Health Benefits of Camping in the Outdoors

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If you’re trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, you might want to start by taking camping trips throughout the seasons. In addition to being a whole lot of fun, camping can also offer some very real health benefits.

Reduce Stress Levels

According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress is something that affects millions of Americans every year. If the demands of everyday life have been taking a toll on your nerves, a camping trip is a great opportunity to unwind and reduce your stress levels in a peaceful, natural setting.

Getting Away from Crowds

Sometimes, everyday life can leave us overstimulated, especially with work, people, and daily tasks. These things can build-up and sometimes we need a break from the crowded lives we live. Camping can give you the chance to escape to a quiet place at a state park or national park. Bring a friend or two that needs the same escape!

Breathe Fresh Air

Simply breathing some fresh air can be hugely beneficial to your overall health and well-being. Trees produce plenty of clean oxygen, which can promote serotonin production, aid in digestion and boost your immune system.

Learn New Things

Stepping outside of your comfort zone and learning new things can also help keep your mind sharp and healthy. From learning how to read a compass to campfire building and meal preparation, there is always more to learn on a camping trip. Plus, all that extra physical activity can stimulate your mind as well.

Ready to enjoy a refreshing camping experience in Florida? We’d love to see you at Suwannee River Rendezvous! Give us a call or contact us online to book your reservation today!

Keep Camping More Environmentally Friendly

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Want to minimize your impact on the local ecosystem during your next camping trip? Camping offers a great way for people to reconnect with the great outdoors, but it can have some unintended consequences on nearby plants and animals if we’re not careful. Check out a few of our favorite environmentally-friendly camping ideas below!

Leave the Plastic Water Bottles at Home

It’s important to stay hydrated when camping, hiking and canoeing, but that doesn’t mean you need to pack cases of disposable water bottles that will wind up in a landfill. Instead, use a water bladder or reusable bottle that won’t create additional waste. This way, we can all do our part to cut down on the 50 billion water bottles that are consumed each year.

Take Everything you Brought Camping Home with You

After spending a few days in the woods, you might be tempted to toss some things in the garbage instead of bringing them home with you. Rather than leaving these items behind, try to make sure you have everything you brought with you when you leave your campsite. Any remaining waste and recyclables should be sorted and disposed of in designated collection centers.

Stay in Designated Camping Sites

If you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast, you might enjoy camping off the beaten path in remote areas that don’t have established campsites. Unfortunately, this can disrupt sensitive habitats and leave lasting environmental damage as well. In general, it’s best to stay at designated campgrounds rather than make your own campsite in areas that have been undisturbed by humans.

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we offer comfortable camping accommodations with environmentally-friendly amenities like recycling containers and water hook-ups. To book your reservation, give us a call or contact us online today!

Learn How to Build a Great Campfire with These Helpful Tips

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There’s nothing like sitting next to a roaring campfire underneath a starry sky, but do you know how to get the fire started?

Learn how to build a great campfire with these helpful tips:

  • First, gather your tinder—material that will catch fire and burn fast. This includes dry grasses, leaves, bark and wood shavings. Many campers also like having firelighter cubes on hand.
  • Make sure all the wood you’re using is dry. Wet wood is not only harder to burn, it’s also more prone to generating smoke and small bits of debris.
  • There are three popular campfire designs to consider: a cone, a log cabin and a pyramid. You can familiarize yourself with these three options here and choose the one that works best for you.
  • Using a match or lighter, light the tinder. Then, blow gently on the base of the fire to add oxygen, which will intensify the flame and help light the larger pieces of wood.
  • Stay near your fire as it burns. Never leave a campfire unattended.
  • As the fire burns, move embers toward the center so they’ll be completely burned. Ideally, you should burn them until they become white ash.
  • Eventually, it will be time to extinguish your fire. Pour water on it, stir the ashes and repeat as many times as needed. Before you leave the fire, make sure the remaining ashes are cool to the touch.

Now that you know how to build a great campfire, it’s time to book a campsite! Check out the Suwannee River Rendezvous campground and RV resort, where each campsite comes equipped with its very own fire pit. Contact us today at (386) 294-2510 to book your spot.

Fishing this Fall in Suwannee River

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There are few activities in life as fulfilling or relaxing as enjoying some quality fishing, and if you can do it in such a beautiful place as Suwannee River then that is even better!

Here at Suwannee River Rendezvous, anglers can enjoy some of fun in the sun right alongside this famous river as you try to catch some of the most sought-after fish in the area. There is plenty of great fishing to be had with Suwannee bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue gill, sunfish and more up for grabs within the river’s waters.

Fishing is a splendid way to bond with your loved ones or just get away from it all and spend some time soaking in the glory of nature as you let your worries slip away. It is also a chance for the little ones to experience a connection with nature that they just can’t get in the real world. But don’t take our word for it – check out our gallery of fishing fun featuring adventurers of all ages!

No License? No Problem!

As with all forms of hunting, some restrictions and regulations must be met. When fishing here in Florida, a fishing license is required – most of the time, anyway, as the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a few days each year for license-free fishing. The free freshwater days are the first Saturday and Sunday in April and the second Saturday and Sunday in June, so if you’re thinking of making a trip from out of state on those dates, make sure to bring your poles and fish without needing a license. Don’t forget: Fishing restrictions still apply on those dates, so be sure to review the state rules on catch and size limits.

Nothing Beats Fishing at Suwannee River Rendezvous

In the end, it is important to remember that fishing at the Rendezvous is really all about fun, relaxation and the love of the sport. Our property is rich in its history and is the perfect place for people around the country to come to have their own little fishing adventure and relaxing respite in Floridian paradise.

Plan your fishing and camping trip at Suwannee River Rendezvous today. Learn more or book your stay by calling us at 386-294-2510.

Essential Tips for Your First RV Camping Trip

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Are you in the process of planning your first RV camping trip? Congratulations! Traveling in an RV is a great way to explore the country. But before you go, you should take some time to familiarize yourself with RVing so that you can make the most of the experience. Check out a few essential tips for your first RV trip below!

Come up with a plan—but don’t be afraid to deviate from it!

When you first hit the road, you should have a general idea of where you’re going. Otherwise, you’re going to waste a lot of gas and potentially miss out on some amazing sites. Plan out some destinations you want to see, but don’t feel like you have to follow every single turn on the map. Allow yourself to take detours and visit sites that weren’t on your itinerary. Embrace the spontaneity that RVing offers.

Find time for yourself throughout your trip.

While the average RV offers plenty of space for you to stretch out, you’re still going to be spending a lot of time with your fellow passengers. Whenever you get the chance, find a way to make a little time for yourself. Whether that means taking a walk on a nearby trail or retreating to the back of the RV with headphones, a little alone time can go a long way during a road trip.

Ask questions of your fellow RVers along the way.

When you stop at an RV campsite, you’re going to come in contact with lots of other people on similar journeys! Don’t be afraid to ask questions or let them know about any concerns you may have. You may be able to learn a lot from these more experienced travelers.

Next time you’re in Florida, be sure to visit our RV Resort on the beautiful Suwannee River! Give us a call to learn more, or book your reservation online today!

Tips for Tent Camping with Your Family

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Camping is a fantastic activity for any young child. There is so much to learn and discover in the wonder of nature, removed from the noise and distractions of society for a little while. It is relaxing to just unplug from the hustle and bustle of life, but that doesn’t mean that your children can’t also learn something while spending time camping. Beyond just developing and growing your son or daughter’s appreciation for the wilderness, kids can learn a few important things about life from taking a camping trip.

Basic Camp Setup

The first thing that your child can learn is how to set up a campsite upon arrival. This involves many different steps, from identifying the best place to set up a tent, to clearing a tent location from stick and rocks, how to set a tent up and more. They can also help with other setup tasks, like putting up tarps for shade or rain protection, as well as gathering firewood and kindling. This will set your child up for success for your next camping trip and any trips they may take with friends or other family members in the future.

Break Out of the Routine

As previously mentioned, it is often wonderful to take a break from your busy schedule and do something a bit different. Camping allows you to take part in unplanned activities each day without having to worry about meetings or what time it is. Activities like fishing, canoeing or hiking are fantastic ways to snap out of the norm and experience something new, and can even introduce children to a new favorite hobby or pastime.

Get In Touch With Nature

Fishing and hiking are great ways to gain an appreciation for nature. Catching then reeling in your first fish is an experience unlike any other. The feeling of that fish in your hand after you’ve reeled it in is something you never forget, and can introduce a child to a lifetime love for the sport. Hiking is another fun outdoor option, and gives you and your child a chance to see nature you wouldn’t normally see in your backyard. Seeing wild animals in their native habitat is a serene experience and can make your child appreciate the world around them that much more.

How to Build a Fire

Building a fire is an essential skill for anyone. When you grow up, you might need to light a fire in a fireplace or create a small fire during a tailgate or while on another camping trip. Your child’s first camping trip is the perfect time for them to learn how to start a fire from scratch. It’s a lifelong skill that your son or daughter can carry with them for the rest of their life.

It’s still camping season here in Florida, so there’s ample time to book a weekend camping trip for you and your family! Suwannee River Rendezvous has many primitive campsites available as well as sites that offer electric and water connections for those who don’t want to full rough it. Our affordable rates mean that your camping trip won’t break the bank, either. Book your camping trip today or learn more about our campsites by calling 386-294-2510.

Secrets to Camping Light This Summer Season

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Camping in the summer at Suwannee River Rendezvous requires a different type of camping experience. Since summers are mostly hot in Florida, you must adjust your camping materials and equipment to ensure an enjoyable camping trip here.

One of the most important tips when it comes to camping in general is to always pack light and only bring the essentials. Now, you don’t have to stick to a boring camping trip, but don’t over pack unnecessary items. Here are some tips on packing light for your summer trip.

Camping Gear

If you’re planning to bring an RV, then your packing task will much more flexible since you’ll have the extra storage space. This is good for longer camping trips. If you are planning on lodging or even tent camping, you’ll have to make sure you’re pretty much only packing the camping essentials.

  • Pack light clothes due to the weather being hot
  • Bring water jugs to be refilled when you need
  • Tent, camping chairs, sleeping bags
  • Toiletries
  • Raingear, Hiking Boots, Bathing Suit and other water gear
  • First Aid Kits

Miscellaneous Gear

Make sure you are packing the proper camping equipment and gear for your camping trip in Florida. Packing only the necessary items should be your top priority, but it doesn’t mean that you have to limit your gear. For the weather down in Florida, it’s important to pack other items that can help with your trip. Bug spray, protective clothing, and sunscreen are just to name a few extra items that you should bring.

Planning Your Days Out

One of the biggest things campers don’t plan out is their days while on the camping trip. This is one of the most important aspects of planning out the adventure. If you’re able to plan each day (without too many restrictions), you can make sure that you are packing the right equipment for those days. We want to make sure that you don’t restrict your flexibility on the trip, though. Camping is about relaxation and enjoying the great outdoors, so you don’t want to have a strict itinerary.

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we can provide you with the best camping for you and your family here in Mayo, Florida. If you’re looking to bring your family or friends down to Florida for some adventure on the river, contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

Fun Things To Do In the Suwannee River

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Planning activities for vacation can be tough, especially when you haven’t been to the area before. Luckily for you, there is plenty to do along the Suwannee River that can keep you and your family busy for days.

Suwannee River Activities

Hit the Water

We here at Suwannee River Rendezvous offer canoe and kayak trips. On that trip, you can either bring your own boat, which we can haul, or you can rent one of the many we have available. The best part about them is they are on demand, so when you are ready to go, we will pack up and head out on the water.

Sights and Sounds

The area that surrounds our resort is full of Native American heritage which is really something to behold. Also, most of the river is still undeveloped, meaning that it’s a great spot to view wildlife in their natural habitats.

Take a Dip

Be sure to bring your bathing suit and any other swimming items you like as you are going to want to swim in the beautiful water of the Suwannee River basin. These famous springs are sure to make your swimming experience a fun time and one you won’t soon forget.

Hit the Island

There is a very small island just downstream from our resort that is ideal for fishing. Many of our past guests have had much success when dropping a line near it. So if you’re in the mood for it, you can take your canoe or kayak and head on down to see if you can bring home a new trophy from your vacation.

Suwannee River Rendezvous is a resort and campground in Mayo, FL.

If you are looking to hit the outdoors for your next vacation, then we are the perfect spot for you. For more information on our resort or to book a stay with us, feel free to contact us or call today at 386-294-2510!

The Best Games to Bring on Your Camping Trip

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Camping is a great activity to do with your family and your friends. Sometimes it can be tough when you get all unpacked at the campsite, and then have nothing planned for some of the hours of the weekend. Camping isn’t always about spending hours doing several activities, but when there is downtime, there are some games you should bring along to fill this time up with.

Here are some must-bring games on your next camping trip:

playing card games on a camping trip

Cornhole and Other Yard Games

Cornhole is a classic yard game you can bring along to your next camping trip. It’s a very simple set-up with 2 wooden platforms and the beanbags to go along with it. Usually, you can find them at your local sporting goods store, or if you’re feeling up to it, you can make a cornhole set yourself for less money.

Other yard games to consider bringing along:

  • Ladder Ball
  • Horseshoes
  • Ring toss
  • Lawn Jenga

Card Games for Late Night in the RV or Lodge

If you’re staying at a campsite where you’ll be lodging in a cabin or bringing your RV, card games are important to bring. At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we provide the opportunity for RV campsites, lodging, or tent camping options in Mayo, Florida. Card games are always good to bring on your camping trip. After spending all day hiking, exploring, or kayaking/canoeing, you’ll went to rest by the campfire with your friends or family to play some card games.

  • Cards Against Humanity (for adults)
  • Apples to Apples
  • Regular Deck of Cards
  • UNO

Board Games Can Also Be Fun for Downtime

At our camping resort here in Mayo, Florida, we have plenty of activities for you to do while camping with us. We’re set right near the Suwannee River, so there is always fishing and hunting opportunities, as well as water activities for you and your family to enjoy. Try bringing some of these board games for late night in the lodge or RV:

  • The Game of Clue
  • Monopoly
  • Settlers of Catan
  • The Game of Life

Plan to stay with us here at Suwannee River Rendezvous for your next camping trip in Mayo, Florida. We have all you and your family need for a memorable camping trip this season. Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

Prepare for Hot Weather Camping in Florida

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It’s only March, but before too long that famous Florida heat will be returning to the Suwannee River. Hot, humid weather can make tent camping a little challenging during the peak months of summer, but it doesn’t have to keep you from having a good time. In fact, with a little care and preparation, you can camp comfortably and enjoy yourself even on the warmest days of the year!

Here are some tips to help you stay cool:

Stay Hydrated

Of course, this is the most important thing to keep in mind on especially hot days. Drinking plenty of water will not only prevent you from getting dehydrated, but also help to regulate your body temperature so that you don’t overheat. Keep a bottle of water on hand at all times, and consider packing some refreshing snacks like cucumbers and watermelons for the trip as well.

Stay Dry

Circulation is key for keeping your tent cool overnight, but it can be problematic if you get surprised by a summer rainstorm. If your tent’s rain fly makes it feel hot and stuffy inside, create a canopy over your tent by tying a tarp to a couple of nearby trees instead. This will keep your tent dry without blocking air flow and impeding circulation.

Dress Light

How hot you feel depends largely on what you’re wearing, and certain materials perform better in heat than others. In general, you should avoid clothes made of cotton. For shirts, consider a merino wool base layer that washes well and is light to wear. These days, you can also find active-wear pants that are soft, light and capable of wicking away excess moisture. Be sure to bring a good pair of waterproof shoes, too; if you’re sweaty, you don’t want your feet to be.

Getting ready to plan this year’s summer camping getaway? We’d love to see you at Suwannee River Rendezvous. If you’re nervous about the heat, you can even stay in one of our air conditioned vacation homes! Give us a call or contact us online today to learn more.