Imagine a picturesque trail that stretches 9.5 miles along the shimmering Tampa Bay, connecting lively Tampa and beautiful Clearwater. The Courtney Campbell Trail offers breathtaking views, a variety of outdoor activities, and the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Ready to unlock the natural beauty of Tampa Bay? Let’s explore the Courtney Campbell Trail together!
Discover the Courtney Campbell Trail and uncover its rich history with stunning views of Tampa Bay.
Enjoy a comfortable exploration, complete with convenient free parking, picnic areas & snack shacks.
Experience wildlife opportunities, local events & attractions plus Memorial Day Weekend celebrations along the trail!
Acting as a stunning causeway, the Courtney Campbell Trail connects Tampa and Clearwater, while also linking notable parks such as Cypress Point Park, Skyway Park, and Ben T. Davis Beach. With a rich history dating back to the original project by Ben T. Davis and later named after Courtney Campbell for his contributions, this trail is an experience you won’t forget! Enjoy the scenic views along the trail, including the picturesque Rocky Point area.
Catering to bikers, walkers and runners the Courtney Campbell Trail is a smooth path made of concrete and asphalt. Open 24/7, it provides ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The trail offers spectacular views of Tampa Bay and its surroundings, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some key features of the Courtney Campbell Trail include:
Accessibility for bikers, walkers and runners
Smooth surface made of concrete and asphalt
Open 24/7
Spectacular views of Tampa Bay and its surroundings
Whether you’re looking for a scenic bike ride, a leisurely walk, or a challenging run, the Courtney Campbell Trail has something to offer for everyone.
Stretching 10.5 miles, the Courtney Campbell Trail offers a perfect adventure for anyone seeking a scenic route with a moderate challenge. With a 45-foot-high bridge located halfway along the trail (western side), you’ll experience a rewarding journey with a challenging incline, making it an exciting and enjoyable ride or walk.
An array of breathtaking views that will leave you in awe await you at the Courtney Campbell Trail. From the stunning water vistas to pristine beaches and captivating city skylines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to bring your camera and capture some Courtney Campbell Trail photos to immortalize the beautiful scenery.
As part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, you can also spot a wide variety of bird species, such as marbled godwits and avocets. Late winter or early spring is the ideal time to visit, as the air temperatures are just right for biking or walking. So, lace up your shoes or hop on your bike and experience the natural beauty of the Courtney Campbell Trail!
Knowing where to park and access the trail is crucial before starting your adventure. Luckily, the Courtney Campbell Trail has several parking options and access points to make your visit convenient and enjoyable.
Free parking at the Safety Harbor trail access points, including the boat ramp, ensures a quick start to your adventure.
Parking is available at the trail’s east end at Ben T. Davis Beach, with additional free parking at Cypress Point Park and Skyway Park. These locations provide easy access to the trail, allowing you to start your journey without any hassle. The trail connects Cypress Point Park to the other locations, including Cypress Park, ensuring a seamless experience.
Keep in mind that the parking lots are open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the trail and nearby parks.
The Courtney Campbell Trail connects to other exciting trails and parks in the Old Tampa Bay area, such as the Upper Tampa Bay Trail and the new Causeway Trail. By extending your exploration, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Skyway Park, Cypress Point Park, and Ben T. Davis Beach, with spectacular views of Tampa Bay and plenty of opportunities for birding, hiking, and road biking.
For those seeking a longer adventure, there’s a 14-mile Wilderness Loop trail that connects all three parks, offering an unforgettable experience of nature and beauty.
Various amenities and facilities await you along the Courtney Campbell Trail to enhance your exploration. From rest stops to restroom facilities, the trail is designed to accommodate your needs and make your adventure enjoyable.
While restrooms may be limited along the trail, they can be found at Ben T. Davis Beach and other nearby parks. Having access to restrooms during your journey ensures your comfort and convenience.
These restrooms are handicap-accessible, accommodating all visitors. Keep in mind that there is a fee for parking at Ben T. Davis Beach, but the restroom facilities are free to use.
Shady picnic spots and snack shacks provide perfect break locations along the Courtney Campbell Trail. You’ll find plenty of areas to relax and refuel, making your adventure even more enjoyable.
For the foodies, there are several snack shacks located near the trail, such as BellaBrava, Whiskey Joe’s Bar & Grill, and WTR Pool and Grill. Keep in mind that the hours of operation for these snack shacks may vary, so it’s best to check ahead before planning your visit.
Well-equipped with all the necessary information, you’re now ready to experience the Courtney Campbell Trail firsthand. With helpful tips and information on wildlife and fishing opportunities, you’re ready to make the most of your adventure.
Carry your own water, snacks, and sunscreen to stay hydrated and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant biking or walking experience. Be mindful of the busy highway noise as you traverse the trail and always prioritize your safety.
Whether you’re biking or walking, the Courtney Campbell Trail offers a moderate level of difficulty, making it a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all ages and fitness levels.
The opportunity to observe diverse wildlife along the trail will delight nature lovers. As part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, the Courtney Campbell Trail is home to a variety of bird species, such as marbled godwits and avocets.
Fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck at designated areas along the trail. Experience the thrill of catching:
Common snook
Gafftopsail sea catfish
Red drum
Crevalle jack
Spotted seatrout
With so many opportunities to connect with nature, the Courtney Campbell Trail, a beautiful trail, truly offers something for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it; check out the numerous Courtney Campbell Trail reviews to see what others have to say.
Beyond the trail’s beauty, exciting local events and attractions surround the Courtney Campbell Trail. From annual events to nearby beaches and parks, there’s always something to explore and enjoy.
Special events and activities provide a great opportunity to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend along the Courtney Campbell Trail. Participate in the Tampa Bay Margarita Festival, Boatstock, and a group bike ride during this festive weekend. Don’t forget to join in on the fun with commemorative ceremonies, fireworks, movies, parties, boating events, and more to honor the holiday.
Nearby beaches and parks such as Clearwater Beach and Ben T. Davis Beach offer a full day of outdoor fun. Clearwater Beach offers a wealth of fantastic facilities, including restaurants, shops, beachside walkways, public restrooms and year-round lifeguards.
At Ben T. Davis Beach, you can enjoy the beach for only $2.50 per hour (less during off peak hours), making it an affordable and enjoyable option. Don’t forget to check the water quality at nearby beaches using resources like Swim Guide, Florida Health website, and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper website to ensure a safe and enjoyable swim.
The Courtney Campbell Trail offers a beautiful and diverse experience for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning views, numerous activities, and convenient amenities, you’ll find yourself returning time and time again. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this amazing trail and discover all that Tampa Bay has to offer!
The Courtney Campbell Trail is a 9.5-mile path offering spectacular views from two bridges. Enjoy the 5.5-mile section in Tampa and Hillsborough County, including a 45'-high bridge, completed in 2013.
Parking is available at Ben T. Davis Beach or one of the two other free parking lots, Cypress Point Park and Skyway Park, for a convenient way to access Courtney Campbell Causeway.
Courtney Campbell Causeway is named after Courtney W. Campbell, a Clearwater Beach resident and U.S. Representative who was instrumental in getting funds for the beautification and repairs of the route.
The Courtney Campbell Causeway bridge stands 45 feet tall, the only high-level pedestrian bridge in Florida.
Yes, restrooms are available along the trail at Ben T. Davis Beach and other nearby parks.
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