Category: Suwannee River Activities

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!

What to Bring for a Hiking Trip

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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

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!

Give Dad Something He’ll Remember this Father’s Day

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

When you think of presents to give dad for Father’s Day, what comes to mind? A tie? A coffee mug? Nice gestures for sure, but probably not something dad will forever cherish.

People today value experiences more than things, especially when you’re spending time with those closest to you.

Okay, so Father’s Day is coming up. What are you getting dad? How about this year you arrange for a hunting/fishing trip at Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground?

How’d you like a picture of your dad smiling as he reels in a 12-pound bass off the bank of the resort? Or maybe a picture of him capturing a wild hog in the Mallory Swamp WLR?

Located in Mayo, Florida, Suwannee River Rendezvous is a great place for dads to “escape” their everyday lives. Too many dads today “work, work, work” and are always worrying about paying bills. Dads need a break from that now and then; it’s good for their sanity! What better way for a dad to unwind his mind and have some fun than to fish off the dock at Suwannee, take a boat ride, or explore the swamp looking for hogs? It’s time to get dad back to nature where he can grunt, sweat, fart and feel free!

Meanwhile, back at the resort/campground, dad can check out the cool Convict Spring, a natural, freshwater spring that actually feeds into the Suwannee River. If the weather’s decent, dad can go for a swim in the spring. But wait…there’s more: dad can dive down into the spring to find an underwater cave system entrance. That’s something he’d be talking about for years to come, right?

Men crave adventure. They have an inner need to explore. And many men want to fish and hunt– being “out on the land” or “out on the water” is their time to enjoy being male. It’s in the DNA.

So this Father’s day, surprise your old man with a hunting/fishing trip at Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground. Call 386-294-2510 to make arrangements today.

Explore the Natural Springs of Suwannee River

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

When visiting us at Suwannee River Rendezvous, guests get to see the beautiful Suwannee River and take in the beautiful water and scenic sights of northern Florida. However, have you ever wondered where it all comes from? Well, the answer lies in the Suwannee Springs.

For those who may not know, the Suwannee network of springs covers a vast span throughout the region and feeds into the river network, providing the waters that sustain the river as it flows from the headwaters in Georgia all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.

One of the most prominent places to see these springs is the Suwannee Springs State Park, managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District. Located about 40 minutes from Suwannee River Rendezvous, the site features six different springs for people to take in and enjoy.

Once you arrive, you will notice all of the springs flow outward in a southwest direction, which funnels them into the Suwannee River itself. You will also notice that all six are clustered within the same 100-foot span of sandy terrain at the base of a 35-foot high bank stretching right along the south shore of the Suwannee River. The main spring is something to behold as well with its unique location. You can’t miss the sight of this spring, notably located within rock walls constructed as part of a bathhouse from the late 19th century.

The Suwannee Springs are more than just a historic site. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing, hiking, a picnic area and trails for horse riding. All of these activities offer the perfect opportunity to get out and explore the area. Along with those great activities, the Suwannee Springs also are home to a wide variety of wildlife as well. Some of the animals you may see while there include gopher tortoise, gopher frog, Suwannee cooter, deer, turkeys and squirrels.

The river itself is also lined with rich history tracing back through generations of settlers in the region. As the state park’s brochure notes, Native American tribes in the region relied on the river for fresh water and access to game as far back as 12,000 years ago. In the 1500s, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto passed through the region, and in the 1800s, the region became populated by American settlers. There are also remnants of the Civil War that can be seen in places, including earthworks and other constructions that formerly were part of bridges and defense positions manned by Confederate troops.

If you want to explore the Suwannee River area and it’s great history, make your reservations at Suwannee River Rendezvous today. We have one of the springs that feed the river right here on site – Convict Spring – and several more within a short drive from the resort. We have plenty of space for RV and tent camping as well as a range of cabins and lodges for guests. For more information or to book your stay, call us at 386-294-2510!

Stand Up Paddle Boarding on the Suwannee River

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

Stand up paddle boarding (or “SUP) is one of the world’s fastest-growing water sports, and the Sunshine State is a top-ranked place to paddle. The state of Florida has an abundance of amazing paddle boarding spots, and one of them is right here on our very own Suwannee River!

So why is the relatively new sport of paddle boarding catching on like wildfire? There are several reasons, and in this article we’ll take a look at a few of them.

Reason #1: It’s easy.

Stand up paddle boarding is a sport that is very beginner-friendly. There really isn’t much of a learning curve, and literally anyone can be up and paddling in no time at all.

Reason #2: It’s for all ages.

Paddlers of all ages are enjoying this wonderful sport. It’s a low-impact activity that is safe and can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Reason #3: It’s a great way to meet new people.

SUP is a social sport, and there are an abundance of local paddling meetups that you can attend. Most paddle boarding enthusiasts are laid-back and friendly, and it won’t take long for you to make plenty of new paddling friends.

Reason #4: It’s dog-friendly.

Many paddle boarders enjoy bringing their dogs along when they go out on the water. It’s a great way to get your pup out of the house, and most dogs absolutely love coming along for the ride!

Reason #5: It’s healthy.

Stand up paddle boarding is a great way to get into shape, and it’s an excellent activity for increasing strength and overall conditioning. Whether your goal is muscle toning, weight loss, or simply some tranquil time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life — SUP is something that will have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being.

As you can see, stand up paddle boarding is a sport that has a lot going for it. It’s something that anyone can enjoy, and can have a very positive impact on your social, mental, and physical well-being. If you haven’t already tried paddle boarding, we encourage you to give it a shot!

If you want to learn more, our friends at InflatableBoarder.com have a free guide about Florida paddle boarding that we would recommend checking out. It covers the top spots in the state for paddle boarding, and even lists the Suwannee River as one of them! They also have a lot of inflatable SUP reviews published on their website, if you’re interested in buying a board of your own.

Happy paddling!

The History of Convict Spring

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

More than a hundred years ago, the serene site of Convict Spring looked mighty different, and not just because there were no cars, no planes overhead, no cellphones and certainly no TVs.
Instead, right here at the Suwannee River Rendezvous, if you were taking in the sights, there’s a very high probability you were working on a chain gang.

Back in the early 1900s, our spring was used by Lafayette County’s incarceration system, notes Florida Caves. Their prisoners worked on road construction projects – often called chain gangs – and when it was too late or too far to get the inmates back to the county jail, they would spend the night at remote camps scattered throughout the county, and Convict Springs was one of those remote camps.

It’s hard to imagine grizzled criminals gathered around campfires, the light reflecting in the spring, but history doesn’t lie. Every once in a while, someone will turn up an artifact of one kind or another that further confirms the property’s colorful past.

Convict Spring sits atop a fascinating underwater cave system as well, one we’re certain the convicts didn’t spend any time exploring. This particular cave system is a dangerous one, with a restricted entrance and the need for a side-mounted style of diving through extremely narrow passages, notes Cave Survey in its assessment of the spring.

In 2001, Dell Moats, John Moseley, Michael Poucher and Bill Rennaker swam through Convict Spring Cave to take a full survey. They captured extraordinary video footage showing the beautiful yet dangerous conditions inside the cave. We have DVD footage of their excursion, and in the lodge.

We invite you to come enjoy the spring – from the surface, of course – for swimming during the sultry summertime at Suwannee River Rendezvous. In the evening, over the sound of crickets and frogs, you might just hear the faint rhythm of a chain gang.

Convict Spring is just one of the many amenities and conveniences that makes our resort and campground such a popular destination for visitors from all across the country. To plan your trip, call us today at 386-294-2510.