Fort De Soto Park | St Petersburg

Fort De Soto Park, located in Tierra Verde, Florida, is a large coastal park that spans 1,136 acres across five interconnected islands (keys) on the Gulf of Mexico. It is part of the Pinellas County park system and is widely regarded as one of the best and most diverse beach parks in the state, blending natural beauty, history, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly amenities.

1. Geography & Islands

The park comprises five keys: Mullet Key (the largest and where most facilities are), St. Jean Key, St. Christopher Key, Bonne Fortune Key, and Madelaine Key. Together, these keys offer miles of shoreline, mangroves, coastal wetlands, and unique ecosystems supporting both marine and terrestrial wildlife.

2. Beaches

North Beach

Often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S.

Wide, white-sand shoreline with calm, shallow waters ideal for children.

Pirate-themed playground.

Picnic shelters, grills, and restroom facilities.

Especially known for sunsets and expansive sandbars at low tide.

East Beach

Faces Tampa Bay with a panoramic view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Popular for picnicking, windsurfing, and quiet sunbathing.

Less crowded than North Beach, providing a more secluded experience.

Dog Beach

One of the few Gulf Coast beaches where dogs are allowed off-leash.

Includes a Paw Playground, rinse stations, shaded benches, and fenced areas for small and large dogs.

Very popular among pet owners and unique in the region.

3. Historic Fort De Soto

Located on Mullet Key, the fort was constructed between 1898 and 1906 during the Spanish–American War era. Though never used in battle, it served as part of a coastal defense system. Features include:

Old mortar batteries (Battery Laidley and Battery Bigelow) with original 12-inch coast defense mortars.

Restored structures including a blacksmith shop and guardhouse.

Quartermaster Storehouse Museum with military artifacts, interpretive panels, and local history exhibits.

Panoramic views from atop the fort’s walls.

4. Activities & Recreation

Fishing

Two fishing piers: one on the Gulf side and another on the Bay side.

Each pier has bait & tackle shops, snacks, and gear rental.

Fishing is permitted 24/7, and anglers often catch grouper, sheepshead, flounder, and tarpon.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Paddle through lush mangrove tunnels and calm bay waters.

Wildlife commonly seen includes dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds.

A designated 2.25-mile kayak trail allows exploration of backwaters and estuaries.

Kayak and canoe rentals are expected to resume by spring 2025 (check in advance).

Boating

Boat ramp with trailer parking and access to open water.

Popular for accessing Egmont Key, fishing offshore, and leisure cruising.

Biking & Hiking

7-mile paved multi-use trail winds through the park, ideal for cycling, rollerblading, or jogging.

Additional nature trails explore the woods, tidal flats, and shorelines.

Bike rentals are available seasonally.

5. Camping

236-site family campground, open year-round.

Offers tent and RV sites, many with waterfront views.

Amenities include restrooms, showers, electricity, fire rings, grills, picnic tables, and laundry.

Divided into areas for RVs, tents, and a pet-friendly zone.

Reservations are highly recommended (especially for weekends and holidays).

6. Wildlife & Ecology

Fort De Soto is an important ecological site with:

328+ documented bird species, making it a major birdwatching destination, especially during migration.

Sea turtle nesting (loggerheads) from April to September—protected by local conservation programs.

Gopher tortoises, which notably survived a sea journey from Egmont Key after Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Mangroves, tidal flats, and salt marshes support a rich food chain for fish and shorebirds.

7. Egmont Key State Park (Accessible from Fort De Soto)

Ferry rides (30 minutes) depart from the park’s Bay Pier.

Egmont Key is a remote barrier island with:

Ruins of Fort Dade (built in the late 1800s).

A still-operating lighthouse from 1858.

Prime snorkeling, shelling, and birdwatching.

No services or shops—bring your own supplies.

Protected as both a State Park and National Wildlife Refuge.

8. Accessibility & Visitor Services

Daily entrance fee: $6 per vehicle (as of Jan 2025). Annual and 6-month parking passes available.

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

Beach wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis (request at campground office or call ahead).

Several covered picnic shelters with grills for group events (reservations available).

Small gift shop, snack stands, and vending machines on-site.

9. Practical Information

Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL 33715.

Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to sunset.

Phone: (727) 582-2100 (for general inquiries or wheelchair requests).

Restrooms & showers: Located near all major beach areas and campgrounds.

Summary

Fort De Soto Park is a standout among Florida’s coastal parks due to its combination of:

Award-winning beaches

Historic military sites

Vast nature preserves

Abundant wildlife

Family and pet-friendly facilities

Affordable access to high-quality outdoor recreation

It’s ideal for day trips, weekend camping, or as a nature-filled stop during a longer Florida Gulf Coast itinerary.