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Sunshine State Adventure | The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Florida

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, camping

Some Americans are use winter to ponder their next camping getaway. To escape the cold weather, but also enjoy the great outdoors, one of the most compelling options within the US is undoubtedly Florida. The Sunshine State of sun-drenched coastlines, fertile wetlands, beautiful springs and luscious pine forests, all blend together to provide variety and natural beauty, and of course, warmer weather. 

For those looking for a Florida camping destination, some may opt to pitch their tent in the northern panhandle region or hook up their RV in the famous Florida Keys.

The below guide serves as a primer for practical insights into the state of Florida, with a focus on timing your camping trip, essential gear to bring, options for pet-friendly campsites and things to consider when camping in the Sunshine State. 

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and get you primed for the adventure!  

Florida Camping – Optimal Times And Seasons

camping in florida

According to Modern Campground, in 2024, 81 million Americans camped in the United States. Meanwhile, Florida welcomes over 6 million campers and RVs each year, according to the Florida Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds.

While a popular camping destination, it’s a good idea to consider how weather can affect your trip, as the microclimates of Florida can shift suddenly and subtly, depending on the time of year. 

  • Spring (March–May): Warm but bearable, as Spring is ideal water-based fun and has fewer insects.
  • Summer (June–August): Beware: it is hot, humid and with periodic storms during the peak of hurricane season. If you are determined to camp in the Summer, prioritize morning activities and seek shaded areas during the heat of the day.
  • Fall (September–November): As much of the Summer tourism tails off, not only are there fewer crowds, but the prices can fall as well. However, please note the hurricane risk that persists at times into November, so be sure to check weather forecasts in advance.
  • Winter (December–February): Winters in Florida are generally mild and dry, particularly in the central and southern parts of Florida. Winter is a favored time for snowbirds, so campgrounds fill quickly, and rates can be higher.

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Best Places To Camp In Florida With Your Pet

dog in camping chair in sand

Pet ownership is surging, with many Americans now taking their dog (or other friendly critter) along on camping trips. Luckily, Florida has numerous options, with a focus on pet-friendly campgrounds. 

The following are some important tips and hints when camping with your pet in Florida: 

  • Check out BringFido’s directory of pet-friendly campgrounds in Florida; here you can locate fee-free pet sites, large dog allowances and whether multiple pets are permitted.
  • Looking at the Sarasota area, you’ll certainly uncover a ton of great options for pets, with Oscar Scherer State Park and Fort De Soto Campground that are particularly great for dogs.
  • Think ahead: Be aware of the local pet services for emergencies. If your pet were to have an accident or sudden illness, it’s good to know where to head to. For example, you could search before you leave for a low cost emergency veterinarian service in Gainesville, Florida, if indeed you’re camping in the north-central region.
  • At the reservation stage, assess whether pets are permitted in tent-sites / cabins / RV sites. Often, leash length restrictions apply (typically 6 ft), while pets on some sites are restricted from common areas and swimming zones.
  • Be sure to stock up on pet-specific gear (e.g., leash, mat, water bowl, waste bags) and decide on a nearby vet service (all for your peace of mind). For example, UrgentVet veterinary urgent care for pets is a vital resource for unanticipated pet health problems.

Essential Gear – What Should I Pack?

When camping, comfort is everything. In Florida, the climate and differences in camping will decide what gear you’ll need:

  • Shelter and bedding considerations: A tent or RV equipped for heat and humidity, with breathable fabrics and adequate ventilation.
  • Sun protection gear: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and consider UV-filter sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense sunshine.
  • Insect and pest protection: Bring plenty of insect repellent, consider long-sleeve shirts and pack plenty of citronella candles or incense.
  • Rain and storm preparedness: A waterproof tarp or canopy can come in useful in so many ways, alongside additional stakes, bags to hold soaked garments (due to the likleyhood of sudden storms).
  • Hydration: For Summer camping trips, remember to bring plenty of water, a reusable bottle and a portable fan.
  • Navigation and continuity: Remember offline maps, a flashlight and/or headlamp, a power bank and a solar charger (if camping in a remote area).
  • Camp kitchen: A stove is essential (fire rings are often banned), and consider bringing grilling gear, a cooler and plenty of utensils.
  • Safety gear: Critical: bring a first-aid kit (for you and your pet), read up on local wildlife hazards (e.g., alligators or snakes).

Practical campground & safety tips

campfire near water

The following are some practical tips to make your camping experience in Florida as smooth and safe as feasibly possible.

  • Arrive as early as possible, as good campsites at popular parks fill fast, particularly on holiday weekends and peak seasons.
  • Read the explicit rules of your chosen campground, as some parks ban campfires during dry episodes, restrict pets in specific zones and demand quiet hours.
  • Monitor weather and alerts, as Florida’s afternoon thunderstorms are frequent in Summer. And due to the threat of hurricanes, be sure to have evacuation plans ahead of time.
  • Respect wildlife and all surroundings. Keep your food secured, try to ”leave no trace,” and keep a safe distance away from alligators, snakes and other wildlife.
  • Determine your site discerningly. Pick ”shaded” areas if you anticipate high heat. Camp close to water if you want to kayak or swim.
  • For pets, keep them on a short leash and never leave them unattended. Make sure to carry waste bags and avoid letting them wander in wildlife zones.
  • Consider the timing of certain activities. Early mornings and late afternoons are obviously optimal for hiking, paddling and water sports, in order to avoid heat or insects.
  • Operate campfires responsibly, only in designated rings, following local bans and extinguishing thoroughly before sleep.
  • Booking and cancellation: Numerous Florida state parks incorporate a utility or reservation fee, so read the regulations on how far beforehand you can book (or cancel).

Now, Head To The Sunshine State!

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with helpful information to consider before packing up for a Florida camping adventure. It’s a big state with lots of outdoor adventure opportunities, so be sure to plan well, be safe and have fun in the great outdoors of Florida!

While considering this investment, you may have many questions. Your chosen dealers are the best resource for answers, but here are some of the more commonly raised issues.

What Are the Best Boat Lifts? Here’s What You Should Know

Owning a boat brings a unique sense of freedom — the ability to explore, fish or relax whenever the mood strikes. But, to protect your vessel, you should give careful consideration to investing in a reliable boat lift to keep your hull above the waterline when not in use.

This protects it from algae growth, electrolysis and wave damage, while also making it faster and easier to launch when you head out on the water for relaxation or adventure.

So, let’s take a look at the best boat lifts and how to decide which one fits your needs.

Best Boat Lifts (The Top 5)

Five leading manufacturers of boat lifts each have distinctive strengths, catering to different vessel needs and environments.

1. EZ Dock

EZ Dock has long been a pioneer in modular floating docks and personal watercraft (PWC) ports, and its boat lifts reflect the same focus on durability and simplicity. The Aegis™ Boat Lift is an air-assist flotation design that can handle vessels up to around 7,000 pounds and 28 feet in length. The polyethylene flotation tanks and galvanized steel framework resist corrosion, with optional solar or electric pumps ensuring smooth and low-maintenance operation.

EZ Dock also offers the EZ BoatPort — a drive-on, floating platform, ideal for small boats and PWCs. Both options integrate perfectly with its modular dock systems, allowing for a unified, custom layout. 

Key features:

Air-assist flotation lift up to 7,000 poundsDrive-on BoatPort solutions for PWCs and small craft
Durable polyethylene tanks and UHMW bearing surfacesModular compatibility with EZ Dock’s full line

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2. ShoreMaster

ShoreMaster is known for high-quality aluminum products that are built for longevity. Its product range includes vertical, hydraulic, pontoon lifts and PWC lifts, all designed with welded aluminum frames for strength and minimal corrosion. Its vertical lifts offer 66-inch rack travel and are designed to allow easy access to boats from both sides.

Shoremaster emphasizes simple ownership with features like quiet winch operation, interchangeable motor systems, and broad accessory options such as canopy covers and guide-ons.

Key features:

Welded aluminum frame constructionVertical, hydraulic and pontoon lifts
Extensive accessory catalogLarge dealer network

3. ShoreStation

ShoreStation has been in the boat lift industry for decades and is especially known for its freestanding hydraulic systems. These lifts operate quickly and reliably, with hydraulic and electrical components positioned above the waterline to reduce maintenance. They can be powered by traditional AC, DC or solar sources, making them adaptable for remote docks.

ShoreStation’s freestanding lifts offer innovative covers, wireless operation and built-in safeguards against failure, including measures to eliminate cable fatigue. Guides make it easy to land even in poor conditions.

Key features:

Above-water hydraulicsFast lift and launch operation
Solar or AC/DC power optionsSimple seasonal maintenance

4. Dolphin Boat Lifts

Dolphin Boat Lifts is based in Fort Myers, Florida, where it designs and fabricates systems for a wide variety of craft, from small runabouts to large offshore boats. It specializes in in-house production, custom fabrication and rapid access to replacement parts. The company’s Florida roots ensure its products are built with saltwater corrosion in mind.

Dolphin’s vertical cradle lifts have capacities up to 50,000 pounds, made from galvanized steel, aluminum or hybrid options. It also offers boathouse and marine elevator solutions for situations where the site or space makes a vertical option impossible. 

Key features:

Custom-built liftsQuick access to parts
Wide range of capacitiesFreshwater and saltwater applications

5. Sea-Legs

Sea-Legs is a specialist in pontoon-specific lift systems. Instead of relying on cables or cradles, these utilize hydraulically powered legs attached to the underdeck of the craft. The legs raise the pontoon directly out of the water. It’s an innovative design for variable lake bottoms or shallow shorelines. Sea-Legs offers twin- and triple-tube models and publishes detailed installation guides.

Sizing is easy, and a twin-tube model has nearly 7,000 pounds of lifting capacity, running off the outboard motor. The legs require minimal maintenance or winterizing. An optional canopy is also available.

Key features:

Hydraulic leg-and-pad system for pontoonsTwin and triple models available
Designed for soft-bottom lakesReliable hydraulic operation

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Comparing the Best Boat Lifts

Featured companies were selected based on customer support and industry reputation, as well as innovation and product features. Product quality and materials were examined, and warranties were also taken into consideration.

Depending on your vessel, location and unique needs, one or more of the top boat lift companies likely have what you require. Here is a quick summary of what they offer.

CompanyLift TypesTypical CapacityPower OptionsBest Use
EZ DockAir-assist flotation, drive-on portsUp to 7,000 poundsElectric or solarModular docks, small to midsize boats
ShoreMasterVertical, hydraulic, pontoonUp to 15,000 poundsElectricAluminum-frame lifts for residential use
ShoreStationFreestanding, hydraulicUp to 15,000 poundsAC, DC or solarQuick hydraulic operation
Dolphin Boat LiftsCable, hydraulic, custom-builtUp to 50,000 poundsElectric or hydraulicCustom fabrication and saltwater use
Sea-LegsPontoon leg liftUp to 7,000 poundsHydraulicPontoon and tritoon vessels

How Boat Lifts Work

At the simplest level, boat lifts serve the same purpose — to raise and secure your craft above water. However, the underlying mechanisms vary significantly.

  • Cable: These rely on mechanical winches and pulleys to pull the cradle upward, either manually or via an electric motor.
  • Hydraulic: This option substitutes cables for pistons and pumps, creating smoother and faster movement.
  • Air-assist: Buoyancy inflates or deflates sealed tanks to raise or lower the boat.
  • Pontoon-leg: This allows you to raise the vessel directly using built-in hydraulic legs.
  • Drive-on ports: The boat drives onto a floating dock section.

Pros and Cons of Different Types of Boat Lifts

A comparison of the main types reveals their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Lift TypeAdvantagesLimitations
Vertical Cable or WinchReliable, simple design that works for various hull typesRequires pilings or frame anchoring   Metal parts may corrode
Hydraulic FreestandingFast and smooth operation, ideal for various depths   Little physical effort requiredMore expensive   Hydraulic systems require servicing
Flotation or Air-AssistCorrosion-resistant and gentle on hulls   Integrates with modular docksLimited capacity   Pump systems require maintenance
Pontoon-LegIdeal for pontoons   Works on soft or uneven bottoms.Not suitable for V-hull boats   Specialized use only
Drive-on PortEasiest operation and lowest maintenanceLimited to smaller craft   Unsuitable for heavy boats

What Are the Best Boat Lifts for Your Needs?

docked boats from overhead

Your boat is a valuable investment, so be sure to follow the below procedures to choose the correct boat lift.

1. Assess Your Craft

Start with accurate numbers, including your vessel’s dry weight, plus the weight of fuel, gear and passengers. You must also consider its length, beam and hull design. Always choose a product with at least a 15%-20% safety margin above that total.

2. Evaluate Your Waterfront

Measure the depth at both high and low water and note whether your lake or bay has a firm or soft bottom. Certain lifts, like vertical or piling-mounted ones, need solid anchoring, while hydraulic and pontoon options can adapt to softer sediments.

3. Consider Power Sources and Convenience

If you have AC power at your dock, electric lifts are straightforward. Otherwise, solar or battery-driven systems are better choices, especially for remote or off-grid properties.

4. Think About Corrosion Resistance

Saltwater and brackish environments are tough on steel components. Opt for aluminum or polymer to minimize corrosion issues.

5. Evaluate Dealer and Service Support

Even the best boat lifts can fail without proper installation or maintenance. Choose a manufacturer with a strong dealer network and an available parts inventory, so if something goes wrong, it can be quickly addressed.

Installation and Permitting for Boat Lifts

approval for boat lift

Installing a vessel lift isn’t as simple as setting it in the water and flipping a switch. Local permitting rules often apply to shoreline construction, especially for permanent pilings or hydraulic systems. Homeowners on regulated lakes may need to submit drawings or apply for environmental clearance before installation begins. It is critical to check with your local zoning board or conservation authority before purchasing, as their rules may influence your decision.

Professional installation is highly recommended. Even modular lifts benefit from experienced setup to ensure correct leveling, pump calibration and anchoring. Electrical safety also plays a role. Lifts powered by shore AC should be protected by ground-fault interrupters and marine-grade wiring.

Finally, consider seasonal changes. In northern climates, freestanding lifts may need removal or winter positioning to avoid ice damage. Floating systems are generally more forgiving but still require inspection before freezing conditions.

Boat Lift Maintenance and Longevity

A well-maintained boat lift can last decades. While materials like aluminum and polyethylene require minimal care, mechanical components still need attention.

boat on the water

Careful inspection and maintenance of your boat is time and money well-spent!

Inspect cables annually for fraying or rust. Replace them before failure, not after. Winches and pulleys should be greased according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Check hydraulic lift hoses for leaks and top off fluid levels as needed.

Flotation options are largely maintenance-free, but pumps and valves should be cleaned and drained seasonally. Always rinse your lift with fresh water if it’s used in saltwater, and remove any barnacle or algae buildup that could affect its movement.

Keeping a log, even if just notes on your phone, helps you stay ahead of wear and tear issues that could shorten your lift’s lifespan.

How Much Do Boat Lifts Cost?

Boat lifts can be a significant investment, although the actual cost depends on the type, capacity and power source. Entry-level drive-on ports are the most affordable, while hydraulic and custom lifts command higher prices.

Aluminum lifts tend to fall in the midrange, balancing cost and longevity. Hydraulic options may cost more initially, but they often provide better resale value due to their speed and ease of use. If you live on the coast, investing in marine-grade aluminum or stainless steel hardware will save you money in the long run by avoiding corrosion-related replacements.

Installation, permits and electrical work can add significantly to the total price, so always request a detailed, written quote from your dealer.

Accessories That Add Value

boat on beautiful water

Beyond the lift itself, a few items can dramatically improve convenience and give your boat a, well… lift!

Canopy covers protect craft from UV exposure and debris, while guide posts make docking smoother, especially in windy conditions.

Remote controls are another upgrade worth considering. These allow you to raise or lower your lift with a button press from inside the boat. For off-grid docks, solar charging systems can keep your DC or hydraulic setup running reliably without requiring shore power.

Finally, lighting kits and maintenance walkways are small investments that greatly enhance safety and usability, especially at night.

Preparing Your Boat Lift for Winter or Storms

Just as you follow guidelines to winterize your vessel, you also need to take care of the lift. Inspect and tighten all hardware, remove canopies and drain hydraulic lines before freezing weather arrives.

For floating or air-assisted systems, ensure tanks are fully drained to prevent damage from freezing-induced expansion. In storm-prone coastal areas, remove or secure motors, pumps, and electrical components ahead of hurricanes or high winds. Many manufacturers provide seasonal care checklists — following these can add years to your lift’s life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Lifts

boat rope

While considering this investment, you may have many questions. Your chosen dealers are the best resource for answers, but here are some of the more commonly raised issues.

Q: Can Any Dock Support a Boat Lift?

A: Not necessarily. Some integrate directly with modular docks, while others require dedicated pilings or freestanding frames. Always check compatibility with your dock type.

Q: Are Hydraulic Boat Lifts Worth the Higher Cost?

A: If convenience, speed and minimal manual effort are important to you, hydraulic boat lifts might be worth the expense. It is a matter of preference, but for heavier boats especially, the low-effort operation of a hydraulic system can justify the investment.

Q: Do I Need Professional Maintenance for My Boat Lift?

A: Many owners handle basic and seasonal care themselves, but annual professional inspections are always wise. This is especially true for hydraulic or electrical systems where leaks or wiring faults may not be immediately obvious.

Protecting Your Floating Pride and Joy

Choosing the best boat lift is a significant decision that protects your vessel and enhances your time on the water. By assessing your craft’s specifications, understanding your waterfront conditions, and considering power and material options, you can narrow down the choices.

The leading manufacturers all offer quality solutions for different needs. Ask reputable dealers informed questions and select a boat lift that will provide security and convenience for years to come.

Now, get out there on the water and safe boating!

 

 

camping list header image

Essential Things to Take Camping: A Gear Guide for the Outdoors

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, camping

A good camping trip doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of smart gear decisions, careful planning, and a healthy respect for Mother Nature when she is not in the best mood. 

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, backcountry explorer, or a full-time car camper, understanding what to bring can be the difference between a frustrating experience and something of a transcendental adventure. 

This guide includes everything from shelter and cooking gear to clothing and personal comfort items. We’ll also detail some innovative tools that have redefined how modern campers experience the outdoors.

Essential Camping Gear You Should Pack For Camping

1. Shelter and Sleeping Gear

camping tent and 2 sleeping bags

The priority on your list of things to pack will be the tent and sleeping items. A tent provides necessary protection, especially in less than ideal weather conditions. And don’t, forget a tough ground tarp to shield the tent floor.

A seasonally appropriate sleeping bag and a comfortable sleep pad are key to warmth and sleep. A compressible or inflatable pillow is a great comfort item to have on your trip to help you feel rested, especially if you’re doing long mileage days!

2. Cooking Equipment and Morning Comfort 

With the right equipment, outdoor cooking doesn’t have to be difficult. A small camp cooker and a couple of canisters of compatible fuel, as well as a portable cooking set, will help get the job done.

camping and cooking over a fire pots and pans

Having your cooking equipment and utensils organized, functional, and site-specific for the camping conditions you will be in makes meal preparation so much easier and safer.

Don’t forget to pack a knife and cutting board, not to mention cleaning materials such as a biodegradable soap and a sponge.

Coffee

coffee on a wood stump

Now, let’s talk about coffee. No matter how rugged the landscape or rustic the campsite, for many, a day doesn’t properly start until there is coffee in hand.
 

Imagine the scene… The first light of the morning is cold and silent on the river. The mist hangs over the water, and it sure would be nice to warm your hands on a cup of hot, delicious coffee.

However, brewing coffee in nature has traditionally been quite cumbersome. This has created ingenuity when it comes to making coffee in the outdoors.

The IKAPE portable coffee maker can make up to 10 shots per charge from cold water, and offers a rare degree of control via Bluetooth app. You can even tweak the temperature, pre-infusion, and shot time.

Unlike your typical camp coffee rig, the IKAPE K2 eliminates the independent steps of water heating and espresso extraction by combining them into one self-sufficient machine. It’s powered by a 13,500 mAh rechargeable battery that heats water to 200°F without stoves or a flame. It also features a 51 mm bottomless portafilter and filter, as well as a 20-bar pressure pump for making rich espresso with crema.

At 780 g, it’s small enough to fit in the side pocket of your backpack, but tough enough for use off-grid. 

Ultralight backpackers may have trouble getting over its single-shot capacity, but for solo hunters and explorers and road trippers, and anyone who takes their coffee seriously on the trail, it’s a small but mighty piece of convenience and craftsmanship.

Archery Coffee™

3. Water Storage and Filtration

If you are in the wilderness camping, water filtering is a must. If you’re gathering water out of a river or stream in the backcountry, be sure to carry a portable purifier or filter, and carry treatment pills as well.

Transport small in size so that it is easy to carry to the campsite, hiking areas, and bottles of emergency water in case of an emergency.

4. Weather-Ready Clothing and Footwear

Nature can be very unpredictable. So, be sure you take appropriate layers for the weather you may experience. A base layer, insulating mid-layer, and rain-proof shell will help you stay dry and warm.

Use merino wool, or a quick-drying synthetic; not cotton, which takes too long to dry, and does not insulate much when wet.

Additional socks, gloves, a hat, and heavy-weight boots will also be good to put on your pack list. Sandals or camp shoes are nice to relax in after having spent a long day hiking.  

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5. Lighting and Portable Power

Once the sun goes down, what will you light source be? You could hang a lantern from trees. If you want an electric light source, power banks are a must to keep your device charged up, along with solar panels or car chargers if you’re traveling for longer periods of time.

If you’re going to take gadgets on your camping trip, then USB-C devices are a good consideration, so that you can charge inside a car or using your laptop or solar panel.

6. Safety, Navigation, and First Aid

Even if you’re going to be exploring in an area you feel like you know like the back of your hand, never hit the trail without a map, compass, and GPS unit or app that works even if you’re offline. 

Also, a first aid kit is a must-have and should contain adhesive strips, alcohol hand wipes/ antiseptic hand gel, blister care pack (if needed), and any medications. 

7. Hygiene and Health Essentials

Health in general is enhanced by the sanitation of your camp. Make hand sanitizer a staple of your campsite.

Any toilet paper should be in a bag that is tightly closed. An oily lip balm should keep your lips from getting chapped by the wind and the sun (particularly when you are in a desert or at a high altitude).

8. Relaxation and Camp Comfort

Camping isn’t just all about hanging onto the side of a mountain for dear life; it’s also fun. Even though cooking your own food and setting up your campsite may feel like work, creature comforts are manna.

A low-to-the-ground lightweight portable camp chair or stool for sitting around the fire can be an underestimated luxury.

A hammock will also do wonders for your relaxation during the day.

Now Get Out There And Camp!

It is not just what you pack that counts for a great trip; how it can hold up in the wild is also important.

Whether it is a sound shelter and warm garments, a cup of hot espresso in the morning, whatever you put on your camping list can be added comfort and something to make your adventure more enjoyable.

So, don’t just survive your next camping trip… make it an enjoyable adventure!