Main Page - Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park

Confederate Troops awaiting advancement of Union Troops. Commanding Confederate Officers on horseback.

Manager's Message

STATE PARK TO COMMEMORATE CIVIL WAR BATTLE -February 13 - 15, 2009

We invite you to support the conservation of Florida’s history at Olustee Battlefield by joining our Citizen Support Organization. Visit the web to learn more about the battle’s history, the annual reenactment, and the CSO at Olustee Battlefield Citizens Support Organization

- Ben Faure, Park Manager

Welcome to Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park

This park commemorates the site of Florida's largest Civil War battle, which took place February 20, 1864. More than 10,000 cavalry, infantry, and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee. Three U.S. Colored Troops took part in the battle, including the now famous 54th Massachusetts. The battle ended with 2,807 casualties and the retreat of Union troops to Jacksonville until the war's end just 14 months later. In 1912, when many living Civil War veterans still attended reunions, the battlefield became the state's first historic site. Olustee Battlefield has a visitor center with historical information and artifacts. A reenactment is held every February and a Civil War Expo takes place in late summer. Scenes for Civil War movies, including the 1989 movie Glory, have been filmed during the reenactments. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the picnic area or take a walk along a mile-long trail that has interpretive signs describing the events of the battle. Located two miles east of Olustee on U.S. 90.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, please call 386-758-0400.

Hours of Operation

The park is open every day from 8 a.m. until dusk. The Interpretive Center is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. All facilities are available free of charge.

Driving Directions

Olustee Battlefield is located on U.S. 90, 15 miles east of Lake City and 50 miles west of Jacksonville. From I10 exit at U.S. 90 west (Milepost Exit 324 - Old Exit 45). The battlefield is located 5.5 miles from the exit. From I-75, exit at U.S. 90 east (Milepost Exit 324 - Old Exit 45) and travel approximately 20 miles to the park.