Alafia River State Park is situated in the midst of a unique history. Once a bustling phosphate mine, the park now showcases the transformation of the land, featuring small lakes and striking grades sculpted by mining activities.

The lush bottomland forest along the South Prong of the Alafia River remains an untouched sanctuary, shielded from the industrial hands of mining.

A generous donation of 7,717 acres from past and present mining companies secured the preservation of this natural gem for generations to come.

Occupying the grounds of the former mine in Fort Lonesome, the park stands as a testament to resilience and restoration. In the Hillsborough County Historic Resources Survey Report, Fort Lonesome is noted for its intriguing array of origin stories behind its name.