Gamble Plantation State Park
This antebellum mansion was home to Major Robert Gamble and headquarters of an extensive sugar plantation. It is the only surviving plantation house in South Florida. It is believed that Confederate Secretary of State, Judah P. Benjamin, took refuge here after the fall of the Confederacy, until his safe passage to England could be secured. In 1925, the house and 16 acres were saved by the United Daughters of the Confederacy and donated to the state. Today, the mansion is furnished in the style of a successful mid-19th century plantation. Guided tours of the house are given six times a day, Thursday through Monday and there are picnic tables on the grounds. The visitor center is open from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Thursday through Monday; it is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Located in Ellenton on U.S. 301 East.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Exit 224 from I-75. Head west for 1 mile on US 301. Look for the Landmark white picket fence and turn right into the main park entrance.
Park Fees
Admission:
Admission to the park is free
Tours are $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children.
Tour times are 9:30 and 10:30am, and 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, and 4:00pm everyday that the Visitor Center is open.
