Q: I'm looking for a place to stay in northeastern Florida for winter break. I live in Atlanta, and I've been trying to find a place near the beach so I can surf, but I'm only 18. Do you know of any campsites that would let 3 or 4 students 18 and up stay?
A: It's impressive that you're already planning your winter break in the summer! I guess you feel that you really need it.
I once was acquainted with someone in Atlanta whose boyfriend lived in Daytona Beach, and I think she said it was an 8-hour drive. I haven't looked at a map to see if that sounds about right, but in any case, the Daytona area and north of there is certainly do-able. The Daytona area is good for surfing, too, from what I hear.
For a campground, I would like to suggest Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area north of Daytona in Flagler Beach. Gamble Rogers has campsites right on the ocean. And you should reserve one now, letting the park know how many people will be at the campsite.
As for your age, I don't think it's a problem. As I mentioned to another teen looking for a Florida campground, you're legal now at 18, and chances are that if you don't bring up your age and you act in a responsible manner, you won't have any problems getting a campsite. One sure way to get in trouble is to be loud while other campers around you are trying to sleep, because those campers will complain to the ranger the next morning -- and you could get kicked out. For more camping tips, check out the EcoFlorida camping primer.
Have fun!
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