Lake Manatee State Park birding guide
Pine flatwoods and sand pine scrub along a big lake, where the Bobcat Trail is good for Bachman's Sparrow and Northern Bobwhite.
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Quick facts
- Where
- 20007 State Road 64 East, Bradenton, FL 34212 (East of Bradenton on SR 64, Manatee County)
- Hours
- 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year.
- Fees
- $5 per vehicle (see the park's fee page for other rates).
- Best time
- Arrive near the 8 a.m. opening, before the scrub heats up.
Overview
Lake Manatee State Park runs three miles along the south shore of Lake Manatee, 15 miles east of Bradenton. The lake formed when a dam was built across the Manatee River in the mid-1960s. The park is mostly pine flatwoods and sand pine scrub, with some depression marshes and hardwood forest, and has 4.5 miles of trails.
eBirders have reported about 163 species. Despite the name, you won't see manatees here: the dam keeps them out of the lake.
Birds to expect by season
Late October and November
Scan the oaks in the picnic area for warblers, woodpeckers, and Great Horned Owl, and watch the sky for Bald Eagle. Along Longleaf Lane, look for Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Bluebird, Brown Thrasher, and Pine Warbler, and check the trail toward the floating dock for Pileated Woodpecker and Eastern Towhee.
- warblers
- Pine Warbler
- Bald Eagle
- Eastern Towhee
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Brown Thrasher
- Tufted Titmouse
- Eastern Bluebird
- White-eyed Vireo
- White-winged Dove
Year-round regulars
- Northern Bobwhite
- Bachman's Sparrow
- Great Horned Owl
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Carolina Wren
- Eastern Towhee
Spring and summer
Check the sky for Purple Martins and Common Nighthawks, and listen for Bachman's Sparrow along the Bobcat Trail.
Where to park
Enter at the ranger station, 20007 SR 64 E. The park has 94 parking spaces plus 18 boat-trailer spaces, with lots near the picnic area and at the boat ramp. Parking is included in the entry fee.
Trails and viewing spots
- Bobcat Trail, just past the ranger station: sandy pine scrub down toward Poley Branch, for Northern Bobwhite, Bachman's Sparrow, White-eyed Vireo, and Eastern Towhee.
- The picnic area oaks, for warblers, Great Horned Owl, White-winged Dove, and woodpeckers.
- Longleaf Lane, which loops past the campground and back to the lot.
- The trail east from the parking lot to the floating dock and boat ramp, for Pileated Woodpecker and Eastern Towhee.
Tips
- Pets are allowed on a 6-foot handheld leash, but not in the swimming area.
- The trails are remote. Bring water, tell someone your plan, and sign in at the kiosk map.
- Restrooms with showers are near the beach.
- Canoe and kayak rentals aren't available. Bring your own to paddle the lake.
Accessibility
Florida State Parks lists accessible parking, restrooms, picnic facilities, a playground, and interpretive exhibits, and a 2.5-mile paved interior road runs through the park. Trails are mowed grass, sand, or hard-packed dirt and shell.
FAQ
How much does Lake Manatee State Park cost?
Florida State Parks lists $5 per vehicle.
What are Lake Manatee State Park's hours?
8 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year.
Where should birders go at Lake Manatee State Park?
Start on the Bobcat Trail, just past the ranger station, for Bachman's Sparrow and Northern Bobwhite, then check the picnic area oaks and Longleaf Lane.
Can you see manatees at Lake Manatee State Park?
No. The dam that created the lake blocks manatees from reaching it.
Sources
Checked 2026-10-31. Hours, fees, and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.