Thonotosassa FL

Of course. Thonotosassa is one of Hillsborough County’s most historic and beautiful communities, a place whose identity is inextricably linked to its ancient Native American name and the magnificent lake that serves as its heart. I see Thonotosassa as a bastion of “Old Florida”—a large, semi-rural community that has held onto its country soul even as the Tampa metro area has grown around it.

Zip Codes: 33592

Latitude, Longitude: 28.0614° N, 82.3023° W

The Land of Flint 🏞️

The story of Thonotosassa begins long before modern settlement. The name itself is one of the oldest in the region. “Thonotosassa” is derived from the Seminole or Creek (Muscogee) language, meaning “flint is here” or “land of flint.” This referred to the abundance of flint rock found in the area, a vital resource for Native Americans who used it to craft tools and weapons for centuries.

The area was the site of a significant battle during the Second Seminole War in the 1830s. Modern settlement began in the mid-19th century, with the community growing around the shores of the massive lake. For most of its history, it was a quiet, rural town whose economy was based on citrus, logging, and vegetable farming. While the railroad passed nearby, Thonotosassa’s identity was always more connected to its beautiful lake than to the steel tracks.

A Lakeside Community with a Country Soul 🌳

Today, Thonotosassa is a large, unincorporated community that offers a more relaxed, spacious lifestyle compared to its more densely populated neighbors. Its character is wonderfully diverse, both in its landscape and its people. You’ll find multi-million dollar estates on the shores of the lake, just a short drive from modest, mid-century homes, large mobile home communities, and sprawling horse properties.

The community lacks a traditional, centralized downtown; its identity is spread out along the roads that encircle the lake. It’s known for its stunning, moss-draped grand oak trees, its winding country roads, and a slower pace of life. The undisputed centerpiece is Lake Thonotosassa, the largest lake in all of Hillsborough County at over 800 acres. It’s a major recreational hub, drawing boaters, water skiers, and anglers from all over the region. Thonotosassa is, of course, an unincorporated Census-Designated Place (CDP) governed by Hillsborough County.

Thonotosassa by the Numbers 📊

The demographic data for Thonotosassa reflects its status as a large, diverse, and semi-rural community.

• Official Designation: Census-Designated Place (CDP)
• County: Hillsborough
• Established: Settled in the mid-19th century.
• Named For: The Seminole/Creek words for “land of flint.”
• Population: Approximately 15,000 residents.
• Area: A large 28 square miles (including the lake).
• Median Age: Roughly 42 years old.
• Racial & Ethnic Composition: A diverse mix:
  • White (non-Hispanic): ~55%
  • Hispanic or Latino: ~22%
  • Black or African American: ~16%
• Median Household Income: Approximately $68,000.

Landmarks and Local Favorites 🎣

The interesting places in and around Thonotosassa reflect its rural, lakeside, and artistic character.

• Lake Thonotosassa Park & Boat Ramp: The gateway to the community’s greatest asset. This county park provides public access for boating and fishing on the largest lake in Hillsborough, making it a hub of recreational activity year-round.
• Hillsborough River State Park: Located just a few miles north of Thonotosassa, this is one of Florida’s oldest and most beautiful state parks. It’s famous for its rare Class II river rapids, extensive hiking trails, and historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
• Keel & Curley Winery / Keel Farms: A major agri-tourism destination in nearby Plant City that is a favorite for Thonotosassa residents. It’s a working farm that has grown into a popular winery, brewery, and cidery with a full-service restaurant and regular community events.
• Stonemill Artisan Village: A unique and charming collection of rustic sheds and buildings housing local artists, craftspeople, and antique vendors. It’s a hidden gem that perfectly captures the creative, country spirit of the community.
• The University of South Florida: While not located within the community, the massive USF campus is just a few miles to the west. Its presence is a major factor for Thonotosassa, providing employment and influencing the local housing market.