The mission of De Soto National Memorial is to preserve the controversial story of Hernando de Soto's four year, four thousand mile odyssey and interpret it's significance in American history. The park depicts 16th century Spanish cultural values and the clash with the native cultures that the expedition encountered. From late December to early April, there is a reproduction of the 16th Century Indian village with park rangers dressed in period costume. They give demonstrations of blacksmithing, cooking, armor repair and military weapons. Leashed pets are permitted in the park, but are not allowed in the buildings or on the beaches. Leashes must be no longer than six feet.