Lake Manatee State Park

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 shell-cracker 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.