Park information
Fort De Soto Park essentials
A 1,136-acre county park spread across five interconnected islands at the southern tip of Pinellas County, with seven miles of beaches, a historic fort, and one of Florida's most-loved campgrounds.
Burn ban in effect
Fire pits (rented or owned) and ground fires are prohibited. Park-provided charcoal grills remain available for charcoal cooking only. Personal propane cookware is still permitted.
Check-in & check-out
Check-in is 1:00 PM; check-out is 11:00 AM. Late arrivals can pick up registration packets from the camp office. Maximum stay 14 days within any 30-day window.
Address & directions
3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715. ~30 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg, ~1 hour from Tampa International Airport. Toll bridge access via the Pinellas Bayway.
Fires & cooking
When permitted, fires are allowed only in provided rings or rented fire pits. Gathering wood from the park is prohibited — bring your own or buy at the camp store.
Beaches
North Beach (consistently ranked among the best in the US) is ~5 miles from the campground. East Beach is ~1 mile away with calmer water, ideal for kids.
Fishing
Two lighted fishing piers (Gulf Pier and Bay Pier) with bait shops. Florida saltwater license required for ages 16+. Snook, redfish, trout, mackerel, tarpon in season.
Trails & boat ramp
7-mile paved multi-use trail loops the park. Boat ramp with multiple lanes near the campground. Ferries run to Egmont Key and Shell Key (privately operated).
Rules quick-reference
- • Quiet hours 11 PM – 7 AM
- • Maximum 6 people / 2 vehicles per site
- • Pets only in Area 2 — must be leashed (6 ft max)
- • No alcohol on beaches
- • Generators allowed 8 AM – 9 PM
- • Dump station on site; one bath house / laundry per area
Reservations
All Fort De Soto campsite reservations are made through Pinellas County's official portal.
Reserve at explore.pinellas.gov →