Cabins near Wimauma, Florida offer access to central Florida's unique ecosystem where the Little Manatee River flows through subtropical terrain at elevations typically below 100 feet. Winter temperatures average 50-70°F while summer months can reach 90°F with high humidity. Multiple state parks and private campgrounds provide cabin rental options featuring varying amenities and access to water activities.
What to do
Paddle the river: Little Manatee River offers excellent kayaking opportunities with gentle currents suitable for beginners. According to one visitor at Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River, "We enjoyed our 3 hour kayak trip and then they very kindly found us a spot to stay for the night. We honestly didn't want to leave."
Mountain biking: Alafia River State Park provides extensive trail systems for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. A camper noted, "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."
Bird watching: The region hosts diverse bird species, particularly during migration seasons. At Oscar Scherer State Park, one visitor reported, "We saw (from a distance) a bald eagle's nest, as well as two juvenile eagles fighting in flight - both from the trails."
Fishing: Multiple lakes and rivers offer fishing opportunities throughout the area. At Hardee Lakes Park, visitors can fish from shorelines or bring small boats. A camper mentioned, "Hardee Lakes Park is a nice quiet park. Camp sites are nice and clean, with beautiful lake views."
What campers like
Natural barriers between sites: Many campers appreciate privacy at Little Manatee River State Park Campground. One reviewer commented, "Clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle."
Access to Legacy Trail: Oscar Scherer State Park connects to the Legacy Trail, a paved multi-use path. A visitor explained, "Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking. Multiple stops along the way but mostly in full sun."
Fresh produce: Hunsader Farms KOA offers a unique feature - access to a working vegetable farm. A camper shared, "Stayed here for a week in May - quiet, pretty campground with friendly staff, a petting zoo and vegetable farm on property. We enjoyed the produce market, but you could also go in the fields and pick your own."
Clean facilities: Hillsborough River State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. One reviewer noted, "The bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night."
What you should know
Highway noise: Some cabin accommodations near main roads experience traffic noise. A camper at Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River observed, "CONS: right next to a highway/large road with TONS of traffic noise. A fair amount of trash scattered around the campground, and a portapotty right on our site."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife includes alligators, especially near water. At Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park, one camper warned, "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."
Water levels: Seasonal variations affect water activities. A visitor at Myakka River noted, "The river was low so the kayak rental & boat tours were shut down."
Reservation timing: Florida cabin rentals fill quickly during winter months. A visitor at Hardee Lakes Park recommended, "We got lucky to get a site here last minute after our state park campground was closed for extended period due to hurricane repairs."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some parks offer designated swimming areas for cooling off. At Oscar Scherer State Park, a visitor noted, "There is a small beach/swimming area which was great cause it's hot!!"
Bike-friendly parks: Many campgrounds offer child-friendly biking opportunities. A Little Manatee River State Park camper shared, "We love it here because we can hike, bike or just relax."
Petting zoos: Bradenton Hunsader Farms KOA provides unique family experiences with animals. According to a visitor, "Stayed here for a week in May - quiet, pretty campground with friendly staff, a petting zoo and vegetable farm on property."
Limited shade: Some camping areas lack adequate tree cover. A visitor to Alafia River State Park cautioned, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully for size and access. At Hillsborough River State Park, one RVer advised, "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites."
Water hookup location: At Oscar Scherer State Park, an RVer warned, "The electric hookup is in its normal spot, but be aware that the water is in the woods on the opposite side (one pedestal feeding two sites). Make sure to bring a longer hose."
Leveling requirements: Some sites require adjustment for RVs. An Oscar Scherer camper mentioned, "The site was nice and private with a little leveling needed."
Dump station access: Most parks provide dump stations rather than full hookups. A visitor at Hardee Lakes Park noted, "Clean dump station. Natural trees providing privacy between lots."
