Florida RVer

Special deals offered midweek at Florida State Parks

2010-03-05T15:25:00.000-08:00

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida State Parks has initiated a new promotion to encourage weekday camping. The Two for Tuesday promotions allow visitors to purchase discounted camping packages at three state parks for Tuesday and Wednesday night stays that include admission to select nearby state parks. Packages range from $40 to $270, with savings of $30 to $36 off the value of the full package. Reservations may be made for stays from March 2 through May 26, 2010.

“Two for Tuesday is a great way to promote camping and encourage visitors to check out neighboring parks,” said Florida Park Service Director Mike Bullock. “By offering ready-made packages, visitors can take the guess work out of planning their trip, all for a discounted price.”

Locations of the Two for Tuesday parks range from springs near Central Florida to beaches in the Panhandle and museums in southwest Florida. Campers can bring a tent, camper or RV, or choose to stay in a cabin or bungalow. All overnight accommodations are subject to availability. To learn more visit the Florida State Parks website.

LongView RV signs on as Florida's newest Newmar dealer

2010-02-04T12:07:00.000-08:00

LongView RV Superstores of Dover, Florida has joined with RV maker Newmar Corp., as its newest Florida dealer.

“LongView is now selling Newmar’s highest volume and fastest selling products, which include the Bay Star and Canyon Star gas motorhomes as well as the Ventana diesel pusher brand,” said John Sammut, vice president of sales and marketing for Nappanee, Ind.-based Newmar. “Like Newmar, LongView is family owned and operated and shares our goals in terms of quality, value, and customer service. They run an excellent dealership in Florida and we are looking forward to a profitable relationship with them.”

LongView RV is carrying Newmar’s core motorhome products at its Dover, Fla., location. Established in 1959, LongView RV Superstores has locations in Connecticut and Florida. In December 2004, the current central Florida location opened on the outskirts of Tampa.

Reenactors to re-create Florida's largest Civil War battle

2010-02-04T10:42:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 13 and Sunday February 14. More than 2,000 living history reenactors will re-create the Battle of Olusteee at Olustee Battlefield State Park, 13 miles east of Olustee on U.S. 90. The battle was fought February 20, 1863 and was Florida's largest Civil War battle.

Full-scale artillery, mounted cavalry and three African American regiments, including the 54th Massachusetts, took part in the fighting that day. The Saturday skirmish will begin at 3:30 p.m. and the battle reenactment will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. The event will feature medical demonstrations, period music concerts, military camps and drills and the lives of soldiers and civilians. Food concessions will be available. No pets are allowed.

Admission on Saturday and Sunday is $7 for adults and less for children. For additional information call 877-635-3655.

The Smartest Way to Experience A Theme Park

2010-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

Is your family all excited to reach their destination theme park just to discover miles of lines? (groan) Waiting an hour or more for your opportunity to ride? (feet hurt!) Kids (and adults) getting cranky? Grrrr!

Take it from me, the original Florida tour guide to 30 years of relatives, youth groups and out of town friends. I have your tried, tested and true solution. After all, necessity is the mother of invention.

Here's the secret: most of America is right hand oriented. We drive on the right side of the road and we generally walk on the right side when we pass someone. Given a circular park (most are) the vast majority of people will begin their journey to the right. So you take the path less traveled to left. This will save you hours and your family and friends will delight in their little to no wait at their favorite and normally packed rides. They will think you a genius! You will be halfway around the park in no time so be sure to stop early for lunch, about 11 am. You will avoid the lunch rush at noon. Then, while the right hand oriented people pack the place for lunch at noon, you and your group will be up and enjoying the right side of the park now vacated by the herd. Smarter than the average bear!

Woodall's names top 45 Florida RV parks

2010-01-20T15:47:00.000-08:00

Woodall Publications Corporation, producer of the most comprehensive and reliable campground directories available, has announced that 307 parks out of 8,000 privately owned campgrounds listed in its 2010 North American Campground Directory have earned the highest and most coveted designation of 5W/5W.

Woodall’s dual rating system helps RVers and campers find a park that has the facilities and amenities they want by assigning two ratings to each RV park and/or campground: 1W through 5W for facilities at the park and 1W through 5W for recreation. This state-of-the-art rating system is the backbone of Woodall’s Campground Directory, providing RVers and campers with unbiased insight in a format that is easy to use and understand. Top-ranked states this year were Arizona, followed by Florida, California and Texas.

The more Ws a park has generally reflects the presence of more development and facilities at the park; a park with a 5W/5W rating is usually highly developed in terms of its physical grounds, personnel, recreation programs and superior maintenance of the park’s facilities. Campers are also choosing campgrounds on the conveniences they offer, including everything from pull-through pads to Wi-Fi for Internet access. Woodall’s field representative teams conduct on-site inspections of every campground in the directory each year. To purchase any of Woodall's fine 2010 directories, whether all of North America, Canada, or North America subsections with special pricing and speedy delivery, click here.

Woodall's picks for Florida's top 45 RV parks are:

Cross Creek Country Club & RV Resort – ARCADIA, FL

Torrey Oaks RV & Golf Resort – BOWLING GREEN, FL
Encore Manatee RV Resort – BRADENTON, FL
Horseshoe Cove RV Resort – BRADENTON, FL
Holiday Cove RV Resort – CORTEZ, FL
Outdoor Resorts/Chokoloskee Island – CHOKOLOSKEE, FL
Outdoor Resorts At Orlando– CLERMONT, FL
Travelers Rest Resort – DADE CITY, FL
Deer Creek Golf & RV Resort – DAVENPORT, FL
Highbanks Marina & Campresort – DEBARY, FL
Sunset King Lake RV Resort – DEFANIAK SPRINGS, FL
Camping on the Gulf – DESTIN, FL
Everglades Isle Motorcoach Retreat – EVERGLADES CITY, FL
Cypress Woods RV Resort – FORT MYERS, FL
Raintree RV Resort – FORT MYERS, FL
Riverbend Motorcoach Resort – FORT MYERS, FL
Indian Creek Resort – FORT MYERS BEACH, FL
Siesta Bay RV Resort – FORT MYERS BEACH, FL
Goldcoaster Mobile Home & RV Resort – HOMESTEAD, FL
Rainbow Resort – HOMESTEAD, FL
Flamingo Lake RV Resort – JACKSONVILLE, FL
Nettles Island Resort & RV Park – JENSEN BEACH, FL
Tropical Palms Resort – KISSIMMEE, FL
The Recreation Plantation RV Resort – LADY LAKE, FL
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground – LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL
Camp Florida Resort – LAKE PLACID, FL
Holiday Travel Resort – LEESBURG, FL
Crystal Lake RV Resort – NAPLES, FL
Pelican Lake Motorcoach Resort – NAPLES, FL
Signature Motorcoach Resort at Naples – NAPLES, FL
Silver Lakes RV Resort and Golf Club – NAPLES, FL

New Smyrna Beach RV Park – NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL
Encore Royal Coachman – NOKOMIS, FL
Silver Palms RV Village – OKEECHOBEE, FL
Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort (Morgan RV Resorts) – ORANGE LAKE, FL
Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort – PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL
Harbor Lakes – PORT CHARLOTTE, FL
Riverside RV Resort & Campground – PORT CHARLOTTE, FL
Sun-N-Fun RV Resort – SARASOTA, FL
The Outback RV Resort at Tanglewood – SEBRING, FL
Wilderness RV Park Estates – SILVER SPRINGS, FL
Starke/Gainesville NE KOA – STARKE, FL
Bay Bayou RV Resort – TAMPA, FL
The Great Outdoors RV-Nature & Golf Resort – TITUSVILLE, FL
Vacation Inn Resort – WEST PALM BEACH, FL

Visit a Florida State Park for 75 cents

2010-01-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Park Service has launched a new promotion, Go Play Weekday, which allows visitors to pay 75¢ admission Monday through Thursday at featured state parks during promotional months. Throughout the year, Go Play Weekday specials will highlight parks in each region of the state.

“Since 1935, millions of visitors have experienced the magnificence of Florida’s white sandy beaches, vast open prairies, lush semi-tropical forests, cultural sites and crystal clear springs at Florida State Parks and we are proud to celebrate this milestone,” said DEP Deputy Secretary for Land and Recreation Bob Ballard. “Affordable family friendly activities such as swimming, hiking, bicycling, paddling, diving, fishing, camping, birding, events and ranger-led tours are just a few ways people enjoy our natural resources.”

The first of several promotions planned in celebration of Florida State Parks’ 75th Anniversary, Go Play Weekday allows residents and visitors to explore featured parks for a ‘trial size’ price. The price is right for budget watchers, home schoolers and anyone ready for some outdoor recreation.

The Panhandle is the first area to be highlighted in the Go Play Weekday promotion. The six featured state parks offer bluffs, beaches, trails, rivers and lakes that provide ideal locations to hike, camp, fish, ride bicycles and enjoy the cool weather.

Parks offering entrance for 75 cents through February 25, 2010, include:

1. Blackwater River State Park, Holt
2. Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach
3. Grayton Beach State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
4. Falling Waters State Park, Chipley
5. Three Rivers State Park, Sneads
6. Torreya State Park, Bristol

How it works: Mention ‘Go Play Weekday’ at the ranger station to get the special price. If the park has an honor box, just write ‘Go Play Weekday’ on the envelope and put in 75 cents instead of the full fee.

Plan to tailgate before Miami's SuperBowl game?

2010-01-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Do you plan to celebrate next month's Superbowl with a tailgate party? Then lucky you! But good luck finding a spot for your RV: tailgating is not allowed in any of the parking areas at Miami's Dolphin Stadium.

But it may not be so hard to find a place to celebrate using your RV as Tailgate-Central, even if you live in Kansas or Tucson or anywhere but the Miami area: How about celebrating in your back yard or the driveway? Invite the neighbors over. You don't need tickets to the game -- just watch on your big screen TV (and save lots of bucks over buying tickets!) Besides an RV -- the best tailgate amenity -- you'll need a good portable barbecue pit to cook your food, tailgates or tables, an ice chest for the suds, and a radio with big honkin' speakers so you can celebrate to the pre-game hype.

For those fans who will celebrate in the Miami area, there are some special treats. Morton's The Steakhouse is offering platters of filet mignon sandwiches, lamb chops, shrimp cocktail, mini-New York cheesecakes and other gourmet options for tailgaters who don't want to cook; order the platters for pick-up at the restaurant's Coral Gables, North Miami Beach and downtown Miami locations.

Or maybe you've got $4,500 (per person) to spend and no RV. In that case, Donald Trump has a deal for you. He's inviting guests to his four-star resort in Sunny Isles to party hearty Feb. 5-7 with his great "Tail-Great" package. Besides your accommodations for two for three nights in a luxurious one bedroom ocean-view Super-Suite (appointed with team colors, fan merchandise, memorabilia, accessories and game day gear), you'll get a luxury sports car rental, a personal chef to prepare all your meals for entire length of stay and cater your tailgate party, transportation to and from the game and two Super Bowl tickets.

Or maybe you're on a tighter budget. If so, enjoy the game on Sunday, but before you do, dine with a Super Bowl veteran: the South Beach Marriott is offering a private lunch with the former quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, Jim Kelly. The package includes a stay in an ocean-view room. Rates begin at $2,731 per person for four-nights.

Volunteers wanted at Florida State Parks

2010-01-20T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Florida Park Service manages 160 state parks on more than 700,000 acres. With more than 21 million visitors a year, it's a challenge to provide quality visitor services with about 1,000 employees.

The fact is, the park system relies on the help of thousands of volunteers. Last year, these volunteers contributed more than 1.2 million hours -- the same as 581 full time positions. Many of these volunteers are RVers.

Volunteers can do many things -- greet visitors, conduct tours, help rangers remove exotic plants or maintain the natural beauty of a beach, waterway or trail. Groups can adopt trails, portions of a park or even an entire park. Students can participate in internship programs or bring a group to a park to provide service as an alternative "spring break."

Campground hosts, almost always RVers, are "special" volunteers who aid the managers of a state park camping area. They answer campers' questions, help with maintenance and are available for late-night emergencies. In return, campground hosts get a free campsite and the satisfaction of performing an important and much-needed job.

To find out more about volunteer programs in individual parks, including available positions, please check out the volunteer link on park websites. The Florida Park Service does not recruit or place volunteers from its central office. Keep the following in mind:

--Research the parks that might interest you, or a region of the state you like, and contact those parks first.
--Would-be volunteers should contact the park directly by telephone and inquire about available volunteer positions.
--Plan ahead: most parks book winter volunteers as far as one year in advance. So contact parks at your earliest opportunity.
-- Small isolated parks in north Florida and parks in the panhandle are more likely to have sites in the winter than south Florida parks.
-- Many parks seek camper volunteers in the summer.

If you would like to become a state park volunteer, contact:
Coordinator of Volunteer Services
Bureau of Operational Services
Division of Recreation and Parks
3900 Commonwealth Blvd., MS 535
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-300
(850) 245-3076

Big turnout at Tampa RV show encourages RV industry

2010-01-20T07:56:00.000-08:00

Attendance at the recent Florida RV Super Show in Tampa surpassed 50,000 for the first time ever according to the Wall Street Journal.

Lance Wilson, executive director of the Florida RV Trade Association said attendance over the five-day show increased 12% on year and customers were ready to buy RVs, even with the tightening of their financial belts. Dave Kelly, Florida RV Trade Association marketing director, added that pent-up demand over the last couple years has finally cut loose, and Wilson said lending has loosened from last year.

"I think the trend probably was one of a very positive attitude from the consumers," Wilson told the WSJ. "They weren't complaining about gas prices or the economy in general and mostly had a positive attitude and were interested and invested in the RV business." He said the purchase of motorized vehicles, including the heavier and more expensive vehicles, was up significantly from last year.

Florida RV dealer builds 40,000-square-foot mansion

2010-01-19T19:27:00.000-08:00

Who says the RV business is suffering in Florida? On the shore of Lake Thonotosassa, the founder and a principal shareholder of the state's (and nation's) largest single-location RV dealer is building a huge mansion. It's the same company that recently laid off 200 workers and declared bankruptcy.

Lazydays founder Don Wallace's new home measure 40,000-square feet, about two-thirds the size of a football field and 20 times larger than the average-sized American home.

It's three times the size of Wallace's other, more modest home in Tampa Bay. That house -- all 13,033 square feet of it -- made headlines in 2009 when it was revealed that it was the biggest water guzzler in 2008 in the Tampa Bay area -- using more than than six million gallons of water, enough to fill the average backyard swimming pool every day for a year.

The new mansion has two swimming pools, sauna, steam rooms, bar, billiard room, bowling alley, gym, massage room, game room, men's lounge, his-and-hers offices and a parlor. There's even a baseball field.

Wallace did not return requests from the St. Petersburg Times to talk about the new house. But in a 2008 interview he said that he and his wife wanted a home with plenty of space for their young children to play.

Don Wallace and his family started Lazydays in 1976 with $500 and two travel trailers. It grew to a 126-acre complex in Seffner, the largest single-site RV dealership in the country -- an American success story.

Construction of the new home is expected to take another 2 1/2 years.

Photo: Don Wallace

Update to this article posted the evening of Sunday, 1/24/2010
In the article above, we failed to clarify some information about Wallace, and in doing so misled some readers about him and his relationship to present Day Lazydays. Most of the comments below were submitted before this Sunday evening update.

Don Wallace, now 59, and his family started Lazydays RV SuperCenter in 1976. According to various sources, he felt a major reason the company succeeded was the establishment of an employee stock ownership plan in 1995. As a result, the employees of Lazydays owned almost 10 percent of the company.

Wallace sold his majority ownership of Lazydays to Alliance Holdings, a Pennsylvania based company in 1999. In 2004, Alliance along with the Lazydays employees, sold to a New York based private equity firm. This proved to be a major windfall for the employees, since they received more than $30 million from the sale of their ownership stake.

Wallace retired as Lazydays CEO in August 2007, but remains a primary stock holder.

The Lazydays bankruptcy referred to in our article (above) and its layoff of 200 workers occurred after Wallace had been active in the management of the company.

Routinely, Wallace and his wife open their Bayshore, Florida home to charity fundraisers. The Wallaces gave $5-million to the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute for breast cancer research. They gave more than $1 million to build the Gorrie Coliseum at Gorrie Elementary School. Other beneficiaries: Tampa General Hospital, the University of Tampa, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Joshua House, the Spring of Tampa Bay and the Lowry Park Zoo, among many.

Florida RVer's: Just a few spaces left! Everyone welcome! SE FMCA's Big Bash Feb 3-7, Brooksville, FL

2010-01-18T14:34:00.000-08:00

Everyone is Welcome - You Do Not Have to be a Member! Please Join Us as The Southeast Area Family Motorcoach Association proudly presents their upcoming Party, "Clown Around at S.E.A." at the Hernando County Airport in Brooksville, FL. And what a BASH! Look at these Entertainers:

Rick Hubbard presents his show, "Kazoobie!", which means "exceptional, fun, involving everyone." Audience involvement is the key and according to Rick, "no entertainer in America gets more audience members into the show!" Everyone gets a Free Kazoo and performs with Rick in the Grand Finale! Feb 3

Bob Diverde is a multifaceted comic who not only writes his own material, but has also written several situation comedy pilots. He has performed at Comedy Clubs throughout America and has appeared with some of the greats - Robin Williams, Jay Leno, and more. His current show is a hoot (!) with comedic impersonations of classic and current celebrity performers. Feb 4

The Central Florida Rat Pack pays tribute to some of the greatest performers of our time (who else?! Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr and Dean Martin!). The old Vegas Rat Pack comes to life right before your very eyes in a dazzzzling display of music and song! Feb 5

And now...(drumroll, please) featuring YOU! Please join us in our First Ever Talent Show, Saturday night, Feb 6. It's sweeping the Nation and contestants will compete for Trophies, a First Place Winner Cash Prize, and a chance to Compete at the National Convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico! We are looking for mimes, comedy, dancers or singers - whatever your special talent may be. Sign up is on a first come, first served basis, as space is limited. Please email us at seafmca@mindspring.com to reserve your spot!

The Nojoe Clown Circus will entertain us with two daily high energy, interactive, hilarious Circus Shows! All the wonderment and magic of the Great American Circus! Circus Ring, Lights, Sound and Special Effects ready....Let the Show Begin!!

Included in your Registration will be six nights dry camping, Seminars, Commercial Exhibits, Coach Displays, a Parade, Door Prizes, an Ice Cream Social, Coffee and Donuts Daily, a Book Exchange and more. Please register early at www.seafmca.com or call 1-352-796-0154.

Don't be Shy - We Love First Timers - Come Join the Fun!!

Florida's west coast RVer's: don't miss this mid week double treat January 20 & 21

2010-01-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

As part of Florida's 75th anniversary of it's state parks, Lover's Key State Park in Ft Myers is offering an a fantastic all inclusive nature photography workshop and Myakka State Park in Sarasota is offering a historical and sometimes hysterical re-enactment of the life of one of her most forward thinking citizens, Bertha Honore Palmer, ranch owner, bank founder, developer, philanthropist, world traveler, diplomat and in 1910 single handedly owned one third of Sarasota county leaving her fascinating and indelible stamp everywhere.

NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Lovers Key State Park, FT Myers
Date: January 20th, 2010 - 9:00a.m.—12:00p.m.
Description: Learn to capture the best wildlife shots, land and seascapes, and make even plant photos exciting! Joe Moran, an instructor with the Fort Myers Camera Club, and a nature photographer for 30 years, will lead the workshop. The workshop will include a traverse through Lovers Key State Park to explore some of the most photogenic areas of Southwest Florida’s natural coastline and photograph the wildlife that Lovers Key is known for. Participants should bring their own digital camera, camera manuals, hat, sunscreen and bug spray. Limited to 15 participants.
Fees: Fee $25
Contact: Call the park at 239-463-4588 for more information.
Directions: Lovers Key is located at 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. The park boundaries are Big Carlos Pass and New Pass. We are 10.5 miles west of I75 on exit 116.

TEA WITH BERTHA HONORE PALMER
Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Date: January 21st - February 17th - March 16th. 2:00 to 4:00 pm.
Description: The year is 1912. You have an invitation to tea with Mrs. Potter Palmer, a woman as comfortable hiking her skirt up to tread on the Myakka prairie as she was rubbing shoulders with kings. This wealthy socialite and women’s-rights advocate changed Sarasota forever with her shrewd business sense and innovative ideas. Her progressive Meadowsweet Pastures Ranch was destined to become one of Florida’s largest state parks. Celebrate the Bertha Palmer Centennial and Florida State Parks' 75th Anniversary. Tea and refreshments will be served at the Myakka State Park Log Pavilion.
Fees: $15.00 per person - $10.00 for Friends Members
Contact: To RSVP and for more information call 941-316-8139
Directions: Myakka River State Park is located 9 miles east of I-75 in Sarasota on S.R. 72.

Key Largo RV park residents given eviction extension

2010-01-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

With a court-ordered deadline to vacate Key Largo Ocean Resort rapidly approaching, residents of the beleaguered RV community have won a brief delay in their eviction notice. Circuit Judge Luis M. Garcia ordered on December 10, 2009 that the park was to be vacated by midnight Friday, Jan. 15, citing code violations and safety hazards.

Now, Garcia has apparently had a change of heart. On Tuesday, Jan 12, he extended the deadline to February 28 for approximately 50 permanent residents to leave the property, under some conditions. Each unit must have at least one fire extinguisher and two smoke alarms. Non-resident shareholders are still bound by the January 15 deadline. Read more at KeysNet.com.

Tour a missile base at Everglades National Park

2010-01-14T11:58:00.000-08:00

RVers who visit Everglades National Park expect to see swamps and maybe an alligator. But not many would expect to find an important relic from the Cold War era. But they can: for the second season, the park is offering ranger-led tours of the Nike Hercules Missile Base HM-69. The site remains virtually the same as when it closed in 1979.

This missile base was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1963 at the height of the Cold War, immediately following the Cuban Missile Crisis. At a time when national security against Soviet attack was America’s main priority, the United States Army chose this strategic site within Everglades National Park, located 160 miles from the Cuban coast.

The area today includes 22 contributing buildings and structures. Some that are part of the tour include three missile barns built to contain 41-foot missiles (some with nuclear warheads) a missile assembly building, a guard dog kennel, barracks, control centers within berms that served as blast protection, and a number of other features.

This base is one of four that were built in South Florida; one in north Key Largo (now Key Largo Hammocks State Park), one in Miramar (now a Publix shopping center), one that is now the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Krome Detention Center, and the site in Everglades National Park.

The free interpretive tours are held daily at 10 am and at 2 pm on weekends only. To join a tour, reserve a space at the park's Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center or by calling 305-242-7700. Tours are by car caravan, thus tour participants should arrive at the visitor center 30 minutes before each tour and be prepared to drive 14 miles round trip. The Ernest Coe Visitor Center is located 9 miles southwest of Homestead on State Road 9336.

Long Pine Campground with 108 drive up sites is close by. It has restrooms, water and a dump station, but no hookups. Sites are on a first-come, first serve basis.

Photo: While there are no missiles currently stored at the base, these are images of missiles that were once commonplace on this site.

Florida State Parks 75th Anniversary: buy an Annual Pass and enjoy all the special events for pennies a day

2010-01-11T16:47:00.000-08:00

Annual Entrance Passes allow park entrance in lieu of the daily entrance fee. The Family Annual Entrance Pass is valid for up to eight people in a group, except at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park where the family pass is good for admission of up to two people. Additional guests to Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park may wish to purchase additional passes or pay the daily admission fees.

A pass does not waive other special use fees charged at some parks for special events, camping or activities such as boat tours and tubing, fishing piers, gardens admission, use of Buccaneer Bay at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, etc. Additional local fees may apply (example: Monroe County Surcharge).
Annual Entrance Passes are honored at all state parks, except for Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, where they are valid for a 33 percent discount.
Access to Buccaneer Bay at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park requires a per person day use fee. Current Annual Entrance Pass holders may purchase a Buccaneer Bay Annual Entrance Pass Endorsement for $15.00 per person, which expires when the Annual Entrance Pass expires. An Individual Annual Entrance Pass may have one endorsement per pass and a Family Annual Entrance Pass may have up to two Buccaneer Bay endorsements per pass.
An Annual Entrance Pass is valid for one year from the month of purchase.
Annual Entrance Passes make wonderful gifts.

Individual Entrance:	$	60.00	each, plus tax
Family Entrance:	$	120.00	each, plus tax

(maximum of eight people in a group; only allows up to two people at Homosassa Springs and Weeki Wachee Springs)

Purchase at any State Park Ranger Station.

Legacy Fishing: pay it forward...

2010-01-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

Florida Rver's: Once upon a time someone important to you taught you to fish...now is your chance to repay the favor:

FISHING FOR BEGINNERS
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach
Date: January 15, 2010, 10:00 a.m.
Description: Participants will be immersed in a Florida salt marsh where they will learn the basics of fishing equipment, techniques, skills, rules and regulations. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to bring their own fishing equipment and supplies. Special accommodations are available upon request. To make arrangements, please contact the park prior to the event.

Fees: Regular park admission fees apply.
Contact: Contact park for more information.
Directions: From I-95: Whether you are traveling north or south on I-95, take exit 284 (State Road 100). Turn east onto State Road 100 and travel approximately 3 miles till you reach A1A (and the ocean). At the light turn right (south) and travel approximately another 3 miles. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be on the left.

From Daytona: Take A1A north to approximately 1 mile north of the Flagler/Volusia County line (approximately 18 miles)The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your left and our day use beach facilities will be to your right.

From Ormond Beach: Take West Granada (40) east, across the Halifax River, to A1A. Turn left (north) on A1A and travel approximately 11 miles (1 mile north of the Flagler/Volusia County line). The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your left and our day use beach facilities will be to your right.

From Palm Coast: Take Palm Coast Parkway east across the Intercoastal Waterway (toll bridge) to A1A. Turn left (south) on A1A and travel approximately 11 miles. The park is located on A1A. The Ranger Station will be on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be to your left.
Avoid the toll: Take Palm Coast parkway east to Colbert Lane. Turn right (south) on Colbert Lane and travel approximately 7 miles to SR 100. Turn left (east) on SR 100 and travel approximately 1.5 miles to A1A. Turn right on A1A and travel about 3 miles. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be to your left.

From St. Augustine: Take A1A south for approximately 32 miles to SR 100. Continue straight through the light and travel approximately another 3 miles to the park. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive on your right and our day use beach facilities will be located on your left.

Florida State Parks 75th anniversary: Learn to Bird and Bird walks this month

2010-01-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Rver's love the great outdoors! So here's your chance to learn or continue your birding education with Florida's park rangers:

INTRODUCTION TO BIRDING
Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon, west of Ocala
Date: Saturday, January 9th, 2010. 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. Meet in the Rainbow Springs State Park Conference Room. The course will cover an introduction to birding, use of field guides, binoculars, important characteristics to know in the identification of local birds and will close with a bird walk around the Rainbow Springs State Park headsprings. Participants are requested to bring field guides and binoculars if they have them and a beverage and/or snack to the course. One and ½ hour of in-house instruction, a 15 minute break, and a one hour birding walk. The fee will be $10 and each class will be limited to 15 people. Visitors can register by leaving their name, address, phone number and email at Rainbow Springs 352-465-8555.

GUIDED BIRD WALK
Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon, west of Ocala
Date: Saturday, January 16th, 2010. 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.
Description: This two-hour walk will be held on the third Saturday due to the Bird Course held on the second Saturday. Meet at the Rainbow Springs State Park Visitor Center at 8:00 am. The headsprings and upper picnic area will be our focus as we search for species that winter in the park. People attending are requested to bring binoculars and birding books if they have them. Regular $2.00 admission applies. $2.00 park admission . Call 352-465-8555 for more information.

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS
Silver River State Park, just SE of Ocala
Date: January 16, 2010 9:00 AM, mark your calendar

Description: Join an experienced birder on a gentle hike through beautiful Central Florida woodlands identifying birds by sight and sound. Bring your coffee cup. Event is weather permitting.
Fees: Regular park admission applies Contact: deborah.wilson@dep.state.fl.us Directions:
Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35. From Interstate 75, take exit 352 onto SR 40 east, about 9 miles to SR 35. From Interstate 95 take exit 268 to Route 40 west, about 60 miles to SR 35.

Need a Birding Field Guide to get started?

National Wildlife Federation's

Field Guide to the

Birds of North America

$16.96
15% off, regularly $19.95

Product ID: B00206

Ships within 4-24 hours, Mon. - Sat.

This guide from the National Wildlife Federation® is the most up-to-date, all-photographic field guide to North American birds. Birders will find it indispensable: this single, portable volume features more than 750 species, along with more than 2,000 stunning images by leading nature photographers showing birds in their natural habitats. Captions highlight important field marks, and comprehensive species accounts describe habitats, behavior, flight, migration, songs, and plumages. Other features include: more than 600 maps showing bird distribution in every season; strategies for watching and identifying birds; a complete species index plus a quick-flip index; a glossary of terms; and a checklist of birds. The guide’ s unique waterproof cover makes it especially valuable for use in the field. Published 2007. 527 pages.

Order here

January's special treat for RVer's in Florida: meet our Manatees!

2010-01-04T18:10:00.001-08:00

Manatee Springs, Crystal River, Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, Blue Springs, rivers, springs and bays statewide greet and embrace our gentle friends, many with calves, as they seek the warmer, shallower waters that bring them closer to our shorelines, delighting RVer's, visitors and residents. Many State Parks, communities, RV parks, and state wildlife agents take advantage of this opportunity to celebratory educate as many as they can about these near mythical creatures. Here are some celebrations to take advantage of this eco-cational opportunity:

Manatee Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, January 9, 2010. Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. January 9, 2010. 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Description: Save the Manatee Club and the U.S. Geological Survey’s Sirenia Project discuss the plight of the manatees and their efforts in public awareness. Fees: Regular park admission.
Contact: For more information, call 352-493-6072. Directions: Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland. View Google Map

Manatee Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, January 16, 2010. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Description: Ranger Tommy Pavao guided scenic paddle. Ranger Vicki Tiseth will create an edible masterpiece while exposing the vulnerabilities of the Floridan Aquifer. Messiness is to be expected, please dress accordingly. There is no fee to participate with the ranger program although donations to The Friends of Manatee/Fanning Springs, Inc. will be accepted. Regular park admission fees will apply. For more information, call 352-493-6072. Directions: Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland. View Google Map

Blue Spring State Park
Date: January 23-24, 2010, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Description: Fundraiser for the Orange City Community. The proceeds will benefit 'Friends of Blue Spring State Park', Educational scolarships, and other greater Orange City organizations. Fees: To be determined. Contact: info@themanateefestival.com; www.themanateefestival.com. Directions: Take exit 114 off Interstate 4 and follow the signs. Go south on 17/92 to Orange City, about 2.5 miles. Make a right onto West French Avenue. View Google Map

Manatee Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, January 23, 2010. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Description: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Dorvan Daniels displays their T-top rescue boat and discusses injured and sick manatee rescue operations. Fees: Regular park admission. Contact: For more information, call 352-493-6072. Directions: Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland. View Google Map

Manatee Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, January 30, 2010. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Description: Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge brings their mobile dark room and shows photographic slides of a variety of manatee rescues and transports. Fees: Regular park admission.
Contact: For more information, call 352-493-6072. Directions: Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland. View Google Map

2010, A special year for RVer activities: Florida celebrates 75 years of State Parks

2010-01-03T07:29:00.000-08:00

Created in 1935, Florida's State Park Service has grown from 8 to 160 state parks over the last 75 years with more than 700,000 acres of natural environment, including 100 miles of beaches, eight National Historic Landmarks and 39 sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Florida State Parks have been recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association as the nation’s first and only two-time Gold Medal winner for the nation’s best park service, and along with California, boasts the most visits of any State Parks in the United States.

It's easy to understand why. Dollar for dollar, state parks provide a value that is hard to beat, with 40 free parks, and most day use entrance fees ranging from just $2.00 to $8.00. Florida’s 160 state parks offer white sandy beaches, vast open prairies, steep ravines, lush semi-tropical forests, cultural sites and crystal clear lakes, rivers and springs. State parks also offer countless locations to learn about Florida’s cultural history and serve as outdoor classrooms for students of all ages.

Affordable, family-friendly activities, such as swimming, hiking, bicycling, paddling, diving, fishing, camping, horseback riding, birding, photography, events and ranger-led tours are just a few ways to enjoy Florida’s natural resources. More than 3,400 campsites, 260 cabins and 14,000 park programs are available for people of all ages, statewide, 365 days a year.

Throughout this month and the months to come I will be highlighting some of the celebratory, fun and educational opportunities as they arise, so be sure to check back back frequently. For those who wish to plan an RV trip ahead around some of these fun events, or secure a Florida State Parks pass for multiple discounted fun, visit www.floridastateparks.org. And for those who would like a hands on guide or additional fun while in or on the way to Florida, please click here for lots of ideas!

Florida State Parks 75th anniversary celebrations Jan 8 - 11

2010-01-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

ALLIGATORS AMONGST US
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach
Date: January 8, 2010 11:00am
Description: Participants will be offered a glimpse into the world of the alligator and learn about the species life cycle, habitat, behavior and the role they play in Florida’s ecosystems. Participants will have the opportunity to view and interact with a live juvenile alligator. (386) 517-2086

CRACKER VILLAGE TOUR
Silver River State Park, just SE of Ocala
Date: January 9, 2010 3:00 PM
Description: Take a guided tour through the replica Cracker Village and learn about Central Florida lifestyles in the 1800's. These monthly tours are the only time the Cracker Village is open to the general public. Fees: Regular park admission applies Contact: deborah.wilson@dep.state.fl.us
Directions: Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35. From Interstate 75, take exit 352 onto SR 40 east, about 9 miles to SR 35. From Interstate 95 take exit 268 to Route 40 west, about 60 miles to SR 35.

CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT
De Leon Springs State Park, west of Daytona Beach
Date: January 9-10, 2010, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Description: Union troops raided the spring in 1864. see a typical encampment of the period, how the soldiers drilled,slept prepared their meals, etc.walk the trails once patrolled by union soldiers.
Fees: Regular park admission fees apply.
Contact: Contact park for more information.
Directions: Take US Hwy 17 North from Deland for approximately six miles, following the State Park signs. Turn left onto Ponce DeLeon Blvd and you will travel approximately one mile to the entrance to DeLeon Springs State Park.

STEPHEN FOSTER DAY
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, just north of the I-75 & I-10 crossing
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010. 2:00 p.m.
"way down upon the Suwannee River"

CONCERT FOR NATIONAL STEPHEN FOSTER DAY
Classical Renditions of Favorite American SongsStephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park will host a concert as part of the commemoration of National Stephen Foster Day on Sunday, January 10, 2010 which commemorates his death in 1864.

This year’s concert will feature musical performances by Jenna Saladie and Ryne Cherry winners of the “Stephen Foster and Jeanie Auditions,” a statewide vocal competition sponsored by the Florida Federation of Music Clubs. The concert will also feature Aisaha Ivey playing Stephen Foster favorites on the fiddle. Frank & Mary Lee Sweet, Backintyme who will perform Stephen Foster songs using the art of storytelling and music.

The concert will begin at 2:00 p.m. in the Stephen Foster Museum and will be followed by a reception sponsored by the Stephen Foster Citizens Support Organization. Admission to the event is free with paid park admission of $5.00 a vehicle up to eight passengers. For more information, call toll free 1-877-635-3655.

Directions: Located on U.S. 41 in White Springs. From I-75 to S.R. 136 (Milepost Exit 439 - Old Exit 84), travel east on S.R. 136 for 3 miles. Turn left on U.S. 41. Park entrance is on the left. From I-10 to U.S. 41 North (Milepost Exit 301 - Old Exit 43), travel 9 miles to White Springs. Park entrance is on the left.

Florida 2010 Winter and Spring RV Shows

2010-01-01T11:47:00.000-08:00

It never hurts to kick the tires and pick up the freebies! Mark your calendar for Fun in the Sun at these upcoming RV shows. Meet old friends, new friends, keep up on the latest trends, gadgets and information at the Florida RV Trade Association's 2010 Show nearest you....

Florida RV SuperShow January 13 – 17, 2010 Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa Program for 2010 SuperShow View Program	Fort Myers RV Show January 21 – 24, 2010 Lee Civic Center
Ocala RV Show January 28 – 31, 2010 Florida Horse Park 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala	Central Florida RV Show February 18 – 21, 2010 Volusia County Fairgrounds 3150 East New York Avenue, DeLand
West Palm Beach RV Show February 18 – 21, 2010 South Florida Fairgrounds 9067 Southern Boulevard, W. Palm Beach	Jacksonville RV Show*** February 25 – 28, 2010 Jacksonville Equestrian Center 13611 Normandy Boulevard, Jacksonville
Tampa Bay Summer RV Show May 13 – 17, 2010 Florida State Fairgrounds 4800 US Highway 301 North, Tampa

Call the Florida RV Trade Association for information on any show - 813-741-0488. ***Jacksonville is new location. If you're thinking of buying, I highly recommend:

How to Buy an RV the Smart Way!-- ONLY $11.95
This eBook is delivered instantly to your email address. Learn how to buy an RV from RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury. Learn which RV is right for you, how negotiate the best deal, and about money-saving flat-rate buying services. Learn more about "Buying An RV the Smart Way," or order for $11.95 and be reading it in a few minutes.

Now's your chance - FARVC publishes the RV Florida Winter 2010 vacancies list

2009-12-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

The time to act is now. It's been a mighty cold winter thus far and predictors are forecasting much more cold, blow and white stuff. Gas prices are low, the economy is making the turn, so why not thaw your bones, bask in the sun, fish, golf, kick back and remember what it's like to feel glide in your stride? Or maybe some real family togetherness for Spring Break? It's not every year that Florida RV Park vacancies come along, so don't hesitate while someone else books these great spots. And for more Florida RV fun, check out these little gems.

The Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds has identified at least 19 campgrounds, RV parks and resorts that have yet to fill up for the season. Parks that still have vacancy for short and long term winter visitors include:

Camping on the Gulf in Destin: This park features both beach front and grassy sites as well as park model cabins. The park also has a fitness center and a new business center with Internet connections, printers and scanners and office supplies. www.campgulf.com

Crystal Lake RV Park in Mims: This park is on central Florida’s east coast and is close to Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Kennedy Space Center and Orlando. www.crystallakervpark.com

Flamingo Lake RV Resort in Jacksonville: This park’s amenities include a beach, an exercise room and a café. www.flamingolake.com

Florida Gateway RV Resort in Jasper: This 62-site park just opened in August and features pull through sites, free Wi-Fi, private bathhouses, minigolf, shuffleboard and a pond. Its website is not yet completed, but the park can be reached at (386) 792-2692.

Ho Hum RV Park in East Carrabelle: This Good Sam park, located in the eastern panhandle of Florida south of Tallahasee, has over 400 feet of beach with a fishing pier.

Jolly Roger Travel Park in Marathon: This park’s activities include bingo, kayaking, dance classes, wine tasting and fly fishing demonstrations as well as a park dinner every other Friday night in which the guests bring a side dish.

Lake Waldena Resort in Silver Springs: This park still has a few sites available with 30 and 50 amp electrical service. www.lakewaldena.com

Lakeport RV Resort in Moore Haven: This park’s amenities include a boat ramp and fish cleaning house. www.lakeportrvresort.com
Lake Como in Lutz: This nudist club resort offers tennis, volleyball, petanque, shuffleboard, basketball, pickleball and horseshoes in addition to several natural trails and lakes. www.lakecomonaturally.com
Peace River Campground in Arcadia: This park’s activities include fossil hunting and canoeing. www.peacerivercampground.com

Pecan Park RV Resort in Jacksonville: This park is close to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, the Mayo Clinic and the International Airport. Onsite amenities include a catfish pond, pool, sun deck and clubroom with full kitchen and barbecue grills. www.pecanparkrvresort.com
Pahokee Beach RV Resort in Pahokee: This park is on Lake Okeechobee and features excellent fishing. The park does not have a website as yet but can be reached at (541) 924-2511.

Palm Beach RV Park in West Palm Beach: This park includes pull through campsites. (561) 346-1715.

Riverwood Park Campground in Oak Hill: This park is located on the intracoastal waterway and features excellent fishing. www.riverwoodpark.com

Sun N Fun Resort and Campground in Sarasota: This park features more than 150 activities during the winter season. www.sunnfunfl.com

Sunset King Lake RV Resort in DeFuniak Springs: This Florida panhandle park is on King Lake, a 580-acre lake that has been stocked with black bass, crappie, shell-cracker and bream. www.sunsetking.com
The Woods RV and Park Model Resort in Land O’ Lakes: This nudist resort features heated pools, a large clubhouse and large upscale lots. www.thewoodsrv.com

Thousand Palms Resort in the Wildwood / Inverness area: This park features 25 to 35 activities each week, including nature walks and power walks, craft and photography classes, bingo, game nights and off-site excursions. www.thousandpalmsresort.com

Zachary Taylor RV Resort in Lake Okeechobee: This park’s activities include arts and crafts, billiards and darts, dances, cards, bingo, water aerobics, breakfasts and dinners. www.flrvresort.com

Florida RVer's sleigh locals for 11th time

2009-12-24T12:29:00.000-08:00

It's become tradition at Bradenton's Horseshoe Cove RV park and this year 54 decorated golf carts sleighed RVer's and lucky local mobile home park residents with laughter and glee as they spread holiday spirit to one and all.

Resident visitors in the RV park have made a tradition of decking out their golf carts for the parades that span a three-day period. In addition to delighting the RV park residents, they take their holiday parade on the road and spread cheer to nearby mobile home parks. Here, the parade also becomes a mission to visit those who are too weak or frail to participate with the parade outside.

Parties are thrown each year to decorate the carts with lights, streamers and all forms of ornamentation. Some decorate in Christmas themes - Santa, elves, reindeer or religious while others go for comedy - tropical santa, skiing santa pulled by dolphins, elvis santa complete with holiday music and even the flintstones! Creativity has found a home here. Either way its a hoot and grows each year as well as making for a wonderful holiday mission. Additional parties are thrown at the end of the parades to celebrate the event, share stories and reward creativity. Bring your golf cart and join in the holiday fun at the Horseshoe Cove RV park in Bradenton, Florida!

Lakeland's Sanlan RV park shines bright at Christmas

2009-12-24T09:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas is going to be a little brighter this year for more than 30 Polk County, FL, youngsters thanks to the efforts of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and residents at the Sanlan RV Park. Each year, Polk County Sheriff’s COPS (Community Oriented Policing) deputies countywide gather toys and donations from residents and fellow PCSO members, in hopes of being able to provide needy children they come into contact with in their areas of responsibility with a special treat during the holidays, according to the Lake Wales News.

The toys that are collected, wrapped, and distributed by the COPS deputies are often the only Christmas presents these children receive.

This year, the residents at Sanlan RV Park in Lakeland exemplified the true meaning of Christmas, humbling the COPS deputies who have participated in this event year after year, noted sheriff’s spokesman Carrie Eleazer.

“These generous men and women, many of whom are Snow Birds and not year-round Polk County residents, donated enough toys and money to bring smiles upon the faces of over 30 children,” Eleazer said. “In fact, these residents gave so much, the COPS deputies extended offers to other deputies throughout the county – if deputies outside of the south Lakeland area knew of children elsewhere who were going to “go without” this year, there were plenty of toys to go around to those children as well, thanks to the Sanlan RV Park elves.”

This is the first year Sanlan RV Park has participated in this event.

“Once Jeanne Grenz and Marie Camm, the office assistants here, let everyone know what we were doing, the residents just opened their hearts and their pocketbooks,” said Garry Hoffman, manager of Sanlan RV Park.

In addition to the numerous toys they collected, Jeanne and Marie collected enough money from the residents to purchase nine bicycles and three Radio Flyers.

Two other residents, David and Patti Wittman, played Santa and and his wife at the Annual SW COPS Christmas Party and helped Sheriff Judd and the COPS deputies hand out the bikes and toys to the children in Sanlan RV Park's community room.

Shine on brightly Sanlan RV Park. So many wonderful feelings here, we're sure this will become a Christmas tradition and grow bigger every year. Better make next year's reservations now!

Florida RVer's and Wannabees: Give the gift that can change a life

2009-12-17T11:00:00.000-08:00

To me, there is nothing better than life on the road. Every day a new vista, a new learning experience opening my eyes to the wonders of this world and its incredible people. I wouldn't trade it for anything. And yet, how did we all get started on this fantastic journey? Reading. Each one of us began by thinking, I wonder what it would be like....and then we read and researched and read some more. I don't think there is any greater gift you can give someone that you care about (including yourself!) than the gift of RVing, the gift of infinite possibilities. I've pulled together some of my favorites and some of our reader's favorites here: just run your mouse over the title and click the link for all the details.

Tried and True

Full Time RVing

Camp Hosting USA: Your Guide to State Park Volunteering

Retirement Places Rated

Choose Florida for Retirement

Best Sellers

National Park Service Camping Guide & RV Camping in State Parks - Save!

2009 Next Exit Directory

Casino Camping: Guide to RV-Friendly Casinos

Wal-Mart Atlas & FREE Bonus "No Overnight Parking" Directory

Corps RV Camping (Corps of Engineers Campgrounds)

Special Deals

RV Retirement

The New Roadside America

2009 Trailer Life Campground Directory

Wrinkle-Free RV Laundry

Freewheeling Homes

Some of my personal favorites

Fun, fun, fun

Beginning and aspiring RVers
RV Destinations

Scenic Byways

Curiosities Guides

Coffee Table Books

Ghost Towns

Florida

RV Cookbooks

Children

Gift Certificate

Practical DIY

Big Rig RVs

Guides & Directories
Find it all, campgrounds, rest stops, services & more

How To's
From dumping your tanks to engine repair and everything in between

Gift Certificate