For those who have never camped or have camped and hated it, I have some advice to offer you. Camping is not fun if you are not prepared.
Before you go camping look up the campsite. If you are camping for the first time you should start at a state park, unless you are with experienced campers. Florida’s park service offers detailed information about the camp site conditions at each park online. For example some parks offer both cabins and primitive camping.
Check the weather, but be prepared for rain even if it is not expected. Because we live in Florida, rain is always expected. Be sure to rainproof your tent.
If you camp in the summer, and don’t want to be hot, consider bringing an oscillating fan. Also try to camp at parks which have rivers, lakes or are on the coast. Water sports make any camping trip better, and they are the best way to cool off.
Be sure you bring the little things. Flashlights, knives, lanterns, utensils, food containers, plates, cups, tin foil, napkins, chairs, bedding, lighter fluid, matches, a radio are all very useful and you will want to have them.
Make sure you set out for your destination with enough time to arrive before nightfall. Setting up a tent in the dark is not fun. If you have to you will need a lantern.
For things to do you should research what is available at your particular park. You can always bring a frisbee or a football. Most of Florida’s parks have water activities like kayaking or tubing. And almost all of Florida’s parks offer trails and exhibits.
A shelter on the Appalachian Trail
