Cypress Creek Nature Preserve (Tampa)

Name: Cypress Creek Nature Preserve (Tampa)
Address: 18000 Lizards Tail Rd, Tampa, FL 33647, USA, Tampa, FL, US
Telephone: (813) 264-8513
Rating: 4.3

4.3(228) Tampa, FL

Directions Website

About Cypress Creek Nature Preserve (Tampa)

Cypress Creek Nature Preserve offers a true 'walk in the woods' experience with varied trails (some shaded, some sunny) and opportunities to spot wildlife like armadillos before dusk. It's dog-friendly and features well-maintained sections, but critical navigation issues with unmarked forks can lead to getting lost.

What parents should know

Summarized from real visitor reviews.

Best for: Families with older, active children (6+) who are comfortable with self-navigation and enjoy natural, unmanicured trailsDog owners looking for a leash-friendly hiking spotExperienced hikers who prefer less-trafficked, natural trails and don't mind a challenge in navigationAnyone seeking a shaded walk on a warm day**Toddlers/Preschoolers (0-5 years):** Not recommended due to bumpy/unpaved trails, the 0.25-mile walk to the trailhead, lack of restrooms, and the significant risk of getting lost on unmarked paths.

Why families love it

Opportunity to spot armadillos frequently, especially before dusk
Offers a mix of trails with good tree cover for shade and full sun options
Dog-friendly, requiring dogs to be on a leash
Trails are described as 'nicely maintained' in parts, suggesting a pleasant natural environment
Suitable for moderate hikes, with reports of enjoyable 3-mile group hikes
Picnic table and trash cans available at the parking lot

Insider tips

**Bring a reliable map or GPS device and be prepared for self-navigation**, as trails are unmarked and confusing.
**Wear appropriate footwear** for bumpy, unpaved, and potentially uneven terrain.
**Be prepared for a 0.25-mile walk** from the confusing parking area to the actual trailhead.
**Plan for no restroom access**; ensure children use facilities before arrival.
**Visit before dusk** for a higher chance of spotting armadillos.
**Consider joining an organized group** (like the Florida Trail Association) for a guided and less confusing experience.

Good to know before you go

Families with strollers, wheelchairs, or very young children due to bumpy trails and the walk to the trailhead
Anyone who struggles with navigation or prefers clearly marked, easy-to-follow paths
Parents expecting amenities like restrooms or paved trails
When time is limited, as getting lost can significantly extend your visit
Trails are confusing to follow and unmarked at forks, leading to users getting lost

Crowds: Moderate; reviewers 'always bumped into another person/walking groups each time', indicating it's not secluded but not overwhelmingly crowded either.
Accessibility: **Not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs** due to bumpy and unpaved trails, and the 0.25-mile walk from parking to trailhead.
Safety: **Significant concern due to unmarked trails at forks, leading to users getting lost.** This is a primary safety issue for families.

What parents say

Diane Henry

5.0

"This trail is nice, dog friendly on a leash! Woodsy walk with more tree cover or full sun options to walk different trails. We have seen armadillos frequently before dusk time. Parking is very confusing initially, you have to walk along the road to get to the trail head entrance a quart mile away from where you park. It parking lot has trash cans and a picnic table which is a cute resource. I don’t remember any bathroom porta potty option. Found an abandoned shed out there which was kinda creepy initially and I’ve always bumped into another person/walking groups each time I’ve visited."

a month ago

John West

5.0

"Went hiking with the Florida Trail Association - Suncoast Chapter at the Cypress Creek Nature Preserve. Our host was Shaun. We all had fun on a 3-mile hike."

4 months ago

Tim Arango

5.0