Alderman's Ford Nature Preserve and Park, Eastern Hillsborough County Gem
The Big Dog's Favorite Park
The Alderman's Ford Nature Preserve consists of 970 acres of natural habitat purchased for preservation under the Hillsborough County Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program and the State of Florida's Conservation and Recreational Lands Program.The preserve occupies both sides of the Alafia River and, together with Alderman's Ford County Park, other preserve lands to the east and south, and the Alafia River State Recreation Area, forms part of a permanently protected riverine wildlife corridor of over 10,000 acres.
The hiking trail winds for roughly five miles through some of the most beautiful scenery in west central Florida. Some stretches follow along the banks of the Alafia River, which occasionally runs over limestone outcroppings, forming rapids during low water periods. Other stretches of the trail climb away from the river and enter high and dry forests of longleaf pine and live oak.
The wildlife is as interesting as the natural habitat and includes fish, turtles, alligators, birds, snakes, deer, river otter, bobcat and many other surprises for sharp-eyed hikers.
The trail is open year round during daylight hours but is best enjoyed during the cooler, drier months from October through April.
The main trail head and access point is on Turkey Creek Rd, 1/2 mile south of Keysville Rd. Parking is inside the small entrance on the west side of Turkey Creek (south of the security trailer). Another access point (walkthrough gates) is located on Pitt Rd. Facilities, including restrooms, water fountains and picnic shelters are located at Alderman's Ford Park, located off CR 39 at 100 Alderman's Ford Park Dr. or the Park's canoe launch on Thompson Rd.
History abounds at this park. It was one of the first fording spots on the Alafia River and for many years a popular place for political campaigning in Hillsborough County. This scenic park includes the area where the Alafia River branches into its north and south prongs. The Alafia is one of the most popular canoe spots in the state, and the park includes a modern, erosion-free canoe launch. Several picnic areas are connected by a pedestrian/bicycle loop path, and a first-hand view of the abundant plant life is available on a self guiding nature study via accompanying boardwalk and foot bridges.
Preserve Rules:
• Hours: sunrise to sunset
• Remove all garbage from the preserve
• Dogs must be on hand-held leashes
• No unauthorized vehicles or bikes
• No swimming
• No firearms or hunting
• No digging or fires
• Fishing is allowed; a fishing license is required.
• All plants & animals are protected (Hillsborough County Ordinance 97-14)
Facilities: There are no restroom facilities on the preserve.
Facilities are available at Alderman's Ford Park, located off County Road 39 at 100 Alderman's Ford Park Drive or the Park's canoe launch on Thompson Road.
Safety Guidelines:
• Bring a compass
• Drink plenty of water
• Wear insect repellent and sunscreen
• Poison ivy is present along parts of the trail
• Leave a plan with family and friends letting them know where you will be and what time you expect to return.
Directions:
Trail head address: 8911 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City FL 33567
• From I-75, take exit 250 (Gibsonton Drive) Head east (road name changes to Boyette Rd., then Fish Hawk Boulevard) for 8 miles to Lithia-Pinecrest Road, Turn southeast, continue 4 miles to County Road 39.
• Head north on County Road 39 for 3 miles.
• Turn west on Keysville Road, continue 2 miles.
• Turn south on Turkey Creek Road.
• Trail head and parking is located on west side of road, approx 1/4-mile south.
• Total trail length = 5 miles
For More Information, Contact:
Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department
Conservation Services Office
10940 McMullen Road
Riverview, Florida 33569-6226
(813) 672-7876 fax (813) 672-7880
www.hillsboroughcounty.org/parks
This is a fabulous way to get in touch with nature. Whether you cycle, hike, canoe or just picnic, it's a great destination for the weekend or during the week. Get out there and enjoy the fresh air.
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