Wildlife abounds at this park along the Hillsborough River, with frequent sightings of alligators, turtles, water snakes, frogs, and wading birds. Wildlife viewing and fishing are popular here, and the extensive Wilderness Trail allows off-road bicyclists to access trails at Flatwoods and Trout Creek conservation parks.
John B. Sargeant, Sr. Memorial Park, 12856 U.S. Highway 301 North, is best known for boating access to the Hillsborough River. Downriver, the Hillsborough River State Canoe Trail winds through a jungle of hardwood trees, lilies and birds. Upstream, the river widens to flow through the broad hardwood swamp known as the Seventeen Runs.
The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve contains one of the largest premier contiguous recreation areas in Hillsborough County. Here one can paddle waters of the Hillsborough River amongst wading birds, turtles, alligators, lilies and cypress swamps. Explore over 60 miles of forest trails; fish from riverside boardwalks; or enjoy a relaxing picnic or cookout.
