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Located 15 miles east of Bradenton on State Road 64, Lake Manatee State Park stretches 3 miles along the picturesque Lake Manatee.

The lake’s origin dates back to the mid-1960s, when a dam was constructed across the Manatee River. Despite its name, visitors won’t spot manatees here as the dam blocks lake access.

Boasting excellent freshwater fishing opportunities, anglers can cast their lines from boats or the park’s fishing docks. A boat ramp enables convenient lake access for boating, canoeing, and kayaking, restricting boat motors to less than 20 horsepower.

For campers, full-facility camping awaits just a brief stroll from the lake. The park’s natural landscape features pine flatwoods and sand pine scrub, complemented by depression marshes and hardwood forest. Trekking along our trails offers a nostalgic journey through authentic Florida.

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