Fort De Soto Park

Fort De Soto Park is a protected coastal area with white sand, mangrove forests, and waterfront trails along the Gulf of Mexico. The site connects five islands with paths winding through different natural habitats.

The fortification was built in 1898 during the Spanish-American War and equipped with cannons of different sizes. Soldiers trained here for later missions, though the site itself never came under attack.

The park documents 328 bird species over six decades, making it a primary location for bird watching and nature photography in Florida.

An admission fee is charged at the park entrance, and the site offers camping areas and boat ramps for visitors with their own watercraft. The trails work for walking and cycling, and several fishing piers are scattered across the grounds.

The site served as training ground for bomber crews during World War II, including those pilots who later flew over Japan. Over 300 bird species have been recorded here over the years.

Location: Pinellas County

Inception: 1898

Website: https://pinellascounty.org/park/05_ft_desoto.htm

GPS coordinates: 27.61550,-82.73590

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:31