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.

Spring Camping on the Suwannee River in Florida

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Many people choose to vacation in Florida when the weather is colder in their area. Northerners enjoy traveling down in the winter and early spring to enjoy warmer weather and relaxation. What if we told you that one of the best places to go camping is in Mayo, Florida along the Suwannee River?

If you’re one who enjoys the great outdoors, come join us this Spring season at Suwannee River Rendezvous!

river camping in Florida

Camping Activities Along the River

We offer plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to get away to a warmer place during these somewhat colder months. We offer kayaking/canoeing excursions along the river, fishing/hunting opportunities, hiking, and other park activities at our resort. Get away with family or friends this spring and enjoy what Florida has to offer.

Lodging and Camping

We do offer areas for tent camping and RV camping. If you’re someone who loves to set up your own camp, we can accommodate. We also can offer lodging for your stay if you’d like to sleep and eat comfortably in one of our beautiful lodges here at the park.

An Endless Amount of Activities

We offer plenty of activities including:

  1. Hal W. Adams Bridge (Hwy 51 blue bridge)
    6 miles – 4 hour float
    $45/Canoe, $45/2 person Kayak, $40/1 person Kayak
    Shuttle departs from SRR between 9am – 2pm
  2. Lafayette Blue Springs
    12 miles – 6 hour float
    $50/Canoe, $50/2 person Kayak, $40/1 person Kayak
    Shuttle departs from SRR between 9am – 11pm
  3. Branford (Patrician Oaks Boat Ramp) **
    12 miles – 6 hour float
    $50/Canoe, $50/2 person Kayak, $40/1 person Kayak
    Depart from the SRR boat ramp between 9am – 11am

Fishing is a wonderful activity to do in Florida. You and your family will be able to enjoy fishing along the Suwannee River and other locations nearby.

Looking to change up your camping trip this spring? Come visit us here at Suwannee River Rendezvous in Mayo, Florida. Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

A Beginner’s Guide to Winter Fishing in Florida

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The weather in Florida typically stays pretty mild throughout the winter, which allows local anglers to continue fishing all year round. If you plan on fishing in Florida during the winter, however, you’ll need to take a slightly different approach than you would in the summer. Today we’ll look at a few ways to maximize your chances of success.

Start fishing later in the day.

It’s important for fishermen to get out on the water as early as possible on hot summer days, but in the wintertime, it’s not nearly as important to start your fishing days early. In fact, you’re better off waiting until later in the day since most fish won’t become active until the sun rises and starts to heat up the water.

Try to find warm waters.

Although the water will generally be pretty cold this time of year, you can still find small pockets of water that are warmer than others. These areas are often warmer because they’re filled with dark sand and mud that absorb the heat from the sun. If you can find these isolated warm spots, you will have a much better chance of getting a bite on your line.

Practice patience and slow down.

Fish generally aren’t as active in the winter as they are in the summer. Their metabolisms slow down dramatically, which means they don’t need to eat as much. Therefore, they will sometimes ignore your bait or wait a little longer to go after it. You will need to slow down and be more patient this time of year. The fish will start to bite eventually, but it’s not always going to happen as soon as you cast your line out.

Ready to put your winter fishing skills to the test? You can find some of the best bass fishing in the state right here at Suwannee River Rendezvous. Give us a call at 386-294-2510 to schedule your reservation today!

Bring Your RV For An Extended Visit

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Having an RV is great if you are planning on traveling or going on vacation for an extended period of time.

However, camping sites can get crowded which can lead to a bad experience for everyone involved.

That’s why we here at Suwannee River Rendezvous have opened our RV Resort perfect for drivers of the automobile.

Upon arrival, your RV will have its own pull-through site with enough room to fit the vehicle as well as a car if need be.

Every site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, free WiFi, and satellite TV to enjoy once things begin to wind down for the night.

From there you will see our beautiful pool complex containing a large swimming pool and two spas. We keep it open and heated year round unless the day’s temperature does not break 60, which isn’t often.

Once, you’ve seen that and you’re all settled in, you can take a ride in a canoe or kayak along the historic Suwannee River. While out you can either fish or take in the amazing wildlife in the area.

We also offer activities on the weekend. On Fridays come play Bingo or sing along with Susie at the lodge. Then on Saturday, head over for some Karaoke and trivia that are sure to be a lot of fun. The lodge is also available for cards, games and parties as well.

Also, if you happen to run out of anything while staying at the resort, there is a Wal-Mart, a grocery store, and a hardware store only 30 minutes away.

Suwannee River Rendezvous is campground and resort in Mayo, FL that is offering an RV Resort perfect for extended stay visitors. If you would like more information or want to book a stay with us, contact us or call today at 386-294-2510!

Join Us This Winter at Suwannee River Rendezvous

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Many people in the United States that live in colder climates travel down to Florida in the winter. Florida is the place to go to get away from the cold winters up north. If you’re looking to become a snowbird this winter for a vacation in Florida, come stop by and stay with us here at Suwannee River Rendezvous.

Florida rv camping

Suwannee River Camping & Outdoor Activities

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we offer premiere camping, lodging, and outdoor activities on Suwannee River in Mayo, Florida. From hiking and kayaking to RV camping and fishing, we have so much to offer for you and your family. Come stay with us this winter when you don’t feel like shoveling snow at your home up north. Who knows? Maybe, you’ll decide to make it an annual tradition.

Lodging Opportunities:

We have several options for lodging at our campgrounds that include different style cabins and lodges for your family and friends to be comfortable in. Our RV campground offers full hookups for power, internet, satellite tv, and much more!

Outdoor Activities to Enjoy

With the weather turning cold up north, it’s still important to get outside and get some physical exercise. Down in Florida, we can provide you with the opportunity to do so. With our camping resort, we have activities to offer you that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors this winter in a warmer place.

Canoe & Kayaking – Hop on a canoe or kayak rental on the Suwannee River with your friends and family. Enjoy the river and paddle up and down for the day.

Fishing & Hunting – Our region, we can offer you bass fishing, hog hunting and more! Come join us to spend your days fishing or hunting for hog.

Park Activities – We also offer fun park activities and events daily for you and your family to enjoy. It’s truly a special place to vacation to in Florida, and we would like for you to come join us.

Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

Fishing Tips for Beginners

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boys_with_fish_011One of the most popular activities our guests like to take part in is the amazing fishing on the Suwannee River. What’s so great about this sport is that folks of all ages can enjoy it! Whether you’re a beginner who’s just looking to have a little fun on the water, or an avid fisherman in search of some excitement, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for on the river!

For those of you who are just starting out though, we’ve got a little bit of advice to help you get the most out of your experience:

Make sure you have the Right Equipment

There are plenty of great brands that carry rods and reels that are specially-made to help make things easier for someone who is just beginning. Check them out at your local sporting goods store and see if anything peeks your interest.

Choose the Right Bait

Your basic worm on a hook can go a long way for a relaxed day on the water, but consider doing some research on which type of bait attracts the particular fish you’re looking to catch. Just like you’re attracted to different types of food, fish are attracted to different kinds of bait.

Check the Weather

You may be praying for sunny skies but sometimes, it’s the overcast that leads to a great fishing day.

Dress Appropriately

Boots are your new best friends. Make a note of it.

Bring Food

It could be a while before you catch anything on your first day. Be sure to pack a snack!

Bug Spray

Need we really say more?

Once you’re ready to take on some serious fishing fun, be sure to give Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground a call! We’d love the opportunity to watch you hone your skills as you make your way to pro fisherman status!

First Time RV-ing? Check Through this Checklist

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Your first time out in an RV can be an exciting one, but also a little confusing if you aren’t sure what exactly to do. At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we come across campers of all levels of experience and know that feeling comfortable in the great outdoors is a vital part of having a fun trip.

So what should first time RVers know before they head out on the open road? Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind.

Ask Questions

When you check in at a campsite, check in with the owners and ask any questions you may have. Often we can give you some insights and a quick rundown of the grounds so that you can get a better understanding of where things are located. We also have a map available online to help you find your way around.

Get Set Up

Once you find your campsite, make sure to prepare your RV for the stay. That includes hooking up electricity and water, along with making sure your RV is parked on flat and level ground. Once you connect your amenities, you’ll be ready for your stay. If this is your first time, be sure to refer to your RV’s owner’s manual, look up instructions online or ask a neighboring RV owner to help with anything that seems confusing. Most RV owners were like you once and may have needed some help learning the ropes, and many people are friendly and may be able to help answer any questions you have.

Relax

This is the most important part! Having an RV allows you to bring all the comforts and luxuries of home to different places. Make sure to bring comfortable chairs, some fun outdoor games and some good food for your trip. Spending your vacation in an RV is incredibly enjoyable. You can enjoy nature and new locations, but also stay comfortable without having to pay for costly hotels.

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, our resort campground offers many great amenities and fun for campers and RVers of all ages. In addition to all there is to do on the grounds, there are a range of additional activities and trips available, including great musical entertainment, canoe and kayak rentals and fishing, hunting and horseback riding opportunities. To learn more or to book your stay, call us at 386-294-2510 or make your reservations online now.

Get Away from the Winter Chill in Florida

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log cabin 25

Summer is coming to an end as September is almost over now, which means if you’re in a place where cold winters happen, it’s time to start thinking about your warm vacations for the winter season. If you’re looking for a temporary escape, the Suwannee River Rendezvous has plenty of space available.

Our rooms are perfect for anyone looking to get away to enjoy some warmth and wilderness but without having to give up the comforts lost when RVing or tent camping. Our rooms offer a full range of amenities including satellite TV, fridge, microwave, coffee pot and air conditioning if you need to cool down from the warm Florida weather.

The Lodge Rooms are located above the main lodge and office and offer a great view of the river. They also include a private patio, so at the end of a long day out enjoying everything the Suwannee River as to offer, you can go back and enjoy some peace and quiet. This privacy is a perfect for anyone who may live in a cold city and needs some separation from the cold and the hustle bustle of a busy city.

If you’re bringing your family along for your winter escape, then one of our log cabin rentals might be just what you’re looking for. Each cabin sleeps six and has all the amenities to help make an extended stay for a larger family more comfortable, including a lofted sleeping space that kids are sure to love.

For anglers, winter can mean the end of fishing season, but if you stay in one of our river rooms, you will have easy access to the river – and may be able to fish right from your room! Depending on the level of the river, guests have fished right from their private patios before. These rooms offer a great view as well, even if you don’t like to fish, and can accommodate up to six guests.

For more information on our rooms or to book your wintry escape, call Suwannee River Rendezvous today at 386-294-2510!

Canoe vs. Kayak: Differences and Advantages

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Outside of the knowing that they’re used for recreational boating on the water, many people don’t know the differences between a kayak and a canoe. The truth is that each offers purpose-built advantages depending on a person’s needs and boating style, so let’s take a closer look at each of these boat styles.

Design

When it comes to what sets kayaks apart from canoes, the simplest place to start is with how they are designed. Canoes are open on the top from stem to stern, and can have one to three seats in them. This allows more space for gear and supplies and allows paddlers and passengers to either sit or kneel while they’re out on the water. Kayaks, on the other hand, are enclosed and have a small opening in the middle where the rider slides in. Kayaks are paddled from a seated position with their feet facing forward while they paddle.

Paddles

Speaking of paddles, those used for a kayak are different than the ones used for a canoe. For a kayak, seeing that it only holds one rider, the paddle is double sided. This allows a person to paddle with alternating port and starboard strokes stay straight on course and maintain control of the kayak. As for canoes, the paddles used for them are a singular paddle, but multiple paddles are used – one by the person at the bow and the second by the paddler at stern. So whereas the kayak depends on one rider to steer, paddling a canoe is a team effort.

Deciding Which Is Best For You

Now in terms of which one is best suited for you, it ultimately depends on what you are trying to do while on the water. If you’re looking to fly through the water at a good pace and explore your surroundings by yourself, then a kayak is likely to be a better option for you. Their design allows them to move faster in the water and that will be perfect if you’re looking to move at your own pace.

Canoes, on the other hand, are perfectly suited for couples, families or groups as they fit more people. Unlike kayaks, their designs don’t allow them to move through the water as fast, but if you’re looking to spend time with people or carry a lot of gear, you probably don’t want to rush it either.

Suwannee River Rendezvous offers canoe and kayak rentals for anyone staying with us, so no matter how you’re looking to travel on the water, we’ve got you covered. Rentals are available by the hour or per day, allowing you to choose the option that’s best for your planned time paddling. Guests also receive life jackets and paddles, and group rates and special trip packages are available. For more information or to book a stay with us, call us today at 386-294-2510!

Tips for Taking Kids on Their First Camping Trip

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Summer presents ideal opportunities to peel your kids from their screens and shuttle them off to participate in a timeless past time: a retreat in the forest, a camping trip. This is a great opportunity to share our enthusiasm for the great outdoors with our children, and allow them to experience the joy of camping. As you might suspect, however, camping with children is a little different than camping with a group of your adult friends. That’s why we put together some tips to ensure the process is fun for everyone involved.

Leave the electronic devices at home.

Nothing will detract from the experience of camping more than having digital devices laying around for entertainment. Both you and your children will be tempted to pick them up and fidget with whatever game or app you have at hand, distracting you from other experiences that can only be had while camping.

Involve your kids in the planning process.

Let them help plan the itinerary, find the campsite and pack for the trip. Kids love brainstorming with adults and, letting them have a say in the plan is a good way to get them excited about camping.

Assign tasks for your kids during the camping trip.

Children love to play but, they delight in being assigned a purpose.  Let the kids unfold the tent, clip the body onto the poles, send them on an urgent mission to collect firewood and have them perform other duties as assigned.

Make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kid.

Minor accidents such as cuts, scrapes and bee stings are more likely to occur in the wild than in your own backyard. Likewise, it’s important keep first aid essentials readily accessible throughout the duration of the outing.

Plan for the rain.

As much as we might hope for crisp clear skies and sunlight pouring through tree tops, rainy weather is a fact of life. With this in mind, it’s worth bringing a deck of cards or other games you can play in a tent on a rainy day.

You can also find more games, puzzles and family-friendly activities in our main lodge. These activities include karaoke, bingo, trivia and even pigeon races!

Stock your camp with pre-made snacks.

You and your children will inevitably burn a lot of energy while partaking in outdoor activities. Don’t forget to bring plenty of snacks to keep your stomachs full. After all, the nearest grocery store might be miles away from your campsite.

Be flexible.

The most effective way to enjoy a camping trip with your children is to keep an open mind. Be open to changes in your plan, and circumstances that you didn’t necessarily anticipate. Remember: camping is an adventure!

Camping is an ideal way to expand your child’s perspective of the world and reignite their natural kinship with nature. Plan ahead, but be flexible throughout your journey. These are memories you and your family will cherish for years to come.