Little Manatee River State Park

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. The secluded camping area is nestled in a sand pine forest located away from the busier areas of the park. Full RV camping is provided in 34 campsites with full hook-up, four of which are specifically designed for horse camping. (Negative Coggins required for all horses). Each site is equipped with electricity, water, a fire ring and picnic table. Two ADA accessible campsites are available. Sites are separated by native Florida plants, affording campers privacy from other campsites. Well behaved pets are welcome in the campground. The park offers full showers in the restrooms. A washer and dryer are available for registered campers. Camp hosts are available in the camping area if you should have any questions. Exhibits are located throughout the park and there are many planned activities year-round. Maximum RV length = 68 ft. Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. A primitive camp, located along the hiking trail, accommodates up to 12 people. The campsite requires a 2.5 mile hike. A picnic table and a fire ring are available. Call the park for reservations at (813) 671-5005. The primitive youth camping area at Little Manatee River can accommodate up to 20 people. A picnic table and fire rings are available at the site. Restrooms are located in the park, about a quarter of a mile from the youth campsite. To make reservations call the park at (813) 671-5005.

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