Hernando de Soto information panel (click to enlarge)
Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto passed through this “vicinity” of the Natchez Trace Parkway on his way to the Mississippi River, the farthest west he would reach during his 1539-42 exploration of what is now the southeastern United States. He would die during the journey in May 1542. The reason Spain never again ventured into the region was because de Soto lost so many men to Indian battles that the recommendation by those who made it back alive was to never send anyone there again…plus they never found any gold or silver, the reason for the expedition in the first place.
In addition to an information panel about de Soto’s travels are two picnic tables and one grill. This is one of the few non-designated picnic areas that has a grill.
Picnic area at the Hernando de Soto stop on the Natchez Trace Parkway
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Last updated on December 3, 2021
