While several water trails have been designated in the Tampa Bay area, our rivers, coastline, estuaries and creeks offer miles of additional opportunities for canoe and kayak trails. Great places to paddle include the Hillsborough River, Tampa Bay, Old Tampa Bay, McKay Bay, Garrison Channel and Seddon Channel around Davis Islands.

Hillsborough River Canoe Trail

The Hillsborough River is a state designated Canoe Trail. This is part of a 34.5 mile system that begins in Crystal River in Pasco County south to Rowlett Park in the City of Tampa. For more information, please link to Hillsborough River Canoe Trail.

The following canoe and kayak launch sites are operated by the city. Some of these also serve as boat ramps, so please exercise caution as needed.

• Ben T. Davis Beach
• Ballast Point Park
• Bobby Hicks Park
• Cotanchobee/Fort Brook Park
• Courtney Campbell Causeway Boat Ramp
• Cypress Point Park
• Davis Islands Sea Plane Basin Beach
• Lowry Park
• Gandy Boulevard Park
• Gadsden Park
• Marjorie Park Yacht Basin
• Picnic Island Park
• Rivercrest Park

Future canoe and kayak launch sites are planned, subject to future funding:

• Waterworks Park –1810 Highland Avenue
• Rowlett Park – 2401 Yukon Street
• Lake Gadsden – 6901 S. MacDill Avenue
• Sulphur Springs Park – 713 Bird Street (funded and designed)
• Palm River Park (future park/trailhead)