Manager's Message
Please pardon our dust. In December 2009 Little Manatee River State Park will begin two projects, which include replacement of the restroom facility roof and installation of a new well. At times, the well project may cause a disruption of service and campers may have to boil water. The eventual result will provide a safer, more enjoyable, visit for park visitors. Thank you for your patience and please contact Park Manager James Blincoe at (813)671-5005 if you have questions.
Fall wild flowers are in bloom and with the cooler temperatures, why not come out to canoe the river or hike the trails at Little Manatee River State Park. We have a 6 ½ mile trail that as quoted from FloridaHikes.com “simply so scenic you won’t forget them.” If 6 ½ miles is too much, we also have a shorter trail that takes about 15 to 30 minutes – depending on your pace. Be sure to bring your camera, we have numerous different themes for your subject matter: wildflowers, river, lake, etc. The deer are beginning to get active – sorry all of the fawns have lost their spots. For our equestrian campers we now offer 2 stalls per campsite. If you enjoy the outdoors and all it has to offer, make plans to come by and see us. We look forward to your visit!
- James Blincoe, Park Manager
Welcome to 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.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Little Manatee River State Park, please call 813-671-5005.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
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
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$5.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Camping Fees:
$22.00 per night, plus tax.
Youth Camping:
$1.00 per youth, plus tax
$5.00 per adult/chaperone, per night, plus tax.
Pavilion Fees::
$40.00 plus tax: Large Pavilion
$20.00 plus tax: Small Pavilion
Little Manatee River State Park
215 Lightfoot Road
Wimauma, Florida 33598
Phone: 813-671-5005
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of Little Manatee River
116 Hickory Creek Drive
Brandon, FL 33511
