River and trail access make Rye Wilderness Park Campground a solid base for families exploring Manatee County's waterways. The county-managed facility sits within Rye Preserve and accommodates drive-in, walk-in, and boat-in camping, though access roads can be rough. Sites run $20-25 per night and include picnic tables, with drinking water, restrooms, and showers available.
Michael S. noted the "lively rivers and trails to explore for kids," highlighting the family-friendly recreation opportunities. The campground allows pets and campfires, with firewood available on-site. ADA accessibility ensures broader visitor access. Campers can also explore campgrounds near Parrish for additional options in the region. Check-in begins at 2 PM with Sunday checkout by 2 PM, making this a practical choice for families seeking river and trail access.
Description
Experience a slice of old Florida at the Rye Preserve. You don't have to travel far, the Rye Preserve is closer than you think. Rye Preserve is a 145 acre property located just northwest of the Lake Manatee Dam. The preserve features nature trails, horseback trails, picnic areas, a playground and a canoe/kayak launch. The preserve's trail system leads visitors through four distinctive ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, xeric oak scrub, oak hammocks and the river community. A variety of interesting creatures can be seen in these areas including the rare gopher tortoise and Florida scrub-jay.
Birding, Camping, Canoeing, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Kayaking, Natural Wildlife Viewing, Playground, Swimming, Tubing
Reservation Info
Camping fees are $20.00 per site per night, plus tax. Cash and Checks only, please. No Credit/Debit cards accepted A maximum of 6 people will be allowed to occupy a single campsite. Camping registration is at the Rangers Station from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Checkout time is 2:00 p.m. You must register at the Rangers Station prior to setting up your campsite. Camping permitted at campground only.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRye Wilderness Park Campground is located in Florida near Parrish
Coordinates
27.512538 N
82.361925 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires


