Free ebook from Gutenberg - De Soto's Expedition into Florida
Hernando de Soto and over 600 men landed in Tampa Bay in 1539. The expedition’s purpose was to search for gold and a route to China. They wandered for three years, ranging as far north as North Carolina and as far west as Texas before De Soto died of a fever. The remaining men, about half of the original group, gave up the search and eventually made it to Mexico City.
The park has a visitor’s center with a very good , short movie of the expedition. There are a few palm buildings and demonstrations on the grounds. There’s a 3/4 mile loop nature trail with historic signs; life size figures of Indians and Spaniards; and nice views of the bay. The site is pretty much accessible with paved paths but there are a few steep, sandy areas. The trail is good . hard packed sand and crushed shell but the path down to it is a little steep. There’s also a steep ramp off of a section of broadwalk.
Parking is limited and may be full on weekends. RVs should be parked parallel to the road and watch for low hanging branches. De Soto Memorial
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