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In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance of indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and gold would be a four year, four thousand mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare, disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States.
Ranger Led Kayak tours offered throughout the summer. Check recreation.gov for dates and reservations.
Ghost Stories and Spooktacular crafts. Tickets at Recreation.gov
Last updated: October 8, 2026
