Fort De Soto County Park
Article published on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2007 |
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| Photo by LEE CLARK ZUMPE |
| Much of the original fort at Fort De Soto remains open for public viewing. |
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Located at the southernmost tip of Pinellas County, Fort De Soto County Park is the largest park in the county’s park system with 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands.
Opened in 1962, the park boasts sandy beaches, historic features and a wealth of recreational opportunities.
In 2005, the park’s North Beach topped Dr. Beach’s list of top American beaches. Citing its wide sugar sand beach, great shelling and thriving natural dunes, this much-deserved honor came as no surprise to Pinellas residents.
While annual park attendance averages more than 2.7 million visitors, beachgoers often still manage to find a secluded spot along the park’s seven miles of waterfront to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
For history buffs, much of the fort is open for viewing. Its 12-inch mortar battery is a primary attraction. Markers indicate where many of the former buildings stood when the fort was still used to protect Tampa Bay. The Quartermaster Storehouse Museum houses Spanish-American War items, recovered artifacts from the park and World War II military history.
Other park amenities include an 800-foot long boat launching facility with 11 floating docks, a 238-site family camping area, two large swim centers, two fishing piers, 14 large group picnic shelters, 20 storm-resistant public restroom buildings, a snack bar and souvenir shop, a 6.8 mile recreation trail, a 2.25-mile recreational canoe trail, several nature trails and a youth camping area for organized youth groups.
Fort De Soto County Park is at 3500 Pinellas Bayway South in Tierre Verde. Call 582-2267.
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Article published on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2007
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