Walks and Field Trips

Saturday, February 21, 9:30 am-12 pm

Edward Medard Conservation Park, 6140 Turkey Creek Rd, Plant City 33567

Suncoast will have a table at the HIllsborough County Fire Fest on February 21. People interested in the hike should meet at our table at 9:30. After the hike, stay to visit the many exhibits or watch the prescribed fire demonstration.

This 700 acre Conservation Park, sits on land once used for phosphate mining. The Singing Bluffs Trail, which we will hike, has more ups and downs than a trip in the mountains. A walking stick is recommended. 

You can get maps and read about the park at 

https://hcfl.gov/locations/edward-medard-conservation-park

For all hikes, we recommend long pants, long sleeves, and comfortable, closed toe shoes. 

Bring plenty of water and a hat or other sun protection. Other useful items are walking stick, snacks, and insect repellent. 

To register, contact Tina (Mable C) Patterson, email mablepatterson@hotmail.com or phone (305) 298-6381 , text or call, and leave your name and message and contact information. 

Camping: Torreya State Park :March 30-April 3, 2026 (4 nights)

Make your own reservations in the WRLO campground or contact Tina to see is there are sites to share. Pitcher plants in bloom, spring in the Central Panhandle, plus several state parks and a national forest, all within easy reach of our camp! Campers must be FNPS members.

Lettuce Lake Native Plant Walks, download for 2026 Schedule

Our next walk is January 3, 2026

Suncoast sponsors native plant walks at Lettuce Lake Park on the first Saturday every month except July, August and December.These walks are designed for park visitors who want to learn about Florida native plants.  We do a slow stroll pointing out the native plants that the park supports.

$2 entry fee for the park. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk.

Walks begin in the Native Plant Garden behind the Joel E Jackson Nature Center at 9 am and last until approximately 11 am.

Tampa Audubon 'Beginning Bird Walks' meet on the second Saturday of each month at Lettuce Lake. Participants meet at 9 am (8 am in summer) in the parking lot by the Visitor Center. Binoculars are available for loan. Please visit Tampa Audubon's website to register for this walk.

The Native Plant and Bird Walks are free and open to the public although there is a $2 park entrance fee.