Florida Guide > State Parks
DADE BATTLEFIELD HISTORICAL STATE PARK
Dade Historical State Park is situated off the I. 75 and State Route 48 (west of Highway 301) in Bushnell and will be a enjoyable day out for history and nature lovers both.
Over 100 US soldiers were killed by Seminole Indians in Dec 1835. Of the Seminole Indians only 3 perished which I suppose you could say was a resounding victory for them. You can still see the battle field at this park which has been carefully restored and conserved.
This battle was the result of bad feeling caused by America making Florida a US territory (previously Florida was Spanish) and attempting to move the Seminole Indians to Oklahoma. About 75% of them went without protest but the other 25% would not move without a fight; and so it was.
Senator Duncan Fletcher and General Mc Arthur worked tirelessly to save this site but it was not until The ninteen forties that the monies were given to turn the battle field in to a memorial.
There is a good museum in the visitor centre with a video to see and battle clothes and armour and nany artefacts from this era. There is also a good selection of books that cover not only the war but also the ways and life of the Seminole Indians.
However, there is more to this park than the afore mentioned; there are 2 good walking trails for instance.
The Volksport Ass Trail is over 6 miles long and covers not only the park but also threads out into the local community.
The Pine Flat Trail goes through the pine woods that cover an amazing 40 acres of the state park and follows the Historic Fort King Military Road. This trail can be completed in less than half an hour. Look out for gopher tortoise, woodpeckers, quails and of cours snakes.
There are 6 covered pavilions here so pack a picnic to stop a while in this lovely area. There is a playground near by and also some loos.
Late dec to early jan they re enact the battle here, so it would be a good time to visit; phone ahead for the exact dates(352 793 4781) World War 2 day is usually on the first sat in August.
Park is open 8am to sundown every day of the year and in hotter months take sun screen, hat and insect repellant.
Park Fees:
Admission Fees - $2. 00 for up to 8 people per car.
Reservations:
BBQ Grill - $5. 00 plus tax
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park
7200 CR 603 South Battlefield Drive
Bushnell, Florida 33513
Phone: 352-793-4781
Fax: 352-793-4230
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