There is a primitive group camp available to youths associated with nonprofit organizations and organized chaperoned groups. They suggest call you about being a resident volunteer at Alafia the winter of 2019. Florida Division of Recreation and Parks 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard Tallahassee, FL 32399. Temporary trail closures include Gravitron and Bridges bike trails and the south entrance on Thatcher Road. Outdoor volleyball area and horseshoe pits are also available. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks, Reserve by calling the ranger station at 813-672-5320. The family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. I am a veteran, a widow, am 80 years old, worked 30 years at a legal services, still occasionally work. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikerswho traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails. Mountain biking trails at Alafia River State Park, Lithia, 3800 Corkscrew Road Bike rentals are available and can be reserved at the University Bicycle Center. Twelvestables and sixpaddocks are available on a first-come, first-servedbasis. A hidden gem! I am willing to volunteer in an office, a store, or some other capacity. Anything our community should know before heading out to Alafia River State Park? Effective May 24, 2023:Alafia River State Park is open. Wait. The trails are solely preserved by volunteers so that park staff can focus on resource management tasks and other maintenance. Boaters can enjoy the waters of the Alafia River by accessing the South Prong of the river using a boat ramp that is located on Thatcher Road, south of the park. Other areas of the park are available. " Ben Drawbaugh OpenMapTiles OSM 8.5 Miles 95% Singletrack 111' High 71' Low 133' Up 132' Down 1% Avg Grade (0) 3% Max Grade (2) Toolbox Driving directions Download GPX File Know This Trail? Find everything you need for camping, including hiking supplies, tents, coolers, sleeping bags, cots, survival & first aid, food processing, and more! The river is quiet, clean and serene. Contact the park at 813-672-5320 for details. 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. Among its trails, Aldermans Ford Park has a popular 1.9 mile paved loop that follows the north and south prongs of the Alafia River. Public Campgrounds | 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. Alafia River State Park has some of the state's best single track trails. Phone: 813-672-5320 Open 8 AM until sunset daily. Temporary trail closures include Gravitron and Bridges bike trails and the south entrance on Thatcher Road. RIVERVIEW, FL As Patrick Scully, 31, armed with a knife, fled from Hillsborough County sheriff's deputies at the Williams Park boat ramp in Riverview, he took to the waters of the Alafia River . There are numerous small lakes where anglers may catch largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish. Clean restrooms feature solar-heated showers. Florida is truly a place where land and water interweaves to form a diverse and dynamic natural fabric. Full facility camping at Alafia River State Park includes spacious paved campsites outfitted with 20/30/50 amp electric service, water hook-up, picnic table, and fire ring. Doheny State Beach is located right on the beach in one of the premier Southern California coastal areas. The Alafia River State Park trail system is one of the most favored off-road biking choices in Florida, offering more than 20 miles of single track trails. We paddled the Alafia River, a half hour east of Tampa, when the water was an inch or two below average water levels. Please call the park office if you require directions. Recreational opportunities include camping, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking. Suggest Ideas To Make The Park Even Better. Lucy can help riders of all skill levels. But I didn't plan to tackle the river on this trip. Riders and buggy drivers enjoy special trail features such as equestrian picnic grounds, fishing areas, and conveniently placed tie rails. The playground is nearby. Your browser does not support JavaScript! Participants must sign up in advance at www.alafiatrails.com 24 hours prior to the ride, providing name and contact number. When the company leased the park to Hillsborough County as a recreational area in 1957, the 160-acre site slowly . Not a big issue but lots of roots from trees so watch your step. 14326 S. County Road 39 Alafia River State Park offers year-round birding and general wildlife viewing. Copyright 2023 Florida Rambler Media. Alafia River State Park,County Road 39 S, Lithia, FL.Camping reservations accepted by phone, 800-326-3521, or onlineat the parks web site,Alafia River State Park. Keep a watch out for roseate spoonbills, which are sometimes seen foraging at the waters edge. A 5-mile hiking trail winds through land along the Alafia River, offering views of the rapids in the river, as well as sections at a higher elevation through forests of pine and live oak., Florida Rambler story: Primitive campaing at Aldermans Ford Nature Preserve, Aldermans Ford Nature Preserve8911 Turkey Creek RoadLithia, FL 33567813-672-7876, Paddle Frog Creek: One of the best trails youve never heard of, Little Manatee River State Park: Glorious kayaking, hiking and camping, Primitive camping at Aldersons Ford Park on the Alifia River, Tampa Buddhist Temple: Sunday market and outdoor brunch, Emerson Point Preserve: A gem of a county park. FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, The perfect place for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Rates: $22 per night plus utility fees, booking fee and taxes. A full-service bike shop offers quality rentals, repair services and lessons at the park. It consists of 6,312 acres. Campers will find water and electrical hookups at each of the 30 campsites. Alafia River State Park Campground The bike trails are a quick ride from your campsite at the Alafia River State Park campground. There are also 12 campsites for equestrian campers. There are mature trees and shade around the attractive campsites. Various roads running through the western San Juan Mountains allow for a scenic loop drive of about 245 miles, visiting all major towns and passing imposing mountain scenery all the way: CO 145 north from Cortez to Telluride, CO 62 east to Ridgway then US 550 south through Ouray, Silverton and Durango, with the loop completed by US 60 back to Cortez, past the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Cons: The Alafia park is a former phosphate mine. Family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. A bottomland forest bordering the South Prong of the Alafia River was protected from mining. Staff was also wonderful. Alafia River State Park offers one of Florida's top camping experiences. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground. (Keep your electronics in dry bags.). These trails are open to hikers (and not bikers), but we didnt find these great for hiking. Discover charming small towns and insider tips to hidden gems. The Alafia River State Park trail system is one of the most favored off-road biking choices in Florida, offering more than 20 miles of single track trails. If you're simply commenting on this campground and would like to submit your comment without a Rating, click the "No Rating" button below. Thats one of the shoals that make the water rush a bit. 3D LEGEND A top MTB destination for sure. Additionally, bathhouses are available in the campgroundfor use by registered campers or those who pay a separate shower fee at the ranger station. Admission Alafia River State Park is located 10 miles southeast of Tampa on County Road 39. From the South take I-75 North to exit 240 and go east on State Road 674. Anglers and bird watchers and also enjoy the tree-lined river. 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. A wide variety of wildlife, including several imperiled species, inhabits this unusual blend of temperate and tropical native plant communities. A network of 40 miles of trails offer horseback riding, hiking, and some of the best off-road/mountain bicycling in the state. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Pets love a day at Alafia River State Park too! Warning: Heed the trail ratings. Reservations must be made 30 days in advance. About Adventure enthusiasts revere the Alafia River in Florida for its mountain bike trails. Thanks for any consideration. Alafia River State Park is located in southeastern Hillsborough County, about 30 miles southeast of Tampa. Get everything you need to enjoy your outdoor adventures from bags and packs to air beds and sleeping bags, insect repellant, cooler bags, and 2-burner stoves. A playground is available in the picnic area. Seasonally Alafia River State Park offers bicycle races. Once the site of a phosphate mine, the reclaimed land has unique topography that offers some of the most radical elevation changes in Florida. Upload a photo Fix/Improve This Page Florida Department of Environmental Protection, SouthWest Association of Mountain Bike Pedalers, "Alafia River State Park Mountain Bike Trail in Brandon, Florida || SINGLETRACKS.COM", Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Alafia_River_State_Park&oldid=1151318171, Mountain biking venues in the United States, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 4.0, This page was last edited on 23 April 2023, at 08:00. The spill killed vegetation along the river, a million bait fish and 75,000 game fish, according to reports at the time. Alafia River State Park campground has 30 campsites (electric/water hookups) and is located along the shore of Alafia River. Koreshan State Park offers a fascinating journey back in time to when a utopian group settled in the Florida frontier. Explore over 20 miles of exciting trails that range from beginner to expert and include options for adaptive riders. Night rides are not free rides. The majestic Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of one of Floridas oldest and largest parks. Even the intermediate trails had some technical sections. Kids love Alafia River State Park's fun, well-maintained playground equipped with two swing sets and numerous slides. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); If you're reviewing this campground please consider including a Rating with your review. 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. Calling all explorers and treasure hunters! The park's 7,733 acres were donated to the state by previous and current mining companies. The short video made my day. Fun times paddling through the shoals on the Alafia River near Tampa. 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. Lithia Springs RegionalPark3932 Lithia Springs Road, Lithia, FL 33547. Anastasia State Park has 139 campsites that are close to the beach and can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. Please ensure pets are well behaved and under owner control at all times. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground. Effective May 24, 2023:Alafia River State Park is open. Access to parking is available by ThreeFingers Lake at the north equestrian entrance. Sarasota FL 34241, Contact the Statewide Information Line: There are 24 named lakes spread out throughout the park as a result of the mining reclamation. All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. In addition to trails and camping, Alafia River State Park also offers a range of equestrian features that are both constructed and maintained with help from the Friends of Alafia. Camping and equine trails are available. Download. This great off-road race comes just before . Extra parking for trailers can be accessed near the barn area. These amenities include: Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park. Continue on State Road 674 for approximately 15 miles and turn left at the flashing light onto County Road 39. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground. More Park Features Upcoming Events 16 Jul Swamp Alafia River State Park Guided Ride Alafia River State Park, 14326 S County Rd 39, Lithia, FL 33547, USA 07.16.2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 23 Jul Swamp Balm Boyette Guided Ride Especially known for its mountain biking, it has trails ranging from beginning to advanced, with the advanced ones being in an area of the park that was once a phosphorus strip mine. Once the site of a phosphate mine, the topography offers some of the most radical elevation changes in Florida. The launch entrance opens daily at 7 a.m. to allow joggers and walkers early access to the park.Admission: $2 per vehicle. Contact the Statewide Information Line: FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov, Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Mountain biking trail at Alafia River State Park. ARSP's horse trails are an equestrian favorite among both riders and buggy drivers. Through exhibits and tours, one can reflect on the many ways people thrive in our natural world. Look for hawks, bald eagles and owls. There is a hilly one-mile loop trail specifically for hikers, where bikes are prohibited, but hikers arent welcome on the busy 17 miles of Alafia River State Park bike trails. The park's 30 campsites are scenically placed along Lake Alafia with access to recently renovated and ADA accessible bathhouses. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping torelaxand admire the park's enchanting lakes. Kelly Park at Rock Springs: Beautiful park, cool swimming, shady campground, Best snorkeling in Florida without a boat. Mining altered the landscape and created new landforms such as several small lakes and steep grades. Alafia River State Park is located in southeastern Hillsborough County, about 30 miles southeast of Tampa. Alafia River State Park's 7,714 acres were donated to the State in 1996 by Cytec Industries and opened to the public in 1998. 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. 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. The Florida State Parks Annual Pass is also available for individuals and families. Miles of excellent mountain bike trails in/around old phosphorus pits. Three Fingers Lakeoffers the best paddling opportunities in the north section of the park. Use landmarks to navigate fresh content. 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. The agency manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. As a displaced southerner living in WA state, I so miss these places. Familycampground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: Hi Mary, document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. [8] Alafia State Park regularly posts on Instagram of updates and maintenance happening to the trails. Estero FL 33928, 20200 Tamiami Trail E. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: Florida Rambler story on primitive camping at Aldermans Ford Park. The Park is home to 17 miles of bike trails, ranging from beginner to advanced. Directions + Leaflet | MapPress, Map data (c) OpenStreetMap From Interstate 75 exit 240 south of Riverview, follow SR 674 east to CR 39. The stream, bordered by red maple, swamp tupelo and water hickory trees, is ideal for canoeing and fishing. Geocaching is a fun outdoor activity suitable for all age groups and experience levels. I have a 25 foot camping trailer and would need water, electricity and sewer hookups. Some mapping software is leading visitors to inaccurateentrance to the park. The family that runs Alafia River Canoe Rentals has been there for 40 years, including the heyday in the 80s when the Alafia had a reputation as a bring-a-cooler-filled with-beer river. The Alafia River State Park trail system is one of the most favored off-road biking choices in Florida, offering more than 20 miles of single track trails. Alafia River State Park Share Florida isn't all sandy beaches. 4.8 (62) Areas FL Central Florida Lithia Alafia River State Park " All the best trails at Alafia River State Park. Alafia River State Park offers 12 full-facility and equestrian-equipped campsites. A doe and fawn eat grass alongside the road. Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. We saw plenty of wildlife along the orange-tinged tannic river: A large gator, six feral hogs, lots of turtles, schools of fish easily spotted against the white sandy bottom, kingfishers, herons, whistling ducks, and assorted other birds. The Thatcher Road bridge and fishing pier giveanglers access to riverbank fishing on the South Prong of the Alafia River. Make a Reservation for Alafia River State Park. Lake Perris offers a variety of water recreation, including swimming, fishing (shore, pier and boat), boating, sailing, waterskiing, and a special area for scuba diving. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping torelaxand admire the park's tranquil lakes. State Park HQ is the largest online database of US State Park information. At a few points there are even picnic tables at labeled canoe stops. Required fields marked *. Effective May 24, 2023:Alafia River State Park is open. We put in at a lovely county park, Aldermans Ford, and paddled 12 miles downstream to the docks of an outfitter, Alafia River Canoe Rentals. 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. The south prong of the Alafia River is a blackwater stream that flows through the park. Head down to the amphitheater and enjoy the show. From paddling down the river, fishing numerous lakes, or exploring the diverse vegetation and wildlife, Alafia River State Park truly has the perfect outdoor activity for everyone. Alafia River State Park offers one of Florida's top camping experiences. Trails are maintained by the SWAMP MBC. By David C " Alafia River St Park MB Trails for All " Oct 2020 CONS: Most campsites had very little shade. The day before we did the Alafia, we paddled the Little Manatee and also had a wonderful hike at Little Manatee River State Park. The park offers a wide variety of bicycle trails, ranging from beginner to highly advanced. Today, the park is a top destination for mountain bikers, equestrians, and nature lovers alike. The spring vent draws swimmers to its deep blue opening, but you are not allowed to snorkel or scuba into the spring vent. I can answer phones and use most office equipment. Friends of Alafia is a nonprofit Citizen Support Organization (CSO) established to protect, preserve, and support Alafia River State Park. These trails are built on the rugged terrain of what was once a phosphate mining site, which helps form the parks unique trail features. 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. All rights reserved | Site Map | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions. Alafia River State Park singletracks are IMBA EPIC certified. Come ride the best mountain biking in the state. Alexa lived on the river. Outdoor recreation include mountain biking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, horseshoes, volleyball and wildlife viewing. Located on what was once a phosphate mining site, the unique topography of the reclaimed land offers some of Florida's most radical elevation changes. While enjoying the parks trails, watch for white-tailed deer, bobcat, river otter, fox and gopher tortoise. The trailhead parking lot consists of bathrooms, bicycle rinsing stations, shaded pavilions, a volleyball net and a playground. [6] The trails are rated Epic by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). Heres a Florida Rambler story on primitive camping at Aldermans Ford Park. We provide the photos of each campsite, campground info and link to reservations. Take a hair-raising whitewater river trip, or kick back in a lawn chair and watch the sunset. Lithia Springs is ideal for picnicking and also has a 3-mile hiking trail. Their articles have been published in the Sun Sentinel, the Miami Herald, the Orlando Sentinel, The Guardian and Visit Florida. Lithia Springs, a Hillsborough County park, is a popular swimming hole around a beautiful spring with a constant 72 temperature. 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? This park is open 365 days a year. A network of 40 miles of trails offer horseback riding, hiking, and some of the best off-road/mountain bicycling in the state. Charlie Knight and his son and I run those woods 50 years ago. Read More. Off-road bicyclists enjoy the steep grades and challenging trails at this park. what? We built and attended of a cabin and house associated with all the alderman for the ranch. The park does have extensive equestrian trails and equestrian camping available. Glamping in Alafia River State Park- Lithia, Florida Book Now About Us Comfy Camping offers furnished luxury canvas bell tent rentals in Alafia River State Park for an ultimate glamping experience. The intermediate (blue) sections are Bridges, North Creek, and Roller Coaster. Bring your binoculars and your life list for excellent birding at Alafia River State Park. We collect and organize available maps, brochures, and other resources for each State Park in the United States. Trails rated from easy to extremely difficult. Other places to explore nearby include Lithia Springs County Park, Alafia River State Park and hiking at Aldermans Ford Nature Preserve. Beverly Beach State Park is in forest-sheltered area right on the Oregon coast and is a very popular campground featuring a beautiful trail to and along miles of sandy beach. Copyright 2023 Copyright 2018 Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Helmet loans available at the ranger station. Utility fee includes water, electricity and sewer. Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older or who hold a Social Security disability award certificate or a 100%disability award certificate from the federal government are permitted to receive a 50% discount on current base campsite fees.
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