Little Manatee River State Park Campground offers dedicated horse camping facilities with direct access to 12 miles of trails through varied Florida terrain. The equestrian campground contains four sites with stalls specifically designed for horses. Trail access extends beyond the park boundaries, connecting to additional networks for longer rides. Each equestrian site has essential amenities for both riders and horses with water sources for livestock. The area maintains a natural Florida landscape with sandy soil and oak hammocks typical of the region.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: Alafia River State Park provides exceptional mountain biking opportunities with constantly changing trails. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," notes Jennifer T. about Alafia River State Park Campground.
Paddle the waterways: Many parks feature accessible water recreation on rivers and lakes. "We love it here because we can hike, bike or just relax," mentions Linda M. about Little Manatee River. The gentle flowing waters accommodate various skill levels for paddlers.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding St. Petersburg provide habitat for diverse Florida wildlife. At Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park, visitors report exceptional wildlife encounters: "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please," warns jenelle J.
Seasonal birding: The wetland areas attract significant bird populations. "This is such an awesome place! I go here every year to see all of the various birds that migrate here," says Jill R. about Alafia River State Park. Morning hours typically offer the best bird activity.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds maintain natural vegetation between campsites. "Clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle," reports Nicole D. about Little Manatee River State Park Campground.
Trail accessibility: Equestrian camping areas near St. Petersburg provide direct access to trail systems. "Very nice facilities. Miles of horseback trails to ride. Very nice horse stalls to put horses in overnight. Perfect place for equine vacation!" explains Donna H. about Alafia River State Park Campground.
Diverse camping options: From primitive sites to full-hookup RV areas, the region offers varied accommodations. At Hardee Lakes Park, one visitor notes: "We stayed in an 'equestrian' site and most people didn't have horses. While much of the park isn't shaded, most sites do seem to have at least some trees providing partial shade."
Peaceful environment: Many campgrounds maintain distance from urban areas. "This has been our first park Campground and couldn't ask for a better one to start with... Very private and spacious spot for Big Rigs as well as the medium size," comments Ronald H.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings intense heat and insects. "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS! Probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping," warns AJ G. about Alafia River State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "You must reserve a site with Southwest Florida Water Management by website. It is sometimes closed to hunting," explains Tim L. about Starkey Wilderness Preserve — Serenova Tract.
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly between campgrounds. At Serenova Tract Campsites, "There's non potable water and 2 really nice shelters for picnics or gatherings. There's at least 15 spots here, all a mixture of sun and shade."
Weekend crowds: Many parks experience significant weekend occupancy. "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND... I went on a Friday night, and the entire campground was PACKED. Very loud, too many tents packed into each site," advises Shaun C.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs and interpretive trails. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers. Large group bon fire pits and cabins for rent," mentions Tim L.
Accessible activities: Flat terrain and paved trails accommodate various age groups. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin," notes Melanie B.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is essential with children. "I visited this park about two years ago while visiting my grand mother. The park was a very interesting place. There were copious amounts of wildlife, and we ended up taking a boat tour on the river which was highly enjoyable," shares Anthony S. about Myakka River State Park.
Facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between parks. At Hardee Lakes Park, visitors note: "Bath house was clean and in good working order. Overall a great quiet place to visit for a connection with nature."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary considerably in size and shade coverage. At Hardee Lakes Park, "Like all parks some sites are better than others, none are bad. We had the end site on the lake that was very private. The campground and amenities are extremely well maintained," reports Jim W.
Hookup availability: Water and electrical connections differ between campgrounds. "I'm staying in the Palmetto Ridge loop which is the only paved loop & I think the only one w/sewer. The Big Flats & Old Prairie loops are gravel road, tight, no privacy & very small sites like for popups, vans or small campers," details Amanda W.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. At Serenova Tract Campsites, a visitor notes: "Need a reservation, there are just a handful of sites. Each has a fire ring and a table. Locked gate (you need a code they give you in your reservation confirmation) dirt road, easily accessible by motorcycle/car."
Distance to services: Consider proximity to supplies when planning. At Cypress Creek Preserve, "There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse. We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level."
