The Friends of the Little Manatee River State Park are hosting their 7th annual Poker Ride-Hike-Paddle event on January 31 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants—hikers, horseback riders, and paddlers—will navigate the park’s trails or river to find five buckets containing sealed envelopes. After collecting all envelopes, they return to the event field by 1:30 p.m. to reveal their poker cards and form the best hand, with prizes including $100 for the best hand and various giveaways like free canoe trips and horseback riding packages. The event also features activities such as a cornhole challenge, 50/50 drawing, and donkey bingo.
Admission costs $25 in advance or $30 on the day of the event, including a meal, with extra lunches available for purchase. Families can join but are not eligible for prizes. Discounted rentals for canoes, kayaks, and horses are available, and the event proceeds support park projects not covered by the state budget. The event runs rain or shine, and more information or registration can be found at friendsofthelittlemanatee.org or by contacting Cathy Moore.
