Ready for a midday break? The Trout Creek near Sulphur Springs awaits. This 42-acre site sits near the mouth of Trout Creek. It is a popular spot for fishing. People also enjoy canoeing here. Group picnics are common. Trout Creek is a pleasant escape.
Trout Creek offers a mini-adventure for small children. It’s located on the Hillsborough River. The site is managed by Hillsborough County. They can be reached at 813-987-6200.
Interestingly, a small housing subdivision once began here. This was prior to District acquisition. Look closely. Concrete foundations and other artifacts remain. They tell a silent story.
The lakes east of the entrance road are all man-made. They resulted from borrow pits. Fill dirt was needed. It helped build the levee and park facilities. Some lakes were created for road work mitigation. This work impacted wetlands.
The District operates a water-control structure nearby. It’s on the Hillsborough River. This is under an agreement. The agreement is with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Sulphur Springs is a neighborhood within Tampa. It once drew tourists to mineral springs. In the 1940s, a 40-foot water slide and gator farm attracted visitors. Today, Busch Gardens Tampa is a major draw. It’s only 2.8 miles from Sulphur Springs.
The Sulphur Springs Water Tower is well-known. It was built in 1927. Sulphur Springs was annexed into Tampa in 1953. The area was a mineral springs tourist attraction. It catered to the middle and working classes.
The Sulphur Springs Hotel and Arcade was another landmark. Josiah T. Richardson originally owned it. It was considered Florida’s first indoor shopping center. The hotel-shopping center occupied an entire city block. It showcased resort-style recreation. These became popular in the early 20th century. The hotel’s arcade was its distinguishing feature.
A drive-in theater opened next to the Water Tower in 1951. It was called The Tower Theatre. It operated for nearly 40 years. Its neon signage became another Tampa landmark.
Sulphur Springs is located about five miles north of downtown Tampa. Its elevation is 16 feet above sea level. Rowlett Park borders it to the east. Florida Avenue is to the west. Busch Blvd. is to the north. The Hillsborough River is to the south.
The area is known as a health resort. The healing waters flowed beneath the surface. However, the springs were built upon and all but forgotten.
So, whether you seek a quiet fishing spot, a family picnic, or a glimpse into local history, Trout Creek near Sulphur Springs offers a unique experience. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of nature and history that defines this special place.