Three miles of shoreline along long, narrow
Lake Manatee and 550 acres surrounding the lake are contained within Lake Manatee
State Park. The lake offers excellent fishing, with largemouth bass, speckled perch
and shellcracker abundant. A fishing dock and boat ramp provides access to the lake,
which is also excellent for swimming. A 60-site campground with full facilities
is located within walking distance from the swimming and fishing areas, with a bathhouse
and shower facility nearby.
Typical of this area of Florida, the surrounding wilderness consists mainly of pine
flatlands and hardwood hammocks. Visitors to the park may hike the fire trails into
the natural area, or enjoy the picnic area under shade trees. A wide variety of
wildlife call the park home, including endangered gopher tortoises.
