The best camping in Lake Manatee State Park, FL

·
100% (6)

Discover Lake Manatee State Park's natural charm and outdoor fun.  

The best camping in Lake Manatee State Park, FL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Sandy Bottom River Retreat

2. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%
(92)
13mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wimauma, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Bayou Bliss

4. Bayou Bliss

100%
(50)
14mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · RV · Sarasota, FL
🚗 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.
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
By the Pond...

9. By the Pond...

97%
(734)
16mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ruskin, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$33
 / night
St Pete Micro Farm

12. St Pete Micro Farm

100%
(21)
24mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · Tent · St. Petersburg, FL
Founded in 2018, the St Pete Micro Farm (SPMF) is an ambitious project located in Saint Petersburg Florida. Resting on just 1/10th of an acre, this 1957 mid-century modern home hosts over 80 different species of fruiting tree and shrub. With the goal of blending natural beauty and innovative design, it's an ever-evolving space that is both inviting and surprising. During your stay, we invite you to enjoy an open-air yet tastefully private shower under the bananas, or relax back into the big enough for two garden tub. A large outdoor kitchen area with a gas burner and grill will also be available for your use. An 8' x 7' yoga deck is a great place to stretch out, and doubles as your tent's platform when it's time to set up camp. If you're bringing your own tent (standard), please ensure it will fit on the available deck. Or, if you'd like for us to provide a tent for you, please select it in the add-ons section before completing your booking (Heat beating, air conditioned/AC option also available under extras). In the outdoor shower area there's a "Nature's Head" composting toilet just a few steps away from where you'll be staying. On chillier evenings, you can toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or just star gaze and let time trickle by. During the day, you'll be free to get online and catch up with the work world, or walk the garden and discover one of the many hideaways scattered around the property. You never know what will be in season, but with the guidance of one of your hosts, you can try a variety of fruits, greens, and berries if they're ready for harvest. A rich variety of wild birds visit regularly, recognizing it as a safe haven for wildlife. And though we can't guarantee you'll see a rare one, we can guarantee you'll see CHICKENS! Six of them in fact, Salty, Sleepy, Jet, Little Comb, Tapatio, and Dutchess. These friendly, curious, and fearless little marauders are guaranteed to make your acquaintance, and if you're not looking, invite themselves to share your breakfast. They free roam the yard during daylight hours, so please help us keep all gates shut to prevent them from going on an unscheduled field trip. They will also leave "landmines" on the pathways, so be sure to watch your step. We do our best to keep everything clean and tidy, but chickens abhor tidiness. And will go out of their way to unleash chaos at every turn. Still, we love the little bird brains and they are an entertaining addition to the grounds. They're also the reason we ask that all pets, and children under 12, be left at home. We thank you for your understanding and help in preserving the safety of our flock, and as thanks, please help yourself to any fresh eggs in the chicken coop. This is only a brief description, there's so much more to see on-site, but you'll also want to make your way out into the city (15 minute drive) for some of the unique flair St Pete is known for. Check out the Salvadore Dali museum and see his famous surrealist paintings. Visit some of the best beaches in the country, like St Pete Beach (15 minutes drive due West). Wander the Fort Desoto historical park area. Or Stop by the Morean Arts Center and see live glass blowing demonstrations, or just walk along Central Ave to soak up the cool vibe and rich city art scene. Complete with murals, sculptures, and a pier scene that's not to be missed.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$54
 / night
Home is where you park it

13. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%
(103)
25mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 3 sites · RVs · St Petersburg, FL
Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 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.
Pets
Trash
from 
$39
 / night
Aerial Photo of island across from Marina

14. Island Retreat Florida

98%
(32)
27mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · Tent · Progress Village, FL
*****PLEASE READ THIS PRIOR TO BOOKING: THIS IS TRUELY AN ISLAND THAT IS UN-INHABITED OTHER THAN NATURE. DUE TO THIS FACT YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OR ADD AN "EXTRA" KAYAK/CANOE RENTAL OR SHUTTLE SERVICES TO YOUR BOOKING FOR ADDITIONAL COST BEYOND CAMPING FEE. THE ADDITIONAL SERVICES REQUIRE A HUMAN BEING TO BE ON CALL AND DELIVER EQUIPMENT AND MACHINES FOR YOUR ADVENTURE. **** if ok with the above please proceed as there has been some confusion about islands. About the Island: Ever wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (5) campsites with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Once you are settled in,  it is time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide,  2 ton concrete fire pits.   Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar and Grill across the river from the island.  Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.  This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here.  Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation.  Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example,  if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs. Our Story: After 6 years of my neighbor bugging me to buy this island, I finally took him up on it. My neighbor bought it in the 1970's but did little with it. It has been overgrown for years. I am actively work to develop multiple campsites of the island for enjoyment of the river and its surrounding. All money from your stay here is re-invested back into the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

16. T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%
(127)
29mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Lithia, FL
We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We are offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavilions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! Learn more about this land: We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family.  Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We  offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property.  You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavillions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! We can accommodate two, 30 amp & one, 50 amp site plus four, 20 amps or less at this time. We do not have a septic black tank hook up for RVs or campers. We do have a bathroom in the barn with a working toilet and sink but no shower.  We do have plenty of room for campers, tents, and RVs!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Two Tall Pines

18. Two Tall Pines

97%
(35)
30mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Venice, FL
We will share our piece of paradise with you. It is 3 blocks (cross no main roads) to Shamrock Park and the Venetian Intercoastal Waterway with walk and bike trail, playground, tennis courts, basketball hoops and nature center plus restrooms at the park. Our quiet, safe neighborhood includes a boat ramp, a separate kayak launch as well as fishing spots along the intercoastal. All 4 of the Venice beaches (including a dog beach) are within 7 miles of our location and are well known for finding shark teeth. Our beach's offer free parking, outdoor yoga, drum circle and live music. Downtown Venice offers a variety of stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, high end clothing, an interactive splash fountain and several ice cream shops. It also offers Historic Walking Tours and Farmer's Market (Saturday mornings). Venice has four main beaches: Venice Municipal Beach 4.8 miles (the most popular); Nokomis Beach 6.9 miles (home of the Drum Circle at sunset on Wednesday and Saturday evenings); South Brohard Beach (22 acres including a dog park) 4.5 miles and Caspersen Beach 5.3 miles (the longest beach in Sarasota County and famous for its shark teeth). 30amp electric and water included. You must use holding tanks. Maximum stay is 7 days.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Mad Beach Rv Or Trailer Spot

20. Mad Beach Rv Or Trailer Spot

97%
(36)
35mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · RV · Madeira Beach, FL
Experience the ultimate beachside getaway at our charming single home, just a short 3-block walk from the beach. Park your RV alongside our property and enjoy all the amenities of the home right at your fingertips. With both 30-amp and 50-amp plug connections available, you'll have everything you need to power up your RV and settle in for a relaxing stay. Our outdoor toilet and shower facilities are accessible 24/7, providing convenience and comfort during your beachside retreat. Relax and unwind on our spacious patio, complete with exterior seating and a cozy breakfast nook where you can enjoy your morning coffee or a leisurely meal. For entertainment, our outdoor smart TV with surround sound is perfect for movie nights under the stars. As the sun sets, watch your favorite films in style with our exterior chandelier casting a warm glow over the patio area. Whether you're lounging in the evening breeze or soaking up the sun during the day, our beachside oasis offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your RV adventure.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$79
 / night
100% (6)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Manatee State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Lake Manatee State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%
(92)
13mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wimauma, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

Bayou Bliss

100%
(50)
14mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · RV · Sarasota, FL
🚗 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.
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$60
 / night

By the Pond...

97%
(734)
16mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ruskin, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$33
 / night

St Pete Micro Farm

100%
(21)
24mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 1 site · Tent · St. Petersburg, FL
Founded in 2018, the St Pete Micro Farm (SPMF) is an ambitious project located in Saint Petersburg Florida. Resting on just 1/10th of an acre, this 1957 mid-century modern home hosts over 80 different species of fruiting tree and shrub. With the goal of blending natural beauty and innovative design, it's an ever-evolving space that is both inviting and surprising. During your stay, we invite you to enjoy an open-air yet tastefully private shower under the bananas, or relax back into the big enough for two garden tub. A large outdoor kitchen area with a gas burner and grill will also be available for your use. An 8' x 7' yoga deck is a great place to stretch out, and doubles as your tent's platform when it's time to set up camp. If you're bringing your own tent (standard), please ensure it will fit on the available deck. Or, if you'd like for us to provide a tent for you, please select it in the add-ons section before completing your booking (Heat beating, air conditioned/AC option also available under extras). In the outdoor shower area there's a "Nature's Head" composting toilet just a few steps away from where you'll be staying. On chillier evenings, you can toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or just star gaze and let time trickle by. During the day, you'll be free to get online and catch up with the work world, or walk the garden and discover one of the many hideaways scattered around the property. You never know what will be in season, but with the guidance of one of your hosts, you can try a variety of fruits, greens, and berries if they're ready for harvest. A rich variety of wild birds visit regularly, recognizing it as a safe haven for wildlife. And though we can't guarantee you'll see a rare one, we can guarantee you'll see CHICKENS! Six of them in fact, Salty, Sleepy, Jet, Little Comb, Tapatio, and Dutchess. These friendly, curious, and fearless little marauders are guaranteed to make your acquaintance, and if you're not looking, invite themselves to share your breakfast. They free roam the yard during daylight hours, so please help us keep all gates shut to prevent them from going on an unscheduled field trip. They will also leave "landmines" on the pathways, so be sure to watch your step. We do our best to keep everything clean and tidy, but chickens abhor tidiness. And will go out of their way to unleash chaos at every turn. Still, we love the little bird brains and they are an entertaining addition to the grounds. They're also the reason we ask that all pets, and children under 12, be left at home. We thank you for your understanding and help in preserving the safety of our flock, and as thanks, please help yourself to any fresh eggs in the chicken coop. This is only a brief description, there's so much more to see on-site, but you'll also want to make your way out into the city (15 minute drive) for some of the unique flair St Pete is known for. Check out the Salvadore Dali museum and see his famous surrealist paintings. Visit some of the best beaches in the country, like St Pete Beach (15 minutes drive due West). Wander the Fort Desoto historical park area. Or Stop by the Morean Arts Center and see live glass blowing demonstrations, or just walk along Central Ave to soak up the cool vibe and rich city art scene. Complete with murals, sculptures, and a pier scene that's not to be missed.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$54
 / night

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%
(103)
25mi from Lake Manatee State Park · 3 sites · RVs · St Petersburg, FL
Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 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.
Pets
Trash
from 
$39
 / night

Other options near Lake Manatee State Park

The best camping in Lake Manatee State Park, FL guide

Overview

About

There may not be any actual manatees at Lake Manatee State Park, but who needs manatees when you’re in a hot spot for buried treasure? Perhaps inspired by the pirates that once trolled the Florida shores, there are allegedly 40 caches of goodies hidden throughout the park’s trail system. If you’ve got a smartphone and some wits about you, the bounty can be yours. Not interested in geocaching? There’s tons of other stuff to do. Nature trails take you through terrain of hardwood forests, depression marsh, pine flatwoods, and sand pine scrub. Play spot the wildlife along the way. Bikers can cruise along a paved winding path or explore over two miles of off-road trails. There’s swimming, excellent fishing, and 2,400 acres of freshwater lake to see by boat, kayak, or canoe. We’re pretty sure you’ll find some treasure, no matter how you decide to spend your time here.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Lake Manatee State Park is during the cooler months from November to March, when the Florida heat is at bay and the wildlife is most active. Summer months can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms a common occurrence. Early reservations are recommended for peak season visits.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as Florida's climate can change rapidly.
  • Ensure you have a valid fishing license if you plan to fish in the park's waters.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with facilities designed to accommodate all visitors.
  • Stay informed about park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
  • Remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the Florida sun and bugs.
100%
6 ratings · 4 reviews