Facts below are drawn from the linked sources.
Real history
Fort Dade was built in 1898 for the Spanish-American War and stayed active until 1923; the island also held captured Seminoles after the Third Seminole War (Florida State Parks).
Ghost stories
We found no well-sourced ghost legends for this place. It is listed for its abandoned history.
Then and now

Public access
Open to the public Open 8 am to sunset, 365 days a year; no fee. The island is reachable only by boat (Florida State Parks). Last checked: Nov 1, 2026.
Explore more
- More places in St. Petersburg and Florida
- More haunted & abandoned forts
- More haunted & abandoned ruins
- Nearby: The Don CeSar (St. Pete Beach, FL), Tampa Theatre (Tampa, FL), May-Stringer House (Brooksville, FL), St. Augustine Lighthouse (St. Augustine, FL)
⚠️ Please read: This information may be outdated and conditions change. Verify access with the owner or operator before you go. Spook Atlas does not encourage trespassing. Entering private, closed or condemned property can be illegal and dangerous. Report a correction.
Reader experiences
Not yet accepting submissions. Reader stories are coming later; this form is switched off and sends nothing. All stories are moderated before they appear. Posts describing trespassing, break-ins or how to get into closed areas are removed.
