Backpacking skills are survival skills. Use your knowledge and gear to make personal preparations for hurricane season power loss and evacuations in Florida.
Bear season in Florida
As Florida black bears become active in late winter and spring, the chances of a bear encounter go up significantly if you leave food unsecured outdoors – whether in your campsite or at home.
Bobcat attacks hiker in Citrus County
During a backpacking trip with fellow Scouts, a young hiker was attacked by a bobcat in Withlacoochee State Forest. The bobcat was later killed.
Chikungunya fever a growing problem
A mosquito-borne disease, Chikungunya fever was first identified in 1952 in Tanzania. In recent years it has spread prolifically throughout the Caribbean. It has no known cure, and it is now present in Florida.
Do not feed the bears
“A fed bear is a dead bear,” says Florida Fish & Wildlife. It’s time to make homeowners responsible for keeping trash and food out of reach when they live in bear territory.
Finding Your Way
Basic wayfinding – understanding where the sun is, looking at landscape, picking out landmarks as you hike – comes as second nature to some people. It’s an important skill that all hikers should cultivate.
Florida’s Toxic Trees
Southeast Florida is home to two poisonous trees, the poisonwood and the manchineel. Learn how to recognize them so you don’t get too close, and find out how truly dangerous they are.
Florida’s Venomous Snakes
Florida has four types (six species) of venomous snakes. Here’s where to find information to identify them when you’re outdoors.
Hiking Basics for Florida
How to hike in Florida – the basics of what you need to know for hiking in Florida, whether you’re day hiking or backpacking.
Hiking during hunting season
Florida’s hiking season is also the prime season for hunting in Florida. Be aware of where you’re hiking – many public lands permit hunting – for your personal safety.