Egmont Key State Park

Despite the fact that this park is primarily a wildlife refuge, it can also serve as a personal sanctuary – a place to relax and collect shells along secluded, unspoiled beaches.

Egmont Key, which can only be reached by boat, has a unique natural and cultural history, as well as a lighthouse that has been in operation since 1858. It functioned as a prison camp for captured Seminoles at the end of the Third Seminole War in the 19th century and was later seized by the Union Navy during the American Civil War. Because of the possibility of the Spanish-American War, Fort Dade was constructed on the island in 1898 and remained operational until 1923.

Swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking are some of the activities available to visitors in addition to seeing the historic sites and trails. Egmont Key is located near the mouth of Tampa Bay, southwest of Fort DeSoto Beach, and is a popular tourist destination.

Because of the island’s remote location, there is no access to potable water, and there are no retailers on the island. Please remember to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen with you when you visit.