US Infantryman at Loxahatchee Battlefield as told by Dowling Watford
Brief points local history: Second Seminole War’s largest battle was in Palm Beach County
- Riverbend Park in Jupiter, Florida will remain a “passive” recreation area.
- The park features diverse natural habitats and historical significance as the site of Second Seminole War battles.
- Visitors can enjoy activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
Riverbend Park will continue to be used as a “passive” recreational area as new construction and the newest development will be built in a small part of the park land that has already been disturbed. Palm Beach County intends on keeping it that way .
The new interpretive center set to be built, next year, in the park’s land does not include “active” amenities like a sports field or golf courses but it could include site-specific graphics and visitor access and safety points .
Covering much of the park are pine flatwoods, open meadows, cypress swamps and oak hammocks that are home to hundreds of native species of flora and fauna, perfect for walks or just observing nature.
The 644-acre park in Jupiter also includes the Loxahatchee Battlefield Park site of the Second Seminole War battles.
Here are top things to know about Riverbend Park.
Where is Riverbend Park located in Jupiter, Florida?
Riverbend Park is geographically in a “unique position,” said Derek Hankerson, president of the Loxahatchee Battlefield Preservationists group. It is just minutes west of the first southbound exit in Palm Beach County from Interstate 95 and Florida’s Turnpike. The address to the park entrance is 9060 Indiantown Road in Jupiter.
What is the history behind Riverbend Park?
The Loxahatchee Battlefield, now part of Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park in Jupiter, Florida, is a site of two significant battles from the Second Seminole War. These battles, known as Powell’s Battle and Jesup’s Battle, took place in January 1838, marking a crucial period in the conflict between the U.S. military and the Seminole people. The area has been inhabited for approximately 5,000 years, with evidence of indigenous settlements and activity.
What kinds of activities can I currently do at Riverbend Park? What about kayak rentals?
Currently, you can canoe, kayak and fish in the river. There are also three different picnic areas where you can find tables that are set up for you or you can find a nice spot to set up blankets. The park also includes nearly 10 miles of walking/hiking trails, seven miles of equestrian trials and five miles of waterways.
Who are the Loxahatchee Battlefield Preservationists?
A group formed for the preservation and unification of Indigenous history at Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park stand as a testament to the commitment to honoring and safeguarding the rich cultural heritage embedded in the land. This park serves not only as a historical battleground but also as a living archive where the narratives of Indigenous communities are meticulously preserved and celebrated.
Preserving and safeguarding the Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park’s historical legacy by preventing development and fostering the reunion of The Great Seminole Nation of Oklahoma with The Seminole & Miccosukee Tribes of Florida.
Pet policy at Riverbend Park
While Riverbend Park has many walking trails, they are strictly for humans, so no pets are allowed in any part of the park with the exception of service animals. The park is a wildlife management area, and the presence of dogs is considered a potential safety risk for both the animals and the wildlife within the park. You can be fined maximum penalty of up to $250 per violation per day, according to the town of Jupiter. Repeat violations can result in a maximum penalty of up to $500 per day.
Francesca Abarca is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at [email protected]. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.
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