The common lament — ‘there’s nothing to do,’ could not be farther from the truth at Lake Park, a one-stop shop for solitary getaways and fun family activities at 17302 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz.
For $2 per car, visitors to the 589-acre park will find themselves surrounded by recreational options.
There are pavilions and grills for those wanting to picnic, plus nearby playgrounds for the kids.
There are five lakes, as well as a boat ramp, canoe rentals and kayaking.
There also are places to fish, to watch birds and to go horseback riding.
For people who enjoy fitness activities, there’s a 2-mile path for walkers, joggers, runners and bicyclists.
And, for those who prefer a bit of solitude, there are plenty of spots where you can sit back and relax.
Lake Park also boasts some unique features, too, including the Tampa BMX Raceway, the Gasparilla Bowmen Archery Club and the Hurricane R/C club.
The Tampa BMX Raceway track was established in 1974 and revamped in 1989. It is operated by volunteers and through donations. Competitive racing starts on Fridays at 8 p.m., and on Sundays at 4 p.m.
The track hosts local competitions and larger BMX-sanctioned events. BMX Raceway is open to the public, except when there is an event.
The Hurricane R/C club track, not far from the BMX Raceway, is a dirt track laid out with jumps and tight curves. The challenging terrain requires the radio-control operators to stay focused in order to keep the cars upright and moving. This track also is open to the public, except during events.
The Gasparilla Bowmen Archery Club operates on a range that is tucked away in the woods for safety reasons. Those using the range must follow a trail to the secluded area, where they will find an array of paper targets attached to bales of hay. The targets are stationed at varying distances.
The club holds competitive shooting, along with raffles, and different archery-related events. Gasparilla Bowmen Archery Club, a well-established organization, is widely known throughout Tampa Bay.
So, whether you’re looking for a place to have fun with your family or friends, or merely wanting to enjoy some solitary time, chances are you’ll find what you need at Lake Park.
The park is open during the spring and summer from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and during the fall and winter from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
By Randy Underhill
Published July 25, 2018
