Fort DeSoto Park
(23 miles from The Cove)
3500 Pinellas Bayway South
Tierra Verde, Florida 33715-2528
Information (727) 582-2267
Pets allowed (however, not on Egmont or Shell Key)
Discover a variety of outdoor adventures near Fort De Soto Park, from beachcombing and kayaking to hiking, birdwatching, and exploring historic sites.
Explore Fort De Soto Park Near Tampa Bay, Florida
Fort De Soto Park is the largest park in the Pinellas County Park System, spanning 1,136 acres across five interconnected islands (keys). These islands feature a diverse range of habitats, including beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwood forests, and hundreds of native plant species, all playing a vital role in preserving Florida’s natural environment.
Beaches and Recreation
Renowned for its soft white sand beaches, Fort De Soto Park was named America’s Top Beach by Tripadvisor in 2009. The park attracts over 2.7 million visitors annually, offering miles of shoreline for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Historic Sites and Park Guides
The park also includes historic areas like the Fort De Soto Historic Fort, which visitors can explore to learn about the region’s military history. Be sure to consult park guides to familiarize yourself with key locations, amenities, and services during your visit.
Birdwatching and Wildlife
Fort De Soto Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 328 species of birds documented over the past 60 years and new species observed each year. The park’s beaches also serve as nesting grounds for loggerhead sea turtles between April and September, making it an important location for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
Park Features
- Over 7 miles of waterfront, including nearly three miles of beautiful, white sandy beach
- 800-foot-long boat launching facility with 11 floating docks
- Primitive youth camping area for organized youth groups
15 picnic shelters - Restrooms
- Playgrounds
- Two large swim centers (there is a food concession area located at the North Beach Swim Center)
- 2.25 mile recreational kayak/canoe trail
- 2,200 foot Barrier-Free Nature Trail is a self-guided interpretive trail providing access to nature for all visitors to Fort De Soto Park, regardless of physical abilities
- Dog Beach – At Fort De Soto there is a designated portion of the beach that allows dogs to roam free. Remember to familiarize yourself with any park restrictions. In addition, there are 2 fenced-in areas where they can roam free. While in other areas, pets must remain on a leash.
- 2 fishing piers – Each pier has a food and bait concession.
- Pier on the Gulf of America: Accessible from 7am to sunset
- Pier on Tampa Bay: Accessible from 7am to sunset
- A fishing license is needed throughout the park, including the fishing piers, which can be purchased online. Be sure to contact the Florida Wildlife Commission if you have questions about which license you should purchase.
Dog Friendly Beach at Fort De Soto
Most all dogs will romp and play together beautifully when there is no “territory” to protect. Seeing this fun unfold on the white sandy beaches of Desoto makes it even more awesome to witness!
Access Egmont Key and Shell Key by Ferry!
Egmont Key is home to snorkeling, old forts, history, wildlife, and soft, white sand beaches!
Shell Key is the destination for shell hunting, untouched nature, and white sand beaches. With a permit, experience a primitive, overnight camping stay.
While visiting Fort De Soto State Park, you can take a scenic ferry ride to the nearby Egmont Key or Shell Key, two secluded and protected islands accessible only by boat. The ferry ride itself offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, and you may even spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
Egmont Key
About 30 minutes by ferry from Fort De Soto Park, Egmont Key is known for its clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, and its historic lighthouse. The island features white sandy beaches, protected natural areas, abundant wildlife, and large tortoises, making it a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Shell Key
Just 15 minutes by ferry from Fort De Soto Park, Shell Key is famous for its shell-covered shorelines, including living shells. Visitors can also purchase an affordable permit to camp on this secluded island, enjoying a peaceful retreat in a pristine natural setting.