Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve
Official Hiking Spree Location
Name of trail: Cone Ranch Trail
Miles: 9.5
Class: C (Primitive)
Rating: 3 (Strenuous)
Download Hiking Spree Map
Learn More about the Hiking Spree
Park Description: The Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve is a 12,800-acre tract located at the northeast corner of Hillsborough County. Formerly known as Cone Ranch and Audubon Ranch, the property was managed by the County’s Public Utilities Water Department from 1988 to 2010, when it was transferred as part of the County's Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP). The majority of this property has been managed with a cattle lease since 1992. In 2013, approximately 3,000 acres were opened for public access on hiking and equestrian trails. Over the next 20 years, the cattle lease area will be decreased as native longleaf pine habitat is restored.
Lower Green Swamp Management Plan
Things to know
- Cattle Lease
- There is an active cattle lease on the Nature Preserve
- Harassment of any cattle is strictly prohibited
- Cattle are excluded to the Southwest Loops (Red Trail) only
- Gates separating trails are not locked, but must be closed after visitors pass through - these are the Yellow/Red and Red/Blue gates
- Horseback riding
- Horses must be thoroughly broken, properly restrained, and prevented from straying unattended
- All riders must carry proof of a negative Coggins test
- Riders under age 16 must wear a helmet
- We do not provide horseback riding rentals; you must bring your own horse
- A portable toilet is located across the trail from the office, near the southernmost bridge