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
Location
Public CampgroundRye Wilderness Park Campground is located in Florida
Coordinates
27.512538 N
82.361925 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
- 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
