Manager's Message

COME AND JOIN US ON SUNDAY, NOV. 22, 2009 FOR THE OPENING OF A SPECIAL EXHIBIT. The exhibit - "WILLIAM AUGUSTUS BOWLES - Portrait of a Scoundrel?" is being presented by Dr. Madeleine Carr from 2:00 to 5:00pm. Entrance will be free.
Fall is here. The weather is still beautiful. Now is the time to plan your trip to a genuine Florida historic treasure. Dating back to 1528, your visit to San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park will be a great educational outing.
The park staff have recently completed improvements such as clearing the underbrush from the breastworks and opening up new vistas of the park and of the Wakulla River. They have added to the displays in the museum and enhanced the picnic area at the fort.
Little "bits and pieces" of history are on display Thursday through Monday from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm EST.
An excellent video presentation recounts the days of the Spanish, English, American and Confederate forces that occupied this site.
It is a short drive from San Marcos to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, the lighthouse in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Mission San Luis in Tallahassee, and Florida State Parks at Bald Point, Ochlockonee River, Maclay Gardens, and Natural Bridge Battlefield.
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park is a perfect example of "The Real Florida" that we are very proud to share with you.
- Barry Burch, Park Manager

Welcome to San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

The many different flags welcoming visitors to the park demonstrate the colorful history of this site, from the first Spanish explorers to the present day. The history of this National Landmark began in 1528 when Panfilo de Narvaez arrived in the area with 300 men; however, the first fort was not built until 1679. Andrew Jackson occupied the fort for a brief time in the early 1800s. The museum at the park displays pottery and tools unearthed near the original fort and explains the history of the San Marcos site. A selfguided trail is open to visitors and guided tours are available with two weeks advance notice. Open 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m., Thursday through Monday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year´s Day. Located in St. Marks, off State Road 363, on Old Fort Road.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park, please call 850-925-6216.

Hours of Operation

The historic site is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday through Monday and closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

Driving Directions

San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park is located in St. Marks, off S.R. 363 on Old Fort Road.

Park Fees

Admission Fee:

No entrance fee is required to enter this park.

$2.00 per person, museum admission fee. Children 5 and younger are free.

San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

148 Old Fort Road
St. Marks, Florida 32355
Phone: 850-925-6216
Fax: none