fort de soto park

Camped at the campground for 2 nights and spent 3 days playing with the family here. We enjoyed the nature trail and saw 2 bald eagles flying to their nest on the cell tower. The East Beach was smaller and the sand was more rough with small shell bits while North Beach was much larger and the sand is the fine white quartz that never really gets hot on your feet. Took a long beach walk here and used the picnic tables for great lunch break. Rented kayaks and Rob was very helpful; unfortunately a strong wind made the paddle a bit more challenging but we did see jumping mullet, mallards taking off and osprey flying. Did the self-guided tour of the fort and was a bit disappointed but saw a pod of 6 dolphins playing.

Wow. This place is great. Well worth the drive to the beach to go here. Quite and nice long wide beach. Take some noodles and enjoy floating.....

Fort De Soto is a beautiful wide open recreational area. Located just south of St Pete Beach, a 20 minute car ride. Very close to Don Cesar Hotel. All kinds of outdoor activities. There are picnic area, Campgrounds etc. see the old Spanish Forts. Definately a great day out in nice weather.

This is another of my fishing haunts in the Tampa area. The piers can be crowded at times and some of the people can be rude or inconsiderate, but if your there early or want to fish in the evening it can be pleasant and you can catch some nice fish.

One of the best parts of our stay on Treasure island. A lot to see and only cost $5.00 a car and from treasure island only two tools totaling $1.25

We were told of this beach from someone who lived in this area. It is hidden away from tourists; a local favorite. Only $5 per car to enter. Sand feels like talcum powder

Nature area and walking area on the pier. The visitor center was very nice.Pretty area on the water.

The beaches are not crowded. You can see dolphins on the fishing pier. Good view of ships entering Port of Tampa.

This park is in its 'a natural' state. We visited thinking we'd spend the day at the beach. We we hard pressed to find a clean spot, without debris, palm frawns, seaweed. We visited all 3 swimming areas...couldn't see what all the hype was about. I think if your into the nature trails, biking etc, this might be a good spot. But for ocean loving sand people I didn't see it. We left only to go to St Pete Beach, my advice save the five dollar entry fee and go find yourself a parking spot at St Pete.

We liked the nice dog beach; very clean and friendly dogs and people.Nice nature but not what you want if you are looking for 'action'.

The weather wasn't great and we were just looking for a place to walk and observe - this is the place. I'm sure when the weather is nice it's even better. We had a great time and the parks are maintained really well. It's a drive but a nice one so it's worth it.

Fort DeSoto has something for everyone. There is the Fort, for history buffs, beaches galore including a beach where dogs are allowed to run free (under the owners control), a large fenced dog park with a section for large dogs and another for small ones, a pier and boat rides to Egmont Key (worth doing), and all the usual amenities. There is a parking fee, so plan to spend enough time to justify it.

a beautiful beach with plenty of shells and bird life, large pinic area, clean restrooms, plenty to wonder around and see, nice pier for ocean fishing, snack bar and gift shop

Ft. Desoto park is spacious and has a very nice bike path meandering the length of the park as well as ability to camp in a well developed campground. But the very best part of the park is North Beach, previously named a number 1 beach in the US. Make sure to catch a sunset on North Beach - lovely.

This place is really well set-up. There are multiple access points to really spread out the visitors. There are ample camping opportunities, places to launch boats. The dog park is excellent and being able to go off-leash on the beach is a lot of fun for people with dogs. It was a really nice beach with lots of shells, clean sand and beautiful water.