St. Petersburg: Jungle Prada History Walk & Tocobaga Mound

Summary

St. Petersburg’s wild peacocks mingle with ancient shells as local guides share the Tocobaga story on a hidden garden walk

You’ll walk through a private seaside garden in St. Petersburg with a local historian, meet free-roaming peacocks, and stand atop Florida’s best-preserved Tocobaga Indian mound. Hear stories of explorers and ancient cultures while touching native plants — all with parking included and plenty of time for questions or just soaking in the quiet.

What’s the experience like?

“The mound’s older than any house in this city,” our guide said, brushing his hand over a shell embedded in the path. I didn’t expect to start a Florida day trip like this — not with the sound of peacocks shrieking overhead and the sun already thick through banyan leaves. The Jungle Prada Site isn’t what you picture when you think of St. Petersburg, honestly. It sits tucked behind some old houses, right where Narváez supposedly landed in 1528 (I had to look him up later). Our group was small, just six of us and the guide, who kept tossing out these wild facts about the Tocobaga people as we walked.

I kept getting distracted by the smell — kind of salty, green, almost like rain on old shells. The mound itself is massive, way bigger than I’d pictured from photos, all layered with conch and whelk shells that crunch softly under your shoes if you step wrong (which I did). The Anderson family has been looking after this place for decades; one of them waved at us from their porch while we passed. There’s something about seeing history in someone’s backyard that makes it feel more real — not like a museum at all.

At one point our guide let us touch some of the native plants used by the Tocobaga. The leaves felt rougher than I expected. He joked about how everyone but him pronounces “Tocobaga” wrong (I definitely did). Someone asked about Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca and his crazy trek across America — apparently he started here too? Wild stuff. I still think about that view from the top of the mound: just trees, water, and those loud birds strutting around like they own the place.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Jungle Prada Site history and nature

• Arrive at Jungle Prada Site
• Join 75-minute guided history tour
• See Tocobaga Indian midden mound
• Learn about Tocobaga village plaza
• Observe free-roaming peacocks
• Hear story of Narvaez Expedition
• Visit nearby free parking area
• Walk to site tour start

Top questions

How long is the Jungle Prada Site History Tour?

The guided tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.

Is parking available at Jungle Prada Site?

Yes, free parking is available on-site near the tour entrance.

Is this St. Petersburg history tour wheelchair accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible; paths may be uneven due to historic grounds.

Can I bring my pet to Jungle Prada Site?

No, pets are not allowed on site except for service animals.

Who leads the Jungle Prada walking tour?

A local historian guides each group through the site.

Are children allowed on this history tour?

Yes, children can join; infants and small kids can use prams or strollers.

What will I see during this day trip in St. Petersburg?

You’ll visit a preserved Tocobaga Indian mound, native plants, wild peacocks, and learn local history.

What’s included

Your visit includes free on-site parking and a 75-minute guided walking tour led by a knowledgeable historian through private gardens and historic mounds—plus plenty of time to ask questions along the way before heading back into St. Petersburg’s regular pace.