Q: I would like to plan a camping trip in December starting in Apalachicola and gradually head west toward Gulf Shores, but am concerned about hurricane damage. How is the rebuilding effort going, and what are the conditions of the parks and beaches? -- Jane

A: Good for you for taking stock before taking off. One of EcoFlorida's mottos is "know before you go."

Hurricane Ivan hit Sept. 15 directly around Mobile, Ala., but the large storm brought severe weather across the northern gulf coast, including northwestern Florida (aka the panhandle or Emerald Coast). Florida parks and beaches did take a hit from Ivan. Trees were downed, and beaches lost a lot of sand in some areas. Some park buildings were ruined. If there are specific parks you are thinking about visiting, definitely call them to find out what is open and closed, as this information can change quickly. There is no substitute for speaking directly with a ranger or volunteer right at the site -- any time you are planning a visit anywhere.

You may also check online a few sites that are offering hurricane damage updates. One is the Great Florida Birding Trail. Another is the Florida Trail Association. If you are thinking about visiting one of Florida's national forests, check out Your National Forests in Florida, Recreation. (Note these links may not work in the future after the hurricane damage has been cleaned up.)

In addition, logically speaking, if you are planning on camping in Florida state parks, you will have to make reservations through ReserveAmerica, which likely should have information on which campgrounds are accepting reservations, indicating which are open.

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