Indian, earth, mound, archaeological, native

Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park

Ancient Native American temple mounds stand proud just north of Tallahassee

Boardwalk Closed

Effective July 7, 2023: The boardwalk to the large mound at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is closed.

Hours

8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a year

Fees

$3 per vehicle. Please use honor box. Correct change is required.

See all fees

Location

3600 Indian Mounds Road
Tallahassee FL 32303

Get directions

Contact Info

850-487-7989

Welcome to Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park

The park encompasses six of the seven known earthen temple mounds, with two available for viewing by the public. 


Our two trails offer visitors a chance to hike within the park. The interpretive trail passes remnants of Florida’s Territorial Period and early statehood (1820-1860) when the land was part of a large estate owned by Colonel Robert Butler.

The nature trail winds through a sandhill community, passing many native trees and plants. The remnants of an 1800s grist mill may be seen along the trail.

Picnic tables are located within view of the two largest mounds. A pavilion is available for family gatherings and other special occasions. Unless reserved for the day, the pavilion is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guided tours are available upon request.

Lake Jackson offers numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird-watching.

Plan Your Visit

Park manager Brooke Doran, uniformed, in front of loquat trees.
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Manager's Message

Now is a great time to visit this hidden gem in northwest Tallahassee. The park houses the remains of a group of earthen mounds built before Spanish explorers arrived in the area.
Indian, earth, mound, archaeological
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Native American Temple Mounds

More than eight centuries ago, Native Americans inhabited the area around Lake Jackson. Today the park site preserves the remains of six of the seven known earthen temple mounds.
hike, walk, archaeological, Indian, native american
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Trails & Wildlife at Lake Jackson

Park trails offer visitors a chance to hike within the parks, including an interpretive trail that passes remnants of Florida’s Territorial Period and early statehood (1826-1860) and presents an opportunity to view a variety of plant and wildlife species.

Experiences

Birding
Birding
Hiking
Hiking
Picnicking
Picnicking
Tours
Tours
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Historic Site
Historic Site
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Parking
Parking
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities

Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park Photo Gallery

A child walks up the boardwalk onto a mound at Lake Jackson Mounds.
purple clove
Staircase to Big Mound at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
Ranger lead program
Small Mound at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
A view of a bunch of artifacts found on the property.
view of mound
hiking trails
Picnic area
burial, ceremony, native american
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Native American Burial Site

​​​​​​​Lake Jackson Archaeological site is the largest know ceremonial complex of the Fort Walton period (1000-1450 A.D.) in North Florida. The number and size of the Lake Jackson mounds indicate that this site served as the regional chiefdom of the Mississippian culture.
Indian, earth, mound, archaeological, native
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Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological Collections

The archaeological artifacts found in Lake Jackson Archaeological State Park have very high cultural significance given the fact that they were recovered from a regional center of Mississippian culture that has greatly contributed to modern understanding of that period.

People Make the Parks

Bill Harrison receives an award from Chuck Hatcher, Lance Kelly, Brian Fugate and Steve Cutshaw.

Staff Spotlight

Billy Harrison is the recipient of the 2022 Public Service Award.
John Norris

Volunteer Spotlight

John Norris has received a 2020 Irene DeLaby Award for contributing 11,150 hours of volunteer service at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park.
Florida State Parks Foundation

Florida State Parks Foundation

The statewide nonprofit partner meeting critical funding needs for universal access, conservation, education and preservation.

This Park is Recognized by:

Native American Heritage Trail

Park Map

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