Diamondback Nature Preserve

This 9-acre preserve features a tidal creek, hammock and mangrove forest on Old Tampa Bay north of the Howard Frankland bridge.   Diamondback was purchased by Hillsborough County through the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program in 1990.  Over the past two and a half decades, Hillsborough County staff and volunteers have done numerous trash cleanups, habitat restorations and enhancement projects. 

Access to the nature preserve

Parking is in front of the FBI building and the gate to enter the preserve is at the west end of the parking lot. The pictures below show the entrance.

Preserve entrance as seen from the western corner of the parking lot.

Preserve entrance as seen when leaving.

Hiking Safety Guidelines

Always be prepared when hiking on nature preserves:

• Bring plenty of water
• Download the map
• Tell someone your plan
• Wear proper shoes and sun protection
• Stay on marked trails
• During the rainy season, many trails will have standing water.
• If you think you are lost, call us at (813) 672-7876
• In case of an emergency, call 911