Manager's Message

We invite you to come explore one of the gems in the Florida Park Service. Dade Battlefield offers a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. One can explore the natural beauty of the wildflowers along the park’s nature trail or walk along the Old Fort King Road where Major Dade and his command encountered 180 Seminoles. Whether you enjoy nature or history, Dade Battlefield has something for the young and the young at heart.

The next Dade Battle Reenactment will be January 3 and 4, 2009. If you are interested in helping with this special event, please call the park office at 352-793-4781. The Dade Battlefield Society meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm at the park's recreation hall.
- Tracey Standridge, Park Manager

Welcome to Dade Battlefield Historic State Park

The battle that started the Second Seminole War is commemorated in January each year under the oaks of Dade Battlefield. On December 28, 1835, Seminole Indian warriors ambushed 108 soldiers at this site-only three soldiers survived. The park protects not only a historic battlefield, but also the natural communities as they existed when the soldiers and Seminoles battled over 180 years ago. Strolling a half-mile nature trail through pine flatwoods, visitors might see gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, songbirds, hawks, and indigo snakes. The park has a playground, picnic area with covered shelters, and a recreation hall. The visitor center has information and displays about the battle and visitors can watch a twelve-minute video history, This Land, These Men. The center is open 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily. Located off I-75, exit 314, west of U.S. 301.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, please call 352-793-4781.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

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

Park Fees

Admission Fees - $2.00 for up to 8 people per car.

Reservations
Recreation Hall: 2 hrs. or less - $40.00 plus tax
Over 2 hrs. - $75.00 plus tax
Gardiner Pavilion - $35.00 plus tax
Pavillion/Shelter - $30.00 plus tax
BBQ Grill - $5.00 plus tax

Dade Battlefield Historic State Park

7200 CR 603 South Battlefield Drive
Bushnell, Florida 33513
Phone: 352-793-4781
Fax: 352-793-4230

Citizen Support Organization

Dade Battlefield Society
7200 CR 603
Bushnell, FL 33513