It’s been a while since I’ve written about or even visited a state park. There is only one thing to blame for that: Florida summer. The heat and humidity can make it a little less desirable to hike through the marshy forest. Luckily DeSoto National Memorial is an excellent mix of history, nature, and beaches.

This National Park on the west coast of Florida is believed to have been the landing spot of Hernando DeSoto and his crew in May 1539.

DeSoto, along with 620 men, 220 horses, and nine ships, landed in Florida and then embarked on an expedition through what is now the Southern United States.

Entrance is free as you walk through an old fashion style fortress. Waiting on the other side are traditional dwellings of the natives who lived in this area. Further, into the park, you are greeted by some of these natives, likely who DeSoto and his crew encountered. Don’t worry, they aren’t real, but they may scare the living daylights out of you if you scare as easily as I do.

At least I was able to point DeSoto’s crew in the right direction to air conditioning.

Over the bridge and through the woods to air conditioning we go…

Whether on your way to DeSoto National Memorial or on your way back, stop in at 3 Keys Brewing for some great food and drinks in a family-friendly atmosphere.