Florida RVer

Carefree Resorts talent contest includes $5,000 prize

2012-12-12T08:47:00.002-08:00

Snowbirds who sing, dance and play musical instruments might want to consider staying at Carefree RV Resorts in Florida this winter.

The RV resort chain, which has 30 locations in Florida, will host its second annual Carefree's Got Talent competition in March. Talent contest participants who stay at Carefree RV Resorts during the winter months will have a chance to compete for a $5,000 grand prize.

Preliminary competitions will take place at each Carefree RV Resort property in Florida in February and early March. The winners of those competitions will then advance to the final competition on March 20 in Lakeland.

The talent competition will be followed by a rally on the evening of March 20, which extends into the next morning. The cost of the rally is $35 per RV and includes dinner on the 20th and breakfast on the 21st.

Last year’s competition brought together 1,200 snowbirds from all over the state. Kenny Channels from Riptide RV Resort in Key Largo took home the $5,000 grand prize by performing hits from George Strait and the Zac Brown Band.

Details on the talent show and the rally will be announced at each Carefree RV Resort after the first of the year. Only Carefree residents who stay at a park for three months or longer during the 2012/2013 season will eligible to participate. However, all are encouraged to attend the show and participate in the rally.

Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Carefree RV Resorts offers a variety of RV parks throughout Florida, Texas, New Jersey, California and Massachusetts. For more information, visit Carefree online at www.carefreervresorts.com.

Florida state parks slate early snowbird activities

2012-10-02T16:17:00.001-07:00

As snowbird season comes on, Florida’s state parks are responding by offering a smorgasbord of fall festivals and fun family events. From spooky and fun Halloween alternatives to seasonal celebrations look for actvities that each member of the family can enjoy.

A few of the upcoming fall festivities include:

• Saturday, Oct. 13 - Ghost Walk and History Tour at Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy spooky stories of the long and varied history of Camp Helen. Refreshments available. $5 donation per adult, $3 for children.

• Friday, Oct. 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20 – 20th Annual Haunted Woods Event at Hillsborough River State Park (north of Tampa), 6 to 10 p.m., Enjoy a haunted trail, tram rides, spooky displays and a children’s coloring contest. $5 per person donation.

• Friday, Oct 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20 – 4th Annual Howling Hammock Adventure at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale. Spooky and educations stations such as "Giant Bugs" and the two-mile Carriage Ride Adventure. Fun for all ages. $7 for adults and $5 for children.

• Saturday, Oct. 20 – Incredible Autumn Wildflowers at Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Fort White, 9 a.m. to noon. Enjoy a ranger-led hike through a slice of autumn’s colorful splendor. $6 per vehicle, up to eight people.

• Saturday, Oct. 20 – Fire Fest at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound, 1 to 9 p.m. Learn about prescribed fires and enjoy outdoor recreation. The afternoon will be filled with fire demonstrations, hands-on activities, a spooky trail, hayride, swamp buggy and horse buggy tours and more. Free park admission but activity fees apply.

• Saturday, Oct. 20, Enchanted Ravines at Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka, 3 to 6 p.m. The ravine will be transformed into a world of fairies, imaginary and real princesses, pirates and more. Enjoy a wagon tour, children’s games, moon walk and hands-on crafts. $3 per person.

Emerald Coast resort adds new features, RV sites

2012-06-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Live Oak Landing, an RVC Outdoor Destination vacation property is geared up in time for the summer travel season as it rolls out numerous improvements to the resort. Look to see over three dozen modern additional RV sites and several other new amenities.

What's included in the new build? A screen-enclosed saline swimming pool with connected observation deck and lounge area, large playground area and air conditioning in the resort's pavilion for starters. Handicap-accessible boat tours are another new feature highlighted at the outdoor destination. "Pondtoon" boat charters allow individuals with disabilities to navigate the water on vessels specially manufactured to accommodate wheelchairs. Additionally, RVC increased the number of RV sites on the property, nearly tripling the number of space available for RV travelers.

"When we opened the property in November 2010, it was important to us to first define our core audience and add amenities as our guests requested them," said Neil Sorrell, general manager at Live Oak Landing. "So, after talking to our guests, we pinpointed additions that will give them exactly what they're looking for in a memorable outdoor travel experience."

At Live Oak Landing, guests have access to Florida's Emerald Coast beaches and a wide range of onsite activities, including fishing charters, scooter, bicycle and boat rentals, and activities pavilion with a flat screen TV. Like other RVC Outdoor Destination properties you'll find concierge service, coffee, beer and wine bars, a dog park and a variety of lodging options from RV sites to cottages.

"What we're providing at RVC Outdoor Destinations is an upgraded version of what generally comes to mind when people think of camping," said Andy Cates, president of RVC Outdoor Destinations. "We're redefining the outdoor vacation experience by combining guests' favorite hotel amenities with their favorite outdoor activities, and it's really gaining popularity with both avid and novice campers alike."

Live Oak Landing is located along Black Creek in South Walton County at 229 Pitts Avenue in Freeport, Florida. For more information, visit www.liveoaklanding.rvcoutdoors.com.

Summertime fun getting underway in Florida

2012-06-01T16:21:00.001-07:00

Warm June weather signals the start of summertime fun in Florida. Whether it’s swimming in a clear blue spring, hiking a scenic trail, kayaking down a pristine river or simply digging your toes into sugar-white sand, there’s an outdoor activity for everyone in every part of the state.

Saturday, June 2 is National Trails Day. Grab your hiking boots and hit the trail at Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna. The underground caverns in this part of the state create a uniquely beautiful terrain. Your bicycle and helmet will come in handy at Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont or Fort Pierce Inlet State Park just north of West Palm Beach. Equestrians can ride the Carter Camp trail along the high bluffs of the Suwannee at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.

Friday, June 15 is Nature Photography Day. Florida’s state parks offer wonderful opportunities for this fast-growing hobby. Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey is a great place to capture a photo of the elusive Florida Scrub Jay, but it requires patience. The best wildlife photos generally happen early in the day or late afternoon. A bonus: enter your photos in the monthly online photo contest for a chance to win a Passport to journal your state park visits.

If you’re looking to beat the heat, cool off by swimming – at the beach, freshwater spring, lake or river. This year, Dr. Stephen Leatherman, AKA Dr. Beach, has announced that two of Florida’s state park beaches made the Top 10 in America list. The beach at St. George Island State Park in the panhandle was ranked #4 and the beach at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne was ranked #8. If freshwater swimming is more to your liking, head to one of Florida’s many springs. The chilly 72 degree water will make it seem like a fountain of youth. Try Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Manatee Springs State Park in Chiefland or Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon.

Many more fun recreational activities are available in state parks in all areas of Florida. Just remember to protect yourself from the heat and the sun and stay hydrated while enjoying the great outdoors.

Florida State Parks celebrate Military Appreciation Month

2012-05-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

To honor the current and former members of the armed forces, both chambers of the U.S. Congress recognize May as Military Appreciation Month, with the celebration ending with Memorial Day, a national holiday, on Monday, May 28. The Florida Park Service supports veterans, current military personnel and their families and honors the sacrifices of members of the armed forces.
History buffs will appreciate the variety of preserved and restored historic forts found at state parks in Florida.

Remains of Spanish bombproof foundation at
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

South of Tallahassee in St. Marks, the museum at San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park displays pottery and tools unearthed near the original site of the fort built in 1679 and telling the stories of the Spanish explorers and others who occupied the fort over time.

Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach is one of the most well-preserved 19th century forts in America. This park will hold a Union Garrison and Encampment the weekend of May 5 and 6. Living historians re-create life at Fort Clinch during the Civil War. Activities may include black powder artillery demonstrations and marching drills, as well as soldiers and civilians taking up duty in the laundry, infirmary and kitchen. There is a candlelight viewing Saturday evening. $6.00 per vehicle, up to 8 people, plus $2 for each person entering the fort. Memorial Day weekend, the park will hold a World War II event, honoring the soldiers of that conflict. The event will feature military displays and memorabilia of the Allies, Axis and Homefront.

A memorial marks the site of the Civil War battle that took place in 1865 at the Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. A visitor center shares historic information and artifacts year-round.

In Inverness, Dade Battlefield Historic State Park commemorates the battle that started the Second Seminole War in 1835. A visitor center provides information and a video about the battle.

Fort Foster is a reconstructed fort that guards the bridge over the river at Hillsborough River State Park north of Tampa. Ranger guided tours are offered on Saturdays at 2 p.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. This Second Seminole War fort offers a look at the 1830s.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973. Built in the mid-1800s, this fort served in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Guided tours are available daily.
Florida’s state parks provide discounts on the purchase of Annual Entrance Passes or free Annual Entrance Passes to those who currently serve or have served in the United States military branches, veterans with service related disabilities and surviving spouses of members of the U.S. military who have fallen in combat.

The discounted Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass is only available for purchase at any Florida State Park staffed ranger station. Learn more.

Florida RV parks and campground guide a "must" for RVers

2012-04-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Headed to Florida? Then a "must do" is to order a printed edition of the 2012 Camp Florida Guide or download it in PDF form for immediate reading. The guide is published by the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds and covers everything from luxury resorts to barebones campgrounds where you can "rough it."

The directory is divided into four regions, with listings for RV parks and campgrounds in each. Each includes a brief description, the park's location and contact information including phone and website.

The directory also includes a mileage guide and tons of colorful advertisements, which are helpful for learning more about parks, attractions and activities.

Place you order for the printed directory or download a PDF instantly at the Camp Florida website.

Isolated National Park beckons Florida visitors

2012-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Heading out for Florida on an RV trip? If you're looking to add another stamp to your National Parks Passport book, you'll have to leave the motorhome parked for this part of the journey. Considered one of the most remote parks in the US, the only access is by boat or plane--or maybe if you swim real hard. It's Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles west of Key West.

Just 100 miles north of Cuba, Dry Tortugas is at a confluence of ocean currents, maritime history, sea life, and birds. The shallow waters and seven small islands of this 100-square-mile park are a haven and nursery for an abundance of life. Sited at the westernmost reach of the Florida Reef (the third largest reef in the world) the park offers some of the most pristine marine environments in the country.

Start the journey where you can bring the toad car: The downtown visitor Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, the park's official visitor center. It's a free, interagency facility that will give you all the info you'll need for the trip and scoops on the many activities and creatures you'll see. If you can't physically reach the park, at least a visit here will let help you wet your lips for the "next time."

The park's centerpiece is Fort Jefferson. At 10 acres, the fort is an amazing engineering feat as the third-largest seacoast fortification ever constructed in the US. Its massive brown and red masonry walls rise in stark contrast to the calm turquoise seas and white sand it was built to defend.

Your first decision on arriving at the park? What to do first. Many begin their day with a guided tour of Fort Jefferson. Programs are led by ferry staff or rangers and provide an overview of the area's history and of Fort Jefferson specifically. Another big attraction is snorkeling right off the beach. The shallow waters around Fort Jefferson are home to amazingly vibrant hard and soft coral and many species of reef fish.

Not to be out-performed by their fishy friends, the birds that migrate through the area are astounding in both appearance, but by name. Frigate birds, sooty terns, brown noddies, and masked boobies are just a few of the perennial favorites. Would you like to be known as a masked booby? And don't miss the turtles. Visitors regularly see turtles on their seaplane or boat voyage to the park. The most common species are loggerhead and green, though hawksbill and leatherback turn up here, too.

How do you get to the park? If you're fortunate enough to have your own vessel, you have a fantastic opportunity to come see the park and stay for up to 14 days. If you din't bring your putt-putt behind your motorhome, you'll have to get there like most other folk: There are two approved daily commercial operators, the Yankee Freedom ferry boat or the seaplanes of Key West Seaplane Adventures. Either option offers a thrilling journey to a memorable locale.

Check out more on the official park website.

Florida monkeyshines raise controversy

2012-02-29T11:05:00.002-08:00

Was it the filming of Tarzan or escapees from an amusement park? No one is really sure, but today Florida's Silver River State Park plays host not just to RVers, but to troupes of rhesus monkeys. Lots of visitors say the monkey shines are what draws them to the park, but the primates are not without controversy.

While the monks are unarguably cute, according to park officials, they're a health risk. With monkey droppings just lying around waiting for human contact and the possibility of monkey bites, authorities think it's time for the colony to go. To that end, some years back a trapper was granted a license to remove the monkeys.

The monkey marauder, one Scott Cheslak, was given a permit for live capture of monkeys at the park, provided he doesn't kill or display them. After a decade and 700 scooped up simians, it still isn't clear what Cheslak has done with his captured crew. At one time he sold them to a scientific research lab. An official there swears the monkeys they bought from Cheslak were used only for breeding--not testing. After a while the lab stopped buying them from the trapper.

What's happening to the Silver River monkeys is a mystery. At this point, Scott Cheslak isn't talking to the media. And neither are the reluctant rhesuses remaining at the park.

photo: Monkey at Silver River by Peter Long on flickr.com

Orphaned manatees released at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

2012-02-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

Krystal the manatee awaits her release.

Two manatees rehabilitated at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park were released earlier this month at Three Sisters Spring in the Crystal River. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service picked up the manatees, named CC Baby and Krystal, from the park and transported them to Three Sister Springs for release.

“We are always pleased to see manatees released back into the wild after their care at Homosassa Springs,” said Park Manager Art Yerian. “The park’s participation in manatee rehabilitation is an important component of manatee education and conservation in Florida.”

CC Baby was an orphaned baby manatee rescued from the Caloosahatchee River because of cold stress on Sept. 16, 2007. At the time of rescue, she weighed 73 pounds. She was brought to Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa for rehabilitation, and then spent time in the Cincinnati Zoo. CC Baby arrived at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park on Nov. 2, 2010, and has grown to 635 pounds.

Krystal was rescued on Dec. 8, 2009, from Three Sisters Springs in Citrus County, as an orphaned calf with cold stress. She weighed 198 pounds at the time and was taken to the Miami Seaquarium. She arrived at Homosassa Springs State Park on March 11, 2010, weighing about 300 pounds and has grown to 670 pounds.

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park has participated in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Manatee Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release program for more than 30 years and during that time has rehabilitated and released more than 20 manatees back into the wild.

Sunshine Key RV Reort in Florida Keys to hold fishing tournament

2012-02-13T14:46:00.000-08:00

Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina in the Florida Keys will host a three-day fishing tournament from February 24-26, 2012. Open to both overnight guests and daytime visitors, the fishing tournament will award more than $4,000 in cash for first, second and third places in six different categories.

A captain's meeting kicks off the tournament on Friday, February 24 at 5 p.m., with the Sunset Sangria Party to follow. Tournament fishing and weigh-ins will take place on Saturday, February 25 and Sunday, February 26 from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The weekend tournament will culminate with an awards dinner and dance that will begin at 5 p.m. on Sunday after the final day's weigh-in. Cash prizes and fishing gear provided by PENN will be awarded to the top three finishers in six different categories: cero mackerel, dolphin, king mackerel, wahoo, snapper and best overall.

THE ENCORE RESORT is offering special stay packages for tournament anglers, which includes: $399 package (overnight RV site for 3 nights, 1 entry fee, 3 day boat slip); $599 package (travel trailer rental for 3 nights; 2 entry fees; 3 day boat slip); $149 package (4 entry fees, 2 day boat slip). A single entry fee is available for $30.

Surrounded by unparalleled ocean views, Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina offers the RV adventurer and angler a perfect weekend getaway. Covered in palm trees, the 75-acre island offers resort-style amenities in a tropical paradise setting.

To register for the tournament and to arrange for accommodations at Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina, call (866) 730-0637 or visit www.RVontheGo.com. Registration closes February 23, 2012

Snowbirds flocking to Florida--best season in years

2012-02-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

Florida RV park owners are reporting higher than average occupancy rates this year, after a couple of years of static figures. Guess who's coming to recreate? While the old standby crowd, retirees, are still steady, pumping up the action are Baby Boomers. After a couple of years of 60% occupancy rates, park owners are projecting a high season of 80% of capacity.

In a story reported by Florida's Bradenton Herald Florida RV park owners are reporting the best season in several years. "We’re definitely seeing an uptick," said Bobby Cornwell, executive director of the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. "The parks really rely on winter season to get them through slow times. Luckily, the snowbirds and baby boomers are coming."

From where are they coming? Florida's 800 RV parks say they're largely coming from Canada and Great Lakes states. Not only do the visiting 'birds bolster RV park owners' bank accounts, they're also pumping up the state economy as they buy gas, eat at restaurants, and hit other tourist traps.

photo: Courtesy of the Special Collections Department, University of South Florida. Digitization provided by the USF Libraries Digitization Center.

Plenty of room at this RV resort

2012-01-28T09:55:00.000-08:00

We received this note from a Florida RVer who had read on RVtravel.com about big crowds flocking to Florida for the snowbird season. Not so, where he is, at least, where there is still plenty of room. He wrote:

"We travel with Newmar Essex and have been in the Hawaiian Isles RV park/resort in Ruskin for 11 years now. It's about 20 miles south of Tampa on Hwy 41. It's a large park, lots of mobliles and park models plus the usual RV sites

"My wife and I made a bike ride around the park Wed Jan 25 and counted 65 empty sites. Now some maybe rented for later in February or March. But for now RVers who can manage with 30 amp service can should on down."

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park celebrates hippo's birthday

2012-01-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park celebrated Lu the hippopotamus’ 52nd birthday on Jan. 26. “Lu has been a longtime resident and has many fans, locally and from around the world,” said park manager Art Yerian. “There is an international club for people who love hippos called the Hippo-Lot-of-Us Club and members attend Lu’s birthday celebration every year.”

Lu, an African Hippopotamus, was born at the San Diego Zoo on Jan. 26, 1960. He weighed 90 pounds at birth and now weighs more than 6,000 pounds. A vegetarian, every day Lu consumes 15 pounds of alfalfa hay and a five gallon bucket of vegetables and fruit. His specially-made birthday cakes consist of bread with icing on top.

A fixture at Homosassa Springs since 1964, Lu has appeared in movies and on television. His credits include the 1960s movies "Daktari" and "Cowboy in Africa," and television specials such as the "Art Linkletter Show" and the "Herb Alpert Special."

For more than four decades, Lu has been a mainstay among the animals at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service purchased the attraction in 1989. After public support led the state to grant Lu special Florida citizenship in 1991, he was allowed to stay at the park where he has delighted local residents and park visitors ever since.

It's "Manatee" viewing time in Florida State Parks

2012-01-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

Although 70 degree waters might feel a bit chilly to humans, it's warm for manatees.

Manatees at Blue Springs State Park

Through March, manatees tend to seek warmer water temperatures and Florida's springs are one of their favorite destinations. With several springs located within state parks, visitors can easily view the manatees, which sometimes congregate by the dozens, in a number of locations.

Some of the most popular spring gathering locations among the wintering manatees include those found at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa, Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park south of Tallahassee, Fanning Springs State Park in Fanning Springs and St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park in Fellsmere.

Spend a day, a week, or the winter at Larry & Penny Thompson Park in Miami

2012-01-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

While making my way south to Key West, Florida I discovered Miami's Larry & Penny Thompson Park campground. Because of a tight schedule, I only stayed one night but I would have been happy to stay there for a week or longer!

Located just south of the Miami Zoo, the Larry & Penny Thompson Park encompasses over 250 acres of natural South Florida woodland, bridle trails and hiking paths. The park's campground offers 240 generously-sized level sites with full hookups, and campers have full access to four large restroom/laundry facilities with hot showers, a camp store, picnic shelters, a large freshwater lake with its own beach and water slide (open seasonally), a playground, concession stand, access for the disabled, a jogging and bike trail, and more. Pets weighing under 60 pounds are welcome.

All of this for only $33.90 per night! I have been unable to find a private campground in South Florida that offers comparable amenities for less than $60 per night in the winter time. Even more amazing, I was able to get a reservation at Larry & Penny with only four days' notice. For those who want to spend more time than just a night or two at this jewel of a campground, weekly rates ($192.10) and monthly rates ($565.00) are available.Yes, those prices include tax and utilities... in Miami... in the winter season. Nice!

Overall, Larry & Penny offers pristine campground facilities in a peaceful, pastoral setting with a comfortable sense of community; you can even see remnants of fruit groves in and around the campground, including avocado, mango, and lychee trees. Not surprisingly, this campground has a very loyal fan club. I spoke to several fellow camper who routinely spend their winters at Larry & Penny, including a couple from Quebec, Canada who have driven their RV south for the past five winters to enjoy the warmth and sunshine at this campground.

The registration office is open daily; for reservations, call 305-232-1049. For more information, visit the Larry & Penny Thompson Park web site at http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/Parks/larry_penny.asp

Lazydays of Florida expands with new partnership

2012-01-07T18:09:00.000-08:00

CrossRoads RV Inc. has announced its partnership with Lazydays, a long-time RV dealer based in Seffner, FL, that also has an outlet in Tucson, AZ.

Lazydays will offer CrossRoads RV’s Cruiser, Cruiser Air, Cruiser Sahara, Cruiser Patriot, Zinger and Z-1 product lines at its Florida store. The Arizona location will carry the Cruiser, Cruiser Air, Cruiser Sahara and Cruiser Patriot.

“Lazydays is a well established and respected RV dealership, offering first class sales and service,” said Don Emahiser, president of CrossRoads RV, a Topeka, IN-based Thor Industries Inc. subsidiary.
Lazydays has been in business more than 35 years. It deals in new and used trailers and all classes of motor homes.

“We’re very excited to partner with CrossRoads RV,” said John Horton, Lazydays president and CEO.

“The company has assembled a very creative, innovative team. We’re confident that the products they’re creating will be highly sought after by our customers.”

CrossRoads RV will display its products at booth #740 at the Florida RV Super Show Jan. 11-15 in Tampa.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens near Gainesville, FL is a great place to stop.

2012-01-06T17:34:00.000-08:00

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a perfect place to stop while vacationing in the Gainesville, FL area.

The Kanapaha Botanical Gardens gift shop.

The facility is comprised of 24 major collections visually accessible from a 1.5-mile paved walkway. Specimens include the state's largest display of bamboos and the largest herb garden in the Southeast. Some gardens are organized taxonomically; others demonstrate principles of ecology or natural selection.

Kanapaha's signature plants include Chinese royal bamboo, giant Victoria water lilies and Asian snake arums. The months offering the most color are June through September.

The 62- acre facility was founded and developed by the North Florida Botanical Society. In 1978 the society signed a lease agreement with Alachua County for a 33 acre tract for the development of a public botanical garden.

Kanapaha's walkways are largely wheelchair accessible and benches, gazebos and other rest stations are spaced throughout the facility. Dogs are permitted. An gift shop offers a variety of items including original art and treasures from the natural world.

Kanapaha hosts many special events throughout the year including North Central Florida's premier horticultural event, the Spring Garden Festival. Another must see is the Moonlight Walk where over 1500 luminaries are featured as well as live music.

There are several nearby campgrounds that offer partial and full services.

The gardens are located at 4700 S.W. 58th Dr., Gainesville, FL. For more information call (352) 372-4981 or visit www.kanapaha.org

Florida's Edgemont Key offers a wide variety of activities

2012-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

Edgemont Key State Park is one of the nicer places to visit while RVing in Florida.

The ruins of historic Fort Dade.

The park is a 380 acre island in the mouth of Tampa Bay that is accessible only by boat. Private companies offer half-day trips to the island for hiking and snorkeling. It's essentially a great place to visit any time of the year.

Although this park is primarily a wildlife refuge, it can be a place to relax and collect shells along secluded, pristine beaches. Egmont Key has a unique natural and cultural history, including a lighthouse that has stood since 1858.

There are plenty of activities that include fishing, boating, swimming and picnicking. Walk through the historic ruins of Fort Dade or along the brick paths that remain from the days when the fort was an active community of 300 residents. Gopher tortoises can sometimes be seen as you walk the historic paths. Visitors are treated to hummingbirds and other seabirds.

During the 19th century the island served as a camp for captured Seminole Indians at the end of the third Seminole War. It was later occupied by the Union Navy during the Civil War. In 1898, as the Spanish-American War threatened, Fort Dade was built on the island and remained active until 1923.

More information is available by stopping by the park offices at 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL, or by calling 727)893-2627. Visit www.floridastateparks.org/egmontkey

Florida RV SuperShow coming next week to Tampa

2012-01-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

The Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) will host its 27th annual Florida RV SuperShow, Wednesday, January 11 through Sunday, January 15, 2012. The show will again be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Florida.

The show will include representatives from every major RV manufacturer as well as hundreds of accessory booths exhibitors. “We will have more suppliers’ booths and every type, size and style of RV on the market,” said marketing director David Kelly. “With the addition of new entertainment and more seminars, we’re anticipating record crowds. We’re also renewing the two-day pass so the public will have two full days to see everything at no additional cost.”

The theme of the 2012 show is "Take Another Look." The idea is that if you haven’t seen all the new and exciting changes in today’s RVs it’s time you take another look. With hundreds of RVs on display and educational seminars, the SuperShow is an ideal place to trade-in an old RV and get information about the RV lifestyle. Some of Florida’s finest campgrounds and resorts will have booth exhibits. Camping World will display a wide range of camping accessories and supplies .

A favorite of all visitors to the SuperShow is the free entertainment which includes barbershop quartets and bagpipe bands. A free shuttle service is available inside the huge show.

Seminars will be presented throughout the day. Respected RV writer Bob Marx will speak on “Tips for Buying an RV” and “Full Time & Extended RV Travel.” Additional seminars will include basic RV maintenance, weight and tire issues, and how to RV to Alaska.

The Super Rally celebrates its 25th year at the SuperShow. It's open to RV clubs and the general public and includes a number of amenities including free admission to the show all five public days, meeting facilities for an RV club, free coffee and donuts every morning and seminars. Three nights of entertainment and refreshments will feature "The Rivoli Revue," music by Kay and Ron Rivoli; a fun evening with Rick Arnold; and turning back the clock with "Malt Shoppe Memories."

Admission to the SuperShow is $10 for adults for one or two days. Children under 16 are free. SuperShow hours are Wednesday trhough Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday is Senior Citizens Day with seniors receiving a dollar off the cost of admission (not valid with other discounts).

For more information on the 2012 Florida RV SuperShow contact the Florida RV Trade Association at 10510 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, Florida 33578, call (813) 741-0488, or visit www.frvta.org.

Lake Wales resort offers a little bit of everything to the RVer

2012-01-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

Camp Mack's River Resort in Lake Wales offers a wide range of services and places to visit in Central Florida.

Water sports is popular in Central Florida.

From Lake Wales you are not far from Orlando's theme parks such as Universal Studios and Disney World. Lake Wales is home to Spook Hill, a reportedly "haunted" road that causes cars to coast uphill, and Bok Tower & Gardens with its charming musical bells and plant-themed walkways that have been around for decades. There are numerous other attractions in the area, including the recently-opened Legoland that once housed the now-defunct Cypress Gardens.

There are plenty of restaurants, both owned by chains and others by locals. Serving up the best local food in the area is Peebles BBQ nearby Auburndale that first opened its doors in 1946 and still packs them in Thursdays through Sundays. It's closed during the hot summer months due to the heat generated by the pit that actually is located inside the building and next to the seating area. The building is not air conditioned and they just recently started accepting credit cards.

Camp Mack's is on a canal leading to the Kissimmee River and Lake Hatchineha, both of which offer fishing and other water activities. Campsites have paved pads, full-hook-ups and cable. The campground has a small store, bait shop, boat slips and a boat ramp. Campsites have shade but limited privacy. The campground has a pool and rental cabins.

Camp Mack Resort is located at 1400 Camp Mack Rd., Lake Wales, FL. For further information call (863) 696-1108 or visit www.campmack.com

Devil's Den offers a natural phenomenon, facilities and an RV park

2012-01-01T16:28:00.000-08:00

Devil's Den, Florida own prehistoric underground spring, is located in Williston. It is easily accessed from I-75 and offers a wide range of services that includes an RV campsite.

Devil's Den, a large dry cave that extends down about 60 feet to the waterline, is a natural phenomenon. Scuba divers swim through ancient history.

The underground spring is located inside a dry cave. The remains of many extinct animals from the Pleistocene Age (10,000 to two million years ago) have been discovered here. Included are the bones of early man dating back to 75,000 B.C.

The annual average spring temperature of 72 degrees allows diving any time of the year. On cold winter mornings steam rises from the hole in the top of the dome. The early settlers called the place Devil's Den because of the smoke-like appearance caused by the warm water and the cold air during cold mornings.

It is important to get to the water early since sediment stirred up by divers lasts most of the day. The big draw are the numerous swim-throughs (you go in one hole and come out another). The diving fee is $27. There are a few activities for non-divers such as fishing, volleyball, and camping.

Full service RV sites are $22 per night, $120 per week, and $350 per month. Facilities include bathrooms, heated showers and changing rooms.

Devil's Den is located at 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL. It is open daily, including weekends, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (352) 528-3344 or visit www.devilsden.com for additional information.

Fantasy of Flight is a great Central Florida destination

2011-12-31T17:43:00.000-08:00

Fantasy of Flight in Central Florida is a must stop for anyone who loves flying and even for those who do not.

This Ford Tri-Motor was once piloted by Charles Lindbergh.

A 20 minute drive from Orlando and directly off of I-4, Fantasy of Flight boasts a hanger complex, a visitor’s center and an Art Deco design that is a throwback to the early days of aviation.

There are numerous planes and other flying machines to view. You can even step into the bowels of a transport, feel the vibration of engines and the wind rushing your face. The adventure takes you back to the historic days of flight beginning when the Wright brothers come to life on screen.

A World War 2 bomber is parked on a realistic reproduction of a British airfield. Once inside the plane, the roar of the engines and feel of being on a bombing run over Germany is amazing.

There are military and civilian aircraft from Germany, England, Australia and the U.S. They are actually all flight-certified and the dream come true of one Kermit Weeks who brought his passion of flying alive through his museum.

Tours show you around the full property including the back areas, plus a peak into the building room for wooden planes. Weeks himself often speaks to the crowds, poses for photos and signs his books.

There are no RV overnight facilities at Fantasy of Flight, but a number of RV parks are located nearby.

Fantasy of Flight is located at Exit 44 off I-4. For more information visit www.fantasyofflight.com

The best way to see Florida is in a rented luxury motor home

2011-12-31T17:07:00.000-08:00

As the number one luxury RV rental dealer in Florida, Allstar Luxury Coaches provides the state's largest selection of motor home rentals.

Luxury motor homes are a great way to travel.

If you are heading to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa, Daytona and Fort Myers/Naples or the Panhandle, Allstar can provide you with a luxury RV rental staged from one of its convenient locations across the Sunshine State.

South Florida RV Rental customers can choose to receive free local delivery to their home or business, or a complementary pickup at airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Palm Beach.

All motor home rentals include free mileage, complete housekeeping and convenience kits for all guests, free unlimited generator usage, 24/7 road assist and a personal, dedicated technical support concierge. Trip planning assistance is also offered at no additional charge.

RV rental vacations make perfect family trips because Florida offers so many great destinations. Take a fishing expedition to the Florida Keys, enjoy the Daytona 500 International Speedway, Orlando's Disney and Universal theme parks and Miami’s South Beach with its glitzy shops and world class restaurants.

Allstar Coaches was founded in Florida and is home to a brand new travel center located just two miles from Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport The facility includes fueling, repair shop, restaurant and convenience store. The company's fleet of Class A diesel motor homes range from 35 to 45 feet and feature full kitchens, luxurious cabins and the very latest in technology and comfort.

For further information call 866-838-4465 or visit www.allstarcoaches.com

DeLeon Springs State Park offers wide variety of activities

2011-12-31T16:38:00.000-08:00

One of the nicer facilities for travelers is DeLeon Springs State Park in DeLeon, FL.

Park visitors enjoy canoeing.

Although there is no camping within the park itself, there are campgrounds nearby.

The park is a place where you can take an boat tour and see alligators, otters, bald eagles and many species of wading birds. There is swimming and you can have pancakes or lunch at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant.

The park offers a great opportunity to hike the Wild Persimmon Trail that meanders through oak hammock, flood plain forest and abandoned agricultural fields. Deer and turkey can often be seen, and black bears have been spotted frequently. Birding is excellent so bring your binoculars and bird book.

The area was developed 6,000 years ago by Native Americans. Settlers later built sugar and cotton mills and by the 1880s the springs had become a winter resort. It was a popular place because of its so-called "fountain of youth" that contained soda and sulphur.

The swimming area today is adjacent to a beautiful, shady picnic ground. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rentals are available. De Leon Springs flows into the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge where canoeists and kayakers can explore 18,000 acres of lakes, creeks and marshes.

De Leon Springs is located at the corner of Ponce de Leon and Burt Parks Road, west of U.S. 17. Call (386) 985-4212 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/deleonsprings for further information.

Blue Spring State Park offers great camping, plenty of wildlife

2011-12-29T17:49:00.000-08:00

Florida’s Blue Spring State Park just off I-4 between Orlando and Daytona Beach is a great place to relax after a long day on the road. And the constant 72-degree water offers an enticing warmth for manatees in the fall and winter months.

River tuning is a favorte activity at Blue Spring State Park..

This park is far enough into the woods to feel a world away from two of Florida’s major tourist destinations.
You can rent tubes to float down from the headspring. The current is weak enough to swim without being carried away, but be ready to share the spring with local wildlife. You may even see an alligator sunning on the far bank along with some spectacular river fish such as gar, bass, bluegill and mullet.

There's a lot to do in Blue Spring. The following are some suggestions:

Swim, snorkel or tube: There are two entrances to the spring for swimmers or tubers.
Hike the Blue Spring Trail: An easy 10-minute walk beside the river leads to the top of the headspring. The boardwalk trail is bordered by broadleaf hammocks.
St. Johns River Cruises: A riverboat or guided kayak tour is worth the time. Check into sunset cruises and private tours. For reservations call (407) 330-1612.
Thursby House Tour: View photos and artifacts that delve into the lives of the first family of Blue Springs and life along the St. Johns in the 1800s.
Picnic & Play: The park offers several covered picnic areas and a playground for kids.
Lunch: Adjacent to the gift shop is the campground store that offers sandwiches, snacks and drinks. Eat at nearby tables or spread out on the grass for a picnic.

Admission is $6 per car (up to 8 persons). The park is located at 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL. Visitwww.floridastateparks.org/bluespring or call (386) 775-3663 for further information.