Visit Edward Medard Conservation Park to Explore the Amazing Root System of the Harwood Trees
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Updated August 2024
Edward Medard Conservation Park
Edward Medard Conservation Park sits in the middle of Florida and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and touristy filled theme parks and beaches. With over 1,200 acres to explore, this hidden gem is home to wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and different outdoor activities. You will find hiking trails, fishing, and amazing hardwood trees where erosion over the years has exposed the root systems that allows for an amazing maze system where climbing can be enjoyed by all.
Edward Medard Conservation Park provides the perfect place to explore and find relaxation for families and solo travelers alike. Take time to immerse yourself in nature or enjoy a peaceful picnic on the large open grassy area near the hardwood trees or near the water.
Address: 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City
Cost: $2 per vehicle up to 8 people. $5 boat launch fee
Hours: 8am to 6pm fall/winter and 8am to 7pm spring/summer.
Things to do: This park has a lot to offer for your outdoor enjoyment.
700-acre reservoir for multiple activities
Launch your own kayak or canoe or you can rent these items at the park for $25 for up to 4 hours
Fishing
3-mile trail for hiking
Bird watching
Playground
Picnic tables, picnic shelters, barbecue grills
Disc golf course
Beach volleyball court
Clean restrooms and showers
Horseback riding. Bring your own horse and enjoy the trails
Canoe/kayak rental: $25 for up to 4 hours and $10 for each additional hour
Pets: welcome on a leash
Climbing on the hardwood tree root system
Climbing on the roots of the hardwood trees was so fascinating with its amazing, exposed roots coming out of the ground, giving opportunity for people to climb all over them.
Just look at the roots on this tree. Have you ever seen anything like it? It was so cool to see the massive root system exposed above the earth.
We walked the path around the trees which was a short walk consisting of small hills. We took our time and then had a picnic lunch on the large lawn in front of the trees after our hike. We spent time just relaxing and sitting while enjoying the calmness of this park.
Park map
This park map will show the park boundaries and the location of the amenities. Map from Edward Medard Conservation Park, hcfl.gov.
Take a guided golf cart tour around Tampa and the surrounding area of Ybor City. Explore neighborhoods, restaurants, shops and more. Prices start at $49.00
Although the park had people all around you can see most of my pictures are without people. You will be able to walk around and climb freely without too many people in your way. Take the time to enjoy this trail and bird watch along the way. This park gives the opportunity for some great photos.
Our final tree we explored as the sun was setting is shown below. There was a slight hill to get up to this tree but nothing strenuous.
Take a private 90-minute Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa and bring your own drinks for a fun ride down the Hillsborough River. Prices start at $59.95.
Camping at Edward Medard Conservation Park
This park has 42 campsites and are on a first-come first-serve basis. They serve both RV and tent camping.
Amenities: picnic table, electricity, fire ring, water, public restroom and showers, dump station. No hammocks allowed.
Cost $24 per night. Discounted rates for ages 55+ of $18 a night. 65 + is $12 a night.
Looking for more Florida travel ideas?
Driftwood Dreams on Beer Can Island (Greer Island) Longboat Key - a peaceful beach day where picturesque driftwood lines the beach
Glass Bottom Boats, Hiking, and Kayaking at Silver Springs State Park - a place to observe manatees swimming in the spring or Rhesus monkeys hanging out in the trees.
A Day Trip to Historical St Augustine to see some old city charm and explore the old fort or enjoy a spectacular view from the lighthouse
Edward Medard Conservation Park is a great place to stop and get away from the busier areas of Florida where it offers the perfect retreat into nature. This park allows you time to relax and have a picnic lunch before you head to your next Florida destination. Whether you take time for a picnic lunch, enjoy a day of fishing, or simply hiking through the hardwood tree roots, you will truly find peace here when you gather as a family or on your next solo adventure.
This park is about 35 minutes from Tampa and 1 hour from the Disney Parks.
What’s your favorite park to visit close to your home? Comment below.
Enjoy the journey,
Meet the author: Jennifer
I am a girl who loves to travel with my family and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice. I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous family travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US. You can usually find me dreaming up our next epic vacation or outside exploring natural landscapes. I am a fearless roadtripper who isn’t afraid to explore new and off the path adventures.
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