Lake Manatee State Park

Lake Manatee State Park is a small 556 acre park run by the state of Florida. Lake Manatee, located in the park, is a 2400 acre reservoir that supplies drinking water to Manatee and Sarasota Florida.

Fishing
The lake is an excellent fishery with lots of largemouth and sunshine bass. You can also expect to catch speckled perch, bluegill, shell cracker and catfish.

Boats
There is a boat ramp located in the park, however, boat motors are restricted to no more than 20 horsepower. If you don't have a boat, no problem, you can fish right of the fishing dock.

Other activities
Besides the excellent fishing at Lake Manatee State Park, they also have a designated swimming area and five miles of multi use trails for interior and lake side hikes. Mountain bike and equestrians are welcome to use these trails as well.

Camping
The full facility campground is just a short walk to and from the lake.

Lake Manatee State Park is operated by the Florida State Park Service and is open year round to visitors and campers alike. If you so desire reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.

Facilities:

• 216 multipurpose sites
• hookups
• dumpstation
• restrooms and showers
• swimming
• playground

Activities:

• biking
• bird and wildlife watching
• boating
• canoeing
• fishing
• hiking
• interpretive programs
• kayaking
• photography
• sailing

Restrictions:

• pets-designated day use areas
• fires permitted in designated fireplaces only
• alcoholic beverages prohibited
• vehicle maximum length is 65 feet
• boat motor maximum is restricted to 20 horsepower
• fishing license is required for persons over 16 years old

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