This site commemorates Hernando DeSoto's 1539 landing somewhere on Tampa Bay. Professional guides will take you through the mangrove forest to discover the story along with the native plants and animals. During season, professional re-enactors will be utilized.On our nature walk we will introduce the concept of watershed while we interpret the cultural history of the area.  At Camp Ucita students will participate in a Ranger-led interpretation of the DeSoto encounter.  Students will experience: 
  • First Encounters – Ranger interpretation of the DeSoto expedition
  • Nature Trail Walk - Discover the DeSoto story alongside the wildlife in the mangroves
DeSoto Video: Under separate cover a copy of the “Hernando DeSoto in America” DVD will be sent to you. Please share this with your students prior to the field trip, it will provide a concise background for your field study. Administer the pre-test before viewing.

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This trip is best scheduled in Jan, Feb, March or April while re-enactors are in town. 


DeSoto National Memorial is part of the National Park Service. Around the Bend Nature Tours is a permitted provider with them.


Karen Fraley developed the field trip curriculum at DeSoto Memorial while working as a Park Ranger there in 2004.