A jewel in the State Park System, visitors to Hillsborough River State Park are enthralled by this blackwater river flowing through a lush forest of pine and oaks. It's water dark with tannin; the river offers great canoeing, for it is one of few rivers in the state with Class II rapids. A huge man-made, spring-fed swimming pool draws crowds of swimmers on hot summer days, and eight miles of hiking trails will delight the hiker and nature enthusiast.

One of the most popular activities in the park, canoeing the Hillsborough River offers everything from rapids to tranquil paddling through pristine natural surroundings. Canoe rentals are available in the park, however rental canoes are not permitted on the rapids. If you wish to canoe this part of the river, rent a canoe from one of the vendors outside the park. The eight miles of hiking trails offer another great way to see this beautiful river, as several of the trails travel along its banks. The trails also wander through the hammocks of live oaks, sabal palms and hickories that border the river. The trails are wide, however the surface can be rough in areas due to erosion and exposed roots.

A visit to this park wouldn't be complete without seeing Fort Foster, a recreated 1830's fort located across the street from the park entrance. Volunteers clad in period dress re-enact the lives of the soldiers stationed at the fort, whose role was to protect a military road during the Indian wars. Call the park for information on tour availability and times.

Directions: From Orlando, take I-4 west 47-3/10 miles to Exit 9, McIntosh Road. Turn right on McIntosh Road and travel 5-9/10 miles to US-301. Turn right onto US-301 and travel 3-6/10 miles to the park entrance.

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