De Soto National Memorial

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National Memorial

De Soto National Memorial · Florida

In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance of indigenous people protecting their homelands. Families can start at the visitor center for maps, exhibits, and Junior Ranger materials; always check nps.gov for current hours and conditions before you go.

Hours, roads, and programs change with the seasons. Check current conditions on the official De Soto National Memorial website before you go.

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Wild Base Family is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Park Service. Park brochures and Junior Ranger books are free official materials published by the National Park Service; our links open the official PDF (on nps.gov) when one is available online.