Elapp Forty Eight Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Elapp Forty Eight Park is a beautiful natural area located in Hillsborough County, Florida.
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Summary
The park is situated on the banks of the Alafia River and covers more than 160 acres of land. There are many good reasons to visit the park, including its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities.
One of the main points of interest in Elapp Forty Eight Park is the Alafia River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the park's many hiking trails, which offer scenic views of the river, dense forests, and wetlands. The park also has a large picnic area, playground, and kayak launch, making it a great spot for a family day out.
Interesting facts about the area include that the park is part of the Alafia River Watershed, which is one of the largest and most important ecosystems in Florida. The park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including alligators, otters, and bald eagles.
The best time of year to visit Elapp Forty Eight Park is during the winter months, when temperatures are mild and the park's many hiking trails are at their most beautiful. However, the park is open year-round, so visitors can enjoy its natural beauty no matter when they choose to visit.
Overall, Elapp Forty Eight Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities, the park is sure to impress visitors of all ages and interests.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
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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