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Edward Medard Conservation Park

4.6
·512 reviews·Plant City, United States

Discover stunning tree roots, abundant wildlife, and scenic views at Edward Medard Conservation Park. A nature lover's paradise!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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getlstd_property_photo

Edward Medard Conservation Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover stunning tree roots, abundant wildlife, and scenic views at Edward Medard Conservation Park. A nature lover's paradise!

4.6
(512 reviews)

"Edward Medard Park is a hidden gem! Great place for frisbee golf too."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Bug Spray!

Florida's natural beauty comes with bugs. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable visit! :bug:

Gator Spotting Fun

Alligators are common! Admire them from a safe distance and enjoy the thrill of spotting them. :alligator:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Harwood Trees

Majestic Harwood Trees

Throughout the park

Discover the incredible root systems of these unique trees, offering a stunning natural spectacle and a great photo opportunity.

Observation Tower Views

Observation Tower Views

Observation Tower

Ascend for breathtaking panoramic views of the park and surrounding Florida landscape. A true hidden gem!

Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife Encounters

Various trails and waterways

Keep an eye out for alligators, diverse bird species, and other fascinating Florida wildlife in their natural habitat.

Disc Golf Course

Disc Golf Course

Designated Disc Golf Area

Enjoy a well-maintained disc golf course, a popular amenity for locals and visitors alike.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Edward Medard Conservation Park offers a fantastic escape with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Plan for a day of exploration, but be aware of Florida's natural inhabitants like alligators and spiders. Pack accordingly for the weather and bring your sense of adventure!

Timing is Key

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during cooler months for more comfortable hiking and wildlife spotting. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more serene experience. Check for local events or festivals that might impact crowd levels.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Fall and Spring
Why
Pleasant weather for outdoors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sanchez farms Santa Maria located | 1390 south Forbes rd Plant City Fl 📍 🌼 Flowers de Cempasuchil 🌼 • they have vendors •flowers already cut for you to purchase •parking is $10 •open 8am - 8pm •they also have a...
@abshernandez_
47.6K likes • 518.7K views

Bring Bug Spray!

Florida's natural beauty comes with bugs. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable visit! :bug: Instagram

Gator Spotting Fun

Alligators are common! Admire them from a safe distance and enjoy the thrill of spotting them. :alligator: Instagram+1

beautiful flower field 💝💝✨ #flowerfield #plantcity
@omgitsjanette
20.7K likes • 242.2K views
Edward Medard Conservation Park located in Plant City, Florida has the most amazing root system in Harwood trees I have ever seen. What a great place for kids to climb and run and enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life. 📍6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, Florida 💵 $2 per vehicle up to 8 people ☀️ Hours: Spring/summer 8am to 7pm. Fall/winter 8am to 6pm 🛶 Kayak or...
adoptinglifesjourney
11 likes • 299 views

Kid-Friendly Exploration

This park is a dream for kids with plenty of climbing and exploration opportunities. :child: Instagram+1

Kayak & Fishing Ready

Rent kayaks or bring your fishing gear for a day on the water. :kayak: :fishingpoleand_line: InstagramReddit

Edward Medard Park like YOU’VE 👏 NEVER 👏 SEEN BEFORE 👏 This #HillsboroughCounty Conservation Park must be explored by land AND water! It’s one of the best #birding spots in the area and there are plenty of alligators! Plus, the scenery is pretty stunning too! Come paddling with me on Saturday, August 5th! Limited space is available so book your boat soon. Partial proceeds from this tour be...
sarahsoutdooradventuresfl
94 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Bug Spray!

Florida's natural beauty comes with bugs. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable visit! :bug: Instagram

Gator Spotting Fun

Alligators are common! Admire them from a safe distance and enjoy the thrill of spotting them. :alligator: Instagram+1

Kid-Friendly Exploration

This park is a dream for kids with plenty of climbing and exploration opportunities. :child: Instagram+1

Kayak & Fishing Ready

Rent kayaks or bring your fishing gear for a day on the water. :kayak: :fishingpoleand_line: InstagramReddit

Photo Op Alert!

The unique tree roots and scenic views make for incredible photos. Don't forget your camera! :camera: Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(512 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Edward Medard Conservation Park for its stunning natural beauty, especially the unique tree root systems and scenic views from the observation tower. It's highlighted as a great spot for families, hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation, offering a peaceful escape. Some minor drawbacks include occasional spider issues on the tower and the common Florida presence of alligators, which requires caution.

"We didn't spend a lot of time here. Just drove through mostly to show my sister the area. We walked up the observation tower, but the spiders were so bad we just couldn't make it to the top lol. We did get out of the car to enjoy these amazing trees. I don't know what kind they are, but they are a great photo op!!!!"

Elizabeth “Lisa was here” Tisone

"This park is stunning! Especially the view from the Observation Tower. I was blown away by how absolutely gorgeous Florida is. We are so lucky to have this beautiful park near FishHawk! Edward Medard Park is a hidden gem! Great place for frisbee golf too."

Shauna Banning

"Surprised to see kayaking as an option. There's a boat dock. Heard the waters are infested with gator. So , be careful. Bathroom was clean. Maybe a little more obvious numbering of the pavilions. Nice park. Well maintained."

Kevin “kevdog” Castro

What People Like

Unique tree root systems
Beautiful observation tower views
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Spiders on observation tower
Alligator presence (requires caution)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Edward Medard Conservation Park is located at 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, Florida. It's accessible by car and is about 15 minutes from Parksdale Market. Instagram+1

Yes, parking is available at the park. Some TikTok videos mention a $10 parking fee for specific events like flower fields, but general park entry is typically a low per-vehicle fee. TikTokInstagram

The park generally operates from Spring/Summer hours, often until 7 PM on weekdays and potentially later for special events. It's best to check for specific seasonal hours. Instagram+1

While not explicitly stated in all sources, conservation parks often have pet policies. It's advisable to check the official park website or contact them directly regarding pet regulations. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Tampa, offering a variety of activities for a full day of outdoor fun. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically $2 per vehicle for up to 8 people, making it a very affordable outing. Instagram

For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, for specific events or activities like kayaking rentals, it's wise to inquire about reservations. Instagram

The park hosts various events, including Halloween-themed attractions like Pemberton Haunted Acres and Mammoth Mayhem Nights at Dinosaur World nearby. TikTok+1

Amenities include hiking trails, fishing spots, kayaking, a disc golf course, observation tower, and clean restrooms. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's considered one of the best birding spots in the area, offering opportunities to see diverse avian species. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The 'Singing Bluffs' trail is highly recommended for its fitness challenge and scenic views, with plenty of wildlife sightings. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, fishing is a popular activity here. The park has a boat dock, and it's known for bass fishing. InstagramReddit

Kayaking is an option, and rentals may be available. The waters are known to have alligators, so be mindful. Instagram+1

Expect to see alligators, various bird species, and potentially other native Florida wildlife. Instagram+1

Definitely! It's a kid's dream with lots of climbing, shade, and places to explore. The unique trees are also a hit. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The park's unique Harwood tree root systems are a major draw for photographers. The observation tower also offers stunning scenic shots. Instagram+1

The intricate and massive root systems of the Harwood trees are particularly photogenic and have been compared to scenes from fantasy movies. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, creating beautiful shadows and golden hour effects. Instagram

Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's essential to check the park's specific drone policy before flying. Instagram

With alligators and numerous bird species, the park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially near the water. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Edward Medard Conservation Park is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will love the abundant climbing opportunities and the chance to explore the unique, large tree root systems. Instagram+1 The park offers plenty of shade, making it comfortable for little ones, and the open spaces are perfect for running around. Instagram

Bring snacks and drinks, and be prepared for potential wildlife sightings like alligators (viewed from a safe distance, of course!). The observation tower also provides a fun vantage point for kids to see the park from above. Instagram+1

🎣 Anglers and Paddlers

For fishing enthusiasts, Edward Medard Conservation Park is a promising spot, particularly for bass fishing. The park features a boat dock, making it convenient for launching kayaks or small boats. InstagramReddit Kayaking is also a popular activity, offering a unique way to explore the park's waterways and observe wildlife. Instagram+1

Remember to check local fishing regulations and be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding the park's alligator population. The combination of fishing and paddling makes for a full day of aquatic adventure. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

Hikers will appreciate the well-maintained trails, with the 'Singing Bluffs' trail being a standout for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. InstagramReddit+1 The park's natural beauty, from the unique tree roots to the diverse wildlife, provides a rich experience for anyone who enjoys being immersed in nature. Instagram+1

Bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water. The park's conservation status ensures a relatively untouched natural environment, perfect for a peaceful escape and exploration. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Unique Flora

Edward Medard Conservation Park is renowned for its impressive Harwood trees, featuring some of the most striking root systems you'll encounter. These natural wonders create a surreal landscape, offering fantastic opportunities for photography and a sense of wonder. Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and intricate patterns of the roots, making them a must-see feature of the park. Instagram+1

These trees provide ample shade, making them a comfortable spot to relax and explore, even on warmer Florida days. The unique visual appeal of these trees has been a recurring theme in visitor posts, highlighting their distinctive beauty and the memorable experience they offer. Instagram

Beyond the Harwood trees, the park is a vibrant ecosystem supporting diverse plant life, contributing to its overall natural charm and appeal for nature enthusiasts. The conservation efforts ensure these natural wonders are preserved for future enjoyment. Instagram

Adventure on Water and Land

For those who love to be active, Edward Medard Conservation Park offers a dual experience of land and water adventures. Hiking trails, such as the 'Singing Bluffs' trail, provide a good workout with scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. InstagramReddit+1 The park is also a popular spot for disc golf, with a well-maintained course that attracts enthusiasts. Reddit

On the water, visitors can enjoy kayaking and fishing. The park has a boat dock, and the waters are known for bass fishing. InstagramReddit While the presence of alligators is noted, it adds to the authentic Florida wilderness experience for those who are cautious and respectful of the environment. Instagram+1

Whether you prefer a challenging hike, a relaxing paddle, or a competitive round of disc golf, Edward Medard Conservation Park provides a variety of recreational activities to suit different interests and energy levels. Instagram

Wildlife Watching Hotspot

Edward Medard Conservation Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly known for its alligator population. Visitors frequently report sightings of these fascinating reptiles, adding an element of excitement to their park visit. Instagram+1 It's important to observe them from a safe distance and respect their natural habitat. Instagram

The park is also recognized as a prime birding location, attracting a variety of avian species. Birdwatchers can spend hours observing and identifying different birds in their natural environment. Instagram

Beyond alligators and birds, the park's diverse habitats support a range of other native Florida wildlife, offering continuous opportunities for discovery and observation for those who take the time to explore its trails and waterways. Instagram

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