Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site

Madira Bickel Mound is an archaeological site in Florida featuring earthen mounds built by the region's earliest inhabitants. The main mound and surrounding structures are composed of sand, shells, and other natural materials that accumulated over many centuries of occupation.

The site was established by early Manasota peoples who lived here over 2000 years ago and built the earthen mounds visible today. Excavations have revealed that the location was occupied and used by successive groups across many centuries.

The mounds reveal how ancient coastal peoples created sacred spaces and conducted ceremonies that were central to their way of life. Walking around the site, you can sense how important these earthworks were to their spiritual beliefs and community practices.

The site is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 19 and open daily from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee. Walking paths allow visitors to explore the mounds and surrounding grounds at their own pace.

The property was donated in 1948 by Madira and Karl Bickel and became Florida's first officially protected archaeological site. This gift marked the beginning of organized preservation efforts for archaeological places in the state.

Location: Manatee County

Inception: August 12, 1970

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/madira-bickel-mound-state-archaeological-site

GPS coordinates: 27.56528,-82.59278

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24