Lake Manatee State Park is a natural reserve located in Bradenton, Florida, with over 3 miles of shoreline on Lake Manatee. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.

One of the main attractions of the park is Lake Manatee itself, which is a great spot for recreational fishing. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and bluegill. Visitors can also rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards to explore the lake.

Another popular feature of the park is its hiking trails, which wind through the park's natural habitat and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests. The park also features picnic areas, campsites, and playgrounds for families to enjoy.

Interesting facts about the area include that the park was once a part of a cattle ranch owned by John DuPont, and that the lake was created in 1967 as a source of drinking water for the nearby city of Bradenton.

The best time of year to visit Lake Manatee State Park is in the fall or winter months, when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded. However, visitors should be aware that the park can experience occasional flooding during the rainy season, which typically runs from June through September.