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Explore, relax and enjoy a paddling adventure by canoe or sit-on-top kayak on the serene Upper Manatee River Florida State Canoe Trail. Here you'll find a jungle-like paradise where you and your family will thrill to Florida's natural wonder. Swim with Manatees in waters that are warm year-round. Sunbathe, fossil-hunt, or picnic on white-sand beaches. Fish for striped bass, bream, speck and the area's largest freshwater catfish. Or drift leisurely along and enjoy the lush scenery and rich wildlife including herons, egrets, hawks, ospreys, otters, bobcats and turtles. The adventurous can enjoy primitive camping on the river or at Rye Wilderness Park.

Ray's Canoe Hideaway has provided river access to the Upper Manatee River for over 25 years. We rent canoes and kayaks or you can launch your own paddle or small motor boat from Ray's. Take an hour, half-day, full day or overnight river adventure. We also offer guided canoe tours and nature/eco tours. Now because of its unspoiled beauty and importance as a vital natural resource, the upper reach of the river has been designated by Florida as a State Canoe Trail and Greenway which will be preserved and protected for future generations.