Nestled at the southern end of St. Petersburg, Fort De Soto County Park is a favorite of locals and visitors in the know. The Pinellas County park is made up of five islands, encompassing more than 1,100 acres, over six miles of pristine, award-winning beaches and several miles of waterfront along Mullet Key Bayou.
Award-Winning Beaches and Family Fun
The main lure, of course, is the beach. Its soft, powdered-sugar sand and azure blue waters attract everyone from families with young children to active retirees.
The beach was ranked “America’s #1 Beach” in 2005 by coastal expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as “Dr. Beach.” In 2011, it was named America’s best family beach by the editors of Parents magazine.
Beachside rentals add another layer of fun, with options ranging from bicycles and surreys to family-friendly rides for exploring the shoreline.
Kayaking, Fishing and Waterfront Recreation
But don’t stop at the beach. Think of Fort De Soto as a theme park for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from kayaking and rollerblading to casting a line for Spanish mackerel from one of two fishing piers — one on the Gulf and the other on Tampa Bay. Both piers offer bait, tackle and food concessions.
Boaters can launch from the park’s boat ramp for easy access to the surrounding waters.
Canoes and kayaks are available for rent by the hour or by the day, and guided eco-tours offer a great introduction for first-time paddlers or anyone interested in learning more about the area’s natural environment.
Camping by the Water
The campground places visitors close to the water, with campsites offering scenic surroundings and the option to request a waterfront view.
Campground reservations may be made up to seven months in advance. All 238 sites include water and electrical hookups, a picnic table and a charcoal grill. Amenities include a camp store, dump stations, restrooms with showers and laundry facilities.
Hiking, Biking and Nature Trails
Exploring the park on wheels is easy thanks to seven miles of multi-purpose paved trails connecting North Beach, East Beach, the boat ramp and campground.
Cyclists can choose from a variety of rentals, including surrey-style bikes, low-riding “deuce coupe” bicycles and chopper-style bikes.
Nature lovers can also explore the self-guided, 2.25-mile canoe trail or the barrier-free, 2,200-foot nature trail featuring six interpretive stations. The visitor center offers brochures and helpful materials, including bird checklists highlighting species that pass through the park during spring migration.
