Many motorcyclists opt for camping for a quick vacation or a cheaper way to travel long distances. However, camping can be a challenge in any part of the nation, and Florida is no exception. There are things like weather, campsites, and packing to consider. If you are planning on motocamping across Florida, there are a few things you should know. These things will keep you comfortable during your travels.
Choose Your Camps Ahead of Time
It might sound fun to fly by the seat of your pants and choose your camp spots as you go, but many campsites are not “motorcycle friendly.” This is primarily because of noise, but it is worth noting how you’ll be received when you decide to pitch your tent in a family-friendly campground. On the other hand, you should also consider what type of campground you want. Do you want someone else’s kids running potentially near your bike? Or would you rather have some peace, quiet, and solitude as you camp. It goes both ways, but it is really good to map out your trip ahead of time. Check with fellow motorcycle riders to find out the best course. You don’t have to specifically plan every stop. The more you plan, the less likely you are to run into obstacles.
Pack Smart When Motocamping Across Florida
Once you have at least a general sense of direction for your trip (along with a few guaranteed good camping spots), it’s time to pack. It goes without saying that the less you can bring, the better. However, that doesn’t mean leaving out some of the things that make your trip more enjoyable.
You’d be surprised what you can pack if you bring backpack-sized stuff. Don’t be afraid to pack a camping coffee pot with instant coffee and collapsible cups. Brink your camera complete with it’s telephoto lens. Bring comfortable gear. Leave out the things you know you won’t probably use. If reading is a nightly hobby, bring a book. Don’t bring a collection. Buy a new book at a town you’re travelling through, and donate the one you’ve read. Extra baggage weighs down your trip and makes it less enjoyable.
Lastly, don’t neglect to pack gear for changing weather. No matter where you are in Florida, you’re relatively close to the ocean. This means dewy mornings and unpredictable storm patterns. Bring rainy weather gear, but also bring layers that will keep you comfortable as conditions change throughout the day. You can err on the side of predictable warmth, but always prep a little for the worst.
Don’t Throw Caution to the Wind
A lot of inexperienced motocampers dream of the freedom of the wind blowing through their hair driving down empty highways along beautiful horizons. Their dreams don’t include safety equipment and the bulk of items they’ll be carrying. While many experienced motocampers learn to pare down their equipment to the basics, they don’t neglect their safety gear.
- Helmet: Remember that the more coverage you have, the greater your head and neck protection will be if you crash. You don’t have to wear a helmet in Florida as long as you have proper medical coverage and are over 21 years of age, but it definitely helps to save your life in the event of a crash. Opt for a full coverage helmet instead of a half helmet, and reduce your risk of paralysis or even death.
- Boots: Summer motocamping trips cause some carefree motorcyclists to put away their protective boots and wear skimpy but comfortable, light shoe wear. Some wear flip flops! While this is great when everything goes as planned, not everything always goes that way. Mangled feet are a preventable tragedy on motorcycles. They take up space, but they’re on your feet while you ride, so they won’t take away from your ability to pack extra.
- Coats/Pants: It’s understandable that motorcyclists don’t want to wear jackets and long pants when riding. Again, it prevents so much damage even in low speed wrecks. Save yourself the road rash, and suit up. There are warm weather options to keep you cooler in the summer.
- Safety Mindset: The last thing that you can do to maintain your safety during a ride is to keep a safety mindset. Inspect your bike and your tires before every ride. Don’t ride at perilous speeds. Maintain your lane and your visibility in whatever ways possible. Don’t drink and drive. All of these things are logical and easy to think of when trying to be safe. Too often, the adventurer in many of us throw caution to the wind when we are motocamping. Keep a safety mindset, and you’ll be able to tell an amazing tale when you get home.
Motocamping Spots in Florida
There are many places to motocamp in Florida. Some are primitive spots you find on your own or through word-of-mouth. Others are busy KOA campgrounds that may not fit your idea of motocamping. Here are a couple other noteworthy motocamping spots in Florida.
Cacklebery’s Campground
Cacklebery’s campground is an infamous motocamping spot during biking events such as Daytona Bike Week and Biketoberfest. The campground itself hosts bands, wet t-shirt contests, and bikini events. The place is equipped with warm showers and very close to outside events. It’s also right next to the Cabbage Patch bar, a must for all rally attendees. This is a biking event campground, so it isn’t open year round. If you are planning on a hardcore motorcycle camping event, this is it.
Sebastian Inlet State Park
If you’re looking for a more scenic motocamping experience, try Sebastian Inlet State Park. The campgrounds are simple, but you’re on the peninsula and surrounded by water and beautiful sunsets. Amenities at the park include a fire pit and clean facilities. There is a local bait and tackle shop, which tends to be expensive. It is there if you forget anything. On a clear night, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the stars. The campsites are very basic, but they provide some of the most exquisite natural views that state has to offer.
Florida Keys
If you want a classic motocamping experience, head over to the Florida Keys. You’ll get beaches, museums, coral reefs for snorkeling or diving, and all the beauty the islands have to offer. Start at Key Largo and make your way to Key West. You may experience some wind on the 7-mile bridge, but the islands are known for welcoming motorcyclists. If you haven’t done this trip in your motocamping excursions around Florida, it needs to be on your list.
Every Motocamping Trip Has Liability
Along with any road trip no matter what type of vehicle you are taking, there is some risk of liability. This comes from negligence both from motorcyclists and from other riders. Ensuring you have good insurance coverage and riding safely is the best way to mitigate those risks. Even then, others’ negligence may cause you damages that can only be recovered by a lawsuit.
If you have suffered damages during a motocamping excursion and need information about filing a lawsuit, contact Kirshner, Groff, and Diaz for a no-obligation consultation. We have experience in motorcycle liability cases, and you’ll be able to speak to an actual lawyer right away.
