Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Tampa

"Located on the northern tip of the Sand Key barrier island, the small park is a favorite getaway from the city. Sand Key Park is one of the best places to go in Clearwater for relaxation. The family-friendly Sand Key Park is fringed by white-sand beaches, featuring cute beach cabanas to escape the sun."

"Moccasin Lake Nature Park can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive to the east of the city center. As well as ponds and creeks, it encompasses verdant forests and a flood plain with hiking trails and a boardwalk weaving their way amidst them. A very picturesque place, the park is named for the large lake that lies in its southwest corner."

"This 51-acre nature preserve is filled with trails, boardwalks, and ponds. The park’s ecosystem is vast and varied – you’ll encounter plenty of birds, gopher turtles, raccoons, and other animals under the oak tree canopies. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of Moccasin Lake Nature Park, or they can call to schedule an educational tour."

"Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Sunken Gardens is a beautiful botanical paradise that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The 100-year-old garden is St. Petersburg's oldest living museum and is home to more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, as well as some of the oldest tropical plants in the country. If you are wondering what to do in St. Petersburg with kids, this is an amazing place to visit."

"Visitors can expect meandering paths that wind through over 50,000 flowers and tropical plants, and past cascading waterfalls. Because of the fragility of the 100-year-old garden with many of the region’s oldest tropical plants, visitors are asked to stay on the paths, not climb garden structures, not touch plants, and not bother animals. Guests can participate in horticultural classes and demonstrations, or take a garden tour."

"The Sunken Gardens has been around for more than 100 years now, having been planted by an avid gardener and plumber in 1903."

"Lettuce Lake Regional Park is located along the Hillsborough River about half an hour north of downtown Tampa. The river at this point is in its natural state, untouched by houses and development giving visitors a chance to experience natural Florida at its best. The park features 240-acres of wooded picnic areas, a playground and a paved path for bikes and joggers complete with a fitness course."

"Why you’ve got to go: If you are wondering what to do in Tampa with kids, this is one of the first stops to hit. The park is spread over 240 acres and has something to do for everyone. What to do: There is a wooded area where you can enjoy a picnic."

"To experience Florida nature without having to drive very far out of town, Hillsborough River State Park is your best bet. Located upriver from downtown Tampa in northeastern Hillsborough County, this is one of Florida's oldest and most popular state parks. The list of things to do here is expansive, starting with both full-facility and primitive camping."

"Speaking of the Hillsborough River, if you are willing to drive a little further north to Thonotosassa, the Hillsborough River State Park will make your drive completely worthwhile. You can go camping, hiking, canoeing (rentals available), and more. There are four hiking trails, totaling over 7 miles."

"The Hillsborough River State Park is home to Fort Foster which was utilized during the second Seminole war. It is truly one of the Best Hikes In Florida you must see!. The park features four different hiking trails that total 7.3 miles."

"The large number of manatees that are seen in the Tampa Electric power station’s discharge canal has resulted in many people flocking to the Manatee viewing center in order to feast their eyes on these creatures. The Manatee Viewing Center enables you to view and learn more about manatees as well as immersing yourself in their environment. In addition, you can head outside and enjoy places such as the stunning butterfly gardens and gorgeous surroundings."

"Manatees are amazing and this is a great free attraction in the colder months that all the family can enjoy. Observation of this endangered species of marine mammals is experienced from the purpose-built boardwalks and observation decks. When the bay waters get colder, the manatees congregate in large numbers near the TECO power plant to take advantage of the clean, warm water in the station's discharge canal."

"One of the fun things to do in Tampa Bay for kids is seeing the Manatees. These gentle giants can be found throughout southern Florida, but are shy and can be hard to find. But we arrived at the perfect time of year."

"Let the kids run free and take in the Florida sunshine at the Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. Or, on the opposite side of the Hillsborough River, children can enjoy the colorful playground at Water Works Park."

"Croc Encounters Reptile Park and Wildlife Center was originally established in 2005 as a reptile sanctuary for rescues. Over time, it grew to include other unwanted mammals, birds, and reptiles. The family-owned-and-operated facility eventually began providing guided tours and education in 2008."

"This 33.2 acre waterfront park features a dog park, playground, restrooms, and scenic views of Tampa Bay; with access to the beach, North Shore Aquatic Complex, and North Shore Sports Complex with Tennis Courts and a Softball Field."

"Henry & Ola Park in Seminole Heights has great amenities like a recreation center, fields, grills, a playground, and picnic areas. You can easily spend a whole day here with plenty of things to do!. This park is located just off of the Hillsborough River and has beautiful scenery."

"Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park was founded in 1982 to ensure a safe area for nature study and community recreation. The park consists of 596 acres and is home to important coastal habitat and ecological groups. You will find mangrove forests, freshwater marshes, coastal hammocks, salt marshes, and pine flatwoods."

"I stumbled upon Upper Tampa Bay Park last year while house-hunting, and even though my visit was short, I was really impressed by how beautiful the park was. Located right on the bay, between Oldsmar and Town ‘n’ Country, the park is open year-round from 8 a.m."

"Cake Girl is known for their Crave’n Cups, which are like a birthday cake in a jar. In each cup, you’ll find layers of cake, yummy Cake Girl icing and decorations!. There are 10 different options, not including seasonal specials – like Carrot Cake, Unicorn, and Chocolate Overload."