Contact Information
1022 Desoto Park Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32301
850-922-6007
Natural Bridge Battlefield State Historic Site encompasses a mere 7 acres of strategic land along the St. Marks River. The natural attraction of the site is the beautiful hardwood hammock and the St. Johns River which travels underground several yards then reappearing. Yearly re-enactments of the final Cilvil War days are relived each March. Thousands come to enjoy the excitement. Grounds are open year-round. Guided tours are given with prior arrangements.During the final days of the Civil War in March 1865, a Union flotilla reached Apalachee Bay. Union General John Newton and Naval Commander William Gibson had a joint assault plan against the ragtag young and old Confederate forces. Confederates got wind of the plan and were able to warn Tallahassee of the impending battle. More than 600 civilians joined forces to battle the Yankees. The southerners were successful in defusing the northerners on three major attacks and several smaller advances. Within a few days, the Union soldiers retreated back to Key West counting their total losses of 21 killed, 89 injured and 38 captured. Confederate losses were three killed and 22 injured. The Confederate victory reigned, making Tallahassee the only Confederate capital east of the Mississippi never falling to Union troops.
Natural Bridge Battlefield State Historic Site holds re-enactments each March reliving the 1865 Civil War battle that defeated Union advancements. The encampments are free and open to the public from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Contact the park office for dates and details. The park grounds are open from 8 A.M. to sunset 365 days a year. A small picnic area with restrooms is provided. Tours of the Battlefield are given upon request with a two-week notice.
Florida experiences mild, comfortable winters and warm to hot, humid summers. The area offers a great warm escape for outdoor recreation during the cold northern months. Summer temperatures average in the low 80's Fahrenheit and mid 20's Celsius. Winters are mild with temperatures averaging between the high 40's to the high 50's Fahrenheit. The average precipitation for the north central area is diverse. The central western area receives more than 60 inches per year while the central eastern tract receives about 50 inches. August and September are peak months of the hurricane season that lasts from June 1 through November 30.
