Philippe Park is tucked along the shores of Old Tampa Bay — far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a favorite among locals seeking respite, quiet contemplation, and a peaceful place to exercise. You won’t often find it featured in Florida tour books or glossy travel guides. Best of all, admission is free — unlike parks in some Florida counties that charge visitors.
Towering canopy oaks shade the park’s winding trails, picnic areas, and scenic waterfront. Philippe Park is especially inviting in spring, when the weather is near perfect and the bay breezes feel invigorating.
Beyond the beauty lies a rich story of Native American heritage. Centuries ago, the Tocobaga people fished and farmed this land.
PHILIPPE PARK PHOTOPHILIPPE PARK PHOTOPHILIPPE PARK PHOTO
At the heart of the park rises a prehistoric temple mound where archaeologists believe the Tocobaga held ceremonies and tribal gatherings. Today, visitors climb to the top and take in panoramic views of Old Tampa Bay — the same waters that sustained a thriving civilization.
Spanish conquistadors encountered the Tocobaga while exploring this New World along the bay. Over time, as more explorers arrived, they brought infectious diseases to which the Tocobaga had no immunity.
PHILIPEE PARK PHOTO
The tribe eventually disappeared, leaving behind the mound as a silent witness to their history.
Philippe Park is both a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park honors early French settler Odet Philippe, who arrived in the early 1800s. He transformed this land into a citrus plantation and became the first to successfully cultivate grapefruit in Florida.
National Historic LandmarklTemple Mound Path
Some of the park’s most captivating views unfold along the waterfront trail, which begins near the public boat launch and winds toward the small beach area. Look closely and you’ll spot schools of fish in the shallows — and, if you’re lucky, a dolphin or two feeding just offshore.
Walking Path Video
On my most recent visit, the experience felt almost cinematic. A dolphin glided along the seawall, its familiar upturned mouth appearing to offer a friendly hello.
Simply exhilarating!
📌 Location
Philippe Park 2525 Philippe Parkway Safety Harbor, Florida
Located along the shores of Old Tampa Bay, just minutes from downtown Safety Harbor.
🕒 HoursOpen daily: 7:00 a.m. to sunset. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Nestled in the heart of Hillsborough County, Florida, Lake Park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for a day of fun. This publicly owned recreation park is a hidden gem that invites visitors to explore its scenic trails, enjoy a variety of activities, and soak in the tranquility of its natural environment.
Strolling Through Scenic Trails
The moment you set foot in Lake Park, you’re greeted with a sense of peace and adventure. The park’s well-maintained trails wind through lush greenery, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely walk, a refreshing jog, or a more vigorous hike. The paths are easy to navigate and accessible, making it a great spot for people of all ages and fitness levels. As you stroll along, the picturesque views of the park’s serene lakes and vibrant flora create a soothing backdrop, inviting you to slow down and savor the moment.
Photos By SUSAN GEIGER
Fun-Filled Activities for Everyone
Lake Park is a playground of activities that cater to diverse interests. If you’re an angler, you’ll love the fishing opportunities in the park’s several stocked lakes. Find a quiet spot by the water, cast your line, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you wait for a bite. For those who enjoy picnicking, the park has numerous picnic areas complete with tables and grills, making it easy to plan a family gathering or a casual outdoor meal with friends.
Horseback riding enthusiasts can take advantage of the designated equestrian trails. Imagine trotting through the park’s scenic routes, surrounded by nature, and feeling the connection with your horse. It’s an experience that adds a unique touch to your visit.
For those who enjoy water-based activities, Lake Park offers canoeing opportunities. Paddle across the tranquil lakes, take in the beautiful surroundings from the water, and enjoy a different perspective of the park. Canoeing provides a great workout while allowing you to get up close with the park’s aquatic wildlife.
And for families with kids, the park’s playgrounds provide a safe and entertaining space for children to run, climb, and play to their hearts’ content.
A Thriving Natural Environment
One of the standout features of Lake Park is its vibrant environment and diverse wildlife. The park’s landscape includes wooded areas, open fields, and wetlands, creating a rich habitat for a variety of animals. Birdwatchers will be in their element here, with the chance to spot species such as herons, egrets, hawks, and an array of songbirds. Bring your binoculars and camera, and you might just capture some stunning shots of these beautiful creatures.
As you explore, you might also encounter deer gracefully moving through the woods, or catch a glimpse of raccoons and squirrels darting about. The lakes and wetlands are home to alligators, turtles, frogs, and other reptiles and amphibians, adding to the park’s ecological diversity. It’s a living classroom for those interested in nature and wildlife, offering endless opportunities for observation and learning.
A Rich History of Conservation
Lake Park isn’t just about recreation; it has a rich history rooted in conservation and community involvement. Established to provide a natural retreat for residents and visitors alike, the park has grown and evolved over the years, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the community and local authorities. Continuous improvements and developments have ensured that the park remains a pristine and welcoming space for everyone.
The community’s active support plays a crucial role in maintaining the park’s beauty and functionality. From volunteer cleanup days to fundraising events, local residents have shown a strong commitment to preserving this cherished landmark. This sense of ownership and pride is evident as you walk through the park, knowing that it’s a beloved part of Hillsborough County’s heritage.
Plan Your Visit to Lake Park
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk, an exciting day of activities, or a place to connect with wildlife, Lake Park has something for everyone. Pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots or fishing gear, and head over to this beautiful park for a memorable outdoor adventure. It’s a destination that promises not only fun and relaxation but also a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the community that treasures it.
Entering Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, Florida is simply breathtaking. You’re surrounded by lush greenery, crystal clear waters of the Myakka river, and abundant wildlife, including enormous alligators– a popular natural attraction for visitors.
My adventure began by heading to the hiking trails. There were several different paths to choose from, each offering its own unique views of the park. I decided to take the 5-mile Myakka River Trail. Wear a good pair of hiking or walking shoes to navigate these dirt trails, which wind through tall grasses and exposed roots from the many live oak trees along the riverbank. On this day, the sun was bright with a brilliant blue sky and a cool breeze. My favorite kind of day. Perfect conditions to explore. Along the way, I encountered several different species of birds. A menagerie of animals inhabit Myakka such as deer, raccoons, wild boars, turtles and tortoises, and of course– snakes! I’ll get to the alligators a little later.
(PHOTOS BY SUSAN GEIGER)
As I continued on the trail, I came across a large pond that was filled with lily pads and blooming flowers. It was so peaceful and serene. I could hear the sounds of nature all around me. The gentle buzz of insects, the chirping of birds, and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.
After completing the hiking trail, I encountered a large group of alligators lounging in the sun near the riverbank. The park is known for its large alligator population, and it was an amazing sight to see so many of them in one place. You could hear several ohhs and ahhs from the small crowd of people every time a gator slithered through the water or roamed the shoreline. Everyone kept a safe distance as they marveled at these prehistoric creatures. Fortunately, I had a powerful zoom lens camera to snap a few upclose shots while staying far away and respecting their territory.
After observing the alligators for a while, I picked up a path that led through the woods and came upon a walking canopy bridge. It was a suspension bridge that stretched over the treetops and offered stunning views of the park. As I walked across the bridge, I could feel it sway slightly, but it was completely safe and sturdy. The park was even more beautiful from this height. It was truly an awe-inspiring sight.
You can also enjoy a number of recreational activities, such as fishing, kayaking, canoeing, bike riding and horseback riding. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of a stately oak tree or at a number of picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the park.
Go for the day or stay longer at Myakka’s RV park. Located close to the river, the RV section has electricity, water, and sewer hookups.
Myakka is one of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida, first established in 1934. Back then, Myakka totaled 17,000 acres. Today, the park is more than 58,000 acres. I enjoyed my time here immersed in nature and all that the park has to offer. A bit old old Florida to explore and preserve for future generations.
MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK TIMELAPSE (VIDEO BY STEVE GEIGER)
It was a quiet morning for a walk at Philippe Park in Safety Harbor, Florida. The spring break crowds were gone. Nearing the end of a two mile walk in this oak-canopied park by the water, I spotted a dolphin’s fin above the surface less than 100 yards from the sea wall. The dolphin disappeared, then reappeared, most likely feeding on a buffet of fish in Tampa Bay. I stopped at the edge of the sea wall to watch and shoot some video with my iPhone. I don’t know if this dolphin sensed it was having a “star” moment, or if it was pure serendipity, but he suddenly swam by me and flashed that unmistakable dolphin smile as he glided just below the surface and then disappeared. It was like he was saying hi and have a great day. How could I not after having this unexpected encounter?
