alafia river state park

There are 30 spacious campsites with electric, water, picnic tables and a fire ring. Ice and firewood available at Ranger Station. Please let me know if you have need of my services. Naples FL 34114, 13208 State Road 72 Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. It consists of 6,312 acres. If anyone is just a die hard mountain biker then you must visit Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve for more awesome mountain biking, its 15min from the park and less crowded. Alafia River State Park MTB This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. [2] Some of the topographical changes caused by mining have been reclaimed, but others, including the features known as the Old Agrico Pits, persist. I agree with the other comment that the maps leave much to be desired as it took much longer than the stated time, we came out at a different spot and had to use the "general purpose trail" to get back to where we entered. I have submitted an application through the Florida State Parks site. While this is a short trail, it is made interesting by the elevation changes and many twists and turns along the way. Explore over 20 miles of exciting trails that range from beginner to expert and include options for adaptive riders. There are a number of good places to get out of the canoe to picnic and wade. I have never been a volunteer previously. There are mature trees and shade around the attractive campsites. Turn Left (North) onto CR 39. Construction was funded by the Friends of Alafia with ongoing maintenance provided by volunteer member labor. Save up to 25% on your family travel costs in 2021 by booking an RV through RVshare. I recommend you call Alafia River State Park directly and see if you can get in touch with Ronald. The spill killed vegetation along the river, a million bait fish and 75,000 game fish, according to reports at the time. We did see kayakers paddling upstream, and they said they managed to make it through the rapids with some effort. Are there similar bike trails at Alafia? (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: Length: 0.8 mi Est. Turn Left onto Park Road. Temporary trail closures include Gravitron and Bridges bike trails and the south entrance on Thatcher Road. The 6,260 acre park also offers picnic pavilions, a playground, horseshoe pit and volleyball court. Great access to biking, nature and horse trails. (Keep your electronics in dry bags.). This revenue supports our efforts to produce free content. This central Florida state park is a popular hot spot for mountain bikers because of its radical elevation changes, created long ago by phosphate mining. PROS: Florida mountain biking at its best. They suggest call you about being a resident volunteer at Alafia the winter of 2019. There were horse owners and they were very friendly saying hello and allowing us to stop, look and talk to the horses. If you are going to arrive after hours, you will need to call and get the gate code (generally before sundown). There is also a small lake that you can row your own boat on and supposedly fish but I don't do fresh water. Lithia Springs is ideal for picnicking and also has a 3-mile hiking trail. The campground is pet-friendly (on leash) and has drinking water, restrooms with flush toilets and showers, a play area/jumpstation, 2 picnic pavilions, a dump station and amphitheater. If you just want to walk around and enjoy the woods , the entry fee is very minimum. Seasonally Alafia River State Park offers bicycle races. Alafia River Canoe Rentals4419 River DriveValrico, Florida 33596Phone (813) 689-8645, Aldermans Ford ParkAldermans Ford Park map, 100 Alderman Ford Park DrivePlant City, FL, FL 33567(813) 757-3801, The canoe launch entrance is located at9625 Canoe Launch Loop Lithia, FL 33547. Great picnic area and playground. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes. This diverse landscape includes prairies, hammocks pinelands and wetlands, which beckon visitors to explore natural beauty. Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. ALAFIA RIVER STATE PARK - 85 Photos & 37 Reviews - Yelp The main park entrance in on the Right side. Alafia River State Park, Florida - Camping & Campgrounds - ReserveAmerica We paddled the Alafia River, a half hour east of Tampa, when the water was an inch or two below average water levels. The river was the site of a huge toxic chemical spill. In addition to the hookups, each campsite has a paved parking spur, picnic table, fire ring, and grill. The scenery is beautiful, with lots of hills and swamps. what? Alafia River State Park And Kathy and Larry lived in the trailer up by State Road 39. THE 10 BEST Restaurants Near Alafia River State Park - Tripadvisor Page content has changed. The main interest for some are the meandering and extensive bike trails from novice to well advanced. Cons: Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This park offers some of the most challenging off-road bicycling trails in Florida. Effective May 24, 2023:Alafia River State Park is open. Turn Left (North) at flashing light, onto CR 39 for approximately 5 miles. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike . We hadn't seen any for years and that was quite a surprise even though we live only a few miles away in Riverview. Some 28,000 gallons of phosphoric acid spilled into the river from a fertilizer manufacturing plant during a rainstorm in 1997. Bike rentals are available and can be reserved at the University Bicycle Center. The spring vent draws swimmers to its deep blue opening, but you are not allowed to snorkel or scuba into the spring vent. TripAdvisor / Barbara M. Cuivre River State Park is located 58 miles northwest of St. Louis at 678 State Route 147, Troy, MO, 63379. I am hoping there is some useful service in the park for which I can volunteer and be able to spend the winter in Florida. [9], On the Alafia River near Lithia Springs Park, An American alligator near the campground, Footpath to the left, tough cycle path to the right, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, SouthWest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers, "Alafia River State Park Mountain Bike Trail in Brandon, Florida || SINGLETRACKS.COM", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Alafia_River_State_Park&oldid=1151318171, This page was last edited on 23 April 2023, at 08:00. Alafia River State Park Reviews updated 2023 - Campendium Alafia River: Fun kayaking & rapids near Tampa - Florida Rambler Heres our story on things to do around the Little Manatee River. The loop is good for hikers, dog walkers and strollers. This message is for Ronald Stevens, volunteer coordinator for Alafia State Park: My friends Pat and Lonnie Lunsford volunteer each year in Florida State parks. 7 miles from Alafia River State Park. The river is quiet, clean and serene. Alafia River State Park campground has 30 campsites (electric/water hookups) and is located along the shore of Alafia River. Alafia River State Park has a popular campground on a comparatively flat corner of the park around a pretty little lake. Private RV Campgrounds | You can even rent a kayak or a canoe right at the state park. Trail maps at park entrance and also well mapped via AllTrails app. Robert Blanchard. Hours & Fees | Florida State Parks Grocery store within 10 miles. Adjacent to the barn, visitors utilize the park's six recently constructed paddocks. FishHawk Pizza. I believe you can reserve a camp site well in advance -- also, you have to leave by 1 pm on your last day. Charlie Jr and Barbie lives in the vacant house on the back lot. The main park entrance is on the Right side. In 1993, Brewster Phosphates including the Lonesome Mine was transferred from American Cyanamid to Cytec Industries. With some of the most extreme elevation changes in the state of Florida, this reclaimed phosphate mine offers a variety of opportunities for you to enjoy during your visit. Did you find us useful? Web site:Lithia Springs ParkAdmission is $2. A brief introduction to Alafia River State Park. The mine was abandoned before remediation laws took effect, and the area where mountain biking exists is an erratic mixture of pond depressions and abrupt hills jutting from the surface. Once the site of a phosphate mine, the reclaimed land has unique topography that offers some of the most radical elevation changes in Florida. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails. Explore Florida's beaches and backwaters, islands and prairies, campgrounds, trails and historic sites. Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. Geocaching is a fun outdoor activity suitable for all age groups and experience levels. Please use a JavaScript enabled browser in order to access the full functionality of this site. more. GREEN LOOP, the easiest of the trails, but still challenging, for experienced beginners. Statewide Information Line (850) 245-2157 Rent an RV from RVshare. The park's 30 campsites are scenically placed along Lake Alafia with access to recently renovated and ADA accessible bathhouses. Alafia River State Park is a Florida State Park, located near Picnic in Hillsborough County in central Florida, 17 miles southeast of Tampa on County Road 39. Restaurants near Alafia River State Park: Attractions near Alafia River State Park: Alafia River State Park, Lithia: Address, Phone Number, Alafia River State Park Reviews: 4.5/5, Main parking area fills up quickly but overflow at. The Thatcher Road entrance periodically closes due to flooding. By David C " Alafia River St Park MB Trails for All " Oct 2020 Be sure to explore the park and find another spring that is being restored and is closed to swimming. Other places to explore nearby include Lithia Springs County Park, Alafia River State Park and hiking at Aldermans Ford Nature Preserve. Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. If you intend to bike the off road trails a helmet is REQUIRED. 8. 14326 S County Road 39, Lithia, FL 33547-1401. There are also 12 campsites for equestrian campers. Please ensure pets are well behaved and under owner control at all times. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. With Ranger Dickson's energetic enthusiasm, Alafia River is ready to share some of the best trails in Florida with our visitors, With Gabriel's help, Alafia River State Park can continue reclaiming former mining lands. Leashed pets welcome. We found the Alafia River to be well worth the effort required to arrange a trip. Your safety and enjoyment are our top . The park is on what was once a phosphate mining site, the unique topography offeringsome of the most challenging off-road bicycling trails in Florida. Even before it became a park, the area, and particularly Hurrah Lake, was the center of leisure activities since the early 1880s. The area allows visitors on boats to drive to remote islands and see sites of waterfalls splitting into two lakes. There are designated trails for off-road biking, hiking and horseback riding. The small lakes in the park wont be much challenge for kayakers and despite the name, the Alafia River does not flow through the park. In hot weather, launch your canoe or kayak onto the Alafia River or paddle into the 24 lakes that are . Koreshan State Park offers a fascinating journey back in time to when a utopian group settled in the Florida frontier. Alafia River State Park campgroundhas 30 campsites (electric/water hookups)and is located along the shore of Alafia River. Warning: Heed the trail ratings. Facilities include water, 50 amp electrical service, independent dump station, restroom facilities with showers and ADA accessible picnic shelters. I've been on all trails available as a hiker and they are each unique. Copyright 2023 Copyright 2018 Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The sites are primitive and do not have running water, electricity or restrooms. The south prong of the Alafia River is a blackwater stream that flows through the park. Alafia River State Park, Florida - Camping & Campgrounds. We built and attended of a cabin and house associated with all the alderman for the ranch. The reclaimed mine altered the landscape and created new landforms such as several small lakes and steep grades popular with mountain bikers who enjoy challenging trails. I have several friends that bike the double black diamond trails. Mining altered the landscape and created new landforms such as several small lakes and steep grades. The short video made my day. It consists of 6,312 acres. As a hiker or equestrian? Trails are easy to follow and marked for level of difficulty. Much to my delight, I discoverd Alafia River State Park. The information in this article was accurate on the date of publication. The parks service has done a wonderful job utilizing the old phosphate pits to create several trails of varying elevations and difficulty. There are also multi-use trails throughout the park. It consists of 6,312 acres. Comfy Camping Glamping Rentals offers year-round, furnished, luxury bell tent rentals on large shelled sites near the bathhouse and horse barn. (had campsite 15 no shade). We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. The hills were made by phosphate mining and the holes were made from rain water filling in the mining areas. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: Plenty of space as the campsites are spread out. No fishing pier available. We have great opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast! Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. Temporary trail closures include Gravitron and Bridges bike trails and the south entrance on Thatcher Road. Trails feature 20 miles of varied terrain and range from heavily forested to picturesque vistas overlooking prairies and lakes. The mountain bike trails were originally created and maintained by the SouthWest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers (SWAMP) club,[4] but are now maintained by the Friends of Alafia club. We have camped here and done day trips. 33. Looking for a scenic, lakeside venue to put on your favorite camp performance or need the perfect outdoor space for a class, meeting, or seminar? Loaners are available at the ranger station. CampsitePhotos is not associated with the campgrounds listed on our site. Pets love a day at Alafia River State Park too! The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. The only drawback to this park are the Mosquitos which can be quite bad. Alafia River State Park is located in southeastern Hillsborough County, about 30 miles southeast of Tampa. The lifeguard-protected swimming area has an expansive shallow sandy area popular with families. Ask the Yelp community! Our family camp, equestrian camp and primitive group camp are available for sleeping under the stars. Alafia River State Park, a Florida State Park located near Apollo Beach Alafia River State Park's trail system offers hiking, off-road running, or leisurely outdoor strolls on better than 25 miles of mixed-use trails with an additional 8 miles of hiking-only designated trails. Effective May 24, 2023:Alafia River State Park is open. Alafia State Park is home to 17 miles of bike trails, ranging from beginner to advanced. Nice public park- great for picnic. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of trails that travel through mixed hardwood forests, pine flatwoods, and rolling hills. Whether by bicycle, horse, wheelchair, kayak or on your own two feet, trails both within and outside our state parks can lead to a wide variety of adventure and opportunity throughout Florida. Back to Alafia River State Park Park Menu Make a Reservation Download Park Map Hours The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. I can answer phones and use most office equipment. Please call the park office if you require directions. Today the river is much quieter and the outfitters services are more limited. [6] The trails are rated Epic by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). Camping in the summer is hot, go for a swim in the springs at "Lithia Springs recreational area". The positioning of site 22 gives a fairly private space. Picturesque Alafia River State Park, located in Hillsborough County, is only a short 40 minute drive from Tampa's shopping, dining and entertainment. Rates: $22 per night plus utility fees, booking fee and taxes. Outdoor recreation include mountain biking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, horseshoes, volleyball and wildlife viewing. Harvest Hosts is a special type of membership club for RVers, offering overnight RV camping accommodations at 2,365+ locations across North America! For overnight stays, the park has a full-facility campground and equestrian friendly campsites. Upload a photo Fix/Improve This Page From the South - Take I-75 North to exit #240. What hotels are near Alafia River State Park? Learn how your comment data is processed. Florida Rambler story on primitive camping at Aldermans Ford Park. Alafia River State Park Description. In some places it's so surreal that you almost expect to run into dinosaurs when you turn a corner. Campers who plan to arrive after sunset shouldcall the park on the day of arrival at 813-672-5320 to get the gate combination and instructions. Alafia River State Park Camping | The Dyrt This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails. Alafia River State Park features top-ranked trails with construction and maintenance funded by Friends of Alafia (FoA) with labor provided by our Alafia Trail Crew (ATC). The Alafia River State park is a large park (6,000 acres) in Lithia, Fl. When I started getting into mopuntain biking, I searched the web for nearby parks to try to break a few bones. Alafia River State Park is open from dawn thru sundown 365 days a year. Some mapping software is leading visitors to inaccurateentrance to the park. Don Robinson State Park. Stayed two nights here at site 22 which we thoroughly enjoyed. We provide the photos of each campsite, campground info and link to reservations. Required fields marked *. Nature trails are well marked. Bike rentals are available. Turn Left onto SR 39 (James Redman Parkway). Despite its history, it seems like an untouched wild place. These trails are open to hikers (and not bikers), but we didnt find these great for hiking. Best Hikes and Trails in Alafia River State Park | AllTrails Public Campgrounds | Most sites offer spectacular views of the water. The launch entrance opens daily at 7 a.m. to allow joggers and walkers early access to the park.Admission: $2 per vehicle. Thank you for posting this! He was the guard so to speak. Florida Rambler story on camping at Lithia Springs. ALAFIA RIVER STATE PARK - 85 Photos & 37 Reviews - 14326 S County Rd 39, Lithia, Florida - Hiking - Phone Number - Yelp Alafia River State Park 4.4 (37 reviews) Unclaimed Hiking, Parks, Campgrounds Edit Closed 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM See hours See all 86 photos Write a review Add photo Location & Hours 14326 S County Rd 39 Edit business info Bikers come by at high speeds but are courteous to each other and foot traffic. The words awesome, radical, epic, and extreme lace the chatter over Alafia River State Park 's biking trails. [5] The forest has grown back. and we are accustomed to paved,crushed shell or hard packed dirt trails with moderate difficulty. CONS: Most campsites had very little shade. Miles of excellent bike trails. For those of you that are die hard mountain bikers, you may have already heard about this park. For more information regarding club and activities, you can visit their web site at Southwest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers. Directions + Leaflet | MapPress, Map data (c) OpenStreetMap From Interstate 75 exit 240 south of Riverview, follow SR 674 east to CR 39. Categories Kayak, Canoe, Paddle Trails, Parks, Forests & Preserves, Southwest Florida, Tampa Bay.

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