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Picnic spots for kids in Tampa

A picnic spot where kids can actually run around instead of being confined to a blanket.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Upper Tampa Bay Park image 1
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Park offers kayak and canoe launches along shallow waters surrounded by mangrove forests and coastal habitats. Trails include interactive media with QR codes for learning about the environment. The atmosphere is quiet and secluded, with well-maintained playgrounds and picnic areas near water views.

A kids' playground and a picnic area make the park great for families. Trails offer easy hiking that kids enjoy.

Shelters with numerous tables support large outdoor picnics and family gatherings. A kids' playground sits nearby, and easy trails connect picnic areas to other activities.

People are saying

"The park's bathrooms were surprisingly pristine and well-stocked."

"You'll love the nice view of the river and bay."

"The playground here is clean and well maintained, making it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is $2 per car.

2

Canoe rentals cost $25 for a 5-hour ride.

3

The park has a good picnic area with a kids' playground.

02
Annapoorna Rasoi - Indian Food Trailer image 1

Two food trucks serve flavorful Indian dishes in a well-lit lawn with outdoor seating under trees. Tabletop patio heaters and small lamps create a cozy, relaxed atmosphere while games like corn hole add a fun, social vibe.

Kids enjoy idli, cheese dosa, and Nutella dosa here. Plenty of space and outdoor games like corn hole keep children busy while waiting for food.

Trees, picnic tables, and grass underfoot create a peaceful, cozy vibe. Citronella candles on benches keep flies away, adding to the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the dosas, were crispy and delicious."

"The dosas here are awesome and tasty, especially for kids."

"The Picnic food was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The food truck is parked at 8601 N 40th Street in Tampa.

2

The lunch menu is very affordable with top-notch quality.

3

There were no restrooms, only a portable toilet available.

03
Al Lopez Park image 1

Spacious park with large lake and tree-covered trails offers a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Facilities include children's playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment, and picnic tables. Visitors enjoy beautiful views and well-maintained greenery throughout the area.

Open fields and a playground offer plenty of space for kids to run and play. The park suits children of all ages and hosts family parties and events like 5k runs and photoshoots.

Large open spaces offer plenty of room for picnics and sports. Shady covered shelters with tables and clean restrooms make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

People are saying

"The parks here are perfect for kids and family outings."

"It's a great kid-friendly place for family outings."

"It's a great place for a picnic with shady shelters and tables."

Good to know

1

Admission to Al Lopez Park is free.

2

Parking is free.

3

The dog park is closed until June.

04
Desoto Park image 1
City park

City park offers waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere with quiet, tranquil vibes. It features diverse amenities including a swimming pool, skate park, basketball courts, playground, and picnic areas. The space balances natural beauty with recreational options for all ages.

Big playground, swings, and a water park offer plenty of fun for kids. Open fields, picnic tables, and shaded areas make it easy for families to relax together.

Open fields and picnic tables provide plenty of space for outdoor meals. Shaded areas and a big playground with swings make it family-friendly.

People are saying

"This park is so peaceful and beautiful on the water."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a big playground and pool."

"It's a perfect spot for a picnic with a big playground and shaded areas."

Good to know

1

Desoto Park is a great venue for birthday parties and outdoor events.

2

Parking costs $6 for all day and allows for moving your car.

3

The bathrooms at Desoto Park are currently locked.

05
Rivercrest Park image 1

Wide open green space borders a river with a paved circular walking path that offers shade and sun. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits walking, jogging, or relaxing by the water. Family-friendly features include a well-maintained, fenced-in playground and picnic shelter.

A nice playground with toddler swings offers a safe play area set back from the river. Trails and a good-sized play area make it inviting for kids and adults alike.

Shelter with picnic tables provides a good spot for lunch. A picnic bench overlooks the water, adding a nice view during the day.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lovely views and calm walking paths."

"It's a really nice playground for kids here."

"I enjoyed a nice picnic lunch with a view of the river."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available in Rivercrest Park.

2

The playground is well maintained and great for kids.

3

The park is always neat, clean, and well kept.

06
Anderson Park image 1

Playgrounds for all ages spread across a fenced park with shaded trees and multiple play areas including a splash pad with lion statues. Basketball courts with rubberized turf and picnic tables add to the active, family-friendly atmosphere. The park feels quiet and cozy, inviting for both play and relaxation.

Multiple playgrounds cater to different ages, including toddler and baby areas plus a big kid playground. Shaded swings and a splash fountain add fun options for kids on warm days.

Lots of picnic tables sit under shade, making it easy to relax and eat. Covered tables near the basketball courts offer spots for the older crowd to enjoy a meal.

People are saying

"It's a huge playground with separate areas for toddlers and big kids."

"It's a kid-friendly place with separate playgrounds for toddlers and big kids."

"The playground has separate areas for toddlers and big kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is available as free street parking or in the free Hyde Park Village parking garage, about two blocks away.

2

The park has wheelchair accessible restrooms.

3

The fountain and splash pad close at 7 PM, but the rest of the park remains open until sunset.

07
Water Works Park image 1

Park offers riverside setting with beautiful views and plenty of space to relax. Atmosphere stays peaceful and calm when quiet, turning fun and exciting during events with colorful decor. Features include splash pad and playground areas that attract families and children for active play.

Kids enjoy the splash pad and play area with features like a huge bucket that dumps water. The park offers clean water play spaces and enough bathrooms for families.

Shady picnic shelters with reserved tables offer a comfortable spot for eating outdoors. The picnic area is small but cozy, near the Riverwalk and other attractions.

People are saying

"It's a really fun place for kids with a great playground and splash pool."

"It's a great place for dogs, with a well-conditioned dog park."

"The picnic shelters are shady and accommodating."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter and very family-friendly.

2

Restrooms are wheelchair accessible for convenience.

3

During hot days, the water feature provides relief for visitors.

08
Carrollwood Village Park image 1

Spacious park with wide open spaces and a large lake featuring wildlife like turtles. It offers family-friendly amenities including a gated playground, splash pad, skate park, and dog parks. The atmosphere is peaceful and beautiful, with mature trees, shaded areas, and a paved trail for walking.

Huge play areas include a playground, splash pad, and a skate ground. Swings and climbing structures sit next to the splash pad. Walking trails and an exercise area surround the kid zones.

Lots of grassy areas and picnic spots make it easy to relax outdoors. Picnic areas and spaces are available for rent, suitable for parties or celebrations. Some picnic and playground spaces are enclosed by a fence for safety.

People are saying

"It's really kid friendly with a spectacular playground and splash pad."

"It's a great dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs."

"It's a great place for a picnic with the kids."

Good to know

1

The park is free to access.

2

Free parking is available at the park.

3

Keep children away from the water's edge due to potential dangers like alligators.

09
Lowry Park image 1

Park runs alongside a calm river with stunning views and large open spaces. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for walking, picnics, and family outings. Features include boat ramps, playgrounds, and plenty of picnic and barbecue areas.

Kids enjoy a play area with slides and equipment. Feeding animals adds to the fun. The park offers a walkable space suitable for little ones.

Many covered picnic areas come with BBQ grills and plenty of picnic tables. The setting feels peaceful and beautiful, great for family, church, or corporate picnics.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful park perfect for walking and reconnecting with nature."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a wonderful play area."

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of picnic tables."

Good to know

1

Lowry Park is great for hosting events with covered picnic areas and BBQ grills.

2

The park has a playground with slides and swings for children.

3

There is a boat launch on the Hillsborough River at Lowry Park.

10
Cypress Point Park image 1

City park offers beach access with gorgeous bayfront views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic tables, and barbecue facilities, making it suitable for families and outdoor activities.

A great playground area offers kids a fun spot to play. The beach stays quiet and shallow with gentle waves, plus a lagoon perfect for little ones to explore safely.

Covered picnic spots and picnic shelters offer plenty of space for gatherings. Grills and accessible beach mats make it easy to enjoy a meal by the water.

People are saying

"I found this park's beach to be a beautiful hidden gem."

"The sunset views here are spectacular and gorgeous."

"It has a playground and a picnic area."

Good to know

1

Parking is free from Monday to Friday, from sunrise until 12 noon.

2

Parking costs $1 to $2 per hour outside free hours, max $12 per day.

3

Avoid entering the water due to high bacteria levels.

11
Picnic Island Park image 1

City park with quiet beach and spacious layout offers sunset views across the bay and a dog-friendly beach. Atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil, ideal for picnics, barbecues, and community events. Amenities include disc golf course, boat ramps, playgrounds, and rentable pavilions.

Access to the beach and a great playground make this park stand out for kids. Open spaces let children and dogs run freely, creating a fun and safe environment.

Large picnic areas with covered tables and big grills accommodate groups well. Clean spaces sit near a scenic waterfront, offering a relaxing spot for family gatherings and outdoor fun.

People are saying

"This park has so much room for exploring and outdoor fun."

"It's a great spot for kids to run around with a top-notch playground."

"It's a beautiful waterfront spot perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

2

The park has gates that are monitored by a ranger during certain hours.

3

Canoe launch and paddleboard rentals are available for visitors.

12
Rowlett Park image 1

Large park spans 65 acres along a river, featuring shaded trails, sports courts, and picnic pavilions. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits relaxation, exercise, and family activities. Facilities include dog parks, playgrounds, and accessible paved paths.

Multiple playgrounds for children offer plenty of space to run and play. Covered pavilions with grills and paved trails for scooters and bikes add to the kid-friendly setup.

Plenty of picnic areas with BBQ grills make it easy to host family events or birthday parties. Shelters provide shade and comfort, while the surroundings offer spots for fishing and outdoor games.

People are saying

"The parks here offer beautiful river views and peaceful, shaded trails."

"It's really Kid Friendly with plenty of room for kids to play."

"The picnic areas here are great for family gatherings and have grills."

Good to know

1

The park is 65 acres with tennis courts, picnic areas, and walking trails.

2

Rowlett Park is dog friendly with a fenced-in dog run.

3

There are plenty of picnic areas with BBQ grills available.

13
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park image 1

Park offers beautiful riverfront views and a large open green space with a well-equipped playground and interactive fountains. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and safe, with live music and festivals adding energy. Boardwalk and riverwalk provide peaceful spots for walking and biking.

Open spaces and a splash pad offer plenty of room for kids to run and play. A playground stays lively with families even after sunset, and a fountain water spray provides fun ways to cool off during warm days.

Open space and waterfront views create a relaxed setting for picnics. Plenty of room for kids to play and areas to lounge under trees add to the appeal.

People are saying

"The parks here are beautiful and right on the water."

"This place is so kid friendly, my kids loved playing here."

"I loved having a picnic with a great view right off the water."

Good to know

1

Parking at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park can be difficult, with costs around $20.

2

There are only two bathrooms for hundreds of people to use during events.

3

The park is dog-friendly and great for outdoor activities.

14
Lesley "Les" Miller Jr. All People's Community Park & Life Center image 1

Open park with lush greenery and quiet walking trails offers plenty of space for families. Well-maintained playgrounds and a splash pad provide active fun for kids. Facilities include a community center with gym and exercise rooms, plus pavilions for gatherings.

Free splash water and a spacious playground offer fun for kids and toddlers. Astro turf keeps kids clean while the community center supports adaptive sports opportunities.

Many covered picnic tables and gazebos provide spots to eat. Restrooms, water fountains, and rentable picnic shelters support group gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly place with a fun playground."

"I had a get-together party here and it was a good place for gatherings."

"This park is a great place for a picnic with its awesome playground and splash pad."

Good to know

1

The park is completely free to enter and enjoy.

2

The splash pad is a great feature for kids to play in.

3

Restrooms are available but may need maintenance.

15
Vila Brothers Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained playgrounds, pickleball and basketball courts, and a dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs. Walking trail circles the perimeter, supporting exercise and stroller use. Several shaded pavilions provide spots for picnics and gatherings in a quiet, clean, and family-friendly setting.

Children's playground features new equipment and picnic tables. The park feels safe and welcoming for toddlers and older kids to play and explore.

Plenty of picnic tables and designated spots make it easy to set up. Picnic pavilions add covered options near playgrounds and courts.

People are saying

"The park bathrooms were recently updated and are great."

"The dog park here is clean and new."

"The playground here is amazing for kids!"

Good to know

1

The park has a clean and new dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs.

2

There are several shaded shelters and pavilions available for rent for parties.

3

The park features a walking trail around its perimeter, ideal for strollers and dogs.

16
Seaplane Basin Park image 1

Park offers wide open water views with boats and planes nearby, creating a unique backdrop. It maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with gentle bay breezes and shaded picnic areas. Visitors find plenty of space for family activities and dog play, with well-kept paths and swings enhancing the experience.

Plenty of open space lets kids run and play freely. Nearby yacht club offers sailing lessons for kids and young adults, adding fun activities for families.

Calm water views create a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or quiet walk. Open spaces invite sitting, meditating, or enjoying a peaceful outdoor meal.

People are saying

"It's a quiet spot with beautiful water views."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with stunning water views."

"It's so Kid Friendly with plenty of open space for the kids."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

2

Dogs are only permitted in the designated dog park area.

3

The park is open from sunrise to sunset.

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