De Soto National Memorial

Operated by the National Park Service, this site marks the base camp and starting point of the historic De Soto expedition of 1539. A favorite anchoring point for sailors and boaters. Hiking trails, re-enactments and more.

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De Soto National Memorial

De Soto National Memorial

January 13, 2012

In 1539 all of Florida and most of America's southeast was uncharted, unknown and virtually undiscovered.

An expedition led by Hernando de Soto made base camp near this site, and began a journey of over 4,000 miles that would last four years. Hernando de Soto would die, as would thousands of Native American Indians along the way.

This site is quite impressive, and features: a walking tour, interpretive seminars with costumed guides in period dress, spectacular display of gumbo-limbo trees and other natural flora.

De Soto National Memorial

75th Street West - north end PO Box 15390
Bradenton, Florida 34208

http://www.nps.gov/deso