Lake Tarpon Outfall Canal closed due to Health Concerns
The canal and its water-control structure were completed in 1971 to help regulate flooding around Lake Tarpon and the lower sections of Brooker Creek. The structure prevents salt water from entering Lake Tarpon during high tides and protects the lake's freshwater ecology. The District donated 46 acres to the city of Oldsmar for the development of public recreational facilities and leased an additional 75 acres to enable the city to expand passive recreation to part of Canal Park.
Park Details
3120 Tampa Road
Oldsmar, FL 34677
United States
Site Features
Recreation Opportunities
Recreation Term
Bicycling
- Allowed on paved park road and trails.
- BMX track located in Canal Park. Contact City of Oldsmar Leisure Services Department for hours and rules.
- Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Recreation Term
Boating
- Access north of water-control structure in the freshwater portion of canal is via Lake Tarpon. Public boat ramps located at Anderson and John Chesnut Sr. county parks.
- Access south of water-control structure in saltwater portion of canal is from Safety Harbor.
Recreation Term
Fishing
- Boat fishing available in canal upstream and downstream of water-control structure.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements.
Recreation Term
Hiking
- Improved asphalt trails available along canal.
Recreation Term
Picnic Facilities
- Single-table picnic shelters at Canal Park with ADA facilities.
Recreation Term
Other Activities
Canal Park
3120 Tampa Road
A 46-acre sports complex that offers a state of-the-art BMX supercross track, and baseball, softball, football and soccer fields. In addition, trails access the canal and boardwalk.
Sheffield Park
1923 Cutty Bay Court
A 12-acre neighborhood park located on the western edge of Harbor Palms Nature Park that features two tennis courts, a playground, two basketball courts, three picnic shelters, restrooms, baseball/softball fields and trail access.
Harbor Palms Nature Park
1820 Mapleleaf Boulevard
A 35-acre park bordering the Lake Tarpon Outfall Canal and the northernmost tip of Tampa Bay. Popular with walking enthusiasts, this park offers a beautiful view of plant and animal life. With entrances from both Harbor Palms and Bayside Meadows subdivisions, this park features a floating fishing dock, nature trail and a boardwalk.
Additional Information
- No swimming allowed and no trespassing within barriers or fenced areas around water-control structures.
- For your safety, observe all restricted areas.
- Vehicles use Tampa Road (SR 584) to Canal Park.
- Primary access to canal is by boat from Lake Tarpon or Safety Harbor. Access to canal from adjacent land is provided from Canal Park.
- ADA access and facilities available.
Restrooms and water at Canal Park.
Northeastern Pinellas County, north of Safety Harbor
City of Oldsmar Leisure Services Department, (813) 749-1260
Scheduled Site Closings
| Lake Tarpon Outfall Canal | Closed starting 04/01/2020 until further notice. | Health Concerns |