FORT SAN MARCOS DE APALACHE STATE PARK AND MONUMENT
FORT SAN MARCOS DE APALACHE STATE PARK AND MONUMENT
Fort San Marcos De Apalache State Park and Monument is a historical site showcasing Spanish colonial architecture. It features an old fort, museum exhibits about the area's history from 16th to 19th centuries including Native American culture, European exploration and territorial disputes. The park also offers picnic areas with scenic views of the confluence of three rivers: Wakulla, St Marks and Apalachicola River.
The site was first explored by Spanish explorers led by Panfilo de Narvaez in 1528. The fort's construction began under Spain's rule around 1679 to protect its interests from French and British invaders.
In the early eighteenth century, it became a trading post for English settlers until captured by Creek Indians allied with Britain during American Revolution. It then served as a base of operations for General Andrew Jackson during First Seminole War (1817-18).
The U.S government took control after purchasing Florida from Spain in 1821 but abandoned it due to harsh conditions and disease outbreaks among troops stationed there.
It briefly functioned as Confederate port during Civil War before being destroyed by Union forces. In later years, local residents used bricks from ruins for building homes or roads.
Preservation efforts started late nineteenth-century; however serious restoration didn't begin till mid-twentieth century when state acquired property through donation/purchase agreements.
Today visitors can explore museum exhibits about area history while walking trails offer views of surrounding natural beauty plus archaeological remnants dating back centuries.
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the
FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
BBs / Inns
Our historic inn is located in historic Saint Marks, one of the oldest settlements in North America. First settled in 1527, Saint Marks is a historic little city at the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Saint Marks National Wildlife Refuge, it is located just 20 miles south of Tallahassee.
0.4 miles from park*
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