Our April 2018 campout to the Keys was almost cancelled as our traditional site, Fiesta Key decided to make a policy change and no longer permit tent camping. So a replacement search was in order and it ended up being quite the task as effects from Hurricane Irma forced many campgrounds to be close for repairs. Exhausting most options we happen to stumble upon a location in Big Pine Key. Located just a short drive past Fiesta Key sits Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge, which was actually very close to where Irma made landfall. We were fortunate to have been able to secure campsites right on the water and the views did not disappoint! Big Pine Key is also home to the National Key Deer refuge and the campground had a constant flow of Key Deer visitors. Like most trips to the Keys there were endless possibilities to keep everyone busy and this years activities included Stand up Paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling and the always fun boat excursion to explore the open waters!! Our Saturday activities concluded with the campground hosting s’mores’ by the campfire which was a nice surprise. Another terrific trip to the Keys, very much looking forward to the 2019 trip which is scheduled for April 26th – 28th, so save the date as you don’t want to miss this one