DADE BATTLEFIELD HISTORIC
STATE PARK
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.
