Patterson Park – Fort Meade, FL

Tucked away in southern Polk County is the beautiful Patterson Park. Patterson Park’s three rectangular shaped lakes are remnants of Polk County’s robust phosphate mining history. Converted into a public park, Patterson Park is a great little park for an outdoor picnic and a stroll under the oak trees.

Patterson Park is a public park located in Fort Meade, FL. Its highlights include paved walking paths that weave between three lakes, observations decks for wildlife viewing, two gazebos with a picnic area, a boat ramp and launch, and a pretty fountain that lights up at night.  

With its ample walking paths, plentiful wildlife, and numerous shady rest spots, Patterson Park is a must-see place with a natural old-Florida feel. Take a look at the pictures below to get a better idea of what Patterson Park has to offer.

Patterson Park Highlights (in Photos)

Walking Paths that Weave Between Three Lakes

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Observation Decks for Wildlife Viewing

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Two Gazebos Overlooking the Water

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Boat Ramp and Launch

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Fountain in the Lake

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Things to Know Before You Go

• No entry fee or staffed buildings
• Outdoor picnic area near large gazebo
• Ample shade under trees and in gazebos
• Plenty of places to stop and sit down
• Outdoor areas were clean and well-maintained
• Park was not crowded at all during our visit
• Plenty of parking for the typical number of visitors
• Fishing appeared to be allowed here, but we did not research the rules or requirements
• Main paths appeared to be wheelchair and stroller accessible (does not include gazebos or observation decks)
• Water fountain was not working during our visit, be sure to bring your own water

Park Address and Directions

The address for Patterson Park is 9th St NE, Fort Meade, FL 33841. It is located off U.S Hwy 17 (also called U.S. Hwy 98 on the map), just inside the City of Fort Meade.

If you’re heading south on U.S. Hwy 17, you will see the lake with a large fountain on your right just as you enter the city. You will notice the lake and fountain before you see the sign for Patterson Park. Use the second entrance (off 6^th Street) from this direction, as the first entrance is for loading/unloading boats.

If you’re heading north on U.S. Hwy 17, the park will be on your left, but will be a little harder to spot as you come up to it. You will pass an O’Reilly Auto Parts store just before you reach the park. Turn left onto 6^th Street and the park entrance will be on your immediate right.  

Final Thoughts about Patterson Park

Although Patterson Park is on the smaller side, this is actually one of the reasons we love it so much! You can see an abundance of wildlife, enjoy a walk under the hanging oaks, and stop for a picnic in the gazebo – all without walking for miles, or ever losing sight of your vehicle! This beautiful park is a hidden gem of southern Polk County. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

You can find more photos of Sam and I on our Instagram!

If you are interested in seeing more reclaimed phosphate mining sites in/around Polk County, check out Mosaic Peace River Park in Bartow, FL and Streamsong Resort in Bowling Green, FL.

Be sure to leave us a comment if you’ve been to Patterson Park or plan on going!