Park Summary for Print - Gamble Plantation Historic State Park

Reenactors firing cannon in front of Gamble Mansion.

Welcome to Gamble Plantation Historic State Park

This antebellum mansion was home to Major Robert Gamble and headquarters of an extensive sugar plantation. It is the only surviving plantation house in South Florida. It is believed that Confederate Secretary of State, Judah P. Benjamin, took refuge here after the fall of the Confederacy, until his safe passage to England could be secured. In 1925, the house and 16 acres were saved by the United Daughters of the Confederacy and donated to the state. Today, the mansion is furnished in the style of a successful mid-19th century plantation. Guided tours of the house are given six times a day, Thursday through Monday and there are picnic tables on the grounds. The visitor center is open from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Thursday through Monday; it is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year´s Day. Located in Ellenton on U.S. 301 East.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, please call (941) 723-4536.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Exit 224 from I-75. Head west for 1 mile on US 301. Look for the Landmark white picket fence and turn right into the main park entrance.

Park Fees

Admission Fee:

No entrance fee is required to enter this park.

Tour Fees:

$6.00 per adult.

$4.00 per child.

Activities at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park

Facilities

ADA accessible restroom facilities are available at the park.

Picnic Area

Picnic tables are available

Visitors Center

Come to our Visitor Center for Information

Special Events for Gamble Plantation Historic State Park

PLANTATION CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
Date: Sunday, December 13, 2009 from 10:00am to 4:00pm
Description: The United Daughters of the Confederacy, Florida Division, the Gamble Plantation Preservation Alliance and the Florida Park Service proudly announce the Plantation Christmas Open House at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park in Ellenton, Florida.

Once again you can travel back to the Old South during the day through the many lifestyle demonstrations of that time period. Gamble Mansion and the Patten House will be lavishly decorated in the Christmas spirit, allowing you a special look at a 19th century Christmas. The Ladies of the United Daughters of the Confederacy will be wearing costumes reminiscent of the era of the 1840’s through 1870’s to add that special touch of authenticity to the day. The 4th Florida Volunteer Infantry will be dressed in military uniforms re-enacting a Confederate encampment. There will be music, crafts and fun for everyone.

We extend a most cordial invitation for everyone to join us for the Christmas Open House. Gamble Plantation Historic State Park is located on U.S. 301 in Ellenton, one mile west of I-75 off exit #224. Florida State Parks are in various stages of accessibility. We are working to improve access to services and facilities. Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact Gamble Plantation.
Fees: .
Contact: For further information please call Gamble Plantation Historic State Park at (941) 723-4536 or Fax (941) 723-4538.

Participation Requirements