DeSoto County is located in southwest Florida, bordering the Gulf of Mexico. It is the 11th most populous county in the state. Its county seat is Arcadia. DeSoto County comprises the Arcadia, FL Micropolitan Statistical Area, which is included in the North Port-Sarasota, FL Combined Statistical Area.

DeSoto County is governed by a five-member Board of County Commissioners. The board is made up of one representative from each of the five districts in the county, each of which serves a four-year term. The board sets policy, approves the county budget, and appoints a county administrator to implement the board's decisions.

The county is home to several state parks, including Myakka River State Park, Peace River Wildlife Management Area, and Highlands Hammock State Park. Agriculture is the main economic driver, and the county is known for its cattle, citrus, and timber production.

DeSoto County is served by the DeSoto County School District, and there are several colleges and universities located in the area.

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