Lake Manatee State Park
Lake Manatee State Park was our first stop as we eased into RV life, chosen simply because it had space when most Florida parks didn’t. We arrived late, in the dark, hearing strange noises in the trees and trying not to overthink it. By morning, the park revealed itself — quiet, green, and serene, with moss-draped trees and fearless armadillos wandering straight into our campsite. It felt like a gentle, unexpected welcome to this new chapter.
- 📍 Location: Bradenton, Florida
- 🏕 Stay: RV campground
- 🌿 Environment: Lake, oak hammock, moss-draped trees
- 📅 When we stayed: January 2026
The campsite itself was long, spacious, and surprisingly private, with plenty of room to settle in without feeling like we were on display. Trees surrounded the site, creating a sense of separation that made it easy to relax and actually feel at home.
Mornings were chilly and quiet, easing into warm, sun-soaked afternoons that felt distinctly Florida. The campground stayed calm throughout the day, with sandy paths winding through the park that made it easy to wander, explore, and stretch our legs without ever feeling crowded.
Life at Lake Manatee was simple and unrushed — slow walks, quiet water, unexpected wildlife, and easy evenings outside.
We stayed entirely within the park during our time at Lake Manatee. Days were spent walking the trails, riding bikes with the dogs, and slowly settling into a new routine. There was no pressure to do or see anything beyond the campground itself — we let the days unfold naturally and simply enjoyed the beauty of being there.
- Cell service: Reliable with no issues connecting to the internet
- Campground vibe: Quiet and relaxed, with a mostly older, retiree crowd
- Best for: Short stays — the park is beautiful but compact, and most trails can be explored in a couple of days
- Nearby town: Close and convenient, with easy access to groceries and essentials
- Bugs: Mosquitoes came out around dusk, as expected, but weren’t worse than anticipated
Lake Manatee State Park is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a stunning setting with remarkable sunsets. If you’re hoping to slow down, relax, and step away from the noise of day-to-day life, this park offers a peaceful and grounding escape.
