Join me while I spend a few days alone in the middle of the Ocala National Forest, solo car camping at Juniper Springs Recreation area. This is my maiden voyage in my newest no build setup, that I recently showcased in an updated van tour, to see how comfortably I can live in my minivan camper using this redesigned and spacious floorplan. We are also back in bear country, so of course I go hunting for some more to photograph... but what secret do I end up finding deep in the middle of the woods instead?? Did you know it was there, and have you seen it before? What is your favorite natural spring to visit? Thanks for watching, and I'll see you on the next adVANture! ==== check out my recent van tour of this latest and greatest setup here: th-cam.com/video/GY76GBVMAGI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=zxWxgSBKlPQYhOhj ==== My setup details Link to BougeRV's website for pink fridge: bit.ly/3PolgPo 20% OFF discount code:Heatherhikes Expiry date: April 30 **As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it! Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used: Jackery 240 Power Station: amzn.to/3wIiHgX Jackery 1000 Power Station: amzn.to/3lzmMyP Bluetti EB70S Power Station (800W inverter with 716Wh): amzn.to/3nhu0ft Shower bag: amzn.to/39LSDtM cup holder phone stand for watching TV: amzn.to/3Kk6veY disposable female urinals (Travel Jane): amzn.to/3EGHebl urinal/reusable no spill bottle: amzn.to/3Z3lWMM portable DVD player: amzn.to/3lLyZ70 string lights: amzn.to/3IxI3oW Luci Light inflatable solar lantern: amzn.to/3YXvJ6U set of mini cooking utensils: amzn.to/3IdBlTD Lunatec pressurized water bottle: amzn.to/3KBgXyX macrame fruit hammock/bag: amzn.to/3lOlwLT Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp: amzn.to/3lHxBCl cup holder inverter: amzn.to/41bpluz USB mini fan with reading light: amzn.to/3EhsDCE bamboo breakfast tray: amzn.to/3GiXM8Q Hot Logic Mini: amzn.to/3YD1YbV glass Pyrex container: amzn.to/40MXfog Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle: amzn.to/413y6qF low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle: amzn.to/3YD96EV Aeropress coffee maker: amzn.to/3lLFKG5 handheld battery powered milk frother: amzn.to/3kat7DV mesh window screens: amzn.to/3GiXSxe magnetic window curtains: amzn.to/3G8TqAW metal utility shelf: amzn.to/3wF2tXp trunk storage unit: amzn.to/3wBFNXY Insulated cooler bag: amzn.to/38FK6IG ergonomic gel memory foam seat cushion: amzn.to/3wBLNjg boot scraper: amzn.to/3z1eaJc side slot cup holders: amzn.to/3wC6IS0 hands free phone cup holder stand: amzn.to/3sTLHS1 hands free phone dash mount: amzn.to/3G8Uvsu LED flameless chargeable lantern: amzn.to/3lE8EVf USB LED light bulb: amzn.to/3yVudZc stained glass "rainbow" decals: - phases of the moon: amzn.to/3WBaxm9 - mandalas: amzn.to/3hJXlfF magic mesh screen doors: amzn.to/41OXq3x mosquito netting: amzn.to/44aPhrU Outdoor rug: amzn.to/3yuV5Pv Folding camp table (aluminum): amzn.to/37GGGF2 Coleman Camp Chair: amzn.to/3L52sQg 1.5" memory foam topper: amzn.to/3EfMQZS Luci solar string lights: amzn.to/46mPF6X Mosaic solar lantern: amzn.to/3LDJpjb large storage hamper: amzn.to/3OVtO0S storage bins with bamboo lids: amzn.to/3oCcfbC chargeable hang led color change light amzn.to/41a5IUm
Heather, I was so happy when I put TH-cam on earlier and saw that you put a video out. Today is my birthday and it was awesome to hang out with you on your advanture, and see some more of the beautiful sites to see in Florida. The best part was I got to do it in the comfort of my living room. My spirit animals, hawks and ravens came by to see me in my backyard. I cooked a delicious and easy clam chowder for my dinner. It was a rainy windy day here in my part of Florida, so perfect for a nice warm soup. I hope that you enjoyed your birthday and I look forward to your next advanture. ❤🎉❤
One of my favorite places to camp is Mother Neff State Park in Texas. It’s right between the Fort Hood munitions testing site and a SpaceX rocket testing center. I’m weird I guess but I absolutely love all that racket! My first solo trip to Florida was in 2020 to see a rocket launch. I camped along the way in Hipcamps in a tent until one night an armadillo tried to come in my tent! lol. I donated the tent, moved into my car and I’ve been car camping ever since. I just got finished car camping with a group of women in the Ocala National Forest outside of Deland!
Hike-ish... lol! I chose a spot smack dab btwn both springs so I wouldn't have to go more than a 1/4 miles at a time, but I did it!! I was planning on actually trying an easy going hike last weekend and do some more birding and camping, but my body took a turn for now 😔😔 (At the moment, washing my hair is the hardest skill I can handle, and I'm not loving it!!)
I've heard that's a gorgeous one. I actually have a friend that lives in that area and they take their boat into tha that on a lot. It looks amazing, I definitely have it on my list!!
Lovely video, Heather! Thank you for spending the time exploring Juniper Springs. I have yet to get there, but I hope to do so this year. Happy Travels!
I can't imagine how scary it would be in the middle of the night hearing a bear, making all kinds of noise trying to get inside the bear locker. Of course, it's better there than you inside your van. Lol. I love the campgrounds that have private shower like rooms and not flimsy shower curtains that most of the time never completely cover the opening. I don't think I've ever seen vultures at a campground. I know they're a necessity, but they are so gross and creepy. I have to take my own trash to the dump, and occasionally, there will be one sitting on one of the containers, and they are never scared away by people. Scary. My birthday is next week so I decided to rent a B&B for the week. On the rules and such they were saying there's the possibility of bears in the area so they have the bear proof trash containers you have to use. It should be interesting. Lol. I enjoyed your video and hope you feel better soon. ❤
The funny thing is I thought I heard something around 3 or 4am that night before but then after I woke up I never heard it again, so I fell back asleep lol! Your Aurbnb sounds delightful, and the perfect introduction to sleep in bear territory!! 💚
Really enjoyed this video - a different look at FL. Loved the outdoor stone fireplace and pool and the trails. I have family within 1 hr of here, would love to check it out someday.
Thank you!! It was a gorgeous spring, I definitely want to go back & swim there! Hopefully the boardwalk and bridge will be open again soon, I've heard they're really neat!
Unfortunately we don't have any hot springs here in Florida. Ours are pretty chilly! It feels good on cold days, but getting out is no fun in the cold LOL! I wish we did have some warm ones though, I think a hot soak would be lovely!! 💚
I know, right!? It was Sunday an hour or 2 before sunset! Seems like first couple hours and last couple hours are best (at least when it's chilly lol). It wasn't actually super crowded when I checked Saturday afternoon, but there were definitely more people then
I believe it was $36 plus tax... Definitely more than I usually spend for no hookups, but I've been wanting to visit for a while now, so I finally went for it!
They're definitely in the area, but they usually don't like the more open swim areas. They prefer the parts of the river or springs that have more vegetation or banks they can settle down and hide better in. That said, I did see a gator swimming right past an area I had jist swam in an hour earlier when I was staying at Alexander Springs!
Join me while I spend a few days alone in the middle of the Ocala National Forest, solo car camping at Juniper Springs Recreation area. This is my maiden voyage in my newest no build setup, that I recently showcased in an updated van tour, to see how comfortably I can live in my minivan camper using this redesigned and spacious floorplan.
We are also back in bear country, so of course I go hunting for some more to photograph... but what secret do I end up finding deep in the middle of the woods instead?? Did you know it was there, and have you seen it before?
What is your favorite natural spring to visit?
Thanks for watching, and I'll see you on the next adVANture!
====
check out my recent van tour of this latest and greatest setup here:
th-cam.com/video/GY76GBVMAGI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=zxWxgSBKlPQYhOhj
====
My setup details
Link to BougeRV's website for pink fridge: bit.ly/3PolgPo
20% OFF discount code:Heatherhikes
Expiry date: April 30
**As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it!
Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used:
Jackery 240 Power Station:
amzn.to/3wIiHgX
Jackery 1000 Power Station:
amzn.to/3lzmMyP
Bluetti EB70S Power Station
(800W inverter with 716Wh):
amzn.to/3nhu0ft
Shower bag:
amzn.to/39LSDtM
cup holder phone stand for watching TV:
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disposable female urinals (Travel Jane):
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urinal/reusable no spill bottle:
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portable DVD player:
amzn.to/3lLyZ70
string lights:
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Luci Light inflatable solar lantern:
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set of mini cooking utensils:
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Lunatec pressurized water bottle:
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macrame fruit hammock/bag:
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Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp:
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cup holder inverter:
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USB mini fan with reading light:
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bamboo breakfast tray:
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Hot Logic Mini:
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glass Pyrex container:
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Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle:
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low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle:
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Aeropress coffee maker:
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handheld battery powered milk frother:
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magnetic window curtains:
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You should take that free boat! Heather's water adventures! 😉
Haha, right!? So tempting!!
Heather, I was so happy when I put TH-cam on earlier and saw that you put a video out. Today is my birthday and it was awesome to hang out with you on your advanture, and see some more of the beautiful sites to see in Florida. The best part was I got to do it in the comfort of my living room. My spirit animals, hawks and ravens came by to see me in my backyard. I cooked a delicious and easy clam chowder for my dinner. It was a rainy windy day here in my part of Florida, so perfect for a nice warm soup. I hope that you enjoyed your birthday and I look forward to your next advanture. ❤🎉❤
Happy birthday!! 🎊🎉
Sounds like you had a lovely day!!
That water is beautiful
Isn't it!? It was so tempting to jump in, but I knew I'd be shivering when I had to get out!! I'm definitely going back though 💙
One of my favorite places to camp is Mother Neff State Park in Texas. It’s right between the Fort Hood munitions testing site and a SpaceX rocket testing center. I’m weird I guess but I absolutely love all that racket! My first solo trip to Florida was in 2020 to see a rocket launch. I camped along the way in Hipcamps in a tent until one night an armadillo tried to come in my tent! lol. I donated the tent, moved into my car and I’ve been car camping ever since. I just got finished car camping with a group of women in the Ocala National Forest outside of Deland!
This is beautiful! I’ve already “favorited” it on recreation gov for future reference!
Oh my, I think that would cure me of sleeping in tents as well, lol! Thank you for watching, it is a beautiful place!!
TY for showing us around 👍
Thank you for watching! 💕
Yes that is wild boar.
Wow! That is a gorgeous campground!!! 😍
It really was! I can't wait till they open the boardwalk and bridge back up!
That campsite is nice! I really love palm trees. I am clueless because when I think of Florida I think reptiles not bears 🤣😂
We've got it allll, LOL!
This weekend is my maiden voyage solo camping so excited
Good luck!! I bet you'll have an awesome trip!!
Such a beautiful park!
It really is!
You're doing a hike!!!!
Hike-ish... lol! I chose a spot smack dab btwn both springs so I wouldn't have to go more than a 1/4 miles at a time, but I did it!! I was planning on actually trying an easy going hike last weekend and do some more birding and camping, but my body took a turn for now 😔😔
(At the moment, washing my hair is the hardest skill I can handle, and I'm not loving it!!)
I've never spent any quality time in Florida. I gotta get down there one day!
You really do! There's still so much to explore and so much that I haven't even seen yet!
Thats a beautiful park. Happy you were able to get out and enjoy it. Happy Easter 🐣
Thank you, same to you! It really was beautiful!
Silver Glen Springs is really pretty over in Ocala Nat Forest too!
I've heard that's a gorgeous one. I actually have a friend that lives in that area and they take their boat into tha that on a lot. It looks amazing, I definitely have it on my list!!
Lovely video, Heather! Thank you for spending the time exploring Juniper Springs. I have yet to get there, but I hope to do so this year. Happy Travels!
It's a gorgeous area!! Thank you!
Just 💕 your hoodie🥰, hope you get to feel better soon.🕯️ Happy bday🕯️
Thank you x3!! 💚
U find beautiful sites.
Thank you!!
I can't imagine how scary it would be in the middle of the night hearing a bear, making all kinds of noise trying to get inside the bear locker. Of course, it's better there than you inside your van. Lol. I love the campgrounds that have private shower like rooms and not flimsy shower curtains that most of the time never completely cover the opening. I don't think I've ever seen vultures at a campground. I know they're a necessity, but they are so gross and creepy. I have to take my own trash to the dump, and occasionally, there will be one sitting on one of the containers, and they are never scared away by people. Scary. My birthday is next week so I decided to rent a B&B for the week. On the rules and such they were saying there's the possibility of bears in the area so they have the bear proof trash containers you have to use. It should be interesting. Lol. I enjoyed your video and hope you feel better soon. ❤
The funny thing is I thought I heard something around 3 or 4am that night before but then after I woke up I never heard it again, so I fell back asleep lol! Your Aurbnb sounds delightful, and the perfect introduction to sleep in bear territory!! 💚
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures
I've actually bought a bear horn just in case. Lol. I have a little Shih Tzu I need to protect.
Woweee ❤
💕
Hbd!❤
Thank you very much!
Really enjoyed this video - a different look at FL. Loved the outdoor stone fireplace and pool and the trails. I have family within 1 hr of here, would love to check it out someday.
Thank you!! It was a gorgeous spring, I definitely want to go back & swim there! Hopefully the boardwalk and bridge will be open again soon, I've heard they're really neat!
❤❤❤
I'm in Ormond beach as we speak every black dodge van I see im like is that Heather?😅
Too funny! I WISH I was in Ormond Beach right now lol!
you should soak in the hot springs..it will make your body feel better :)
Unfortunately we don't have any hot springs here in Florida. Ours are pretty chilly! It feels good on cold days, but getting out is no fun in the cold LOL! I wish we did have some warm ones though, I think a hot soak would be lovely!! 💚
❤
💙
I have camped at Juniper springs, my favorite spring is Rainbow springs for its tubing run. How is the new frig working out for you?
So far, it's working great!! I absolutely love rainbow springs, but haven't had an opportunity to camp there yet - hoping to soon! 🤞🤞
Nobody there! What day and time was this?
I know, right!? It was Sunday an hour or 2 before sunset! Seems like first couple hours and last couple hours are best (at least when it's chilly lol). It wasn't actually super crowded when I checked Saturday afternoon, but there were definitely more people then
Hi! Heather how much is the camp site at this campground? TIA
I believe it was $36 plus tax... Definitely more than I usually spend for no hookups, but I've been wanting to visit for a while now, so I finally went for it!
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures Thanks for answering my question 🙋🏻♀️
What about the alligators
They're definitely in the area, but they usually don't like the more open swim areas. They prefer the parts of the river or springs that have more vegetation or banks they can settle down and hide better in. That said, I did see a gator swimming right past an area I had jist swam in an hour earlier when I was staying at Alexander Springs!