Jay B Starkey Wilderness Park Mountain Biking

   

Jay B Starkey Park MTB Bike Trails

Gear up, and get ready to test your endurance! For those mountain bike riders who enjoy a nice cardio workout while coasting through beautiful Florida landscapes, the Starkey Wilderness Trail within Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a need-to-visit spot.

With 24 miles of flowy, intermediate single track trails that wind its way through the park, Jay B Starkey is definitely a serious calorie burner. Just in case you’re not up for the whole trail, don’t worry. There are a bunch of paved tracks throughout the trail that loop around to make the trip shorter. The trails are also very family friendly. Bring the kids!

While the trails don’t have any technical features, they are great for riders to build some confidence by being able to blast through the trails. Take advantage of the flow! The faster you take these trails, the more fun it gets!

Mountain Bike Trail Highlights

• 6.5-Mile Paved Multi-use Trail: A scenic, well-maintained loop perfect for road bikes, hybrid bikes, and casual riders. Connects to the Suncoast Trail for extended rides.
• Gravel & Off-Road Trails: Ride through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and wetlands on mostly flat, unpaved service roads—ideal for XC riders and beginners.
• Suncoast Trail Connector: A 42-mile stretch running parallel to the Suncoast Parkway, perfect for endurance training or a long weekend spin.
• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see deer, gopher tortoises, hawks, and even the occasional armadillo right from your handlebars.

If you’re ready for something more adventurous, check out Croom just north of here—don’t miss the Drunken Monkey Trail for flow, drops, and ravine-style fun.

Our interactive trail map locator allows you to find even more spectacular Florida Mountain Bike Trails and Parks.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently located in Pasco County, Florida, the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is just a short distance northwest of Tampa. The park’s western entrance is easily accessible via Suncoast Trail and Wilderness Park Boulevard, with ample parking available at the western end of the trail. Visitors can also access the park through Starkey Blvd, which connects to the Suncoast Trail and other nearby attractions. This prime location makes the park a popular destination for residents of New Port Richey, Port Richey, and surrounding areas. With its well-maintained trails and convenient access points, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is perfect for a day of outdoor adventure.

Outdoor Activities

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers a plethora of outdoor activities to suit all interests. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or horseback riding, the park has something for everyone. The paved trail is perfect for both road bikes and mountain bikes, offering flat terrain and scenic views. For those looking to extend their adventure, the park also provides camping facilities, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway. Birding enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to spot various species, while families can enjoy a day of picnicking and exploring the playgrounds. With well-spaced shelters and restrooms, the park ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Jay B Starkey Park has plenty of trails for hikers, with options ranging from short boardwalk loops to longer treks through wetlands, pine forests, and cypress domes. Whether you’re birdwatching or just out for a peaceful walk, this park is perfect for exploring Florida’s natural ecosystems.

• Well-marked trails with navigational signs
• Observation platforms for spotting birds and wildlife
• Shaded paths ideal for nature photography and slow strolls
• Wildlife sightings may include bobcats, owls, armadillos, and more

Camping and Cabins

Want to extend your stay? Jay B Starkey Park offers camping options for every type of visitor:

• Primitive Campsites: Quiet, remote areas for tent camping
• RV Sites: Equipped with water and electric hookups
• Cabin Rentals: For a comfortable, nature-immersive experience

The campground is tucked into a shaded forest and features fire pits, picnic tables, and clean restrooms. It’s an ideal base for biking the trails or enjoying a weekend unplugged. You can reserve a campsite here.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

Jay B Starkey Park is home to a thriving wildlife population thanks to its preserved landscapes. Whether you’re hiking or biking, chances are you’ll come across some of Florida’s most iconic species.

• Common Wildlife: Deer, gopher tortoises, wild turkeys, and foxes
• Birdlife: Barred owls, ospreys, hawks, and migratory birds
• Insects & Pollinators: Butterflies, bees, and dragonflies around wildflower zones

For the best experience, bring binoculars and a camera. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times for wildlife encounters.

Picnic Areas and Family-Friendly Amenities

Jay B Starkey Park is perfect for families or groups looking for a laid-back outdoor day. The park features:

• Shaded picnic shelters with tables and grills
• Open fields for playing or relaxing
• Paved walking paths and boardwalks
• Restrooms and plenty of parking

It’s an excellent spot for birthday parties, weekend meetups, or spontaneous picnics.

Why Visit Jay B Starkey Park?

Jay B Starkey Park is a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area, offering year-round recreation, scenic views, and a wide variety of activities. Whether you’re a cyclist, hiker, or camper, this park brings you closer to Florida’s natural beauty without needing to leave civilization far behind.

Its connection to the Suncoast Trail makes it a top choice for long-distance rides, while the forested trails, wildlife, and peaceful campgrounds invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Looking for a scenic and refreshing outdoor experience? Jay B Starkey Park delivers.