Named for the river that flows through it, Little Manatee River State Park was acquired in 1974 to provide outdoor recreational opportunities in the Tampa Bay area. Since it opened in 1987, the river has been designated as an Outstanding Florida Water and is included in the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. The park comprises 2,400 acres on U.S. 301 along the Little Manatee River. Beginning in a swampy area east of Fort Lonesome in southeaster Hillsborough County, the river flows about 40 miles before emptying into Tampa Bay. The river's channel is generally well defined, and steep, sandy banks are observed throughout the park. Little Manatee rises and falls with the tide and meanders through the park approximately 4.5 miles. Because the water begins in and flows through swampy areas, decaying vegetation stains the water. Water-level fluctuations are considerable, as this portion of the river is influenced both by tides and rainfall. The rising and falling water has swept away much of the natural debris and left the Little Manatee's banks with a scoured look.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Little Manatee River State Park is located four miles south of Sun City Center, off U.S. 301 on Lightfoot Road.

From Tampa: I-75 South to Exit 240A, East to U.S. 301, Then South 4 miles, Turn Right onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right

From Sarasota/Bradenton: I-75 North to Exit 229, East to U.S. 301, Then North 6 miles, Turn Left onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right

From Pinellas County: I-275 South, cross the Skyway Bridge to I-75 North, Exit 229, East to U.S. 301, Then North 6 miles, Turn Left onto Lightfoot Road, Park is on the Right

Park Fees

Admission Fees - $4.00 for up to 8 people per vehicle. Single Occupant in a vehicle $3.00 Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Extra Passengers, Passengers In Vehicles With Holder of Annual Individual Entrance Permit, Members of Organized Groups - Admission Fee $1.00

Camping Fee
All Year: $18.00 plus tax

Equestrian Fee
$6.00 - per horse, up to two horses
$14.00 - per family

Pavillion Fees:
Large Pavilion - $40.00 + tax
Small Pavilions - $20.00 + tax

Little Manatee River State Park 215 Lightfoot Road Wimauma, Florida 33598 Phone: 813-671-5005 Fax: Contact Park for Number Park Manager: John Baust