The park is named after Count Odet Philippe, the first non-indigenous settler of Pinellas County, who introduced grapefruit trees to Florida.
The Tocobaga Indian mound is a massive 20-foot-high earthwork dating back to approximately 900-1700 AD.
Odet Philippe was a surgeon in Napoleon’s army before settling on the property in 1842.
The park contains one of the few remaining examples of a historic orange grove planted by Philippe.
The archaeological site is protected under federal status due to its importance in understanding indigenous cultures of the Florida Gulf Coast.
Philippe Park is the oldest regional park in Pinellas County, situated on the western shore of Old Tampa Bay. The site is home to the Safety Harbor Site, a prehistoric Tocobaga Indian mound designated as a National Historic Landmark. The park features over 122 acres of land offering diverse ecosystems including oak-shaded picnic areas and mangrove shorelines. Visitors have access to a boat ramp providing entry to the bay, along with fishing piers and seawalls. Recreational amenities include multiple playgrounds, a fitness course, and sand volleyball courts. Several sheltered pavilions are available for large gatherings. The park serves as a habitat for local wildlife, including manatees often spotted in the shallow waters near the seawall. Walking trails wind through the dense tree canopy, providing connectivity between the historic mound and the waterfront. The grounds are maintained by Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources.
The elevated viewing area near the historic mound overlooking the expansive bay shoreline.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better spot manatees near the seawall.
Arrive early on weekends to secure a pavilion or picnic table in the shade.
Walk the perimeter of the Indian mound slowly to observe the placards detailing the Tocobaga history.
Do not attempt to climb or walk on the protected prehistoric mound, as it is a fragile historic landmark.
Stay on marked trails to protect the historic mound; pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
