Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

Category: Park in New Port Richey, Florida

Address: 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, New Port Richey, FL 34655, USA

Phone: +17278343247

Opening hours

Sunday: 7AM–8PM

Monday: 7AM–8PM

Tuesday: 7AM–8PM

Wednesday: 7AM–8PM

Thursday: 7AM–8PM

Friday: 7AM–8PM

Saturday: 7AM–8PM

Reviews

Jeremy Pinero

Mar 28, 2022

Starkey is great for it's variety of bike trails. Love off-road biking? They got it! Love the concrete biking? No worries they have that too! Full of lakes, swamps, and fields this beautiful and vast park is a great get away into nature. No matter what season you go, there are always some form plant life to be seen. One of the very few places you don't have to spend a dime to go to!

EJB 3

Jan 16, 2022

Visited here for the first time on a late Saturday afternoon for a 2-hour hike. Very nice park with lots of bike and hiking trails. Although the park was pretty busy, we were able to have plenty of time to ourselves on the trails as we only ran into a few people. Parking seemed adequate and the restrooms were surprisingly clean and well-maintained. The reason I took off a star is because it seems with this park, you need to know where to park and how to find the trail you want before you get there. Meaning that signs and maps in this place are lacking. There are no clear signs off the road showing where to park for hiking trails. The maps they have posted are not like what you would expect at a park; they look like hand drawn maps with no trail names or labels, only lines. We’ve been hiking extensively through state and national parks and am pretty good with directions, but the lack of available (good) maps makes it difficult to get around. More importantly, the hiking trail we were on had very little signage. We passed several intersections with no signs indicating what trail it was and missed a turn that we apparently were supposed to know to make. We found a few other people backtracking on the trail for the same reason. Now that I know that we can’t rely on the park to provide direction, I’ll make sure to have a better plan next time. All in all it’s a beautiful park work visiting, just find a map online before you go if you plan on hiking. I found that the bike trails were better labeled.

Chris Chadwick

Dec 4, 2021

This place is awesome, so many mountain bike trails and hiking trails and equestrian trails The cabins are wonderful too. Most can sleep eight, the shared bathrooms are in good shape and clean, and have showers and running water. Each cabin has a little porch a fire pit, a barbecue, electricity for lights and extractor fan and a wall socket that you can plug a couple of things into. Well we were here two cabins were reserved by a bunch of families for kids birthday party, what an awesome idea! The hiking trails are pretty complete, although the map can be a little bit confusing until you figure it out, It might be a good suggestion to download an all trails app map or similar. The ranger and staff are amazing here very helpful and kind. The cabin area has a brand new playground that is in really great shape and a wonderful way for the kids to burn off some energy before toasting s'mores and going to bed.

Cheryl E English

Dec 4, 2021

Dog friendly: yes Bring your own water. Hiked the trail starting at the horse corral. Wide, flat, sandy trail. Sun/shade mix. Well blazed. Saw three deer on the trail. We did not meet anyone else on the trail other than two birders who were counting birds at the observation deck. A quiet, natural place that lets you forget all the noise for a while.

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Questions & Answers

Is this still a wilderness park? It no longer shows up green on Google Maps.

Matthew Behunek | Aug 24, 2018
Dave Miller | Aug 24, 2018

Yes

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Are dogs allowed at the cabins

Robert Fitzner | Aug 24, 2019
Jeff Gauvreau | Aug 24, 2019

Yes but they must be under reasonable owner control ( a leash) and the owner must provide water and clean up after the animal.

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how far from the beach

Rhonda Dinoo | Aug 24, 2019
Headliners Only | Aug 24, 2019

Depends on what beach you are asking about

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Are dogs allowed to camp with you?

Eric McWilliams | Aug 24, 2019
Joe Cornwall | Aug 24, 2019

Dogs are allowed in the park but they should be kept on a leash according to the rules. No problems with your dog camping with you.

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What kind of Pokemon can you catch there?

Corey Neishleb | Aug 24, 2018
Azriell | Aug 24, 2018

Currently it's a Kabuto nest.

Is the park dog friendly

Kristine Walker | Aug 24, 2018
Ana Florida | Aug 24, 2018

A lot of people walk with dogs, all leashed .

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Is there Overnight tent camping

James Johnson | Aug 24, 2018
Keil Croker | Aug 24, 2018

Yes

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How do i rent for the tents

Linda Veneziano | Aug 24, 2018
Ana Florida | Aug 24, 2018

Pasco County, FL Camping Information Camping Information: There are 16 tent camp sites with restrooms and showers and a small shelter.  On the hiking trail, there are three remote (primitive) camping sites without any facilities. Tent camping is $10/night April-September and $15/night October-March. Primitive camping is $5/night year round. Group site tent camping fees are as follows: 9-16 persons is $20/$25 night; 17-24 persons is $25/$30 night; 25-32 persons is $30/$35 night; 33-40 persons is $35/$40 night.  Groups reserving the entire tent camping area may be made up to 90 days in advance. (Group and individual weekends alternate). Only two tent sites per individual per weekend. Only two cars are permitted to park free with camping reservation. Cabin Information: Large cabin (8 people max) $30/$35 night  Pavilion and shelter reservations can be made online or you can visit one of the following locations and pay on site: Payment Options:  1) Pay with credit card online ($2.00 c

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What animals are in park?

Lynn Grande | Aug 24, 2018
Martin Danser | Aug 24, 2018

There was a story in the YouTube comments under an episode of Sasquatch Chronicles, where a man said his family seen a skunk ape near the bike trail. I've spent a lot of time in Starkey. I've camped alone in the remote campsites. If there was a skunk ape there, it may have seen ME, but I never seen him/her - lol. That comment was from around 2014 - 2016, and I cannot remember the actual episode. Whether you are a believer or not, it was still interesting.

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Are you open today

Jay Bix | Aug 24, 2018
Jessika Bland | Aug 24, 2018

All county and state parks are closed on Christmas.

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Is there a map of the park showing the location of the shelters and play areas for kids?

Karen Nadeau | Apr 25, 2022
davy long | Apr 25, 2022

Try the app all trails

Why is there a big pile of limestone rocks at starlet park?

Betty Z | Mar 26, 2022
Pamela M | Mar 26, 2022

I think to stop Erosion

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How does one volunteer at Starkey?

Natalie Danelski | Feb 24, 2022
Richard Acerra | Feb 24, 2022

There is an admin building, I would ask on of the rangers.

Do we pay to get in?

l dematteo | Jan 25, 2022
j lippincott | Jan 25, 2022

No, not since Irma.

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What time does park open?

Fran Sola | Oct 27, 2021
Juli Nelson | Oct 27, 2021

I believe 6 or 7 am

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Can anyone tell me if the trails are stroller friendly?

Nicole M | Aug 23, 2021
Nick Walsh | Aug 23, 2021

Hmmm, I wish I knew. I have a friend that lives right there, my guess would be yes..

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Theres free parking?

Camila s | Aug 23, 2021
Paul Marsh | Aug 23, 2021

Yes, there are multiple areas throughout with free parking. No fee to enter park.

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Are dogs allowed here?

Wanda Beckman | Aug 23, 2021
Donna Stia | Aug 23, 2021

Yup, during the week its empty and I let her off leash on the back trails

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Are there any maps of the campsites so I can see site location before picking a spot?

Bryan Sercu | Aug 23, 2021
Christina McNeair | Aug 23, 2021

Yes. It is available online as well.

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Are there horses for hire or must you bring your own?

patricia skagerberg | Aug 23, 2021
Don Williams | Aug 23, 2021

I don't ride but I'm sure that you have to bring your own horse. I saw an area to unload but no stables etc. It's a great place but very primitive.

Are golf carts allowed in the park?

Justin Durham | Aug 23, 2021
Jeremy Edwards | Aug 23, 2021

Maybe? Cars are, you probably can't take them on the trails though.

Are dogs allowed to camp there

Marilyn Hodynski | Aug 23, 2021
Carol Heidbrink | Aug 23, 2021

Not sure but think so

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is scream acres a thing this year?

Talia Tolbert | Aug 23, 2021
nicholas to | Aug 23, 2021

They have a zombie drive thou thing on Halloween

Are you guys doing scream acres this year?

Talia Tolbert | Aug 23, 2021
Prophetess Frye | Aug 23, 2021

I'm not sure if they are but you could call them and ask about it.

How do you rent a cabin

tyler peace | Aug 23, 2021
Mary-Lynn Cetroli | Aug 23, 2021

Not sure, when we were there this week that area was closed off. There is a link to the reservations on their website.

What is the price for cabin rental?

Sammy Heygwar | Aug 23, 2020
Mark Bybee | Aug 23, 2020

35.00 last time I checked.

Where is the best Area for Dispersed Camping.?? (Dry camping in Pasco County.?)

Joe V. | Aug 23, 2020
Dawn Dankner | Aug 23, 2020

Campsite #9. And by dispersed im thinking social distancing?

Is hunting allowed?

Robert Christman | Aug 23, 2020
Doctor RR | Aug 23, 2020

No

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Can you metal detect in the park.

Commander Noob Jank Apprentice | Aug 24, 2019
Russ Singleton | Aug 24, 2019

Yes. Just don't disturb the gopher tortoises nests.

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Can we sleep with our RV at the park?

Odette Matte | Aug 24, 2019
Randall Scott | Aug 24, 2019

Yes! They have RV hooks ups

How to rent tent spot

james robinson | Aug 24, 2019
Amanda Moody | Aug 24, 2019

When I looked up the phone number you can go on the website and look up the phone number to JB Sparks Starkey park they told me to call the Holiday rec center to rent a Pavilion so I assume you would do the same thing call the Holiday Rec Center and you can go there and pay to rent a spot

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Do the camp sites have electricity?

Elena Peercy | Aug 24, 2019
Humble Be9st | Aug 24, 2019

No.

Do campsites have elective and water

Monty Michael | Aug 24, 2019
Brian Morrison | Aug 24, 2019

No they don't. There's a main public restroom building with an outlet and showers but that's it. The cabins have electric but I don't think they have water either.

What all is inside the cabins? Are there any pictures of the insides. Looking for a family vacation spot.

Barbara Whitmer | Aug 24, 2019
Kurtis Jay | Aug 24, 2019

No nothing... Bare... Bunk beds and glassless windows... And a door with a screen...

Can you fish there

Walter Navarro | Aug 24, 2019
Tammy Jo | Aug 24, 2019

Yes, and camp along with horseback riding

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What are the inside of the rental cabins look like

LoneWolf | Aug 24, 2019
Jeff Gauvreau | Aug 24, 2019

I have been to the park hundreds of times and I can say that every service or facility has been in perfect order. It is a beautiful place and I am not certain, I would be willing to go on a limb and say that they are probably pretty darn nice. Maybe not huge, however they really run a tight ship expect quality but not large.

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Am I able to fly my drone?

SmokeMyJohnson | Aug 24, 2019
Jeff Gauvreau | Aug 24, 2019

First, without exception, you You must be a Liscensed pilot and the drone must be registered and properly labeled. Next, Call the park office and ask for a day of permission. The Ranger has no problem letting you fly if they have NO reservations for the park that day. I have a verbal no recording agreement, however they have never said "not" to record. Follow all Federal laws including top and bottom deck, proper flight etiquette, and properly operated Radio frequency use. Have fun and be safe.

How much are the cabins to rent

aLiCiA HoLmStRaNd (CiCi) | Aug 24, 2019
Woody Welch | Aug 24, 2019

When I was there 2 years ago it was like $35 per night

I am staying in a cabin at SWP. I think I have to register before 6PM. Am I able to come and go after that? Code etc?

A Google User | Aug 24, 2019
Joshua C | Aug 24, 2019

The code should be on your paperwork if not there is a station where someone can help or at least a phone number that you can call listed there

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Do we need to reserve a pavilion

Karen Stanek | Aug 24, 2019
Ryan Mitroka | Aug 24, 2019

Yes, on the pasco county website

Are there any bicycle groups or clubs that meet here?

Marissa 4Prez | Aug 24, 2019
Angelina Duro | Aug 24, 2019

I have seen groups of people ride there but don't know anything about it try calling the park they might have more info

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When is the next stargazing event? I try to look it up I can't find any dates other than the ones that have already passed. Thank you

Belinda Toole | Aug 24, 2018
TERESA WRAY | Aug 24, 2018

The information is on their Facebook page. The next one I see is September 29.

Can you stay for months at a time?

Valerie Larson Helms (Sorcery) | Aug 24, 2018
M C | Aug 24, 2019

If you stay a week and want one more can you reserve a cabin again or can your spouse?

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can you be a CIT at the age of 13????????????????

Kristine Fletcher | Aug 24, 2018
Susan Ciarlone-Smith | Aug 24, 2018

You would have to contact them. They do have a phone number. There is also a kiosk and someone will probably be there. Hope this helps.

My family of 4 are renting a cabin for the first time ever this November. What should I bring? (Sheets or sleeping bags? Soap for showers or baby wipes? Other helpful items for first time campers?)

Lyndsay Barrow | Aug 24, 2018
Ana Florida | Aug 24, 2018

Great advise Lisa, Prepare for the night as well, lanterns too. I also take bikes.

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How safe is this park for a woman and her child to run or play in? Are there rangers that drive around a decent amount?

Virginia Eckenrode | Aug 24, 2018
Shawnee Montaldi | Aug 24, 2018

Its very safe ive been going there since i was in middle school and i can't remember there ever being reports of anything happening there

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Yes. However, you do get the occasional idiots whom are walking their dog without a leash on the wrong side of the road (not the trail) that glare at you. Please observe the Florida statutes concerning dogs so it can remain friendly.

Susan Ciarlone-Smith | Aug 24, 2018
Sam Taylor | Aug 24, 2018

The unleashed dogs in the park are not good !

How's the bike trail?

Jeffrey Osborne | Aug 24, 2018
Cuin Az | Aug 24, 2018

Excellent. Paved. Lots of fun. Can go short or for 5 miles

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Can I bring my dog back country primitive camping? Thxs

Ei Pi | Aug 24, 2018
Shawnee Montaldi | Aug 24, 2018

Yes just have to keep on a leash or runner if i remember right

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Does Starkey park have frisbee golf?

James Lewis | Aug 24, 2018
Jeremy Edwards | Aug 24, 2018

Nope, but there is plenty of room there though. Medard Park has a cool course, but it is in Brandon.

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Do they have any kind of archery leagues or competitions at this park ?

Joe Farthing | Aug 24, 2018
Eugene Eugene | Aug 24, 2018

No sport events there

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Is there fishing

Gary Goldman | Aug 24, 2018
Shawnee Montaldi | Aug 24, 2018

There are a few places to fish but its not known for fishing most the water that id accessible to the public are small channels of the anclote river

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Curious....what are all the little (and some big) mounds of sand that look sort of like big anthills?

Jean Sands | Aug 24, 2018
Roderic Boutin | Aug 24, 2018

They are in fact non of the above answer with no visible ants the are not from snakes do to the lack of arms or feet to create any such mound armadillos do not create mounds. Moles are close but moles make tunnels not mounds. They are from pocket gophers the are the size of a squirrel with no tail. Harmless and rarely seen most often the create lots of mounds do to they come out of one and reburrow in another they cover the openings to keep predators from easily finding them.

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What is primitive camping? Not sure what it means but says cost is $5/day u have your own camping spot right?

Sam Snead | Aug 24, 2018
z z | Aug 24, 2018

no bathrooms or shower ,tent camping off the grid .

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Can you bring your dog to rent a cabin at Starkey park

Chris Lanni | Aug 24, 2018
M C | Aug 24, 2019

No pets in cabins or camping areas. Only daytime use areas with leash.

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Can you fish in the park?

Kenneth Dockery | Aug 24, 2018
Robert Markle | Aug 24, 2018

You could fish but you won't catch!😀

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Are there cabins for rent on park ?

Richard Biebel | Aug 24, 2018
Richard Biebel | Aug 24, 2018

Do you know what the cabins cost to rent ?

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Emergency # combination they gave me for gate is not working

Fatima Cardoso | Aug 24, 2018
Kathie Davis | Aug 24, 2018

I don't know the combination but there is always a park ranger on the property at the big house.

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How long can u camp and can u just show up on vacation in rv or have to make reservations

Robert Perkins | Aug 24, 2018
Fun Family Films | Aug 24, 2018

From the pascocountyfl website ...There are 16 tent camp sites with restrooms and showers and a small shelter.  On the hiking trail, there are three remote (primitive) camping sites without any facilities. Tent camping is $10/night April-September and $15/night October-March. Primitive camping is $5/night year round. Group site tent camping fees are as follows: 9-16 persons is $20/$25 night; 17-24 persons is $25/$30 night; 25-32 persons is $30/$35 night; 33-40 persons is $35/$40 night.  Groups reserving the entire tent camping area may be made up to 90 days in advance. (Group and individual weekends alternate). Only two tent sites per individual per weekend. Only two cars are permitted to park free with camping reservation, visitors are required to pay the $2.00 parking fee. Cabin Information: Small cabin (4 people max) $20/$25 night and Large cabin (8 people max) $30/$35 night

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Any decorations this year?

Carol Engle | Aug 24, 2018
RICHIE CHANDLER | Aug 24, 2018

Nature is a glorious decoration that humans can't compete with.

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