Little Manatee River State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Little Manatee River State Park in Wimauma, Florida, is an excellent spot to start your next outdoor adventure. Water-based sports are the top draws for this park, with many visitors kayaking or canoeing along the gentle waters of the picturesque Little Manatee River. If hitting the water is not on your list of things to do, you can also explore the forested boardwalks or enjoy a riverside picnic. The park offers opportunities for visitors to fish, horseback ride, or view wildlife. Whether you travel during the spring or winter, this park is an ideal destination for a tranquil escape. Nearby Cities: • Sun City Center, FL • Greater Sun Center, FL • Ruskin, FL • Parrish, FL
Spring 60-85 F
Summer 75-90 F
Fall 65-85 F
Winter 50-70 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Little Manatee River State Park
Little Manatee River State Park Campground • Water hookup: Yes • Electrical hookup: Yes • Sewer hookup: No • Wi-Fi: No • Pet-friendly: Yes, • Max RV length: 65 feet • Other amenities: Dump station, restroom facilities, and hot showers
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
For the best access to the park’s paddling and hiking opportunities, reserve a site in the Little Manatee River State Park Campground. It offers 30 sites, each designed to fit an RV. Water is available in each spot, along with electric service up to 50 amps. Within the campground, you’ll find a dump station, restroom, and hot showers. Campsites cost $22 per night plus a reservation fee.
Terra Ceia RV Resort
Stay between Little Manatee River State Park and Tampa Bay at the beautiful Terra Ceia RV Resort. With 206 sites, this is also a great alternative when the state park campground is full. You’ll get full hookups, as well as access to the library, game room, and dog park. Enjoy the Florida heat in the swimming pool and take advantage of the laundry room and hot showers during your stay.
What to Do at
Little Manatee River State Park
The Little Manatee River State Park's crown jewel is the winding Little Manatee River. At this spot, you can embark on water-based adventures or hit the hiking trails that wander through the lush, moss-draped forests. Anglers can cast their lines into the river's inviting waters and try their hand at catching blue tilapia or black crappie. With its distinctive old Florida charm and various outdoor activities, Little Manatee River State Park is a hidden gem in the Sunshine State.
Inside Little Manatee River State Park
The Little Manatee River is the heart of the state park, and the best way to enjoy it is by boat. Rent a kayak or canoe from the ranger station and launch nearby. From there, you can paddle for miles on the gentle, shallow river. While you’re at it, try fishing from your boat; you’ll need both freshwater and saltwater licenses. Afterward, check out the park from another perspective on the 15-mile trail network.
Fishing
The Little Manatee River is a prime spot for angling. You will see many fish species, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. Whether you're casting from the riverbanks or fishing from a kayak or canoe, the park provides an opportunity to test your skills. Don't forget to bring your fishing gear and a valid Florida fishing license for an enjoyable day on the water.
Nature Watching
Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species, including herons, egrets, owls, and ospreys. The river is home to turtles and manatees. Land-dwelling white-tailed deer and raccoons also call this park home. The lush vegetation provides a habitat for numerous insects and butterflies, adding to the park's ecological richness.
Flora and Fauna
Little Manatee River State Park is filled with towering live oak and pine trees, while Spanish moss gracefully drapes from their branches. Saw palmettos and leafy vegetation create a green and dense environment. As you explore the trails, keep an eye out for various plant species, such as wildflowers and ferns.
Hiking
The Riverside Trail winds along the river, and it is the perfect place to get stunning views of the park. The Sand Pine Trail offers a moderate hike through unique Florida scrub habitat, while the North Hiking Loop ventures into rugged wilderness.
Boating
The river is a perfect destination for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. The clear and shallow waters make it easy for all those water-based activities. The picturesque scenery of overhanging moss and vegetation provides a peaceful and immersive experience as you travel down the waterways. The park offers equipment rentals, so you can still have fun even if you don't have your own gear.
Biking
Cyclists of all levels can pedal through the Florida wilderness on pathways like the Riverside Trail and Sand Pine Trail. These multiple trails are the perfect opportunity to connect with the park's charming environment.
How to Get to
Little Manatee River State Park
From Tampa, start by taking I-75 South to Exit 240, which leads to FL-674 West. Travel westward on FL-674 for roughly 13 miles, and then make a left turn onto US-301 South. Continue along US-301 for about 1 mile. The entrance to the park will be on your right. If you are traveling from Bradenton, head east on FL-64 East. Merge onto I-75 South, and after a few miles, take Exit 229. That exit will take you toward FL-674 and Sun City Center. Make a right onto FL-674 West and continue along this road for approximately 8 miles. As you approach your destination, turn left onto US-301 South. After a mile, you will see the park's entrance on your right.
Entering Little Manatee River State Park
There is plenty of parking throughout the park.
Little Manatee River State Park Per vehicle : $5.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Little Manatee River State Park
If you want to have the best experience at Little Manatee River State Park, you will want to plan your visit during the fall and winter months. During late October through April, the weather is mild, and it is the perfect time for hiking, paddling, and enjoying the park's natural beauty.
Little Manatee River State Park is a great place to spot herons, egrets, and owls. Along with that, the river is home to fish, turtles, and manatees, while white-tailed deer and raccoons inhabit the surrounding forests. Keep your eyes open for any alligators hanging out in the brackish water.
Yes. All 30 RV campsites at the Little Manatee River State Park Campground come equipped with water and electricity. These sites also have access to an RV dump station near the campgrounds.
If you're planning to camp with an RV at Little Manatee River State Park, it is highly recommended that you book your spot before you head to the park. The cost is usually $22 per night, along with a $6.70 reservation fee. You can make these reservations up to 11 months ahead of your visit.
Little Manatee River State Park allows pets, but they must be kept on a leash and controlled all the time. You are also responsible for cleaning up after your pets to maintain the park's natural beauty and cleanliness.