Spend a day on Egmont Key
Egmont Key State Park where visitors can roam 19th century ruins of the Spanish-American War and for a moment, travel back in time. Egmont key is a quaint island, minutes from Anna Marie Island.
Along the beaches of the island you will find dilapidated buildings that have succumbed to years of abandonment and the fury of Mother Nature. These buildings were once over 250 yards inland but now merely hang onto any portion of beach they can, some even serving as artificial reefs.
Egmont Key serves as crucial nesting grounds for various shorebirds including Royal and Caspian Terns, Brown Pelicans, Ibis, and Laughing Gulls. Although it is wonderful to see the many birds and their chicks, this nesting area is located in the Wildlife Refuge portion of the island and is off limits to visitors.
Although this park is primarily a wildlife refuge, it can be a personal refuge - a place to relax and collect shells along secluded, pristine beaches. Accessible only by private boat, Egmont Key has a unique natural and cultural history, including a lighthouse that has stood since 1858.
During the 19th century, the island served as a camp for captured Seminoles at the end of the Third Seminole War and was later occupied by the Union Navy during the Civil War. In 1898, as the Spanish - American War threatened, Fort Dade was built on the island and remained active until 1923. After touring the historic sites and trails, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, southwest of Fort DeSoto Beach.
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Admission is Free.
Contact us today to reserve a boat so you and your family can enjoy this treasure while it's still available.