The Dade Battlefield
Looking to find one of the best Florida state parks to enjoy your time? Then you’re in luck! Dade Battlefield is a great place for a historic trip in the Tampa area.
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park is listed on the U.S. Government’s official list of historically significant structures, meaning that it has been deemed worthy of preservation.
This park is located in Bushnell, just north of Tampa. It opens at 8am and stays open until sunset every day! The visitor center hours run from 9am to 5pm so there’s no shortage of finding things to do in this wonderful state park.
The Dade Battlefield Society is a non-profit organization that focuses on boosting public awareness of Dade Battlefield. Their goal is to share the significance of this battle by showcasing historic events and nature programs. They even host recreational activities like festivals and a popular reenactment of Dade’s Battle every January.
What to Do at Dade Battlefield
There is a small (and I mean small) entry fee of $3 per vehicle so money isn’t an obstacle to enjoying this historic experience. This low price gets you access to the full 80 acres including the visitor’s center, the battlefield, recreation hall, playground, picnic area, and the pine flatwoods.
Get acquainted with Florida’s natural beauty by exploring over 40 acres of pine flatwoods! Take a walk down the nature trail and take in the beautiful flora and fauna. If you’re feeling adventurous, then hit the half-mile hiking trail to get the most of the experience.
Dade Battlefield also has a recreational area that seats 98 people which can be rented for large events like weddings. If I had known about this when planning my wedding, it would have been here!
Stop by the visitor center to watch a 12-minute video that details the historical significance of the battle. You can also see exhibits that let you gaze back into history. Finally, support Dade Battlefield Society by buying merchandise and take home a few memories of your experience.
Of course, the main event at Dade’s Battlefield occurs every January where a full reenactment of the Dade Battle occurs. Some of their events also feature an ice cream social, Dutch oven cooking classes, and family fun days.
All of these activities make Dade Battlefield one of the best Florida state parks!
What is the Significance of Dade Battlefield?
It’s time for a brief history lesson. 108 U.S. Troops were ambushed by Seminole warriors while traveling from Fort Brooke to Fort King. Only three soldiers survived. The remaining bodies were not discovered for seven weeks. So the area was given the name Dade Battlefield to honor those troops, who were led by Major Dade. This marked the beginning of the Second Seminole War.
In 1921, Dade Battlefield was given funds in order to preserve it as a memorial.
Final Thoughts
I love history and nature so the fact that I get both in one place makes it one of my favorite places to visit! Contact me or subscribe to my YouTube channel to learn more about the local Tampa area!