Fort King National Historic Landmark is a 40-acre historic site in Ocala, Florida, interpreting the Second Seminole War and the Seminole people’s resistance to U.S. expansion. You can explore a full-scale reconstructed fort, visit the visitor facilities during their limited weekly hours and walk a trail through the grounds.
- Location: 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala, FL 34470
- Park grounds: Open daily from sunrise until sunset or 5 p.m., whichever comes first
- Admission: Free
- Trail: A mile-long route passes several site features
The History of Fort King
Fort King was built around 1827 and named for Colonel William King, commander of the Fourth Infantry. It became an important military post during the Second Seminole War, a conflict that the site interprets alongside the Seminole people’s resistance to U.S. expansion.
The landmark received its National Historic Landmark designation in 2004. The 40-acre site is jointly owned by the City of Ocala and Marion County, with the City managing it. Fort King is a National Historic Landmark, not a National Park or part of the National Park Service.
Its story adds a local-history perspective to Ocala. The Marion County Museum of History covers another part of the area’s past.
What to See at the Historic Site
The grounds combine a reconstructed fort, outdoor features and a walking trail. The full-scale fort and blockhouses are open for public exploration, while a mile-long trail passes Fort King Road, Seep Spring and the DAR cemetery.
The heritage teaching garden contains native vegetables, fruits and plants and is open year-round. It also serves school programs and wild-foraging and edible-plant hikes. Picnic tables are available, but grills are not.
Site signage provides self-guided trail interpretation, and the City of Ocala also offers a virtual tour. Keep to the trails, respect wildlife and plants, and take only pictures. Removing artifacts and metal detecting are unlawful; motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trails.
Visitor Centre, Interpretation and Events
The Visitor Center presents interactive exhibits, a curated library, historical videos and artifacts found at the site. The Archaeological Resource Center displays Fort King artifacts and explains archaeology connected with the fort reconstruction and a planned blacksmith shop.
The City says guided tours and field trips can be arranged by calling 352-368-5533 or emailing fortking@ocalafl.gov. Groups of 10 or more are asked to call ahead to schedule a guided visit. Special arrangements can also be made for visitors with mobility challenges; contact the site in advance.
The visitor facilities also offer a park-passport stamp and gift shop during their Friday and Saturday opening hours.
Hours, Admission and Site Access
Admission to the park is free.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM–5 PM
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables, trails and a visitor center are among the listed amenities, and free parking is available. Dogs are allowed in the park on leash, but only service animals may enter the Welcome Center. Bring your own waste bags and clean up after your pet. Hours can change, so check the official site before you go.
Getting to Fort King from Ocala
Fort King is at 3925 E. Fort King St. in Ocala, about 3.6 miles from Silver Princess Motel. The Ocala city-centre guide can help put the site in the context of other places around town.
If you plan to explore the grounds, factor in time for the trail as well as the reconstructed fort. For a visit to the visitor facilities, plan around their Friday and Saturday hours rather than the longer daily opening of the park grounds.
FAQs
Can you arrange a guided visit?
Yes. The City says guided tours and field trips can be arranged by phone or email. Groups of 10 or more should call ahead.
Can visitors with mobility challenges make arrangements?
Yes. The City advises contacting the site in advance to discuss special arrangements.
Are pets allowed at Fort King?
Pets are allowed in the park on leash. Only service animals may enter the Welcome Center.
Can you collect artifacts or use a metal detector?
No. Removing artifacts and metal detecting on the grounds are unlawful.