LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK
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.
The Little Manatee River runs through the park and it is an excellent location to observe bird life and other animals.
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.
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the
FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
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.
Freshwater fishing opportunities include bass, bream and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for persons 16 years of age or older.
Visitors can explore the river by canoe and observe the area's scenic beauty and wildlife. Canoes are available for rent.
Little Manatee River State Park is located near Apollo Beach, Bradenton and Brandon
Restroom facilities are available in the park. All restroom facilities are ADA accessible.
The park has a 12 mile equestrian trail and eight equestrian campsites. Dogs are not allowed on the equestrian trail.
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.
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.
Pets must be confined, leashed (not to exceed six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Tethered pets must not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes. Quiet hours must be observed from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property. Failure to abide by these rules may result in the camper being asked to board the pet outside the park or to leave the campground.
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.
Had a fantastic time freezing caming in January and we are really looking forward to our next camp there in April! We are taking 17 new campers to paddle the river, fish the lakes and hike the trails! Clean bathrooms, helpful staff. I sure hope we get some rain soon so we can have a campfire!
Overall I was disappointed in the park. Last couple of times park volunteers held small campfire events for the visitors. This visit I was feeling the urgency for them to claim spots of no shows. The camper next me was told there were no spots available and could not stay only to have that spot taken by volunteer that night. The overall friendly atmosphere was not there and instead our party felt as though we were intruding. My party and myself understand the value of having these volunteer workers but it should be guests first.
Stephen Allums
PS the ranger was very professional but seemed unaware of the of the happenings
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