Exploring Madira Bickel Mound

A view of two people walking up the stairs towards the mound.

Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site is Florida’s first state archaeological site, protected since 1948. While this park is small, it is home to thousands of years of history. Visitors can see a piece of the living history by visiting the park’s main attraction, the Native American mound. This 20-foot-tall mound is comprised of sand, fossils, and other debris left behind by the tribe that lived in the area.

The walkway winds under towering Spanish moss trees and sable palms leading to the base of a set of stairs at the bottom of the mound. Visitors can then walk up the stairs to the top of the mound to view it in all its ancient glory. Along the path leading to the mound there are interpretive signs telling the story of the area and how it became a prized archaeological site.

As you explore the site, reflect on the incredible account of the people that lived, worked and played on this land many centuries ago. Allow yourself to appreciate the charming scenery and simply get lost in the nature around you. A visit to Madira Bickel Mound is sure to leave you with a greater appreciation for Florida’s rich history and landscape.