This park commemorates the site of Florida's largest Civil War battle, which took place February 20, 1864.
More than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee. Three U.S. Colored Troops took part in the battle, including the now famous 54th Massachusetts. The battle ended with 2,807 casualties and the retreat of Union troops to Jacksonville until the war's end just 14 months later.
In 1912, when many living Civil War veterans still attended reunions, the battlefield became the state's first historic site.
Olustee Battlefield has a visitor center with historical information and artifacts. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the picnic area or take a walk along a mile-long trail that has interpretive signs describing the events of the battle.