Category: Suwannee RV Resort

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!

Choosing the Right RV

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

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!

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!

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!

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!

Money-Saving Tips for Your Next RV Adventure

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

RV Refeuling RVs make it easy to hit the road and explore, but as with any trip, the costs can add up. The good news is, you can stay within your budget by keeping these money-saving tips in mind during your next RV adventure:

Save at the Pump

Minimize your fuel expenses by using apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest nearby gas prices, or by using a credit card that offers rewards on gas purchases.

Drive Smart

Did you know that the way you drive can have a noticeable effect on your gas mileage? Don’t speed, make sure your tires are inflated to correct pressure and avoid driving aggressively. Maneuvers like excessive braking and rapid acceleration burn up gas fast.

Channel Your Inner Chef

One of the advantages of having an RV is that you have a built-in kitchen! Skip the fast food—it’s not ideal for your health or your budget. Visit grocery stores and farmers’ markets instead to find ingredients to make your own meals. Have leftovers at the end of the day? Keep them for tomorrow and save even more money!

Travel During the Shoulder Season

Fall is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect season for an RV trip. Campsites that are pricier in the summer often lower their prices during the autumn months, and you’ll still get to enjoy beautiful weather in most parts of the country.

Looking for an affordable, comfortable campsite for your next RV trip? You’ve come to the right place! At Suwannee River Rendezvous, our RV resort comes equipped with a variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi and pool access! Give us a call at (386) 294-2510 to learn more or to book your reservation today!

Get Your RV Ready for a Trip to Suwannee River Rendezvous

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

RV CampingSpring has arrived, and you know what that means—the start of RV camping season! And of course there’s no better place for a camping trip than Suwannee River Rendezvous in Mayo, Florida. We’ve got warm weather, a freshwater spring, the nearby Suwannee river for kayaking and canoeing, and over 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry. If all of this sounds good to you, it’s time to get your RV ready for a trip to the Suwannee River! Here’s how:

Give it a good wash.

Just like your home, your RV will need a good spring cleaning. Remove any dust, dirt or grime from your RV using a gentle car soap or RV wax-and-wash soap. Don’t forget the undercarriage! Then, polish all the chrome components of your RV and clean and shine the wheels.

Inspect the exterior.

Do you spot any missing or cracked sealant on the roof or sidewall seams? It’s important to replace any faulty sealant so that no water can seep into your RV during those spring rains.

Examine the tires.

If your tires need replacing, it’s better to do it before you hit the road. Make sure all tires are properly inflated and use the penny test to make sure they have enough tread for a long journey.

Prepare the battery.

Disconnect the battery and clean it with a corrosion-resistant cleaner and lubricant. Keep in mind that, on average, lead-acid car batteries last about four years.

Check your fluids.

This includes brake fluid, antifreeze and transmission, hydraulic and windshield washer fluids. It’s typically a good idea to invest in an oil change before you hit the road as well.

Freshen up the interior.

Finally, air out the RV and give all its interior surfaces a thorough wipe-down.

Now that your RV is ready for the trip, it’s time to book your spot at the Suwannee River Rendezvous. Reserve your campground online or give us a call today at (386) 294-2510 to learn more!

Handy Travel Accessories to Keep in Your RV

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

One of the best parts about traveling in an RV is that you can bring all the comforts of home along with you when you hit the road. From basics like cooking utensils and organizers to luxuries like TVs and camping hammocks, you can equip your RV with all sorts of useful accessories. But while most of this gear is optional, there are a few travel accessories you should definitely keep on board during your next adventure. Check them out below!

First Aid Kit

When you’re far from home in unfamiliar territory, it’s always a good idea to keep a first aid kit on hand. This way, you can treat everything from minor cuts and bruises to headaches and sunburns. It’s especially important to have a complete first aid kit if you’re traveling in remote areas where hospitals and urgent care centers might not be easy to find.

Solar Charger

In the event that you lose power in your RV, a solar charger can allow you to keep phones and other devices charged so you can contact roadside assistance for help. These chargers have gotten far more affordable in recent years, and they can offer some valuable peace of mind when you’re on the road.

Weather Radio

The weather can change quickly when you’re on the road, and a weather radio can help you stay one step ahead of dangerous storms. These radios offer access to a nationwide network of NOAA weather stations that provide regular updates on developing weather patterns throughout the country. You can also find hand-cranked weather radios that operate reliably even if you don’t have access to batteries.

Next time you’re on the road, we’d love to see you at our beautiful RV resort on the Suwannee River! Give us a call to learn more about our accommodations, or reserve your campground online today.

RV Security Tips for Your Next Big Adventure

Posted by Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

Family in RVAt the Suwannee River Rendezvous, we welcome RV travelers from all over the country. Our smallest RV site is 40 by 80 feet, so we can accommodate RVs of all shapes and sizes. Visitors are welcome to park either on the original campground, or at the new Rendezvous resort, where guests can wake up to our beautiful pool complex and spa.

But as every RV owner knows, it’s important to protect your vehicle against unwanted intruders when you’re on the road. Today we’ll look at a few security tips to help you get started.

Upgrade Your Locks

An RV is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s also your home away from home. With this in mind, consider upgrading your RV’s standard locks with high-quality padlocks or cylinder locks that can’t be easily broken. It’s generally a good idea to add locks to your hitch and steering wheel, as well. That way, you can enjoy your trip without having to worry about whether or not your belongings are safe.

Invest in Security Lights

Motion-activated security lights are great theft deterrents at night. You may even use similar lights to protect your house when you’re not on the road. Modern LED security lights are inexpensive, energy efficient and easy to install. They’re also bright enough to scare off anyone who might think about trying to break into your RV under cover of darkness.

Park Smarter

With an RV, you should back into campsites to make it easy to get out, right? Well, not necessarily. Pulling forward into campsites can make it much harder for thieves to make a quick getaway with your vehicle. It may add a few minutes to your exit, but your RV’s security is worth it.

Next time you’re traveling in Florida, be sure to visit us on the Suwannee River! Reserve your site online, or give us a call today to learn more.