The Peace River Paddling Trail stretches 67 miles, from Fort Meade to State Road 70 west of Arcadia. The river scenery, nature trails, and Arcadia’s historic architecture offer different ways to explore De Soto County. If you’re looking for a place to stay in De Soto County, consider whether the river, the landscape, or Arcadia’s history will be the focus of your trip.
On the Peace River: Paddling and Fossil Hunting
On the Peace River, Brownville Park has a launch site for kayaks, canoes, and boats. Fossil hunters along the Peace River in De Soto County may find shark and mammoth remains. For a guided fossil hunt, Fossil Recovery offers tours by airboat and/or swamp buggy; the necessary equipment is provided. Alongside the long paddling route, visitors can choose from different river experiences, including a designated launch site and guided tours.
Forest Landscapes and Trails
Peace River State Forest includes floodplain forest, cypress stands, mixed hammocks, and remnants of pine flatwoods. The Horse Creek and Peace River corridors provide habitat for abundant wildlife. The landscape includes more than one type of forest, and the trails also vary in length: the Horse Creek Hiking Trail in the state forest is a 2-mile loop, while RV Griffin Reserve offers more than 21 miles of multi-use trails.
From RV Griffin Reserve, you can enjoy views of pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, wet prairies, wooded wetlands, and oak hammocks. The contrast between a clearly defined loop and a longer network of trails can help you choose the landscape and trail length that interest you.
Arcadia’s Historic Landmarks
The Arcadia Historic District covers 58 blocks and about 340 acres. Its buildings reflect Arcadia’s historic development from the mid-1880s to around 1930. The square surrounding the DeSoto County Courthouse is an important public space in the district. Also in the historic district, near the downtown business area, is the Tree of Knowledge, a local landmark.
The John Morgan Ingraham House Museum offers insight into the early history of the city and county. This restored late-19th-century home commemorates the early pioneer families of Arcadia and DeSoto County. Visitors can see historic furniture and furnishings, including some that belonged to the Ingraham family, as well as information about Arcadia and DeSoto County.
Another place to discover in Arcadia is Jungle Doria’s Wildlife Park, home to lemurs, emus, snakes, alligators, and other animals. Nature and cultural experiences go hand in hand here, while still offering distinct experiences.
Local Events and Citrus Growing
A market featuring local vendors takes place on the fourth Saturday of each month in Arcadia’s historic downtown antiques district. Arcadia’s annual Watermelon Festival takes place in May, during the harvest season. Mosaic Arena is also part of the local events scene, hosting the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, concerts, Monster Jam, and agricultural and farming expos. The rodeo takes place in March. If you’re planning to visit a market or festival, check the dates before your trip.
Citrus growing is another part of the region’s story. Joshua Citrus, Inc. ships fresh Florida citrus, and the family has grown citrus in the area for generations. Local agriculture and events complement the nature and history themes that shape a visit to De Soto County.
Discover more destinations: Arcadia, Volusia, Jackson County, Pinellas, Wakulla County, Escambia, Glades County, Palm Beach
For the main travel overview: Florida.
