Camping can be great fun in Florida as long as you are aware of the unique aspects that make Florida such an amazing place to camp. These 10 things you should always remember when camping in Florida will assure you have a memorable experience that is enjoyable, relaxing, and fun.
10 Things You Should Always Remember When Camping in Florida
Choose Shade
This is especially important in the summer months, since the average temperature in the Everglades is 91 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re camping in a tent, you’ll want to find a place near water so you can be sure of a breeze all night long. Of course, if you have an RV, just find a place like Shady Acres RV Travel Park with lots of trees where you can park your rig, run your air conditioner, and take a dip in the pool.
Bring a Jacket
If you think that the weather in Florida is always hot and sunny, you’d be right most of the time. However, between May and October, you’re likely to encounter afternoon rainstorms that can drench you in just a few seconds. By packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket, you can be sure that your clothes will stay as dry as possible if you get caught in one of these downpours. Consider buying a bright color that can easily be seen through trees.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Humidity is almost always present when you’re in Florida, particularly in the summer months, and humidity makes you sweat more than usual. As such, you need to constantly replace the water you’re losing by drinking more water than you would in drier climates. When you add in all the activities you’ll be doing while you’re camping, such as fishing, hiking, boating, swimming, etc., you’ll lose even more water, so be sure to always have a water bottle at your side.
Wear Sunscreen
There is a reason they call Florida the Sunshine State, and if you’re caught outside for too long without protecting your skin, you’ll also understand why Florida is the third most sunburned state in the country. For this reason, do not forget your sunscreen when you are camping here. It can be easy to forget when you’re having such a great time participating in all the wonderful activities we have available, but your skin will thank you for remembering.
Pack Bug Repellent
When the sun begins to set, the humidity brings out the insects, which if you’re around water and trees, can get pretty thick. A good bug repellent spray or cream is almost necessary to keep from getting bitten by mosquitos and no-see-ums. Even if you camp in an RV, you’ll still want to carry a repellent that contains DEET because you’ll probably spend much of your time outside after dark, sitting around a fire pit, talking about the day’s adventures.
Reserve Early
Campsites tend to fill up in Florida campgrounds and RV parks, especially in the winter months, when people are looking to get away from their cold home states and enjoy the mild weather in Florida. While state park campsites can be booked as early as 11 months before your visit, private campground reservation rules vary greatly. Just know it’s best to reserve as early as possible to be guaranteed the site you want at the park you want.
Beware of Wildlife
Florida is well-known for its varied wildlife, but when you’re camping you don’t want to come across some of these animals and not be prepared. Alligators, bears, raccoons, bobcats, and other wild animals are common in all areas of Florida, so you may want to contact campgrounds to find out how best to prepare for your stay, especially if they don’t offer bear-proof garbage cans and other wild animal deterrents. No matter where you camp, keep your food secured.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Many people who camp in Florida also want to bring their dogs along. While this is welcome in many campsites in the state, there are some that do not allow dogs. For this reason, if you want to bring your furry companion with you, make sure to verify whether your campsite accepts dogs, or, as with Shady Acres, even has a dog park with watering stations and agility equipment where you can allow your friend to roam free.
Get a Fishing License
Fishing is one of Florida’s most enjoyable pastimes, but if you plan to partake, be sure to purchase a fishing license before you head out to fish. If you live in Florida, you will need a $9.00 shoreline fishing license or a $17.00 saltwater fishing license. If you’re a non-resident of Florida, it’ll cost you $17.00 for a non-resident saltwater fishing license that is good for three days. You’ll get seven days for $30.00 and a full year for $47.00.
Know How to Cool Down
The combination of the heat and humidity in Florida can be overwhelming for visitors, so it’s important to know how to cool down if you’re camping in the summer. To begin with, follow the hydration rule mentioned above. This will keep your body as cool as possible. You should also wear light-weight, light-colored, cotton clothing and a hat to reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them. Eat light while you’re out in the heat, such as when hiking or fishing.
Additionally, you may want to consider a campground that has showers and a pool. A lukewarm shower will cool you down by conducting heat away from your body, and a dip in the pool will not only help you beat the heat, but will feel amazing after a long day of participating in camping activities. Shady Acres has two pools that you can use as often as you want to ensure you don’t overheat in the Florida sun.
Florida is an incredible place to camp, especially if you follow the tips given here so that you and everyone in your party are safe as you enjoy everything the state has to offer. If you have an RV, some of these tips are easy to follow, but be sure to choose an RV park like Shady Acres that has all the amenities to make your stay fantastic.
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