David E West Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

David E.


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Summary

West Park is a 26-acre park located in the state of Florida, in the city of Tampa. The park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its beautiful landscaping, wide range of recreational activities, and various points of interest.

One of the main reasons to visit David E. West Park is its vast array of amenities. The park features a large playground area for kids, a basketball court, a skate park, a dog park, and a walking trail. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or barbecue with friends and family at one of the park's numerous pavilions. Additionally, the park's lake provides opportunities for fishing and boating.

There are several points of interest within David E. West Park worth visiting. One of the most notable spots is the Vietnam War Memorial, which honors the Floridian veterans who served in the Vietnam War. Another attraction is the park's butterfly garden, which serves as a sanctuary for various butterfly species.

Some interesting facts about David E. West Park include its founding in the 1960s and its dedication to David E. West, a soldier from Tampa who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. The park is also recognized for its conservation efforts, as it was constructed with the goal of preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

The best time of year to visit David E. West Park is during the fall or spring months, as the temperature is mild and comfortable. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.

Overall, David E. West Park is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors and experience the natural beauty of Florida. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with family or a peaceful retreat in nature, this park has something for everyone.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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