Turtle Mound is a family friendly & pet friendly stop along Florida state road A1A in central Florida on the east coast. It’s historically important to Florida and the prehistoric Indians that once lived there. Turtle Mound is composed of a massive amount of shells left by the native Indians living in that area. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and is the largest shell mound left in the United States. It stands 50′ tall and covers approximately 600′ of land. Because of its massive height (for the state of Florida) it has several lookout points that make for beautiful photo opportunities. It is speculated that this mound was used as a safe refuge from hurricanes and also a hunting ground to catch animals that would flee flooding waters of the storm. It is so tall (using flat/low land Florida measures) that it can been seen as far as 7 miles out to sea and is rumored to have been a focal point/marker for the Spanish ships of way back when.
It is handicap accessible and easily walkable due to the large wooden deck boardwalk like structure that is available to walk. A handicap scooter could even easily maneuver this area. There are a few small steps part way up though on some lookout areas.
Due to this being easily accessible by every one of all abilities, families and pets – I give the Turtle Mound a 5 out of 5 for Must See attractions in Central Florida. It is located about 9-10 miles south of New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County.
Adventure awaits….
Chrissy
I love Native American cultures and stories. This was fascinating!
Me too. My husband and I are intrigued by their way of life, philosophy, and family ways.