Activities at Lake Manatee State Park
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Boat RampA boat ramp and fishing dock are available for visitors to use. |
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BoatingA Manatee County ordinance restricts boat motors to 20 horsepower or less. The ordinance also prohibits water-skiing. |
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Canoeing/KayakingBring your own canoe or kayak and travel the shores of our 2,400 acres Lake Manatee. Scenic Lake Manatee serves as a wonderful wildlife viewing area which is easy to tour by canoe or kayak. |
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FacilitiesADA accessible restroom facilities are available in the park. |
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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. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for all persons over 16 years of age. Lake Manatee Fishing Info
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Full Facility CampingA 60-site camping area located within walking distance from the swimming and fishing areas. Water and electric is available on every site. A dump station is located at the entrance of the campground. Camping fee- $18 plus tax, rates are the same throughout the year round. Rates are per night, per site for up to 8 people. |
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Hiking/Nature TrailsThere are several trails located throughout the park. Stop by our ranger station to obtain the maps of our in-park trails or our multi-use Gopher Trail. |
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Pet CampingPets 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. to 7:00 a.m. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Pets are not permitted in park buildings, swimming, or fishing areas. 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. |
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PicnickingPicnic tables and grills nestled in a mesic flatwood habitat just a short walk from the lake. A pavilion is also available and may be reserved for a $50 fee per day. Seating capacity for up to 75 people. |
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PlaygroundSwing set, teeter totters, slides, and climbing gym. Also available are horseshoe pits and a sand volleyball court. Visitors may bring their own equipment or rent our horseshoes and volleyballs for a nominal fee. |
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ShowersThere are two shower facilities, with hot water, located in the campground. A rinse station is located at the restroom near the swimming area. |
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SwimmingAvailable in the designated area in Lake Manatee with changing facilities. |
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Wildlife ViewingThe natural beauty of Lake Manatee State Park brings in several different species of wildlife. Some of the viewings have been bobcat, deer, quail, and gopher tortoises. See our birding list for a record of possible sightings.Lake Manatee SP Animal List Lake Manatee Gopher Trails |










