As temperatures increase in Florida, residents and visitors are visiting the historic waters of Lithia Springs Conservation Park. The springs maintain a consistent temperature of 72 degrees year-round. The park offers various activities, including swimming, snorkeling, camping, and a recently introduced night swim event.
Lithia Springs has a documented history dating back over 7,000 years. According to Hillsborough County news, Native Americans are believed to have frequented the area around 5,000 BC. In the early 1900s, the presence of lithium oxide in the water led to the springs and the surrounding area being named Lithia.
The springs and surrounding land have changed ownership over time, with a transfer to Hillsborough County in the 1950s establishing public access to the park. Lithia Springs Conservation Park remains open to the public. In addition to standard activities, the park has scheduled a night swim event for Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., during which participants will swim under underwater lights and beachside torches, as listed on the official Night Swims page.
In addition to water-based activities, the nearby 3,300-acre FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve North provides land-based recreation options, as reported by Hillsborough County news. The preserve includes a 3.1-mile hiking trail that passes through marshes, forests, and flatwoods. It is also home to gopher tortoise colonies, and turtles are frequently observed in the area.
At the park, visitors planning to stay longer have access to a range of amenities. There are 45 campsites equipped with water, shower, and electrical services. Additional facilities include a sandy volleyball court, a newly installed playground for children, shaded tables, and picnic shelters.
