Choosing the Right RV

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Owning an RV is something many people dream about, but they typically don’t know where to begin. If you’ve considered purchasing an RV in the past and are unsure about which RV is right for you, there are several things to consider.

You should take into account how much and how far you will be traveling, who will be traveling with you, the amenities you will require and more. No matter your needs, there are a wide range of RVs available, ensuring you’ll find something perfect for you and your family.

RV in the sunset

How much will you travel, and how far?

Figuring out how much you’ll be using your RV and where you’ll be traveling helps narrow down your search. If you’ll be traveling across America, you may want something that is a little smaller and easier to drive like a Class C. If you are interested in staying at local RV Resorts for the most part, consider getting something a little roomier and more comfortable like a Class A.

Who will be traveling with you?

Similarly, you should know the amount of people that will typically be traveling with you. When you envision how many people will be in your RV, you can make your search at the dealership much easier.

If it’s just you and your spouse, you may only need a bed and couch. If you plan on having children, grandchildren or friends with you on a regular basis, an extra bed or bunkbeds may need to be included.

What are you looking for inside the RV?

If you’re an outdoors person, you may not need all the frills that come with certain RVs. If you’re a homebody, and plan on spending a lot of time inside the RV, you should make sure you have all the amenities to make you comfortable.

Ask yourself how many beds, televisions and bathrooms are needed, if you’d like a living area, larger kitchen and more. With so many different options available, you can essentially customize your RV to meet your exact needs.  

When you make the decision on your dream RV and are looking for a spacious RV park in Mayo, FL, think of us at Suwannee River Rendezvous. As our name suggests, we are located along the Suwannee River and have RV spaces available for weekend getaways or extended stays. No matter how long you plan on visiting us, you’ll feel comfortable throughout your entire trip with full hook ups, 50-amp service, Wi-Fi and more available to all our guests. Call us today at 386-294-2510 to learn more!

Kayaking Tips for Beginners

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Kayaking Tips for BeginnersKayaking is an ideal way to get in touch with one of the most elemental forms of water travel, and depending on where you choose to kayak, the experience can range from peaceful to thrilling.

If you’ve never been kayaking before, though, you may have some lingering questions about what to expect on your first trip down the river. Like any water sport, kayaking takes some time to get the hang of, but with a little practice and preparation you’ll be ready to get out on the water.

Mind Your Posture

Do your best to sit upright with your back straight, as leaning forward or slouching will give you less control over your movements. Your heel and ankles should be touching the hull and the balls of your feet should rest comfortably against the footrest.

These contact points allow your body to distribute the strength needed to maneuver your paddle in the most effective manner. Contrary to popular belief, paddle strokes rely mostly on your core rather than arm strength.

Your paddle blade should enter the water near where your feet are in the kayak. Don’t grip the paddle too tightly, keep it relaxed. Your elbows, meanwhile, should stick out straight so that your arms are roughly perpendicular to your torso.

Practice Basic Movements

It’s a good idea to practice maneuvering your kayak before committing yourself to an excursion down a river. Controlling the direction of your kayak takes a little bit of getting used to before it becomes second nature.

The kayak will be inclined to shift in the direction of the paddle blade, so you’ll need to make firm, even strokes on each side to move in a straight path. The opposite holds true if you want to make a turn, and the sharper the angle of your paddle stroke, the sharper the angle your kayak will turn. Practice paddling straight, turning right and turning left until you feel totally in control of where your kayak’s headed.

Be Properly Equipped

If you’re going to be kayaking in rough waters, it might not be a bad idea to invest in a wet suit. This way, you’ll stay dry even if you get splashed or end up in the water. With that said, sporting a personal flotation device is absolutely essential, regardless of the conditions you’re kayaking in.

It’s also advised that you bring some sort of communication device like a walkie-talkie in case the current leads you astray and you need help reconnecting with your party. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, safety is integral to having a good time.

Now that you know what to expect, we’d love to have you come down to the Suwannee River and join us on a kayak trip! Give us a call to book your reservation today.

Buying a Kayak: Things to Consider

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kayaking The sport of kayaking has become very popular these days, and more and more people are jumping into the water, paddles in hand ready to take on their next adventure. There are lots of things to take into consider when choosing a kayak, however.

Different Types of Kayaking

First and foremost, you need to think about what type of kayaking you’ll be doing. Will you be whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking, kayak touring, sit-on-top kayaking, surf kayaking or just recreationally kayaking? This is important to know because one can’t go out and buy a sea kayak and expect to whitewater kayak in it so you have to make sure you’re choosing a kayak for the right reason.

The Kayak Make

The next question you should consider is what should the kayak be made out of? A lot of times beginners will want to purchase the best boat they can get their hands on, however you should really consider starting out slow and continually upgrading down the road. For this reason it is probably best for you to purchase a plastic kayak to start and the reasons for this are they are durable, less expensive and heavier than the composite ones.

Size of the Kayak

In correlation to the make of the kayak, you’ll also want to evaluate what size you need to buy as well. While there are many different kayaks, the size generally refers to the volume, length, width and weight of the kayak. Pay very close attention to the weight range of the kayak as well as the comfortability of it. You do not want to be sinking in the water while kayaking downstream, or feel crammed inside of the boat either.

Finally, decide if you want any other types of kayak accessories to come with your boat. You can purchase kayaks with different riggings, types of hatches, backrests or storage compartments. Find and analyze all the options in this department and choose the one that best suits your style.

Kayaking is a great way to spend your summer or warmer weather months. You can take a kayak in a pond, lake, river, and many other bodies of water. If you’re an avid camper and outdoors-person, investing in a kayak may be a good choice.

Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information about our camping and summer adventures!

Cabin Camping Can’t Forget List

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rustic cabinThere’s no doubt when you camp in a cabin, you need to bring significantly fewer things with you. While cabins provide your shelter and often come with bedding and dining supplies, there are still items you can’t forget to bring with you.

Although you’ll be indoors, it can still get cool at night especially if you’re camping in the mountains. Make sure to bring at least a 20 degree sleeping bag.

What happens if it rains? You can’t control the weather, but you can control your boredom. So don’t forget to bring a deck of cards. Perfect for any age, you can play a variety of games with just one deck of cards, keeping you entertained for hours. This small pack of cards can be a lifesaver on a rainy afternoon in a cabin.

Whether your cabin has electricity or not, you’ll still want to bring a flashlight and back up batteries. And back up batteries are necessities if you’re going to bring a flashlight or any other battery-powered device.

Aside from staying warm, preventing boredom and having a flashlight, don’t forget plenty of food and water. Families especially should take note of these items and make sure they re packed and ready to go for the next cabin camping trip.

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

Camping Hammocks are Good Alternatives to Tents

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If you’re an avid tent camper, you know the struggles of laying on the ground and dealing with weather elements from time to time. However, there is a great alternative that can be less expensive than tent camping, which is investing in a camping hammock. Hammocks can be more comfortable than laying on the ground, which is good if you don’t want to be sore every morning of a camping trip.

Man camping in a hammock

Here’s How to Beef Up Your Hammock Set-Up

Most hammocks come in two options of either a single nest or a double nest system with carabiners and a suspension system. If you’re looking for more room, a double nest hammock is probably your best bet. These are the basic features of the hammock, but there are add-ons you should think about investing in if you want to make hammock camping a regular enjoyment.

Hammock Accessories that Benefit Your Camping Experience:

  • Rain Fly – To combat some of the weather elements, a rain fly will help keep the rain off the hammock. Rain flies come with a suspension system as well, which will hover over your hammock keeping the rain clear.
  • Mosquito Net – A bug net is also a great option to make sure the “bed bugs” will stay away from you during the night.
  • Under Quilt – For some of the colder nights camping out in the mountains, an under quilt can be added on for extra warmth underneath the hammock material.

The Benefits of Camping Hammocks

Camping hammocks provide you with better comfort when camping. You don’t have to worry about a sore back with lying on the ground anymore in a tent. It also is versatile picking a spot to camp. It’s easier to carry on your back if you’re going backpacking. As long as you have two trees to strap onto, you’re in good shape. It’s also easily portable.

Suwannee River Rendezvous is a great place to go and camp in Mayo, Florida. We have a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, water activities, and much more! If you’re looking for a great place to camp in Florida, contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

When Is Good Age to Start Taking Your Child Fishing?

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Fishing is one of the best bonding activities you can do with your child. When you take your child fishing, you’re teaching them discipline and patience, and you’re also having a bonding experience with them. The great sport of fishing is something that male and female, young and old can go out and participate in together, all the while getting to know each other and learning the patience and exuberance of the catch.

But when is a good time to introduce your young ones into the family tradition of fishing?

Make Sure They’re Ready

They should be at a certain age that the child is engaged in the act and still find it fun because sometimes it can take a long time for that pesky fish to bite the line. If the waiting is not understood or accepted by the young child, then they might not enjoy the overall fishing experience. And the equipment being used, such as a fishing pole, lures, hooks and bait, can be a challenge and dangerous if not properly handled. That’s why it is important to introduce them to fishing and its etiquette slowly.

How Young Can They Start? 

By the age of three, many kids have gathered the rules and grasped on its patience, reacting properly to the various situations that might arise.

Helpfully, by the age of three the natural curiosity and the want for inclusion will take over, drawing them into the new adventure and experiences. At three-years-old your offspring will have a better understanding of fishing from their senses, hearing, seeing, and talking about it. If you show your enthusiasm for the sport, that alone will give them excitement as well to be included. 

Show them the good and the bad, not to feel bad if they don’t catch a fish that day and learn that there will be more fish in the sea, lake or river to get the next time they try. When they do get something to latch onto the hook, show them how special the occasion is and how proud of them you are, putting a cap on the wonderful day you spent with your child.

For more information on our fishing activities or reserve a camping or RV vacation, please feel free to contact us today at 386-294-2510 or visit us online for more information! 

Plan a Hunting or Fishing Trip at Suwannee River

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The beginning of hunting season is a holiday in many parts of the country, and here in Florida there are many great seasons to consider hunting and fishing.  

Hunting at Suwannee River Rendezvous

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we have had great seasons of hog hunting, with guests coming from all across the country – and of course from throughout Florida – to enjoy a successful season of hunting wild hogs. If you’re looking for a different hunting experience this year, come join us down at the resort to take part in this fantastic sport.

There are also trapping seasons, archery seasons and small game seasons for you to enjoy, so you can hunt a wide variety of wild birds and small animals or test your marksmanship with a bow. 

Fishing at Suwannee River Rendezvous

If you’d rather fish, the Suwannee River is perfect for catching fish on your trip. We have fishermen come back with big catches nearly every day, ranging from bass to catfish to sturgeon. In fact, we have some sturgeons that weigh in at more than 200 pounds, though you can’t keep them. They do, however, make for a great photo and an even better story that you can tell by the campfire.

Located in Mayo, Florida, about halfway between Jacksonville and Tallahassee, Suwannee River Rendezvous serves as a getaway for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Some of our guests love the outdoors so much, they’ll drive their RVs to the resort and spend their days exploring the Florida wilderness or stalking wild hogs while enjoying nights at the campground beneath the stars.

Before you plan your next hunting or fishing trip, think about planning your stay at Suwannee River Rendezvous. We have hunting and fishing opportunities all around the region, not to mention other activities on the river, such as kayaking and canoeing, that can make for a fun trip for the whole family. Our weather is great all year round, so make your next hunting vacation one with us. Learn more or make your reservations today by calling 386-294-2510.

The Benefits of Exploring the Outdoors for Vitamin D

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Exploring the outdoors has many benefits to your physical and mental health. One of those benefits is getting the proper amount of Vitamin D from the sunlight. Although, you have to be careful when spending time outside in the sun. Always remember to wear sunscreen when exposed to the sun for long hours during the day. 

What Does Vitamin D Help With?

Vitamin D is produced naturally by your body when your skin is exposed to the sunlight. Certain foods and supplements also contain Vitamin D because not everyone can get outside all the time in the sunlight. Vitamin D also really helps with keeping your immune system strong and functioning. Vitamin D on the other hand is vital for kids’ bone growth. 

How Can You Get the Most Vitamin D Exploring the Outdoors? 

A great way to get the proper amount of Vitamin D is to get outside and go camping. Spending a weekend camping in the wilderness forces you to step in the sunlight. Another way to get sunlight is to go hiking. You will receive the right amount of Vitamin D during a day’s hike, and you’ll also get quite a bit of exercise along the way.

Where’s the Best Place to Go Camping in the Sun? 

It’s not called the sunshine state for nothing. Florida is a wonderful place to go camping with the family. In fact, Suwannee River Rendezvous is the perfect place for you and your family to camp, hike, go fishing, kayaking, and much more! 

Located in Mayo, Florida, Suwannee can give your family the weekend you need to spend outside. If you’re looking to get outside and get more Vitamin D, contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 today or visit us online for more information!

What to Bring for a Hiking Trip

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Hiking is a great way to get exercise and see the world at the same time, but most people aren’t prepared for a hike. They sometimes underestimate the strenuous task of hiking up a mountain or a steep trail. It’s important to be prepared for a hike, but what does that mean exactly? Here are soe essentials you should always bring for a hike!

What to bring on a hiking trip

Hiking Boots or Shoes

Whether you’re going up a steep incline, or you’re on a trail, you’ll need to have the proper footwear to get through it. The conditions of a trail could be rocky, muddy, slippery, and even snowy, which means you’ll need a hiking boot or shoe to make sure you have the right traction, so you don’t slip and fall. 

Water, Water, and more Water

You’d be surprised on how much water you actually need when hiking. Many times, we tend to think we know how much water is enough, but weather conditions come into play when hiking. You may not realize it until half-way up the hike that you’re out of your water. It’s recommended to plan for a half a liter per hour during your hike. 

Rain Gear

Sometimes you can get stuck in the rain on a hike. You should always pack a good rain jacket that is waterproof, so you don’t get drenched on the hike. Make sure to pack an extra shirt or shorts just in case those get wet on the hike. 

Tools, Gadgets, First Aid Kit

Other important items include a first aid kit, flashlight or headlamp, knife/tool, sun protection, and of course food and snacks for your hike. You never want to be hungry or without energy on along hike. If you’re going on a long weekend hike, it’s recommended you bring a tent and camping gear to split up the trip and have a place to stay overnight. 

At Suwannee River Rendezvous, we provide camping, lodging, and adventure activities here in Mayo, Florida. Contact us at 386-294-2510 today to learn more!

Why You Should Go Camping After the COVID-19 Crisis

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Camping has been many family’s tradition for generations. Getting out in the wilderness comes with plenty of great benefits regarding physical and mental health. After the country is able to open up, camping will play an important role in getting back in touch with nature and your loved ones. 

A Down to Earth Experience

There’s a beautiful experience when it comes to camping. Everything from organizing your gear, packing up the car, and setting up camping is a down to earth experience. In reality, you’re setting up a home for the next few days. 

Creative Problem Solving – When camping, there are always moments when problem solving is required. Cooking, setting up camp, preparing for bad weather, lighting a fire, and much more involves creative problem solving. You’ll always run into problems, and creative problem solving with your family or friends creates a great bonding experience. 

Physical & Mental Health Benefits

Getting outside is always a good thing to do. When we have been stuck inside for a few months, the outdoors seems like heaven. Well, it is heaven to be honest with you. With camping, you’ll get the exercise, stress relief, and escape you need to improve your productivity, mood, and physical activity. 

Whether you’re hiking, making simple meals, mountain biking, swimming, or doing other activities, you’ll most likely improve your sleep as well. If you have been struggling with sleep during the quarantine, camping might be a good reset. 

Suwannee River Rendezvous is your best place to get out camping in Florida. We have everything you need when it comes to camping. From kayaking and canoeing to hunting and fishing, escape to the outdoors with us. If you’re looking for a place to camp in Florida after the quarantine, contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510.