🌤 Weather at Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58–88 °F | 74–92 °F | 60–90 °F | 52–75 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Bradenton 5 Ese, 11 mi away, elevation 20 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Florida’s Pre-Columbian Temple Mound — Ancient ceremonial mound built by the Safety Harbor culture on the shores of Tampa Bay
Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site preserves a pre-Columbian temple mound built by the Safety Harbor culture (AD 900–1500) on the shores of Terra Ceia Island in Manatee County, Florida. The flat-topped mound — approximately 20 feet high and 100 feet in diameter — was a ceremonial platform likely used for religious rituals and as the residence of the community’s chief.
Table of Contents
The Mound
The temple mound is a flat-topped earthen pyramid approximately 20 feet high and 100 feet in diameter. It was constructed over centuries by layering shell, sand, and earth. The flat top served as a platform for structures — likely a chief’s residence or ceremonial building. The mound type is characteristic of Mississippian-influenced cultures in the southeastern United States.
Safety Harbor Culture
📜 Safety Harbor Culture
• Period: AD 900–1500
• Region: Tampa Bay and central Gulf Coast of Florida
• Characteristics: Temple mound builders, pottery (Safety Harbor series), shell tool manufacture
• Economy: Fishing, shellfish harvesting, coastal agriculture
• Contact: Likely encountered Spanish explorers (Hernando de Soto, 1539)
Archaeology
The site was excavated by the Smithsonian Institution in the 1930s. Artifacts recovered include Safety Harbor pottery, shell tools, bone implements, and evidence of European contact (glass beads, metal fragments). The mound is a National Historic Landmark.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | Terra Ceia, Manatee County, FL 34250 |
| 📞 Phone | (941) 723-4536 |
| 🕐 Hours | Year-round, 8 AM – sunset |
| 💰 Fee | Free |
| ⏱️ Duration | 30 minutes |
| 🅿️ Parking | Small lot |
More parks nearby: Terra Ceia Preserve State Park is a short drive away, while Gamble Plantation Historic State Park lies a short drive away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the mound?
The mound was built by the Safety Harbor culture between approximately AD 900 and 1500 — making it 500 to 1,100 years old.
Can you climb the mound?
Access to the top of the mound is generally restricted to protect the archaeological site. Viewing and interpretive signs are available at the base.
Is there an entrance fee?
No — the site is free to visit.
What is the Safety Harbor culture?
A pre-Columbian Native American culture that inhabited the Tampa Bay and central Gulf Coast region of Florida from approximately AD 900–1500. They were temple mound builders, potters, and coastal fisherfolk.
Was the mound excavated?
Yes — the Smithsonian Institution excavated the site in the 1930s. Artifacts include pottery, shell and bone tools, and evidence of early Spanish contact.
How long does a visit take?
Most visits take about 30 minutes. The site is small with interpretive signage. Combine with nearby attractions for a fuller trip.
What’s nearby?
De Soto National Memorial (10 miles), Emerson Point Preserve (5 miles with additional mound sites), and the Anna Maria Island beaches (15 miles) are all nearby in Manatee County.
🏛️ Visit Madira Bickel Mound
Stand before a 1,000-year-old temple mound on the shores of Tampa Bay and connect with the pre-Columbian civilizations of coastal Florida.
🗺️ Florida State ParksExplore More Florida State Parks
Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Madira Bickel Mound SAS — preserves a ceremonial mound built by the Safety Harbor culture (900-1500 AD) on Terra Ceia Island. The park’s coastal hammock and mangroves support ospreys, mangrove cuckoos, and gopher tortoises. Manatees feed in the surrounding waters.
Nearby Attractions
Palmetto — adjacent. Bradenton — 10 miles south. De Soto NM — 10 miles south. Tampa Bay — surrounding.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leashes may not exceed 6 feet; pets must be under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches, boardwalks or playgrounds, or in bathing areas — swimming pets can be viewed as prey by alligators.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in any state park buildings, cabins or cabin areas.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at several parks including Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs (free kennels at the entrance), Weeki Wachee Springs and Egmont Key; in campgrounds pets must be confined in the camping unit 11 p.m.-7 a.m.
Are dogs allowed at Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site?
Domestic pets are welcome in many Florida State Parks — on hiking trails, in picnic areas and campgrounds — but only in designated areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via floridastateparks.org. More: Florida state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
