This gorgeous park in Pinellas County is a great place to add to your must-see list of Florida attractions.
The beaches at Fort De Soto Park (near St. Petersburg) often top lists of the best beaches in the U.S. But beautiful beaches aren't all this park has to offer, but that's not all. It's no wonder the park has over 2 million annual visitors.
Besides three miles of pristine white beaches, the park is also well known for its campground, which features 238 sites, half of which are on the water.
That means you can launch our canoe or kayak right from your campsite if you have one of those prized water-front spots. There's also an 800-foot boat launch with 11 docks for larger boats.
Most people just think about the beaches when they think about this park, but it actually encompasses five different islands. You can explore what's left of Fort De Soto on Mullet Key.
The island has been used as a military outpost since the Civil War, but this fort wasn't built until the Spanish American War. 10 years later, it was abandoned, but it became a bombing range during World War II.
A seven-mile multi-purpose trail connects the campground to two beaches, the ruins of the fort, and the boat ramp.
Another reason Fort De Soto Park has a special place in people's hearts is the special dog park with beach access, located near the Gulf Pier.
Have you ever visited or camped at Fort De Soto Park? What's your favorite place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sunshine State?
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