Florida Guide > State Parks
MOUND KEY ARCHAEOLOGICAL STATE PARK
Mound Key Archaeological State Park is located on the I. 75 in Estero and is part managed by The Koreshan State History Site. The park comprises of some 125 acres and started the process of becoming a State Park in 1961.
This was once home to the Calusa Indians and dates back some 2000 years. These Native Americans were also called The Fierce People and they were hunter gatherers whi did not take part in any agriculture. They called this island Calos
The mounds they created here were formidable and some stand as tall as 30 feet. These mounds (or middens) tell the history of these people comprising as they do of discarded fish bones, shells, pottery and other items of daily use. Here we can tell that these Native Americans were largely fish eaters and they would not have gone hungry in these bountiful waters.
There are also ceremonial mounds here that show that this site was a centre for other Calusan tribes.
They created an intricate substructure of canals, mounds and water courts that we can only marvel at today. You can still see the evidence of their work today
Their peaceful occupation was rudely interrupted in the 1500s when the Europeans arrived bringing with them the diseases to which the Native Americans had no defence. A Jesuit mission also had a brief spell here til they were driven away by the Calusans.
In 1556 the Spanish Governor of Florida had a fort built here in the Spaniards bid to colonise Florida.
This is still a park in progress and so far they have created one walking trail that spans the island and is peppered with interpretive exhibits.
Estero Bay plays host to manatees and dolphins and is a good place to fish for salt water fish. This can be accessed by canoe. The brackish waters of the Estero River make it an ideal place to catch fish such as mullet, red fish and snook.
This State Park can only be accessed by boat; either by the Estero River via the Koreshan boat ramp or from Lovers Key State Park.
It is important to remember that this park has no facilities; not even a loo! Therefore you must take all you need with you. This should include lots of water, snacks, sun cream, insect repellant and a sun hat. Also pack binoculars and a camera and fishing equipment if to intend to try to catch your supper.
Mound Key Archeological State Park
P. O. Box 7
Estero, Florida 33928
Phone: 239-992-0311
Fax: 239-992-1607
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