Little Manatee River State Park

About Little Manatee River State Park

The Little Manatee River begins in a swampy area near Fort Lonesome and flows through a series of wetlands before flowing into the river itself. The river is designated as outstanding Florida water and is part of Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. Visitors can fish on the banks of the river and swim in the creek, as well as kayak, canoe and boat.

Wildlife lovers can enjoy the natural beauty, and the park has a variety of hiking trails for those who prefer their walks on horseback. On the way, campers can hike to the primitive campsite or stay overnight at the fully equipped campsites. Youth group campsites can accommodate up to 20 people, as well as small group campsites for a maximum of four people.

A picturesque picnic area along the river with tables, barbecues and gazebos where you can picnic with friends, family and friends.

Unreserved pavilions are available to you according to the motto "first come, first served" or you can reserve a pavilion for a fee.

Located in the Little Manatee River Aquatic Preserve on the north side of the park. The park opened to the public in 1987 and the first property to make up Little Manatee River State Park was purchased in 1990 and named after the river that flows through it. The rivers, which are described as the Florida Waterway, are part of the Cockroach Bay Aquatics Preserve. The LittleManateed River flows through the parks and is an excellent place to see birds and other animals.

Since its first acquisition in 1974, the park has acquired several additional plots and since its foundation has expanded to include more plots, to the extent that it now covers an area of 2400 hectares.

There are 34 fully connected campsites, four of which are designed specifically for camping on horseback. Each room is equipped with amenities such as picnic area, picnic tables, water park and fireplace.

Shopping is available at Sun City Center, which is 8 km from the park, and there are many activities planned throughout the year. Pets are allowed without restrictions and the exhibitions in the parks are open to the public, the general public and local businesses and organizations.

The Little Manatee Youth Camp can accommodate up to 20 people at a time, but the primitive tents along the way are only available by reservation. Canoes can be rented and visitors can explore the river in canoes and observe the scenic beauty of the wildlife in the area.

Freshwater fishing opportunities include perch, bream and catfish, and persons 16 years and older must obtain a Florida Freshwater Fishing License.

There are toilets throughout the park, accessible for wheelchair users in the parking lot of Little Manatee River State Park and at the entrance to the lake.

Picnic tables and gazebos are available at picnic areas along the river, and gazebos can be reserved for a fee. The gazebo is available without reservation at the Little Manatee River State Park picnic area on the south side of the lake.

In the northern wilderness area of the park, there are a variety of habitats that wind through the Little Manatee River and its tributaries, such as forests, grassland, forests, wetlands and grasslands.

The nature trails in Little Manatee River State Park are considered some of the best hiking trails in the region. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the trails except for a limited number of times a year and hikers must register with the park ranger station. The primitive camps along the way are only accessible by reservation.

Pets must be kept at all times and rest periods must be observed between 23: 00 and 20: 30. Pets who are tied up and left unattended for no more than 30 minutes must leave their tied up place unattended for at least 15 minutes.

Florida law requires that all pets be vaccinated against rabies, so their owners must pick up their pets and return them to the park for vaccination.

Animals that are noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive must not stay in the park and must be locked up, such as dogs, cats, birds and reptiles.

Animals may not be kept on the grounds of the park and breaches of these rules may result in campers being asked to put animals up in the parks or leave the campsites.

The Little Manatee River State Park is located on the west side of the Little Manatese River, north of Lake Okeechobee. Then drive north for 6 miles and turn left onto Lightfoot Road, then turn right and you will find the park on your right.