Bushnell, Florida

Contact Information
7200 CR 603 South Battlefield Drive
Bushnell, 33513
(352) 793-4781

The story of this momentous battle in Florida history is told in the visitor center at Dade Battlefield State Historic Site. It houses memorabilia, artifacts and exhibits about the battle that took place on site between US soldiers and Seminole warriors. Monuments, trail labels and a replica of the log barricade erected by Dade's command mark the military road and battlefield.

Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. Museum hours are 9 am to 5 pm daily.

Driving Directions
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park is located off I-75 and S.R. 48, west of Highway 301.

Park Activities

Nature Trails
Take a leisurely 20 minute walk along the Pine Flatwoods Trail. This trail acquaints visitors with the native pine woods that is home to gopher tortoise, a variety of snakes, woodpeckers and other animals. Review the events of the battle by walking the short battlefield trail. This trail actually follows a stretch of the historic Fort King Military Road. It has interpretive labels and monuments to Dade and his command. There is also a 10K Florida Volkssport Association trail that thoroughly covers the park sites and which goes outside into the neighboring community.

Picnicking
The park offers picnicking opportunities in a quiet and tranquil setting. There are also 6 picnic shelters available on a first come first serve basis or for rental. They are excellent for parties and have electricity and lights. The Gardiner Pavilion is one of the most popular shelters for children's parties. It is adjacent to the playground and restrooms.

Visitor Center
Park visitors can get acquainted with the battle history by viewing a twelve minute video, "This Land, These Men." Mannequins provide a glimpse of the clothing worn by the soldier and Seminole and the muskets each used. There are other audio exhibits and displays of artifacts related to the battle. Visitors can purchase a variety of books related to Dade's battle with the Seminoles, as well as books about the Seminole Wars, Seminole Culture and more. Tee-shirts and postcards are also available.