Fort De Soto Park is a stunning destination located near St. Petersburg, Florida, known for its expansive beaches, historical sites, and diverse outdoor activities. This guide provides detailed information on accessibility features, attractions, and amenities to help wheelchair users plan a visit to this popular park.
Fort De Soto Park, comprising five interconnected islands, is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans over 1,100 acres and offers a mix of pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and historical landmarks. With thoughtful planning, this park can be an accessible and enjoyable destination for wheelchair users.
Attractions + Activities
- North Beach is renowned for its soft white sand and tranquil waters, making it one of the top-rated beaches in the country. The beach has a long, paved pathway leading from the parking area to the sand. The beach features a Mobi-Mat pathway that allows wheelchairs to roll closer to the water. Accessible restrooms, picnic shelters, and beach wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Some areas of the beach may have softer sand beyond the Mobi-Mat, making it challenging to navigate. Assistance may be needed.
- Historic Fort De Soto: The park’s namesake, Fort De Soto, offers a glimpse into the area’s military history with well-preserved fortifications and informative displays. The fort itself is accessible via paved paths and ramps, with many areas level and easy to navigate. There are accessible parking spaces nearby, and ramps provide access to most areas of the fort. Interpretive signs and exhibits are positioned at wheelchair-friendly heights. Some of the fort’s original structures may have steps or uneven surfaces, limiting access to certain areas.
- Fishing Piers: The park features two large fishing piers, the Gulf Pier and the Bay Pier, both offering spectacular views and fishing opportunities. The fishing piers are fully accessible, with smooth, flat surfaces and railings that allow for easy wheelchair maneuverability. Accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are available near the piers. There are also bait shops and vending machines with accessible counters.
- Trails and Nature Walks: Fort De Soto Park has several nature trails that showcase its diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and coastal forests. The paved 6.8-mile Recreation Trail is wheelchair accessible and offers scenic views. Other trails may have varying surfaces, from compacted dirt to wooden boardwalks, which are generally wheelchair-friendly. Benches and shaded rest areas are available along the trails. Accessible restrooms can be found at trailheads. Some nature trails may have roots or uneven terrain that could pose challenges.
- Beach Wheelchairs: Fort De Soto Park offers complimentary beach wheelchairs, which are specially designed to traverse sandy terrain. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the main beach areas. Limited availability means it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: The park offers opportunities for adaptive kayaking and canoeing. While the park itself doesn’t directly offer adaptive equipment, nearby outfitters and organizations provide accessible kayaking experiences. Launch areas may require assistance as they can have uneven or sandy surfaces. Assistance may be required for transfers and launching, as the terrain can be challenging.
- Biking: The paved Recreation Trail is ideal for handcycling or using adaptive bikes. The trail is smooth and wide, accommodating various types of adaptive bikes.
Accommodations
- Campground: The park’s campground offers a serene environment with sites nestled among trees and near the water. The campground has paved roads and some wheelchair-accessible campsites with accessible picnic tables and fire rings. Accessible restrooms and shower facilities are available. There are also accessible picnic shelters and a playground within the campground area. Not all campsites are accessible, so it is recommended to reserve an accessible site in advance.
- Picnic Areas: The park has multiple picnic areas with shelters that can be reserved for group outings. Picnic shelters are located on paved surfaces with accessible paths leading to restrooms and parking. Shelters are equipped with accessible tables, grills, and nearby restrooms. Some picnic areas may be near sandy or grassy areas that could pose difficulties for wheelchair users.
Restrooms and Facilities
- Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are located throughout the park, including near beaches, picnic areas, and the historic fort. Restrooms have wide stalls, grab bars, and accessible sinks. Many are equipped with automatic doors.
- Shower Facilities: Accessible outdoor showers are available near the beach entrances. Showers are equipped with handheld showerheads and are positioned at a height suitable for wheelchair users. Some shower areas may have small lips or uneven surfaces that could be challenging to navigate.
Parking
Accessible parking is available throughout the park, including near popular attractions like the beaches, fishing piers, and the historic fort. Parking lots are paved with designated accessible spaces located close to entrance points. Parking spaces are well-marked, and curb cuts make it easier to transition from parking areas to pathways.
