About Lake Manatee State Park
A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER
Manny Perez
It’s springtime at Lake Manatee State Park and while out taking care of the grounds the rangers have noticed some changes. Flowers are blooming; wild blueberry, dwarf huckleberry, sensitive brier and violets. Song birds are singing; blue birds, pine warblers, and cardinals. Raptors are soaring; eastern screech owls, red tailed hawks and we even spotted a swallow tailed kite gliding majestically over the Flatwoods. Pileated Woodpeckers are pecking, gopher tortoises are facing off and the rabbits...both marsh and cottontails are hopping to and fro. Spring is one of the best times of year to book a site at Lake Manatee State Park. The weather is still cool in the mornings and the evenings making a campfire inviting but the day warms up enough to enjoy a dip in the lake from our beautiful beach. It’s a great time of year to rent a canoe and venture out on the lake to explore the little creeks that offer a glimpse of old Florida and nesting Moorhens. Or you could rent a bicycle and enjoy a quiet, pleasant ride through the park with little to no road traffic, bring a book and settle down under a tree or bring a pole and relax on our dock in hopes of catching the crappie, bass and catfish the lake is known for. There are endless opportunities to wile away your day here at Lake Manatee State Park! We hope to see you here taking advantage of the recreation we have to offer.
GETTING HERE
Take exit 220 off of I-75. Lake Manatee State Park is located 9 miles east of I-75 on State Road 64 in Bradenton, Florida.
GET INVOLVED
- Volunteer - Lake Manatee State Park is always looking for outgoing and dedicated volunteers to assist with day-to-day park operations, special projects and campground hosting.
- For forms, information and benefits of volunteering visit Get Involved.
CONCESSIONAIRES
PET POLICY
- Florida State Parks Pet Policy
- Pets are allowed in the Park at Lake Manatee State Park. Visitors should remember to clean up after their pets and keep pets on a 6 foot hand-held leash at all times. Pets may not be left unattended. You may walk your pet along the trails, and in use areas, but they are not allowed in the swimming area. Service animals are welcome in all visitor use areas in the park. Please contact the Ranger Station for specific pet restrictions or inquiries.
