Hey everyone! We are Kevin and Jodie McEwen and wegotwanderlust!
We recently purchased a 2012 Fleetwood Tioga Ranger RV (which we have named Wanderlust) and took it on our maiden voyage to Salt Springs Recreation area in the Ocala National Forest.
Salt Springs is the largest campground in the Ocala National Forest and the only one with full hookups for RVs. The facility offers spacious campsites for RVs and trailers, which is a short walk from the parking area. Sites are nicely shaded and well away from the busy day-use area.
Entering into the campground area, we knew that this was going to be an enjoyable stay. The campsites were excellently maintained, easily accessible and the hook up process was a breeze.
We are traveling with two four legged members of team wanderlust, Angie (Cocker Spaniel) and Charmin (Great Pyrennes mix)
This was our first trip with them, and they were both wonderful travel companions. I am not sure they thought the same about us though, because when we hiked the Bear Swamp trail, I think they both were wondering what we were thinking.
The trail is an easy hike, about 1.3 miles, but you do have to be very careful on the boardwalk section as it was extremely slippery. We noticed this sign (after we exited the boardwalk). Now you tell us!!
Our major lesson learned from this trip was: Always have an accessible set of keys!!!—The first night of our stay, we stepped out about 11:00 pm to let the dogs out for their last trip of the night and locked ourselves out of the Coach. We had everything inside, keys (obviously), cell phones, wallets, etc…Now what??—I walked over to one of the campground hosts site and asked him for some advice. He was so nice, to come over to our site and help me out. Ultimately, we ended up breaking the window of the entry door and breaking into our own coach. Not fun.
But we learned a lesson and I doubt we will ever make that mistake again. Note to self: buy another roll of Guerrilla Tape.
The crown jewel of Salt springs is the swimming area, we spent a little time swimming in the crystal clear springs.
So overall, I think the judges give Salt Springs Recreation area and the maiden voyage of wanderlust 4 paws up!
Stay tuned for upcoming posts where we will review some of the cool toys and products that we used for the first time on this trip.