A Walk in the Park…

The Upper Tampa Bay Conservation Park is a sprawling nature preserve located in northwest Tampa, Florida, along the shores of Old Tampa Bay. Known for its scenic boardwalks, extensive hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, abundant birdlife, and diverse wildlife viewing, the park offers visitors a rich natural experience. Situated at the end of Double Branch Road, it serves as an escape from the city.

In May 2024, a prescribed burn at the park unexpectedly spread beyond its intended boundaries when a sudden wind shift occurred. The fire quickly grew into a brush fire, ultimately consuming more than 100 acres.

Today, a substantial portion of the park remains a largely untouched natural area, still bearing the visible scars and regeneration from the fire two years ago.

Here is a walk-through of that area.

The days are growing increasingly hot and humid, heralding the arrival of a typical Florida summer. Brilliant skies and a faint breeze prevailed. Despite persistent drought conditions across Florida, the approaching rainy season is beginning to ease the risk of fire.

A winding road leads through the burn area into the developed parts of the park…

Fire Roads section off the burnt areas…

Indications of the burn are everywhere…

Access to some sections are blocked off…

Leaving the park gives an opportunity to visit a local library.

As with many great libraries, it is guarded by a lion statue…

May 25, 2026

Thanks for visiting!

Click/tap here to see all my Upper Tamba Bay Park images, full-size, no watermarks, at Images by Bill. There are additional pictures not included in this posting.

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