Tampa, Florida
June 2019
Lettuce Lake Park opened in 1982 and is a 240-acre Hillsborough County-run park just outside the city limits of Tampa, Florida. Lettuce Lake Park is located on Fletcher Avenue between Interstate 75 and the University of South Florida. The Hillsborough River runs through Lettuce Lake Park. The park offers a hiking trail, bird watching, boardwalk, canoe rentals, and a paved trail. The paved exercise trail is 1.25 miles long and the boardwalk is 3,500 feet long with an observation tower that provides scenic views.
There is a $2 entrance fee per vehicle, with maximum 8 people per vehicle. The amenities at Lettuce Lake Park include:
Barbecue Grills
Bird Watching
Boardwalk
Boat Dock
Canoe Rentals
Hiking Trail
Paved trail
Picnic Shelters
Playground
Restrooms
Visitors Center
We came across Lettuce Lake Park by searching things to do in the area while visiting my grandfather down in Tampa. We decided to give it a try and we fell in love with the place. The hike on the paved trail was laidback and had beautiful views. We saw plenty of alligators close by but we felt safe since the paved trail was elevated above them. We also saw some turtles and thankfully we did not see any snakes!
Overall, we loved the hike! I would say that most people would be able to handle this hike since it is on a paved trail. However, I would say that if it has recently rained the trail may be slippery or closed if the water levels are too high. If you are worried about the trail being closed due to high water levels, I would check on their website to look for updates. If you do decide to check out this park, make sure to bring bug spray, plenty of water, and your camera. You will get some incredible views of nature and wildlife, especially on the observation tower!
Peep the gators in the lower left and right photos!
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