Originally called Pleasant Grove Park and Reservoir, Edward Medard Park underwent many transformations before it was donated to The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) in 1969 by a mining company. In 1972, Hillsborough County signed an agreement with the District to develop the site as one of the CountyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest regional parks.

Among its main attractions is a 700-acre reservoir used for canoeing, boating, and fishing. Also included is a 3-mile trail that offers equestrians, hikers, and bird watchers a pleasant trip through pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. Please note, we do not provide horseback riding rentals. You must bring your own horse.

The park also has a disc golf course for those Frisbee enthusiasts who want to enhance their disc-throwing skills, while the beach volleyball court provides the players a scenic view of the sunset. Edward Medard Park also offers picnic shelters, a boardwalk, a playground for the kids, and an observation platform overlooking the reservoir.

Camping

Campers can stay overnight at one of the 42 first-come, first-serve campsites that accommodate both RV and tent camping. All campsites have a picnic table, electricity, a fire ring, and water. Public restrooms with showers and an RV dump station are also available.