Jefferson Equestrian Area

Located in the southwest corner of the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve, the Jefferson Equestrian Area is surrounded by urban development. The trail roughly parallels Cow House Creek, a tributary of the Hillsborough River, and offers canopied riding for local horse enthusiasts. Interestingly, water in this creek can flow east or west, depending on water levels in the Hillsborough River and the Tampa Bypass Canal.

Park Details

Street Address

11891 Jefferson Road
Thonotosassa, FL 33592
United States

Size
1500 Acres
Hours of Operation
District lands shall be open to the public from 30 minutes prior to sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset only, unless otherwise authorized by the District per Chapter 40D-9 Florida Administrative Code.

Site Features

Hiking
Equestrian
Fishing

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Term

Equestrian

Recreation Description
  • Approximately 9 miles of multiuse trails.
  • For safety and erosion control, do not ride on canal bank or berm.
  • Riders are required to stay on designated or marked trails.
  • Each rider must carry proof of horse's current negative Coggins test.
  • Florida law requires equestrians under 16 to wear helmets.

Recreation Term

Fishing

Recreation Description

Recreation Term

Hiking

Recreation Description
  • Approximately 9 miles of multiuse trails.

Additional Information

Access and Parking

Travel approximately 0.25 miles east of I-75 on Fowler Avenue; turn north onto Jefferson Road (immediately east of Tampa Bypass Canal); travel one block to entrance gate.

Restrooms and Water

No restrooms or water available.

For more Information

Land Resources, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470