River Wilderness is a gated community of over 900 homes on the north end of the Manatee River in Parrish, Florida. In addition to the natural beauty of the north river, River Wilderness is home to 59 Community Lakes. 1500 Acres with Abundant Green Spaces. Two Security Gates. Convenient RV/Boat Storage & Boat Ramp. River Wilderness contains several smaller neighborhoods, each with its own theme of beautiful homes in natural and manicured surroundings with many amenities. Nestled in the midst of our community is The Club at River Wilderness, an 18-hole golf course, country club, practice facilities, fitness center, pool, and tennis and pickleball courts.
HOA & No CDD
River Wilderness is a deed-restricted, gated community in Parrish, Florida, governed by The River Wilderness of Bradenton Foundation, Inc., a non-profit homeowners association (HOA). Our HOA exists to serve the collective interests of all property owners and to ensure the beauty, safety, and long-term value of our community.
Every property owner within River Wilderness is automatically a member of the HOA. The Association is responsible for maintaining and managing common areas, including our lakes, roads, and gated access points — all funded and guided by our members through elected community leadership.
Unlike some nearby neighborhoods, River Wilderness does not have a Community Development District (CDD). This means our community operations, maintenance, and improvements are directed locally by the HOA — for the community, by the community — with a focus on transparency, stewardship, and service.
Each homeowner is responsible for the care and upkeep of their own property, contributing to the overall beauty and pride of River Wilderness.
Community Gates – Bar Code Entry
Access to the ‘Nicest Community on the Sun Coast’. We have an Auto Bar Code Procedure! If you are new here you will need a new bar code sticker that will allow access through the River Wilderness gates. Basically, go see ‘Merry’ at the Community Center.
Access & Safety – access@rwhoa.org
River Wilderness – 941-981-5520
Community Center Main Guard Gate – 941-776-2243
Islands Guard Gate – 941-776-5953
If you have any questions, e-mail or call any of us at the RWHOA board.
Holiday Gate Schedule 2026,
2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021,
2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016.
Community Amenities on Site
River Wilderness offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. Within our gated community, residents enjoy our community center, scenic walking and biking paths, peaceful lakes for catch-and-release fishing, and well-maintained roads and common areas. The optional Club at River Wilderness adds even more opportunities for recreation and connection, with championship golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, fitness facilities, and both casual and fine dining. Whether you prefer quiet mornings by the water or active afternoons with friends, River Wilderness provides amenities that enrich daily life and foster a true sense of community.
Community Center of River Wilderness
Our River Wilderness Community Center is situated in River Wilderness as a welcoming space for meetings, events, and gatherings — a true hub for staying connected with neighbors and community life.
RWHOA Community Center Reservation Request
River Wilderness Community Center (CC) Rules and Regulations
Fitness Center
Optional membership allows you to enjoy the tennis, pickleball, fitness center and the social activities at the club. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. River Wilderness
Stay fit and active in our modern fitness center, equipped with cutting-edge equipment and dedicated trainers. From cardio machines to strength training, we have everything you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Unlimited use of the Fitness Facility, fitness classes, tennis courts, pickleball course and pool
- 7 day advanced court reservations
- Discounted rates for personal training and lessons
- Guests privileges for fining and social events
- Guest Passes available to use fitness amenities for a fee
https://theclubatriverwilderness.com/golf-membership/
If you have any questions, e-mail or call any of us at the RWHOA board.
RV and Boat Storage
River Wilderness in Parrish, Florida offers RV and Boat storage and a community boat ramp for residents in good standing of River Wilderness. The storage area is located off of Wilderness Blvd. W. between the entrance to Savannah Lakes and the Club Fitness Center.:
- Location
- The RV/Boat storage area is located off of Wilderness Blvd. W., between the Club Fitness Center and the entrance to Savannah Lakes.
- Access
- Only residents in good standing are allowed to use the RV/Boat storage area.
- Boat slips
- Boat slips are available on a first-come, first-served basis through the Homeowner’s Management Company.
- Boat ramp
- River Wilderness also has a community boat ramp.
RWHOA Boat – RV Registration Form
Boat-RV STORAGE LEASE AGREEMENT
If you have any questions, e-mail or call any of us at the RWHOA board.
Bocce Ball
Come out and play with other River Wilderness Homeowners. Bocce Ball is a game that can be played by anyone regardless of age, athletic ability or gender. The Bocce Ball Courts are an RW HOA amenity and are open to all residents. When you can please join us at the Bocce Ball courts at 3:00 PM on any Monday for an introduction. The courts are located behind the Savannah Lakes sign.
- Please park at the Club and walk to the courts.
- Do not park on the street by the court. If you have a golf cart, you may park at the
- courts by driving around the back of the courts.
- Please note that the ground leading to the courts has been extremely wet, so you may want to enter from the front, don’t drive on the grass, if it’s still too wet.
- There are community bocce balls at the courts for anyone who wishes to play or practice other than on Mondays.
- Please groom the courts after use, the broom is behind the bulletin board, no special skill is required, just drag the broom around the court.
- This is a very social game, so bring whatever refreshments you enjoy and since it’s an Italian game, the rules are flexible.
If you have any questions, e-mail or call any of us at the RWHOA board.
Membership at The Club at River Wilderness is completely optional for residents. The Club offers a vibrant social and recreational experience right here in Parrish — featuring championship golf, fine and casual dining, an athletic center, a pool, and year-round events. Seasonal memberships are also available, including a popular Summer Membership (May–October) for those who want to enjoy unlimited golf, fitness, and social activities.
Community Location
Our gated golf course community that was developed from 1985 – 2016, with a total of 800 homes back then. The homes in River Wilderness are set amongst an 18-hole golf course, offering country living at its best. RW is just 6 miles southeast of exit 224 of I-75 in Parrish, FL. Parrish is perfectly positioned between the Tampa/St. Petersburg area and the Bradenton/Sarasota area. By car, we are 2 hours from Orlando, 30 minutes from the Gulf beaches, 5 minutes from our own boat ramp on the scenic Manatee River, and 1 minute from the golf course! Our community is located on 1500 acres and contains over 900 completed homes. We are still growing. Our newest sections, “The Islands” and “Cypress Glen,” are under construction. Newly constructed homes in The Islands offer private harbors and individual boat docks with direct access to the Manatee River and beyond. Cypress Glen offers maintenance-free homes.
Maps
The following maps are showing our River Wilderness Community Site Plan. These are maps showing our community roads, water ways, nature preserves, and homes.
Roads
The private roads within River Wilderness are maintained by the Homeowners Association for the safety and convenience of all residents. Please observe posted speed limits and drive with care — our community roads are shared by walkers, cyclists, pets, and wildlife. Routine maintenance, repairs, and improvements are managed by your RWHOA to keep our streets in excellent condition and preserve the peaceful character of River Wilderness.
Mailbox Repair
RWHOA Mailbox Repair – PDF
Keeping RW Grounds Beautiful
The grass is greener here in River Wilderness — with your help! Here you will learn about keeping your grounds beautiful year-round. How RW common grounds continue to cultivate beauty and nurture nature. Allowing everyone to elevate our RW outdoor experiences with expert care.
Trees and Hedges
Visibility Triangles and Manatee County 713 – Tree and Shrubs
Water
Stormwater
The stormwater management systems in the River Wilderness community managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD). These systems, which include ponds and other controls, are designed to prevent flooding and filter pollutants from stormwater runoff before it reaches local water bodies. Proper maintenance, such as clearing structures, managing vegetation, and cleaning up debris, is crucial for ensuring these systems function correctly. Homeowners can assist by following Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles to reduce irrigation water and runoff.
Lakes
Utilities
Establish or Transfer Services, Trash, Recycling, Water & Sewer – or by phone at (941)-792-8811
Electric Company
Florida Power and Light (FPL) – Establish New or Transfer Service
To report a power outage, contact FPL at 1-800-468-8243 (1-800-4OUTAGE)
Gas Company (TECO)
Establish or Transfer Service , or by phone at (877) 832-6747
Refuse and Recycle and Yard Waste Pick Up Schedule*
Tuesday and Friday: Trash
Tuesday: Recycling
Wednesday: Yard Waste
*Delayed by one day during Holiday weeks.
See Manatee County’s website for holiday schedule details.
Please have your receptacles out by 6:00 am on the date of pick up.
All cans must be brought in within twelve (12) hours of pick up.
E-scrap and Household Hazardous Waste – Website
RWHOA Dumpster/POD Request – PDF
Manatee County will dispose of certain household hazardous waste at their Lena Road facility. Visit their website for more details about disposing household hazardous waste.
Please do not dispose of any hazardous waste with your regular trash. The hauler will not pick them up.
Cable Companies/Internet Service:
Frontier – 877-980-3498
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office
Emergencies in progress (dispatch): 911
To report a crime or non-emergency call 941-747-3011, Extension 2260
Fire Department
For emergencies in progress: 911
For non-emergencies or general information: 941-721-2093
Hurricane Plan
We will do our upmost to provide needed information on your RWHOA website.
Upon public issuance of a hurricane watch, residents of River Wilderness should begin making preparations for possible hurricane conditions and impending evacuation orders.
Here are some tips for preparing for a hurricane:
- Have a plan
- Test your emergency communication plan, learn evacuation routes, and have a place to stay.
- Pack a go bag.
- Stock emergency supplies.
- Shelter safely.
- Practice going to a designated safe shelter for high winds. If that’s not possible, go to a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of a sturdy building that’s not likely to flood.
- Protect your property by installing sewer backflow valves, anchor fuel tanks, review insurance policies, and catalog belongings.
- RW Weather Station #1 – Website
- Hurricane Shutter Guidelines – PDF
- Emergency Preparedness Plan – PDF
- Manatee County Evacuation Information – Website
- National Hurricane Center – Website
Florida Weather Watch
Animals – Pets, Nature Watchers, Hunting and Fishing
River Wilderness is a place where people, pets, and wildlife all share the beauty of our natural surroundings. Residents are welcome to walk their pets and enjoy the outdoors — just remember to keep pets leashed and tidy up along the way so our streets and paths stay clean for everyone. Our lakes offer peaceful spots for catch-and-release fishing, a favorite pastime for many. Out of respect for safety and the protected wildlife that make this area special, hunting is not permitted within River Wilderness. Together, we help keep our community a safe and welcoming haven for all who call it home — two-legged and four-legged alike.
Dog Owner Manatee Co – PDF
RW Dog Owner Rules – PDF
Animal Ordinance 2012 – PDF
Animal Services My Manatee – Website
My Manatee Lost Pet – Website
To Report a nuisance Alligator call 855-FWDGATOR
Fishing Policy – PDF
Hunting and Fishing Licenses – Website
Exploders enjoy the wildlife:
https://www.rwhoa.com/animal-scavenger-hunt-explore-nature-series/
Parking Policy
Parking in River Wilderness is limited to driveways and designated areas — please avoid parking on streets or common areas to keep our community safe and accessible.
- The parking policies for River Wilderness Community Center include:
- Parking spaces: Parking spaces are limited.
- Parking locations: Parking is not allowed on the grass or along Wilderness Blvd.
- Overnight parking: Overnight parking is not allowed, except for the gate security officer on duty.
- Boats, motor homes, and RV’s must display a current. Florida license plate and must be insured. The item must be registered to a current resident.
RWHOA Parking Rules – PDF
Golf Carts in River Wilderness
Many residents own a personal golf cart. In our refined country community, private golf carts are allowed on the roads in River Wilderness, but there are some rules and regulations and so does the sunny state of Florida. These include Drivers License, Age, Speed Limits. The
guidelines for use of personal golf carts driven on community roads and common property are:
- Only licensed drivers are permitted to
drive the golf cart. - Carts must yield to walkers and bikers and
follow normal vehicle “rules of the road.” - Front & rear lights are required after dusk.
House and Property Real Estate
Open House Guidelines For Real Estate – PDF Policy
Estoppel Requests – Website
Update Your RWHOA Property Info Form – PDF Form
Manatee County Property Appraiser – Website
Manatee County Local Information
Whether you are a newcomer to River Wilderness Community in Parrish Florida or enjoyed our area for a while, this is the information to refer to year after year. Useful Links for Manatee County
Tax Collector’s Office
Otherwise known to out-of-staters as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or Secretary of State (SOS) office. Among other services, this is the place where you will update a driver’s license, register your vehicles, update your license plates, pay your property tax, obtain a Hunting or Fishing License or apply for that all-important Homestead Exemption. To see a complete list of available services, visit https://www.taxcollector.com/
The closest Tax Collector office is conveniently located on 4333 US 301 N, North River Office, on 301 just west of I75. In-person appointments can be scheduled online, or for certain services only, can be handled online.
If you are new to Florida, you will need to make an in-person appointment. Be sure to bring proof of residency to obtain certain services, such as obtaining a Florida Driver’s license.
Property Tax Related Links
Property Tax General Information
New Resident information Property Tax Forms
Homeowners Property Tax exemptions
Automobile related links:
Driver’s license/Learner’s permits
Automobile Registration and Renewal
Parking Permits for the Disabled
Voting:
Register to Vote/Find your Polling Place
More Links:
Department of Financial Services
Florida Statutes for Websites:
Your RWHOA is working to keep our community within HOA required law. If you are new to Florida a seasoned Floridian or this is your first home, Florida Statutes are helpful. Here is the handy link to their website.
More Website information can be found in the RWHOA articles below:
Concise RWHOA Website
New Website – Open for Business — RWHOA Email Communication
If you have any questions, e-mail or call any of us at the RWHOA board.
Why would you contact the HOA website administrator?
- Jennifer can be reached at website@RWHOA.org
- Submitting Information/Updates: If you have news, announcements, or official documents that need to be published on the website, we want the community to know too. Please contact us for uploading and editing.
- Enquiring About Compliance and Security
- Requesting Content Changes/Corrections: If you notice outdated information, incorrect details, or need something removed? Please reach out to your website administrator to make those adjustments ASAP.
- Reporting Technical Issues / Bugs: Problems with the website’s functionality, broken links, or difficulty accessing certain features? Please inform the website administrator for troubleshooting and resolution.
- Feedback and Suggestions: Suggestions are appreciated! We would love to improve your experience, the website’s usability, features. Communicating these to the website administrator is how your input can be considered.
- Seeking Website-Related Assistance: If you need help navigating the website, using specific features, have questions about how certain sections work, your website administrator can provide guidance.
Violations
Typically, an HOA violation letter will include information regarding the offense, a declaration stating the HOA laws or rules in question.
RWHOA Violation Policy – Fining – PDF
Violations Policy – Hammocks – PDF
Scams
Title Fraud
Title Fraud Notification Service – Manatee County Office of Deeds
Title fraud is rare, but if it does occur, registering for this free service through the county allows you to be notified immediately about any transactions on your property (i.e. a lien or title transfer).
If you have experienced Title Fraud, call the Manatee County Sheriff’s non-emergency line
at 941-747-3011 Extension 2260 to report that you are a victim of title fraud. The Sherriff’s office will advise you on how to proceed moving forward.
Community Guides, Policies and Forms – The following links can be found in the accordion above the links below are for reference and connects to our RWHOA.org website.
