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Lake Manatee Campground

Lake Manatee Campground

100%

54 sites · RV, Tent

So, you spent all day on the lake having fun in the sun and now you’re too beat or buzzed to get behind the wheel? We’ve been there. Luckily, Lake Manatee State Park has a 60-site campground a mere hop, skip, and jump from the lake. One of those private, wooded spots is calling your name. There’s clean restrooms, and water and electricity at every site. You’re all set for sunset. Hopefully you remembered to throw your tent in the car.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewer hookups

No electric hookups

54 sites

RV, Tent

Explore 838 campgrounds near Lake Manatee State Park

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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Lake Manatee State Park

J and P Creekside Retreat

100%

(429)

45mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

98%

(446)

49mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 85 sites · Tents, RVs

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 4 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 4 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/we sell large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome!! Limit 2 per site/keep on a leash. Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com For all of our sites Check-in is daily from 2PM - 6PM. Check-out is a 11am daily. Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Camp Champ

97%

(205)

35mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe or ride trails. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Lots of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, glamp in the tiny house or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(377)

36mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Going on Year 4 as a hipcamp host! We are so grateful to have met such wonderful guests over the years! This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in SW Florida! Hiking trails, horse farms, shopping, restaurants, recreational activities and within minutes from the beautiful FL beaches. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a snowbird vacation!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

97%

(95)

25mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 3 sites

🦩WE ONLY HOST FULLY SELF CONTAINED VANS/CLASS B/ULTRA SMALL TRAVEL TRAILERS🦩Electric is an ADD ON🦩 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.

Electrical hookup

Pets

Hawk’s Hideaway.

83%

(3)

44mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Experience a side of Florida that’s becoming harder and harder to find. Hawk’s Hideaway sits on two private acres along the historic Peace River, offering a laid-back riverside retreat where fishing, paddling, wildlife, and quiet nights under the stars are part of everyday life. Located at the end of a quiet road, the property offers plenty of privacy and virtually no passing traffic. Wake up to birdsong, explore the property on foot or by bike, or head straight to the water. Guests can fish and kayak directly from the property, with access to the Peace River for boating and exploring the surrounding waterways. When evening arrives, the setting changes again. With no streetlights nearby, Hawk’s Hideaway offers remarkably dark skies where the stars and moon take center stage. Slow down, listen to the sounds of nature, and experience the quieter pace of Old Florida. The Peace River area is known for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, with additional opportunities for hiking, hunting, and exploring nearby. Despite the secluded feel, you’re only about 8 miles from downtown Punta Gorda and 5 miles from I-75, putting restaurants, shopping, nightlife, Gulf beaches, and destinations including Venice, Englewood, and Naples within reach. Your host is a retired businessman, sailor, and photographer who fell in love with the natural beauty and slower pace of this part of Florida. Hawk’s Hideaway reflects that same spirit: relaxed, outdoorsy, dog-friendly, and welcoming to travelers looking for a simple place to unwind. Whether you spend your stay fishing the Peace River, paddling from the property, exploring Southwest Florida, or simply sitting beneath a sky full of stars, come as you are and enjoy a quieter side of Florida. Highlights 2 private acres along the Peace River Direct fishing and kayaking access Boating and river exploration Dark skies and excellent stargazing Wildlife and outdoor recreation Walking and biking around the property Dog-friendly setting Quiet location with virtually no passing traffic About 8 miles to downtown Punta Gorda About 5 miles to I-75 Convenient access to Gulf beaches and Southwest Florida Hunting opportunities and a free public shooting range nearby Host open to bartering for light labor

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Rasayana Cove

98%

(347)

23mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 2 sites

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large.  The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways.  A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

10 Minutes From Anna Maria

98%

(28)

16mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 1 site

Are you seeking a tranquil retreat near the finest beaches in Southwest Florida? Look no further than this spacious RV pad, nestled within a lush fenced yard in a serene West Bradenton neighborhood. Our RV pad provides: Privacy Full sewer drainage Easy water hookup 20, 30, and 50 amp power outlets. Convenient access to both Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island in either direction Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience at our secluded oasis.

Pets

Full hookups

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%

(122)

12mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

99%

(137)

29mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Cedarkirk was founded in 1971 as a year-round camp and conference center that serves churches, not-for-profits, and schools. Our beautiful property and amenities exist for all people to enjoy recreation and renewal in nature. We own 170 acres of land, most of which looks like wild Florida has for thousands of years, and provides sanctuary for many native plants and animals. We are excited to welcome you to this "place apart."

Toilets

Campfires

Full hookups

By the Pond...

96%

(580)

16mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Bayou Bliss

99%

(64)

15mi from Lake Manatee Campground · 1 site

🚗 Two miles (5min drive) from downtown Sarasota 🌴 Old-Florida charm: lots of lush tropical greenery 🚣🏼‍♂️ On Whitaker’s Bayou. 🌟 It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful nature on the creek, and easy access to all the best restaurants, beaches, and charming Main St atmosphere. 💩 MUST have a bathroom on-board. No sewer hookup 💦 No water hookup, but you may fill your water tank with the hose ⚡️ 15amp & 30 amp plug ins. BYO adapter. Extension cord needed to reach the plug. 🏕️ No long term campers. No tent camping. 🚴🏼 Biking to Main St takes 8-10minutes if you have bicycles! 🏖️ Ten minute drive from St-Armands Circle and Lido Beach; 20-25 minute drive from Siesta Key Beach. The Bayou goes all the way out to the Gulf - we see large schools of mullet here, occasionally turtles, hawks, and herons. If you are lucky, you might see a manatee or an otter! We have a 36” campfire pit you are welcome to use. We are still working on getting seating for the campfire pit, but if you have camping chairs, it’s perfect! We have an amazing location to share AND we also have neighbors to the left, and across the creek. We value and respect them. We wish to share our space with quiet and mindful campers. The property is 0.5 acre. You will be parking in part of the yard, under the shade of one of the oaks, slightly tucked back away from the house. We can be available to help/welcome you, and offer local guidance if you like. **A sweet but fearful rescue dog lives here and we are not allowing any other animals to camp or stay on the property.** NO DOGS WHATSOEVER. You will be made to leave if you violate this condition. ***Our acceptance rate is lower because people with dogs, 5 people in their party, or no onboard facility of their own submit booking requests, which we must decline.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

More to explore nearby

100%

7 ratings · 5 reviews

Recommends

· January 2026

My rig is 24’. If you have one much bigger, it might be a bit of a squeeze down the side roads There are a couple spots near the clubhouse that would probably work

Recommends

· April 2025

Peaceful

38 ft Class A · With pets

Beautiful area. Peaceful and lots of room to walk.

Recommends

· April 2025

Peaceful and beautiful

38 ft Class A · With pets

Very nice place to stay.

Recommends

· October 2017

Fishing pole necessary! Yum!

March 2017

We were the only tent campers today, but everyone was welcoming and helpful. Clean, quiet campsite on Friday evening. You may want to check the nearby race track schedule, though--the park is adjacent and we heard the drag race cars practicing throughout early evening.