Community Corner
Great Escape: E.G. Simmons Park
Check out this county park for camping or just a relaxing day at the beach.
Hillsborough County has an abundance of regional parks to discover, explore and enjoy including E.G. Simmons Regional Park, 2401 19th Ave. N.W. in Ruskin.
E.G. Simmons Park, located three miles north of Ruskin, has been a popular area for outdoor enthusiasts since the mid-1960s. The park was developed from 258 acres of native mangroves and open land areas, intertwined with waterways. An additional 200 acres of mangrove swamp has been preserved as a bird and wildlife sanctuary.
Undoubtedly, the most popular features of the park are the picnic areas and campground, which boasts beautiful waterfront views. E.G. Simmons Park has 87 individual camp sites and one group site. Bird watching in the shallow waters and surrounding mangroves is also a popular pastime of park visitors.
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A public beach provides visitors with a perfect setting for sunbathing and swimming, while a boat launch provides access for saltwater fishing and boating. The park also offers fishing piers and areas for bank fishing.
Hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost is $2 per vehicle carrying up to eight people and $1 for each additional person. An annual pass is $50 for individuals and $100 for a family. The boat launch fee is $5 per boats and an annual boat launch pass is $100. Canoe/kayak rentals are $25 for four hours. Shelter rental is $40 for a small shelter, $70 for a medium, $125 for a large and $225 for an extra large. Camping fees are $24 per night, $18 per night for seniors.
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Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted, and campers must register with the office before taking a campsite.
Features include beach volleyball court, boat ramp, camping, canoe launch, canoe rentals, electrical hookups for camping, fishing, grills, hiking, picnic tables, playground, potable water, restrooms with hot and cold showers near camp sites, RV/camper sewage dump stations, swimming and waterfront camping sites.
For more information on E. G. Simmons Park, contact 813-671-7655; to rent a shelter, call 813-931-RENT.
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