Category: Camping

The Best Games to Bring on Your Camping Trip

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

Bring Your RV For An Extended Visit

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

Get Away from the Winter Chill in Florida

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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.

Camping Hammocks are Good Alternatives to Tents

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

The Benefits of Exploring the Outdoors for Vitamin D

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!