Visit Edward Medard Conversation Park to Explore the Amazing Root System of the Harwood Trees
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Edward Medard Conversation Park
I saw another family post pictures on Instagram of these amazing trees with their roots largely protruding out of the ground at Edward Medard Conversation Park and knew that was a place I wanted to visit. This park is a step away from the hustle and bustle of touristy areas filled with theme parks and beaches. You will enjoy the hardwood trees upon hills where erosion over the years began to expose the roots of these trees. The exposure provides the opportunity to explore the roots like an amazing maze system while climbing can be enjoyed by all.
Address: 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, Florida
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 enjoyment. There is a place to launch your kayak or canoe in the 700-acre reservoir. You can also rent these items at the park.
Amenities: Playground, picnic shelters, disc golf, fishing, barbecue grills, beach volleyball, kayaking, 3 mile trail for hiking, boating, and clean restrooms and showers.
Canoe/kayak rental: $25 for up to 4 hours and $10 for each additional hour
Campground: 42 campsites are on first-come first-serve basis. They serve RV and tent camping. Sites have picnic table, electricity, fire ring, water. Cost $24 per night. Discounted rates for ages 55+
Horse Riding: They have a trail where you can bring your own horse and trail ride.
Pets: welcome on a leash
Climbing on the hardwood tree root system
Climbing on the roots of the hardwood trees was so fascinating. It was amazing to see the roots coming out of the ground, giving opportunity for people to climb all over them. My 6 year old loved climbing the trees.
Instagram provides so many great travel ideas
Just look at the roots on this tree. Have you ever seen anything like it? They were 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. We spent time just relaxing and sitting while enjoying the calmness of this park.
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. There was a slight hill to get up to this tree but nothing strenuous.
This would be a great place to stop and get away from the busier areas of Florida. You could take time to relax and have a picnic lunch before you head to your next stop. This park is about 35 minutes from Tampa and 1 hour from Disney Parks.
Looking for more Florida travel ideas?
Check out some of the best places to eat in Fort Myers
Visit Greer Island for a peaceful beach day where a picturesque driftwood lines the beach
Go kayaking at Silver Springs State Park and observe manatees swimming in the springs. This park is also famous for their glass bottom boat tours.
Take a historical tour to St Augustine to see some old city charm and explore the old fort or enjoy a spectacular view from the lighthouse
What’s your favorite park to visit close to your home? Comment below.
Enjoy the journey,
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