What is Edward Medard Park and what can you do there?

Edward Medard Conservation Park is a 1,284-acre park with a 770-acre reservoir about 15 minutes from Valrico, and it has more to do than most residents realize. Fishing, hiking, equestrian trails, camping, disc golf, kayaking, bird watching, and a playground — all for a $2 vehicle entry fee.

This is one of the best outdoor destinations near Valrico, and it is criminally underused. Most people drive right past it on Turkey Creek Road without realizing what is back there. If you have lived in Valrico for years and never been, this guide will fix that.

Location and How to Get There

Address: 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, FL 33567 Phone: (813) 757-3802

From Valrico, take SR-60 east toward Plant City. Turn south on Turkey Creek Road. The park entrance is about 2 miles down on the left. Total drive time from the Bloomingdale and Lithia Pinecrest intersection is roughly 15 minutes.

The park straddles the Valrico-Plant City line. The mailing address says Plant City, but it is the closest major park for residents on the east side of Valrico.

Hours

• Spring and Summer: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
• Fall and Winter: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily

Admission and Fees

| Fee | Cost | |-----|------| | Vehicle entry | $2 | | Boat launch | $5 | | Canoe/kayak rental | $25 | | Camping (per night) | $24 | | Camping (65+ Hillsborough resident) | $12/night |

The $2 vehicle entry is one of the best deals in Hillsborough County parks. You can spend an entire day here for less than the cost of a fast-food meal.

Fishing

The 770-acre reservoir is the main attraction for anglers. Edward Medard is a designated Fisheries Management Area (FMA) by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which means special limits on the number and size of fish you can take. Those regulations are posted at the park and on the FWC website.

What you can catch: Largemouth bass, bluegill, shellcracker, catfish, and crappie. The bass fishing is particularly good — the FMA designation was put in place specifically to build a quality bass population.

How to fish:

• From the bank: Multiple access points around the reservoir. Bring a chair and set up along the shoreline.
• From the boardwalk: A 730-foot ADA-accessible fishing pier extends over the water. This is the most popular spot and the easiest access point for families with kids or anyone with mobility concerns.
• By boat: You can launch your own boat from the boat ramp ($5 fee). No gas motors above 10 HP. Electric motors and trolling motors are encouraged.
• By kayak or canoe: Rent from the park ($25) or bring your own. Paddling the reservoir at sunrise is one of the most peaceful experiences in Hillsborough County.

Tip: Early morning and late afternoon are the best fishing times. The bass are most active in the first two hours after sunrise and the last hour before sunset.

Trails

Edward Medard has several trail systems that serve different users:

Singing Bluffs Trail

A 1.4-mile loop through hardwood hammock along the bluffs above the reservoir. This is the best trail for bird watching — documented nesting bird colonies are found along this route. The trail is mostly flat with some gentle elevation changes along the bluff edge. Shaded, pleasant even in summer.

Main Hiking Trail

A 3-mile trail through pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. Moderate difficulty. Good for a morning walk or jog. Watch for tree roots across the path.

Bridle Path

A one-way 3.25-mile equestrian trail. Open to horseback riders and hikers (hikers yield to horses). The trail winds through the less-developed areas of the park and feels genuinely remote despite being 15 minutes from suburbia.

All trails are flat to gently rolling. This is Florida, so do not expect mountain terrain. But the Singing Bluffs Trail along the reservoir has some of the most scenic views of any trail in Hillsborough County.

Disc Golf

The park has an 18-hole disc golf course that is free with park admission. The course winds through wooded areas with a mix of open and technical holes. It is listed on the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) course directory.

If you have never played disc golf, this is a great course to learn on. Bring a driver, a mid-range, and a putter. If you do not own discs, a starter set runs about $25-$30 at Academy Sports or online.

Camping

Edward Medard has 42 campsites available for RV, tent, youth group, and car camping. Each site includes:

• Electricity and water hookups
• Access to restrooms and showers
• Fire pit
• Picnic table

As of late 2025, Hillsborough County implemented an online reservation system for camping at Edward Medard, Lithia Springs, and EG Simmons parks. No more first-come-first-served guessing. Book online through the Hillsborough County Parks website.

Camping tip: Sites along the reservoir's edge are the most desirable. Book early for weekends, especially during spring and fall when the weather is ideal.

Bird Watching

Edward Medard is one of the best birding spots in east Hillsborough County. The reservoir attracts wading birds, raptors, and migratory species. The Singing Bluffs Trail passes through documented nesting colonies.

Common sightings include great blue herons, ospreys, bald eagles, anhingas, woodpeckers, and various warblers during migration. Bring binoculars and arrive early.

Picnic Areas and Playgrounds

The park has three picnic areas with shelters, grills, tables, and restrooms. These can be reserved for birthday parties, family reunions, and group events. On weekends, the shelters near the playground fill up, so reserve in advance for groups.

The playground is basic but functional — swings, slides, and climbing structures. Good for kids under 10 who need to burn energy after a morning of fishing or hiking.

A Full Day at Edward Medard

Here is how I would plan a family day:

1. Arrive at 8:00 AM. Fish from the boardwalk or shoreline while it is still cool.
2. 9:30 AM: Hike the Singing Bluffs Trail (1.4 miles, about 45 minutes with stops for bird watching).
3. 10:30 AM: Let the kids play at the playground while you set up at a picnic shelter.
4. 11:30 AM: Lunch at the picnic area. Bring a cooler — there are no concessions.
5. 12:30 PM: Disc golf for the older kids and adults. Or kayak the reservoir.
6. 2:00 PM: Head home before the afternoon thunderstorms roll in (summer) or stay for a late-afternoon fishing session (fall/winter).

FAQ

Is Edward Medard Park good for kids?

Yes. The fishing boardwalk, playground, and disc golf course all work well for families. The Singing Bluffs Trail is short enough for kids 6 and older.

Can I swim in the reservoir?

No. Swimming is not permitted in the reservoir. For swimming, head to Lithia Springs Park, about 15 minutes south.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, on a leash. The trails are dog-friendly and there is plenty of shade.

Is there cell service?

Spotty in some areas of the park, especially on the far side of the reservoir. Download any maps or directions before you arrive.

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Barrett Henry is a Broker Associate with RE/MAX Collective, serving Valrico and Tampa Bay. For current Valrico listings, call (813) 733-7907 or visit nowtb.com.