Upper Tampa Bay Park

Upper Tampa Bay Park is a natural preserve and archaeological site on the coast near Tampa that protects about 600 acres of wetlands, mangrove forests, and pine woodlands. The grounds contain shell mounds, walking trails, and an environmental study center for visitors to explore.

The area was home to the Tocobaga Indians from around 900 AD until European contact, as shown by remains and settlement patterns across the grounds. In 1985, the site gained protection as part of the National Register of Historic Places to preserve this early history.

Shell mounds scattered across the grounds were built by the Tocobaga people over many centuries as they settled and lived along the waterways. Walking through the park, you can see where these communities gathered and how they connected to the water and land.

Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to paddle the creeks, or use the boardwalks to watch wildlife and observe the landscape without disturbing the wetlands. The environmental study center provides information about the park's history and ecosystems.

The protected waters attract manatees, dolphins, and roseate spoonbills, which visitors may spot from observation points along the trails. These animals thrive in the coastal habitats and add to the experience of exploring this lesser-known corner of the Tampa Bay area.