The Hillsborough River State Park

The Hillsborough River State Park Come visit a breathtaking oasis of natural and historical significance.

Stroll along the river rapids, enjoy camping, explore historic structures, share a picnic or view scenic landscapes.

It's getting spooky on the trail
10/24/2025

It's getting spooky on the trail

Spectacular cloud formation over the Park Thursday Picture credit to A Ranger on duty.
08/24/2025

Spectacular cloud formation over the Park Thursday

Picture credit to A Ranger on duty.

Passion Flower (Passiflora)Picture credit to a Ranger
07/24/2025

Passion Flower (Passiflora)

Picture credit to a Ranger

This is a Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly 🦋 that was spotted in the park. Picture credit to a rangerSpicebush Swallowtai...
07/24/2025

This is a Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly 🦋 that was spotted in the park.
Picture credit to a ranger

Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly 🦋 (Papilio troilus).

Identification:
This common black swallowtail butterfly is found in eastern North America and is also known as the Green-Clouded butterfly.
Host Plants:
Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars primarily feed on plants like spicebush (Lindera species), sweet bay, sassafras, and tulip tree.
Caterpillar Appearance:
The caterpillars have large, tan false eyespots with black "pupils" that help them mimic snakes or lizards to deter predators.
Adult Behavior:
As adults, they are known for their ability to thermoregulate their thoraxes, allowing them to fly and feed at lower temperatures compared to other Papilio species.
Habitat:
While primarily found in the eastern US and southern Ontario, they can occasionally stray to other areas, motivated by the availability of water, nectar, and mates.

Stunning sunset July 12th
07/20/2025

Stunning sunset July 12th

Beautiful sunset from the other evening Picture credit to the one of the rangers on duty
07/14/2025

Beautiful sunset from the other evening
Picture credit to the one of the rangers on duty

Address

15402 US Highway 301 North
Thonotosassa, FL
33592

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 8:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 8:30pm
Thursday 8am - 8:30pm
Friday 8am - 8:30pm
Saturday 8am - 8:30pm
Sunday 8am - 8:30pm

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