Alafia River State Park

One of the few saving graces of former phosphate mines is that they provide awesome air for mountain bikers in Florida.

Alafia River State Park is one of the rare places where you can launch on a Florida downhill.

Resources

Resources for exploring the area

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Overview

Location: Lithia
Trailhead: 27.780506,-82.145509
Address: 14326 South CR 39, Lithia
Fees: $4-5 per vehicle
Restroom: Near the main parking area
Land manager: Florida State Parks
Phone: 813-672-5320

Open 8 AM until sunset daily. Leashed pets welcome.

Directions

About the Park

Sure, you can catch a guided ride with the Southwest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers (aka SWAMP), or go on an Adventure Race, but it’s not a one-note park.

While hiking is permitted on all of the trails, better to borrow a fat-tire bike than be run over by one.

The equestrian trails, which can also be hiked, are extensive. They connect to neighboring natural lands. The campground provides a mellow getaway along a pine-lined lake.

Explore More!

Nearby Adventures

More worth exploring while you’re in this area.

Fishhawk Creek Preserve South

An easy-going 2.8-mile loop trail explores the south tract of Fishhawk Creek Preserve providing a glimpse of a few natural and endangered Florida habitats.

Triple Creek Nature Preserve

Tying together adjacent Triple Creek and Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve, this nearly 5-mile hike loops through restored upland habitats.

Rhodine Scrub Nature Preserve

An island of high ground in the Alafia River basin, Rhodine Scrub Nature Preserve protects more than 400 acres of Florida scrub habitat south of Riverview

Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park

Straddling the confluence of the North and South Prong of the Alafia River, Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park provides immersion into lush riverine forests.