Contact Information
20007 Hwy 64 East
Bradenton, Florida 34202
Phone: 941-741-3028
Lake Manatee State Park is a perfect example of
the quiet and relaxed atmosphere that some of Florida's
natural areas have to offer. Extending along three
miles of the south shore of Lake Manatee, these
556 acres were once used for farming, cattle grazing,
turpentining and timbering.
Today, the 2,400 acre reservoir that makes up
Lake Manatee supplies drinking water to Manatee
and Sarasota Counties.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown
365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Take exit 220 off of I-75. Lake Manatee State Park
is located 9 miles east of I-75 on State Road 64
in Bradenton, Florida.
ACTIVITIES
Boat Ramp
A boat ramp and fishing dock are available for visitors
to use.
Boating
A Manatee County ordinance restricts boat motors
to 20 horsepower or less. The ordinance also prohibits
water-skiing.
Fishing
Lake Manatee offers excellent fishing. A variety
of species are frequently caught, such as largemouth
and sunshine bass, speckled perch, bluegill, shellcracker
and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license
is required for all persons over 16 years of age.
Full Facility Camping
A 60-site camping area located within walking distance
from the swimming and fishing areas. Lake Manatee
State Recreation Area is a Seasonal Camping Park.
Picnicking
A large picnic area is nestled in a sandpine scrub
area just a short walk from the lake. A picnic pavilion
is also available and may be reserved for a fee.
Swimming
Swimming is available in the designated area in
Lake Manatee with a bathhouse and shower facility
located close by.
