Park Photo De Soto National Memorial Ranger Led Kayak Tours
Tours operate during the summer from June to October. All equipment including Tandem (2 person) Kayaks, Paddles, Personal Floatation Devices (PFD vests) are provided by the park for participant use. Tours average 1.5 hrs and are conducted from park grounds. Pet VisitsDe Soto National Memorial is pet friendly. We encourage visitors to bring their furry friends out to enjoy the park and its trails and water areas. While you are here, there are a couple of rules we ask for you to follow to respect everyone's use of the park:
De Soto National Memorial treasures all its visitors and wishes everyone to have a safe and enjoyable National Park visit Nature TrailThe Nature Trail winds along the shoreline and through several Florida ecosystems, including a mangrove forest like the one that De Soto's men would have encountered when they landed. Trails include interpretive signage and waysides that tell the story of the De Soto Expedition and the natural history of the area. Bicycling is allowed in the parking lot, but not on the sidewalks or trails. Forty-five minute guided Trail Walks are offered by Park Rangers pending staff availability and weather. Inquire at the Visitor Center. For tour availability, call (941)792-0458, ext. 105 Camp UzitaOur Living History Camp is open January through April. Rangers and volunteers dressed in period clothing will present talks on a variety of historical topics related to the De Soto Expedition and Florida's Native Americans. There will also be weapons and Spanish and native craft demonstrations throughout the day. Please see the Plan Your Visit page for the latest updates. Picnic AreaA picnic area is located adjacent to the parking lot and is available for visitors on a first come basis. Large groups and schools should call ahead to reserve seating. Grills and alcohol are not allowed within the park. Bird WatchingThe seasonal migration of birds brings many bird watchers to the park in the fall and early spring. The exact timing of migration is dependent upon weather. Come to our visitor center and inquire what new and rare birds have been sighted recently at De Soto National Memorial. CampingDe Soto National Memorial has no facilities for camping. The park grounds are closed from sunset to sunrise. Shorelines and BeachSmall beaches are located within the park. The De Soto Point Beach is located west of De Soto Point and northwest of the Visitor Center. This beach is exposed to the current of the Manatee River and the waves of Tampa Bay. The Cove Beach located on the south side of De Soto Point and is more popular because it is sheltered from most currents and waves. No life guards are on duty. Swimmers use park beaches at their own risk. FishingFishing with rod and reel is allowed within the park. You must posses a Valid Florida Drivers License and Valid State of Florida Fishing License. Fishermen are not allowed to stand on rip rap or to clear brush from any area in order to gain access to the water. For questions of licensure and eligability please visit http://myfwc.com/license/ BoatingThe Cove is a popular temporary anchorage for small pleasure boats. Canoes and kayaks that may be easily carried to the water by hand may be launched from the park beaches provided that vegetation, terrain, and wildlife are not disturbed. Loud motors and the creation of excessive wave action is prohibited.
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Last updated: July 29, 2022