Polk County Parks and Recreation Department sets new camping rules for 2025, including a 14-day stay limit, a 28-day gap before return, a 100-day annual cap, adult-only reservations, and a ban on certain vehicles.

Loyce E. Harpe Park in Mulberry reopens on weekends after Hurricane Milton's damage with limited access to amenities like dog and skate parks, trails, and fishing areas, while weekdays remain closed for safety during ongoing cleanup operations.

Loyce E. Harpe Park reopens on weekends after Hurricane Milton with limited facilities, including a dog park, skate park, bike trails, and fishing areas, while still serving as a storm debris management site on weekdays.

Sand Key Park reopens Dec. 21 after hurricane restoration, offering amenities like trails, a dog area, and picnic spots, despite a parking fee increase to $6 on Jan. 1. Pinellas County also progresses with other park re-openings post-hurricanes.

Hillsborough County debuts a new water playground at Progress Village's Emanuel P. Johnson Recreation Center, adding 14 water features and improved facilities.

Tampa's new MacDill 48 Park opens, offering stormwater management and a recreational space with a 1-mile trail, a 10-acre pond, and local wildlife. Mayor Castor highlights its environmental and community benefits.

Pinellas County Parks & Conservation Resources reopens select parks post-Hurricane cleanups, while urging visitors to mind closed trails and ongoing debris removal.

Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota County is set to partially reopen after hurricane-induced closures, with local business owners and residents expressing relief.

The dog park at Simmers-Young Park in Winter Haven is closed due to hurricane debris; other park areas, like soccer fields and playgrounds, remain open.

Tampa shuts down parks and halts programs ahead of Tropical Storm Milton, as the city prioritizes debris cleanup from Hurricane Helene and undertakes pre-emptive safety measures.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay mourns the death of Jim, a 37-year-old western lowland gorilla, after his health rapidly declined despite intensive care. This is the second gorilla loss for the park recently.

Tampa's Parks and Recreation offers 300 additional slots in its affordable After School Program, providing activities and homework assistance for kids aged 5-12, requiring a $15 annual Rec Card.

The article discusses the long-standing aquatic species in Hillsborough County, such as the ancient comb jelly and horseshoe crabs, as well as the proficient dragonflies that control pests.