With sandy shores around every bend and a canopy of trees overhead, Little Manatee River State Park provides a place for a pretty paddling trip, with an outfitter located near the US 301 bridge.
A spacious campground and meandering nature trails offer gentle destinations for family fun.
Resources
Resources for exploring the area
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Overview
Location: Wimauma
Trailhead: 27.657607,-82.37414
Fees: $4-5 per vehicle
Land Manager: Florida State Parks
Phone: 813-671-5005
Open 8 AM until sunset daily. Leashed pets welcome.
Directions
From Interstate 75 south of Tampa, take exit 240A, Sun City Center/Ruskin. Drive east on SR 674 through Sun City Center 3 miles to US 301. Head south on US 301, passing the Little Manatee River Trail trailhead after 2.7 miles and crossing the Little Manatee River after 3 miles. You’ll see the Canoe Outpost entrance on the right after you cross the bridge. Continue another couple of miles to the park entrance on the right. It’s a long drive back along the park road to the canoe launch / picnic area and campground.
About the Park
The hustle and bustle of horse trailers and folks in search of a put-in for kayaking is pretty busy on a weekend, not surprising given this park’s proximity to downtown Tampa and Brandon.
What’s particularly nice are the picnic pavilions within view of the river, and the campground within walking distance of the day use area.
Equestrians win, too, with over 12 miles of riding trails on the south side of the park, with four equestrian campsites along the way.
Hiking
On the north shore, the Little Manatee River Trail has two loops – 3 miles and 6 miles – that introduce you to at least seven distinct Florida habitats along the way.
A couple of the miles of the trail trace the river’s passage. The primitive campsite is an easy walk for families trying out backpacking with youngsters.
There are also two short nature trails on the south shore of the river not far from the playground.
Little Manatee River Trail
Scenery, rugged landscape, and botanical diversity are all important factors for a great Florida hike. You’ll find that on the 6.5-mile Little Manatee River Hiking Trail, one of our long-time favorites.
Paddling
Canoe Outpost has its own separate entrance along US 301 right by the bridge over the Little Manatee River.
Stop in for canoe and kayak rentals and shuttles or to check into the funky selection of accommodations they have on site.
Trail Map
Explore More
Slideshow
See our photos of Little Manatee River State Park
Nearby Adventures
More worth exploring while you’re in this area.
Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park
Straddling the confluence of the North and South Prong of the Alafia River, Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park provides immersion into lush riverine forests.
Alderman’s Ford Preserve
Alderman’s Ford Preserve offers a surprising treat for a Central Florida hike: whitewater, showcasing the Alafia River churning as it winds through a deeply eroded channel
Alafia River State Park
Alafia River State Park lets you launch on a Florida downhill while mountain biking the rugged terrain of a reforested open pit mine.
Apollo Beach Nature Preserve
With its natural waterfront on Tampa Bay, Apollo Beach Nature Preserve is a perfect place for birders, not beachgoers, a place to launch a kayak and scan the skies for osprey.
Reserve a campsite Official Website