Boat Ramp

A boat ramp and fishing dock are available for visitors to use.

Boating

A Manatee County ordinance restricts boat motors to 20 horsepower or less. The ordinance also prohibits water-skiing.

Camping, Full Facility

A 60-site camping area located within walking distance from the swimming and fishing areas. Water and electricity are available at every site. A dump station is located at the entrance of the campground.

Camps are near picnic tables, playground and a swimming area and beach. A boat ramp and launching dock provide access to the lake. Well behaved pets are welcome at the campground.

Maximum RV length = 65 ft.

Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book Online or call (800) 326-3521 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) or TDD (888) 433-0287.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Bring your own canoe or kayak and travel the shores of our 2,400 acres Lake Manatee. Scenic Lake Manatee serves as a wonderful wildlife viewing area which is easy to tour by canoe or kayak.

Participation Requirements

Fishing

Lake Manatee offers excellent fishing. A variety of species are frequently caught, such as largemouth and sunshine bass, speckled perch, bluegill, shellcracker and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license may be required. Lake Manatee Fishing Info

Hiking/Nature Trail

There are several trails located throughout the park. Stop by our ranger station to obtain the maps of our in-park trails or our multi-use Gopher Trail.

Participation Requirements

Picnicking

Picnic tables and grills nestled in a mesic flatwood habitat just a short walk from the lake. A pavilion is also available and may be reserved. Seating capacity for up to 75 people.  Consumption of alcohol beverages is prohibited, except during park-sanctioned events where alcohol is permitted within designated areas.

Playground

A playground is aviailable at the park. Also available are horseshoe pits and a sand volleyball court. Visitors may bring their own equipment or rent our horseshoes and volleyballs for a nominal fee.

Restroom Facilities

ADA accessible restroom facilities are available in the park.

Showers, Day Visitors

A rinse station is located at the restroom near the swimming area.

Swimming

Lake Manatee State Park’s designated swimming area is along the shores of a man-made reservoir. Water plants are frequently blown ashore. Conditions and accessibility vary seasonally. It is strongly recommended that those wishing to use the swimming area call in advance of their visit for current conditions. A lifeguard is not provided.

Wildlife Viewing

The natural beauty of Lake Manatee State Park brings in several different species of wildlife. Some of the viewings have been bobcat, deer, quail, and gopher tortoises. See our birding list for a record of possible sightings.Lake Manatee SP Animal List Lake Manatee Gopher Trails