AIR DATE JUNE 16, 2022

Title: Camping

Find out what you need to know when packing for a fun family camping trip at one of central Florida’s natural parks.

Guests and Locations

Central Florida Council Boy Scouts of America, Director of Camping Services – Mike Evano

Orange County Parks and Recreation, Site Supervisor II – Maegan Liberti

Camping Can Be for Everyone in Central Florida

Many people come to visit central Florida for our hospitality, theme parks, and special events. The numerous camping opportunities you can find are often overlooked during those visits.

It’s not just visitors that miss camping opportunities here in our region. Many of us who live here full-time don’t always remember how many beautiful spots there are to pitch a tent or take an RV.

Maegan Liberti from Orange County Parks and Rec says that getting out of the city is important. “It’s a time to actually sit back, relax, and enjoy nature,” she told me, “and just kind of forget about the crazy life that happens.”

Moss Park is a highly recommended spot. Although it is a nature preserve and doesn’t allow pets, you’ll find two boat ramps for a kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or boat. “We also have fishing areas,” added Liberti, “so, if you bring your fishing poles you can do that.”

Even though you’re close to the city when visiting places like Moss Park to camp, it doesn’t feel that way. “You can do reservations online for any of the campground parks that are close to you,” said Liberti, “and then you can bring your RV, tent, or however you choose to camp.”

Camping Safety Practices Are Still Important at Local Campgrounds

Mike Evano is the Director of Camping Services for the BSA Central Florida Council. He says that anyone who lives in the state is fortunate when they want to spend some time in nature and get away from things.

“We’ve got just a great climate for camping, and you can camp year-round here,” he told me. “The other reason is that there is a multitude of resources available to us.”

Not only does Orange County Parks and Rec offer opportunities, but there are also privately run camps from various organizations like the YMCA. “We have access to national forest land, as well as wildlife management areas,” Evano added.

That means you can experience a wide range of camping, from primitive spots to glamping opportunities.

Evano believes that safety starts when people come to the campsite prepared. “There is a list of ten essentials that we teach to our Scouts that they should take on any outing, whether it is a weekend campout, a week-long backpacking trip, or honestly a day hike. That includes things like a first aid kit, water bottle, navigational device, and emergency signaling.”

Anyone Can Enjoy Camping in Central Florida

Liberti says that Orange County Parks and Rec are open year-round, except on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. “In Florida, we do have the rain and the cold, but you can come camping any time, depending on camping availability at the campsites.”

For those that haven’t gone camping before, Liberti suggests using a search engine to find information about potential incidents that trigger anxieties. She also says camping with friends is a great way to get out of the house.

Evano takes a more practical approach, suggesting that campers get stoves, tents, cots, sleeping bags, and other essentials to support a safe camping experience. “Getting outside and experience a day hike in the outdoors is definitely time well spent,” he told me.

More information about camping in Central Florida with BSA is available at cflscouting.org. Opportunities to reserve a spot through Orange County Parks and Rec are found at orangecountyfl.net.