• If you will be arriving after the park closes, you will need to call ahead and get the gate combination. Advise the Ranger on duty that you are a member of the St. Pete Astronomy Club and that you would like to use the Trail Head Picnic Area. The phone number is (813)672-5320.

• If you have do not have an annual pass, deposit $3.00 if you're alone, $4.00 for 2 to 8 persons (in the pipe safe located near the door on the side of the ranger station). See our "Links" section for a link to where you can purchase an Annual Pass.

• The handicap restrooms will be left unlocked.

• There is no power on field. However, there are outlets under the pavilion support columns.

• No overnight camping and please clean up after yourself.

• Bring skeeter protection. If you forget this, you won't be staying long.

From Tampa take I-75 North to State Rd. 52. Take 52 East all the way through Dade City until it dead ends at the railroad station on the 301 Bypass. (Note: State Rd. 52 will make 2 right hand turns at traffic lights along the way, one after St. Leo and one when entering Dade City). Be sure to go all the way to the dead end at the old railroad station. Do not turn on 301, go all the way to the dead end. Turn left on 301 Bypass and go about ¾ mile until you see a Pizza Hut in the distance. Just before you get to the Pizza Hut, turn right on River Road, across the railroad tracks. You will see a sign saying “County Park 4½ Miles”. It’s a very winding, paved road, take your time. When you get to the fork in the road, you will take the road to the right (Auton Rd.). (There’s a sign saying “County Park” directing you to the right) Go about 150 feet to the park entrance on the left (Withlacoochee Blvd.). Enter the park and go about ½ mile until you see a sign that says “Big Ma’s Way”, and turn right onto the field.

You can also go North on 301 from Tampa and take the bypass when you get to Dade City. This park closes at dusk so you will have to arrive before that time. No registration is required as the first camper on site registers for the group and is responsible for the collection of the camping fees. Fees are $10.00 per night. There are restrooms in the park, but are a distance away (Approx. 300 yards). The club now is providing a portable restroom facility and portable shower.

This park does not allow public camping on the field, but makes exceptions for groups such as SPAC.