LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK

By  Mike Miller July 20, 2025

Little Manatee River State Park, located in Wimauma, Florida, spans 2,433 acres along the Little Manatee River. It's about 27 miles from Bradenton, Florida.

The park offers hiking, kayaking, camping, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems like sand pine scrub and oxbow wetlands.

The river, a designated Outstanding Florida Water, is a highlight for paddling and wildlife viewing. The park is a haven for nature lovers.

Canoers at Little Manatee River State Park

The park’s land was first purchased in 1974 and opened to the public in 1987. The Little Manatee River, starting near Fort Lonesome, has shaped the area for centuries.

Native Americans, likely the Tocobaga, lived here thousands of years ago, using the river for food and transport.

In the 19th century, settlers farmed the land. The park’s designation as part of the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve protects its natural and cultural heritage.  

Little Manatee River State Park is at 215 Lightfoot Road, Wimauma, FL 33598, five miles south of Sun City off U.S. Route 301. It’s open daily from 8 AM to sunset.

The North Trail and Oxbow Nature Trail are closed as of November 15, 2024. Call (813) 671-5005 for updates.

Kayak and canoe rentals are available at the ranger station; return by 4:30 PM.

The main entrance has a boat launch, picnic areas, and a campground with 34 full-hookup sites. The North Entrance on U.S. 301 offers a 6.5-mile hiking trail.

Pets are allowed on leashes. Check the park’s website for event details. 

• The Little Manatee River flows 40 miles from Fort Lonesome to Tampa Bay, passing through 11 natural communities in the park.  

• A rare family of Florida Scrub-Jays lives on the north side of the river, a treat for birdwatchers. 

• The park’s 6.5-mile hiking trail, maintained by the Florida Trail Association, crosses seven distinct habitats.  

• Manatees and their calves use the river’s oxbows as a summer refuge due to tidal influences.  

• The park’s vascular flora survey from 1998-2000 identified 523 plant species, including 29 native to Florida. 

LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK WEBSITE