Kayaking on the Little Manatee River
If you’re new to kayaking or want to explore easy going rivers near Tampa, then try out the Little Manatee River in southern Hillsborough County. The Little Manatee Kayaking company offers rental kayaks and shuttle service. Their start point is Canoe Outpost on the river with the end point at Wild Cat Park in Ruskin, but you can be picked up at the point of your choice. The Little Manatee River Canoe Trail is an easy 5 miles with banks lined with sweetgum trees, oaks and palmettos. The water is tea-colored, with a white sandy bottom. The Little Manatee River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Only 25 miles from Tampa, this dark, tannin-stained trail has a sandy bottom and steep, sandy banks. Along the beautiful Little Manatee River, you will paddle through a variety of habitats including sand pine scrub, willow swampy, and hardwood forest. Look for otter, alligator, and turtles along the trail. You might even see an eagle soaring overhead. The trail ends at Little Manatee River State Park on the south bank.
