Experiences
Bicycling
Lake Manatee State Park offers a fun, family-friendly biking experience along our 2.5-mile paved interior road that winds through pine flatwoods down to the shore of beautiful Lake Manatee, through our day use area nestled in sand pine scrub and finally winds lazily through our two campground loops. This is a smooth and pleasant ride.
There are also 2.34 miles of off-road cycling with a variety of terrain for the more adventurous of heart. Here you can check out the wildlife, enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the lake, wind through different habitat, see the wildflowers in bloom, observe the restorative results of prescribed fire and step back in time for a glimpse of what the Real Florida is all about!
- Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists and Florida law requires helmets for cyclists age 16 and under.
Camping
A 60-site camping area is within walking distance of the beach and fishing areas. Water and 30-amp electricity are available at every site. A dump station is located at the entrance of the campground.
- Camps are near picnic tables, playground, 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 can be made up to 11 months in advance. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
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.
- All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season.
- A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website, Fishing in Florida.
Geo-Seeking
Explore the park in a new and challenging way. Experienced geocachers have requested permission to hide caches containing trinkets, treasures or information in various places around the park. Please check the Geocaching website for the most up-to-date information and clues to locate these caches.
Hiking
The park offers 4.5 miles of trails. The park is remote so please have a hiking plan and let family or a friend know where you are going and know what you are getting into. Have a hiking buddy and plenty of water. Take a backpack for supplies like a cellphone, hat, sunglasses, rain gear, compass, first aid kit, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent and binoculars.
- Always be aware of weather conditions and stay on designated trails.
The park protects over 600 acres of habitat for hundreds of common Florida species and rare and listed species. All wildlife in the park is protected and should be viewed from a distance. It is illegal to feed, harass, molest, trap or hunt animals in the park. Please see map located at kiosk and sign in.
Picnicking
Picnic tables and grills are nestled in a mesic flatwood habitat just a short walk from the lake. A pavilion with seating capacity for up to 75 people is also available and may be reserved.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited except during park-sanctioned events when alcohol is permitted within designated areas.
Swimming
Lake Manatee State Park’s designated swimming area is along the shores of a human-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.
Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Lake Manatee State Park is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors. These amenities include:
- Campsites with concrete pad, picnic table, ground grill and nearby restrooms.
- Picnic facilities with tables and grills.
- Playground.
- Interpretive exhibits.
- Parking.
- Restrooms.
Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.
Boat Ramp
A boat ramp and fishing dock are available.
- Boaters can enjoy the convenient double-access boat launching facility with floating fishing docks, one of only two access points to Lake Manatee.
- Overnight mooring is not permitted.
- All boaters must pay entrance fees to access the park and a $4 boat ramp fee.
Campgrounds
A 60-site camping area is within walking distance of the beach and fishing areas. Water and 30-amp electricity are available at every site. A dump station is located at the entrance of the campground.
- Camps are near picnic tables, playground, 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 can be made up to 11 months in advance. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
Pets
Pets are allowed in the park. Visitors should remember to clean up after their pets and keep pets on a 6-foot handheld leash at all times. Pets may not be left unattended.
You may walk your pet along the trails and in use areas, but they are not allowed in the swimming area.
Service animals are welcome in all visitor use areas in the park.
- See our Pet Policy
Picnic Pavilion
The picnic pavilions are located within view of Lake Manatee.
- A large pavilion includes 12 picnic tables and rents for $74.55 for a full day, tax included.
- Electric, barbecue grill and water are available.
- Please contact the ranger station at 941-741-3028 for availability and reservations.
- A medium pavilion includes 4 picnic tables (no power) and rents for $32.10 for a full day, tax included.
RV
RVers and tent campers enjoy the 60-site camping area at this park.
Each site has water and 30-amp electricity. A dump station is located at the entrance of the campground.
- Well-behaved pets are welcome at the campground.
- Maximum RV length = 65 ft.
- Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
