There’s no better way to celebrate Great Outdoors Month than by camping out and sleeping under the stars. Not only is it the best place to make s’mores, research shows that spending time in nature is also linked to better moods, focus, and self-esteem.
Planning a camping trip can look like a big job at first, between knowing where to go, what to bring, and how much it’s all going to cost. With the resources that we’ve listed here, we hope to spread the word that the outdoors are for everybody (and every body).
Let’s make camping…
…affordable.
There are many free campgrounds across the state of Florida. Plan to get a reservation or a free permit ahead of time. The US Forest Service has helpful tips for more primitive dispersed camping.
If you plan on visiting a lot of state or national parks, buying an annual pass may be more cost effective than paying for entry each time. Don’t forget to check whether you qualify for any discounts!
Don’t feel pressured to buy all new camping gear. Instead try to borrow, buy used, or make a request in a local Buy Nothing group.
Staying close to home can help cut down on travel costs. Use these books to plan your trip around some of the best local hikes.
Gainesville & Ocala: Your Guide to the Area's Most Beautiful Hikes by Sandra Friend
"This guide covers more than 35 hikes across a three-county region, all within an hour’s drive of either city. Hikes are rated and highlighted according to their strengths from five perspectives: scenery, trail conditions, good for children, difficulty, and solitude. This handy guide makes planning your trip easy and enjoyable!"
50 Hikes in Central Florida by Sandra Friend
"Ranging from 1 to 43 miles in length, each hike includes directions, a detailed map, and information on hike duration, difficulty, and trail conditions. Explore a new side of Florida, from hidden urban gems like the Circle Bar B Ranch in Lakeland and Ponce Preserve in Daytona Beach, to the quiet rural landscapes of Catfish Creek State Park and Chinsegut Hill."
…accessible.
Fat Girls Hiking: An Inclusive Guide to Getting Outdoors at Any Size or Ability by Summer Michaud-Skog
"From the founder of the Fat Girls Hiking community comes an inclusive, inspiring call to the outdoors for people of all body types, sizes, and backgrounds. Whether you’re an experienced or aspiring hiker, you’ll be empowered to hit the trails and find yourself in nature."
Rugged Access for All: The Complete Guide to Pushiking America’s Diverse Trails by Christopher Kain
"This book showcases some of the greatest trails across the US that can be completed while pushiking - hiking with someone in a wheelchair, mobility chair, or stroller. Part narrative, part guidebook, this book validates that anyone can experience the natural landscapes our country has to offer, no matter what mobility challenges they may face."
Accessible Vacations: An Insider’s Guide to 10 National Parks by Simon J. Hayhoe
"This book helps readers with access needs visit national parks and visitor centers. It describes a range of techniques and technologies to make visiting easier and shows you what is available for learning through driving, riding, walking, wheeling, or feeling around 10 selected national parks."
Barrier Free Travel: Favorite Florida State Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers by Candy B. Harrington
"Get out and enjoy some of the author’s favorite Florida state parks with this guidebook is a great resource for seniors, parents with stroller-aged children, Baby Boomers, folks who just like to take things a little slower, and anybody who uses a cane, walker, wheelchair or scooter."
…kid-friendly.
The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping With Kids: How to Plan Memorable Family Adventures and Connect Kids to Nature by Helen Olsson
"This guide to camping with kids, from babies through pre-teens, is filled with all the tips and tools you need to plan the perfect nature adventure with your family: checklists, smart tips, recipes, games, activities, and art projects."
Outdoor Kids in an Inside World: Getting Your Family out of the House and Radically Engaged With Nature by Steven Rinella
"Steven Rinella shares the parenting wisdom he has garnered as a father whose family has lived amid the biggest cities and wildest corners of America. Throughout, he offers practical advice for getting your kids radically engaged with nature in a muddy, thrilling, hands-on way, guided by black-and-white illustrations throughout, with the ultimate goal of helping them see their own place within the natural ecosystem."
See You at the Campground: A Guide to Discovering Community, Connection, and a Happier Family in the Great Outdoors by Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi
"Explore the ins and outs of road trips, camping, and enjoying adventurous, exciting family trips that don't break the budget but leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Perfect for families who have never camped before, those thinking of exploring a new type of camping experience, and seasoned campers seeking high-level hacks and tips."
…simple.
Camp Sunset: A Modern Camper's Guide to the Great Outdoors
"The experts at Sunset draw on more than a century of outdoor experience to create a guide that leaves no stone unturned. Easy to navigate and chock full of clear how-to's, handy checklists, lush photographs, and a nifty pull-out glow-in-the-dark constellation map, Camp Sunset offers essential advice for everyone."
"Provides practical advice, step-by-step instructions, and a variety of checklists covering all aspects of a camping vacation, including what to take to camp, camp organization, and cooking."
How to Camp in the Woods: A Complete Guide to Finding, Outfitting, and Enjoying Your Adventure in the Great Outdoors by Devon Fredericksen
"How to Camp in the Woods compiles contemporary and classic wisdom, practical tips, and illustrated DIY advice on every aspect of equipping, packing, setting up camp, cooking, and improvising no matter where you are in the great outdoors."
Descriptions are provided by the publishers.