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Little Manatee River State Park
Nearby Parks:
Lake Manatee State Park
Gamble Plantation Historic State Park
Alafia River State Park
Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site
De Soto National Memorial
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| State Park Contact Information: |
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Little Manatee River State Park
215 Lightfoot Road
Wimauma, Florida 33598
Phone: 813-671-5005
Reservations: 800-326-3521
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| State Park Reservations: |
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Reservations: 
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| State Park Overview: |
| The Little Manatee River begins in a swampy area near Fort Lonesome and flows almost 40 miles before emptying into Tampa Bay. The river has been designated an Outstanding Florida Water and is part of the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. Visitors can fish along the banks of the river. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy hiking a six-and-a-half mile trail through the park's northern wilderness area. For those who prefer their hikes on horseback, the park has 12 miles of equestrian trails and four equestrian campsites. Campers can spend the night in a full-facility campground or hike out to a primitive campsite along the trail. A youth/group campground accommodates up to 20 people. The scenic picnic area along the river has tables, grills, and pavilions. Pavilions can be reserved for a fee. Unreserved pavilions are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Located five miles south of Sun City, off U.S. 301 on Lightfoot Road. |
| Nature of the Area: |
| The Little Manatee River runs through the park and it is an excellent location to observe bird life and other animals. |
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| Camping: |
| Full RV camping is provided in 34 campsites with full hook-up, four of which are specifically designed for horse camping. (Negative Coggins required for all of our horse camping guests). Each site is equipped with electricity, water, a fire ring and picnic table. Pets are allowed with restrictions. Shopping is available at the Sun City Center which is located 5 miles from the park. Exhibits are located throughout the park and there are many planned activities year-round.
Primitive Camping
A primitive camp, located along the trail, is available by reservation only.
Youth Camping
Youth Camping area is available at Little Manatee and can accommodate up to 20 people at one time. |
| Trails: |
| A 6.5-mile hiking trail that meanders through a diversity of habitats is available in the park's northern wilderness area. Note: Dogs are not allowed on the 6.5 mile trail. A primitive camp, located along the trail, is available by reservation only. All hikers must register at the park's ranger station. Little Manatee River State Park's nature trails have been designated as the area's best hiking trails. |
| Picnicking: |
| Picnic tables and pavillions are available in the picnic area along the river. Pavilions can be reserved for a fee. Unreserved pavilions are available on a first come basis. |
| Fishing and Hunting: |
| Freshwater fishing opportunities include bass, bream and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for persons 16 years of age or older. |
| History of the Area: |
| Named for the river that runs through it, the first parcel of land that makes up Little Manatee River State Park was purchased on August 2, 1974. The park was then opened to the public in 1987, and since the river has been designated as an Outstanding Florida Waterway and is included in the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. Since the first purchase of land in 1974, the park has acquired several additional parcels and added these plots to the park since its' establishment. As a result, the park presently comprises over 2,400 acres. |
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| Directions: |
| Little Manatee River State Park is located four miles south of Sun City Center, off U.S. 301 on Lightfoot Road. From Tampa: I?75 South to Exit 240A, East to U.S. 301, Then South 4 miles, Turn Right onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right From Sarasota/Bradenton: I-75 North to Exit 229, East to U.S. 301, Then North 6 miles, Turn Left onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right From Pinellas County: I-275 South, cross the Skyway Bridge to I-75 North, Exit 229, East to U.S. 301, Then North 6 miles, Turn Left onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right. |
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