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Fort Mose Historic State Park

15 Fort Mose Trail
St. Augustine, Florida 32080

(904) 823-2232


Description
 

Fort Mose Historic State Park, the site of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States. In 1738, the Spanish governor of Florida chartered the settlement of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, or Fort Mose for short, as a settlement for those fleeing slavery from the English colonies in theCarolinas. Over the next 25 years, Fort Mose and Spanish Saint Augustine became a sanctuary for Africans seeking liberation from the tyranny of English slavery.

Fort Mose has been recognized for its national significance in commemorating the history of the United States. In 1994 the site was designated as a National Historic Landmark and was listed on theNational Register of Historic Places. In 2009 the National Park Service named Fort Mose as a precursor site on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

Although there are no remains of the earth and wooden structures, visitors can still view the land where the settlement once stood. Stroll down the sundrenched boardwalk and imagine life in the eighteenth century. Learn more about the story of Fort Mose in our newly constructed visitor center and museum or explore the grounds and view one of the many exhibits available.





Hours of Operation
The Visitor Center is open Thursday through Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The grounds are open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Admission Fee:

$4.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.

$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.


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Activities
BOATING
Shallow creeks with rapid tidal changes and large oyster beds pass by the park, but there are no boat landings at this time.

CANOEING & KAYAKING
Shallow creeks with rapid tidal changes and large oyster beds pass by the park, but there are no boat landings at this time.

HIKING/NATURE TRAIL
A 1/4 mile boardwalk provides an easy walk to a beautiful marsh overlook.

PETS
Pets are allowed in the park's roads, trails, boardwalk, and picnic area! Pets must be kept on a 6-foot hand-held leash at all times and must be quiet and well-behaved. You must "scoop" after your pet. (Don't forget your baggies!) These rules help preserve an important habitat for wildlife. Please do not leave your pets unattended in a vehicle for their safety, as temperatures inside vehicles can be dangerously high.

PICNICKING
A small picnic pavilion is available for day use at no charge.

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