DeSoto National Memorial Park

DE SOTO NATIONAL MEMORIAL is located at the end of 75^th Street West in Northwest Bradenton and is situated on the banks of the Manatee River. Created in 1948, the park’s mission is to commemorate the 1539 expedition of the Spanish Conquistador Hernando de Soto and his impact on the American Indian societies of the Southeast. The park is open year-round and offers many seasonal activities. The highlight of the park’s activities includes living history programs and demonstrations at Camp Uzita, a recreation of a 16th Century native village. During the summer the park operates guided kayak tours in the surrounding water and bays. Park Rangers and staff are on hand to assist visitors in their understanding of this important and controversial historical event.   The park is open dawn to dusk but the parking lot closes at 5:00 p.m.  Since the park is managed by the National Park System, it is closed on all National holidays.  There are restrooms in the Visitor Center, which is open 9a – 5p.  There are numerous benches and picnic tables along both trails. No admission fee.  Dogs on a leash are allowed.

A Must-See at the Park:

The trail system consists of two primary paths. The shorter trail provides scenic views of the Manatee River as it winds through the mangroves. On the other hand, the longer trail guides you past the Holy Eucharist memorial and the De Soto Cross. As you approach the road, opt for the trail to the right, leading you through a hardwood hammock. Here, keep an eye out for thrushes, Brown Thrashers, tanagers, and warblers. At the subsequent fork, veer left to return to the main entrance.

Ensure you explore the Gumbo Limbo trees near the Visitor Center, as their fruit may attract vireos, tanagers, and grosbeaks. Behind the chickee hut, there’s a concealed trail leading to an opening, providing a vantage point for observing nearby docks where Black Terns may visit. Scan the river for Common Loon, Red-breasted Merganser, and other migratory waterfowl.

Birds you may encounter while visiting: 

eBird 159 species recorded

This is another park that has not been birded extensively and all are encouraged to take advantage of this national treasure.  Spring migration

• Vireos
• Tanagers
• Orioles
• Kingbirds Warblers
• Shorebirds and Sandpipers may be seen along the shoreline or exposed sand flats.
• Owls and songbirds may be heard in the heavily wooded areas.
• Rarities have included American Oystercatcher, Cerulean Warbler, Baltimore Oriole, Horned Grebe, and Red Knot.

Accessibility:  The Visitor Center and Restrooms are wheelchair accessible.  Trails are sand, crushed shell or boardwalk.