Daytripper

A day at the park

Freshwater anglers are drawn to the 770-acre reservoir at Edward Medard Park the way that wiggly worms attract hungry fish.

Bluegill, bass, brim and catfish are plentiful at the 1,284-acre park in southeast Hillsborough County. Of all the county's parks, this former phosphate mine is probably one of the most popular for freshwater fishing.

Anglers can cast a line from their boat, from the pier or by the water's edge. Several boat launching facilities are available; so is parking for boat trailers.

Fishing licenses are required, with the cost changing from $30 to $15 after April 1.

The tall mounds at the park give children a place to climb and explore. Equestrians like wandering the park's many shaded trails.

Amenities include picnic areas with tables, charcoal grills and nearby restrooms. Playground equipment, volleyball nets and horseshoe pits provide entertainment for children young and old. There are 40 camping sites, available on a first-come, first-served basis; each has a picnic table, barbecue pit, water and electricity.

Lifeguards are posted at the beach during the summer months, and a wooden fishing pier/boardwalk leads to an observation tower that offers a panoramic view of the park.

Edward Medard Park

Where: 5726 Panther Loop, off Turkey Creek Road, Plant City. 757-3802.

Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Cost: Park admission is free. Family camping is $12 per site or $10 for seniors, age 55 plus.

Group camping is $1 per person with two nonprofit group campsites available.