Category: River Lore

Fishing Tips for Beginners

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

Buying a Kayak: Things to Consider

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

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!

When Is Good Age to Start Taking Your Child Fishing?

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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! 

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!

Why You Should Go Camping After the COVID-19 Crisis

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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. 

Places to Visit in Florida After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

Sure, we’re all stuck indoors practicing social distancing and staying healthy and safe, but that doesn’t mean we can’t plan our getaways and trips during this time. Florida has plenty of places to offer for your next trip and leisure vacation. 

Here is a list of beautiful places to getaway to after the COVID-19 Pandemic is all over. 

Suwannee River Rendezvous

Suwannee River Rendezvous is a camping and RV resort located in Mayo, Florida. With plenty of activities to do like fishing, hunting, canoe and kayaking, and other swimming and entertainment activities. We have lodging and RV camping areas for however you like to enjoy your “camping” traditions. 

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

Just southeast of Suwannee River Rendezvous lies the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. This is a 68-acre facility with 24 collections of bamboos, the largest herb garden in the southeast United States, water lilies, and much more!

Ginnie Springs

Another place just southeast of Suwannee River lies the beautiful Ginnie Springs. This place has so much to offer from scuba diving to snorkeling, and even tubing the great Santa Fe River. Ginnie Springs offers camping, lodging, and electrical hookups for RV’s and campers. If you plan your trip right, you could easily hit all of these spots in Florida. 

Washington Oaks State Park

Located directly east of Gainesville on the coast of the Atlantic is Washington Oaks State Park. This beautiful state park in Florida consists of gardens surrounding an ancient live oak in the middle. With trail hiking, biking, and fishing along the coast, you can relax and enjoy a beautiful piece of Florida’s nature. 

Start Planning Now to Explore Florida for When the Coronavirus is Over

We understand the difficulty of staying in and quarantining ourselves. It’s not easy on anybody, but it is necessary if we want to protect our citizens and keep them healthy during the pandemic. What we can do is plan our next Florida vacation. Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous at 386-294-2510 to start planning your first stop along an amazing adventure!

The Importance of Family Camping Trips

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

There are plenty of times where you and your family are planning vacations or trips, but you can’t quite sure decide on what to do. A family camping trip is something you should consider. Yes, you may not enjoy the sound of “camping,” but there are plenty of options Suwannee River Rendezvous can offer to you and your family.

The Benefits of Camping

When camping with your family, you’re creating memories that can be cherished for years to come. Camping allows you to explore and adventure with the ones you love. There are many reasons why families camp, and here are some of the most beneficial:

  • It reduces stress – families deal with daily stresses all the time, whether it has to do with school, work, sports, social situations, or other events. Camping will make your family embrace the wilderness and forget about your everyday stresses.
  • Stronger relationships – you may build stronger relationships with siblings and parents. Sometimes our day-to-day activities don’t allow us to build strong relationships but being out in nature and exploring can rekindle those, especially when it comes to a fishing excursion.
  • Unplugging – unplugging from all unnecessary distractions in our lives can be extremely healthy and beneficial to family members. It forces us to talk and gain a deeper understanding of each other when we aren’t so connected to the internet, TV, or social media.
  • Great Meals – cooking when camping is always a great time because it gets the whole family to participate in the prep and cleanup. Your family can learn new recipes and creative ways to cook. If you’re looking to take a small break from the camping cooking routine, you and your family can always check out the Cookin’ Shack at the Suwannee River Resort and Campground.

Camp with Suwannee River Rendezvous!

We invite families from everywhere to come join us at Suwannee River Rendezvous in Mayo, FL to stay at one of our lodging facilities on our campgrounds and resort. Our place is filled with exciting exploration opportunities and activities including fishing, hunting, kayak and canoe trips, entertainment, and events. Contact us at 386-294-2510 today! 

Why an RV is the Best Road Trip Vehicle

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

When we think of road trips, we think long, uncomfortable car rides with our friends to a destination that may not be worth the trip. Road tripping in an RV is where the game is changed for the better. The beauty of riding in an RV to a vacation destination is that there are plenty of stops you can make a long your trip.

Many places in the United States off RV Camping Parks like Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Camping.

You Don’t Have to Pay for Hotels

Owning or renting an RV allows you to have a home on wheels when traveling on the long road. You won’t have to worry about looking for costly hotels along the way that can make a dent in your budget. You have the opportunity to make your own meals and get a good sleep comfortably in your vehicle.

Boondocking is also a great way to save money on a long road trip in an RV. The benefit of boondocking is it’s free!

An RV Makes the Drive Much Better

Just imagine being stuck in a small car packed with your family or friends. There is no seat open for comfort, so you’re stuck up against each other. This is where the misery comes out during a road trip. No one enjoys being miserable in a car ride. With an RV, you have the space and comfort to enjoy the scenery outside and the drive.

What Can Do in an RV:

  • Play Board/Card Games
  • Play Musical Instruments
  • Cook food
  • Sleep comfortably
  • Read/Watch Movies

You Can Still Enjoy the Outdoors

If you’re looking for an authentic way of traveling, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors, you still can! At Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground, we have plenty of opportunities for you and your family to stop, stay, and take in the beautiful outdoors of Florida. Don’t let the RV lifestyle fool you. Just because you can go into a comfortable vehicle to eat and sleep, does not mean you’re not roughing it.

Contact Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground at 386-294-2510 today!

Keep it Clean With These Camping Hygiene Tips

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

Drying OffPracticing good personal hygiene can be challenging when you’re on a camping trip. You want to keep yourself clean and healthy, but it can be tough when you have limited access to water and bathroom supplies Today we’ll look at a few helpful hygiene tips to keep in mind during your next camping adventure.

Pack the right supplies.

You may not be able to pack up your entire bathroom and bring it with you, but you can bring a few essential personal hygiene supplies that will keep you clean in a pinch. Make sure you have hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste, unscented baby wipes and toilet paper before you leave home. Steer clear of bringing deodorant (it could attract animals to your campsite), scented soaps and shampoos, razors and anything else that could harm the ecosystem around your campsite.

Find a way to bathe.

There are several ways you can bathe yourself while camping. You can jump into a lake or river to wash dirt and oil away from your skin (just don’t use soap in the water as it could contaminate it). You can also take what’s called a trail shower by using biodegradable soap, a washcloth and a few liters of water (just don’t take one too close to a natural water source as, again, it could contaminate the water). Or, you can simply give yourself a sponge bath with biodegradable soap, water and a towel. Regardless of which option you pick, it’s important to wash yourself in some form or fashion.

Bring water to launder your clothing.

You won’t be able to do large loads of laundry at your campsite, but you can wash things like underwear and other clothing staples with a little water and biodegradable soap. This will keep you smelling fresh and minimize the amount of extra clothing you need to bring on your trip.

If tent camping isn’t your speed, you can find a variety of comfortable lodging options at our resort and campground as well! These accommodations come equipped with all the comforts of home like HVAC systems, WiFi access, cable TV and more. To schedule your reservation, feel free to give us a call or contact us online today!