Fort San Marcos de Apalache History
In 1679, the Spanish Governor of Florida Pablo de Hita y Salazar began construction of the first fort built at the junction of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers calling it Fort San Marcos de Apalache.
Museum and Interpretive Trail
Visit the museum in San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park where you can view displays of pottery and tools unearthed near the original fort.
Hydrologic Restoration at Charlotte Harbor
The hydrologic restoration that has taken place at Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park has significantly improved the environment within and surrounding the park. Since the project began, approximately 5,000 acres of land have been restored.
Prescribed Burning at Charlotte Harbor
Prescribed burning at Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park helps keep the environment thriving and greatly benefits the plants and animals of the park.
North Cape Flats Trail
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park has hiking opportunities available in every section of the park. These trails provide a great opportunity to see parts of this remote and primitive wilderness and the wildlife that we protect.
Trains that Once Rumbled
Most of the Gainesville Hawthorne State Trail follows an abandoned rail bed. Along the trail today, reminders of the historic railroad activity include concrete mileage and whistle markers.
Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center is an exciting place to learn about the natural communities that make up Charlotte Harbor. Enjoy one of the many programs, or tour the trails around the center to see all that the park has to offer.
History of the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
This historic route, a “trader’s path” stretches back to the days of William Bartram, Seminole Indians and Florida’s first people. As you make your way down the trail, trade modern life for citrus groves, small railroad towns and locomotives.
Explore San Marcos de Apalache's History
The many different flags flying over San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park symbolize the colorful history of this site from the Spanish explorers to the present day.
Explore by bike
With a paved surface, test your endurance or choose to slow down and appreciate the numerous sites along the way.