 months ago

Difficult to sum up how diverse & full of wonders yet some gut-wrenching impacts of the modern age- on this fairly moderate sized Florida river I have called home for several years, in a fairly concise review. Obviously like lots of rivers, there's a dam, urban near the end. But loads of gators above the dam. May not see them always but they're there. Lots of trash anywhere south of fletcher or fowler. I've tried keeping pace, loading up Many full large trash bags removing from the river and parks (mainly from riverhills to rowlett park, but below rowlett park dam is bad too) but there has to be tons underwater and caught inbetween plants. Seems other people cope by calling it a lost cause, or just mainly praising the upper reaches. But I know the middle and lower reaches still have a diversity of life forms, active still kicking ecosystems. Just please don't litter, use common sense... even on land, a lot ends up in the river, and impacts our water supply and wildlife alike. Definitely worth studying and appreciating for at least the reasons above, even if it isn't absolutely stunning & unforgettable as say the Suwannee river of north florida or a crystal clear spring-fed river. This relatively wild river still exists and is kicking despite all the people around it and pollution/ litter/ water withdrawls, and it is still incredibly not just a distant echo of what it must have been like hundreds of years ago

Lucky X3 years ago

This is a great place to go to get away or to take friends and family on a little day adventure. The river is easy to maneuver through and there is a lot to see and explore. Lots of wildlife like birds and alligators, but none of them are anything to worry about, they stay to themselves. Make sure to bring bug spray and sunscreen! Hang out at the parks or on the water, either one, there is a lot to do and spend a whole day here. Bring food and explore all the things.

Gnyana Praneeth Rachapalli6 years ago

It is scenic and flows through the heart of Tampa. Has also been maintained quite clean. I must say.

Paddling the Hillsborough River in Tampa