Nature-inspired RV resort to break ground in Palmetto

A new nature-inspired resort for those traveling by RV is coming to Manatee County. Waypoint RV Preserve will hold a ceremonial groundbreaking at 11010 U.S. 41 N. in Palmetto on Sept. 8.

South Swell Properties LLC is the owner of the 53-acre property and developer of the project, which aims to combine 170 RV sites with resort-style amenities.

"We didn't want to simply create another RV park,” Daniel Harte, principal of South Swell Properties, says in a statement. “Our vision has always been to create a unique RV experience.”

Central to the Waypoint RV Preserve concept is a 25-acre nature preserve, according to the statement, which says areas within the green space will invite guests to connect with nature.

The resort will also include a more than 3,700-square-foot pool with zero-entry access, lap lanes and sun shelf as well as an 85-square-foot spa. An illustrative development plan for the site shows a clubhouse, pickleball court and picnic area as well. Waypoint Bar & Grill, which has been open since 2021 at 11000 US 41 in the front of the property, will continue serving the surrounding community while also welcoming resort guests.

"We have owned this property for … decades, so our connection to this land is personal," Harte, who lives in nearby Terra Ceia, says in the statement. South Swell Properties purchased the site off US 41 in 2004 for $650,000, according to Manatee County property records. Harte also owns the restaurant property and operates Waypoint Bar & Grill with business partner Tony Dodson.

Following what the company calls an extensive planning, entitlement and permitting process, Waypoint RV Preserve is set to begin construction. Tampa Contracting Services Inc., another company registered to Harte, will build the project.

The resort plans to welcome its first guests in December 2027.

This article has been updated to include the size of the RV resort property and a project rendering.