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| Fort DeSoto is the only Dog Park in the area |
Fort DeSoto is the largest park within the Pinellas County Park System. With 4 interconnected keys or islands, this 1,136 acre park system is home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants.
There are over 300 species of birds and new species are being added every year. Also, during the time between April and September, the loggerhead sea turtle nests on the beaches of Fort DeSoto. With a rich natural habitat for all different types of creatures, it’s no wonder that the annual park attendance averages more than 2.7 million visitors.
One of the coolest things about Fort De Soto for many dog-loving folks is that it harbors the ONLY dog park where dogs are allowed on the beach in a designated area. There are also 2 fenced-in areas near the beach for large and small dogs with water stations. The dogs are usually pretty friendly and sniff and roam freely (despite rules stating that all dogs should be on leashes and respond to voice command), so be prepared. It is kinda nice to so the dogs playing in the water with responsible people on board following the rules. And every time we bring our dogs, they have a blast!
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| The Pier at Fort DeSoto Beach |
There are over 7 miles of waterfront, with about 3 miles of white sandy beach to sift your toes in (and for some of it …your paws!).
There is an 800 foot long boat launching facility with floating docks and ample space for camping.
At last check, there were about 225 camping sites, but always good to book early! There are nature trails and plenty of things to do and explore.
