The Dog Friendly Beaches of Fort Desoto State Park - Near St. Petersburg, FL  

Whether you are sitting on the beach or kayaking near the still water's edge at Fort De Soto, you find yourself absorbed in the abundance of natural beauty for as far as the eye can see. The complexity of the ecology is not immediately apparent, but the park offers the greatest diversity of systems just about anywhere. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto.
  

  
The largest park within the Pinellas County Park System, Fort De Soto park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys). These keys are home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants. Each of these species plays a vital role in the preservation and protection of the natural environment.
   

 
Another amazing example of the importance of the park's natural ecosystems is the more than 290 species of birds that have been documented by ornithologist. The beach also provides refuge to the loggerhead sea turtle, which nests between April and September.

Fort De Soto was named America’s Top Beach for 2009 by Trip Advisor, the world's largest online travel community. In 2005, “Dr. Beach,” named Fort De Soto the nation’s #1 Beach.

Fort Desoto Dog Park
ort De Soto has the only dog park where dogs are allowed on the beach in a designated area. There are also 2 fenced in areas near the beach for large and small dogs with water stations.

Dog Park Rules:
Park closes at dusk.
Patrons use the dog park at their own risk.
handlers are liable for any injury or damage caused by their dog (s).
handlers are limited to 3 dogs.
Dogs shall be licensed and vaccinated with a tag on their collar at all times.
Handler must be 16 years of age or older.
Children under 12 are not permitted without a responsible adult.
All dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the park.
Dogs must be under the control of their handler and attended to at all times.
Handler myst carry a leash with them at all times while in the park.
Handler is responsible for picking up and disposing of their dog's waste in designated receptacles.
Dogs in heat are prohibited.
No dogs under 4 months of age. Check with your veterinarian before introducing a new puppy to the dog park.
No aggressive dogs.
Handlers must stop their dogs from digging and are responsible for filling any holes their dog makes.
No excessive barking.
No bathing of dogs within the park.
No food or smoking with in the fenced area.