Solo Camping & Kayaking | Fort De Soto Park and Shell Key Preserve

Рет қаралды 109,254

Жыл бұрын

#florida #solocamping #fortdesoto
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Пікірлер: 354

@Shereejennifer Жыл бұрын

I am battling that "go alone" as well. I do get a little fearful but its time to enjoy and not wait on others to do adventures. 🥰

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Yes ma’am!! Get out there and do it! It’s so rewarding!

@chewielewis4002 8 ай бұрын

Thinking of camping there soon. I hear the raccoons are pretty bad what was your experience with raccoons at the campsite?@@kellyhays23

@Arlatube 5 ай бұрын

There are so many Men that feel the same. Men that want to do this with women. Too bad there is not a way to combine efforts to get out there. That sounds weird with all the "dating apps" but I think those apps and tech are what majorly helped created this lone adventurer and lone everything else problem.

@DAL201107 4 ай бұрын

Meet Up has been great for me. Florida trail will be with some people I met on Meet up and when I go to Zion this summer hopefully I can get people to go there too. I did do the Rim to Rim to Rim solo last year but man, that was awesome to do solo. Amazing to be honest. I highly suggest it, solo or with companions.

@mattsnookman34224 3 ай бұрын

Always carry a 🔫. Just in case.

@brithansgen534 6 ай бұрын

The awesome thing about doing things alone is that you tend to meet other people doing the same thing... some of them are weird and you realize why they're alone, but others are really awesome and you end up making the friends that do the things you want to do - instead of feeling like everyone is too busy to come hang out. Love your channel, btw! You're hitting a lot of spots I know or want to check out!

@Arlatube 5 ай бұрын

Good point made!

@claramullen Жыл бұрын

That is a beautiful area up there. I am 63 and I've been tent camping alone for 42 years I have never been afraid of wildlife but for the last 20 years crazy humans have kept me on edge but I am well prepared and trained to handle situations.

@johndonahue4777 Жыл бұрын

Gary is a Cormorant. He looks for fish all the time. Under the kayak he likes the shade and low glare to see better and hide. Gary's friend is also a Cormorant. I love the nacho pan. I would need at least one all to myself. Also I would get a 7' light salt spinning rod, a two or three piece one and a Shimano reel. 14# line and some white bucktail jigs. Also chartreuse. (Fish bite on white. But you can't lose with chartreuse) There could be some tasty snapper or cobia or a grouper under the sea. Worth a try here and there. Plus you are already there! Also a couple 1oz. sinkers and some #4 or #6 Owner octopus hooks on a redneck rig with hooklears. (Just in case you happen on some hermit crabs or minnows for bait. I can't help it, I'm a Cormorant).

@johndonahue4777 Жыл бұрын

*rewrite: (I am ALSO a Cormorant)

@BootsAndPearls85 Жыл бұрын

I love that Gary and his friend took time out of their day to spend it with you, usually the wildlife is too busy!!! So many things to explore down there, thanks for sharing!

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Haha they were so cool. Miss those dudes! Thank you for watching, Amber

@813kengarcia Жыл бұрын

Man there’s so much to love about this video! Gary, nachos, Ft DeSoto, the sunset, your perspective, awesome work.

@shannonthomas9158 Жыл бұрын

Love it! Thanks for reminding me that I don’t have to beg people to go with me. I always want to go places no one else wants to go and I don’t go because of that. Ugh! Encouraged. :)

@timfields6130 Жыл бұрын

Kelly, I'm loving this Florida Series. I'm a Native Floridian and enjoying your first time experiences to seeing it for what it truly is... I forget sometimes how beautiful Florida is due to the changes and population explosion I have seen in my life time. I actual paused the video to comment. The "TOLL lady" is correct. "Don't be stressed, YOU are in Florida!" People forget that. It's suppose to be a laid back no hurry place. Also, I recommend getting a "Sunpass" for the TOLL roads. I also noticed the shark/dolphin correction. Very good. Loving this series. Keep up the great work and HAVE FUN doing it. Now back to your video.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much Tim! I def should have gotten the sun pass a long time ago haha! Thanks so much for watching, always enjoy reading your comments!

@rituka Жыл бұрын

Your videos are so entertaining! Gary, the bird was awesome. You are my favorite you tuber. 💛

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

💛💛💛💛💛 thank you so much!!!

@BillMeyerComm Жыл бұрын

Loved "Gary" your water stalker, not to be confused that Land Squirrel from Texas...!! LOL. And your take on life and doing things on your terms, alone, if need be is so true. In my travels thru the 80's across this country and in the US Navy, I realized I didn't have any tokens or pictures to validate my travels. And it occurred to me I did it for me, not to show as an accomplishment or achievement to validate my own happiness. Don't get me wrong, I wish we had cell phones back then to help navigate and take quick pictures. But in the end, it was the experience and how it enhanced my understanding of the world that mad me feel happy and satisfied I did it. So, thank you once again for taking me on your little trip... BTW - your tin foil meals were a staple of my summer meals in the teenage years. Great way to throw things together quickly and chow down... Happy trails!!!!

@keitheverhart9556 Жыл бұрын

I am loving the Florida videos, maybe even more than the AT. Can't wait to see where you go next. Have fun and be safe.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Haha oh wow! Been loving my time here. I’ve gotten to do a ton of cool stuff!! Can’t wait to share the rest :)

@user-kf9fv1qj9u Ай бұрын

Desert looks delicious

@djskum Ай бұрын

Your statement at 4:00 has been the story of my life. When you are alone you do, see and enjoy YOUR life more and don't need to worry about others. The situation with the can opener, go to any army surplus store and get a couple of P38's, army can openers, you can put one on your key chain.

@TheAkashicNomad Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing this adventure. I love hiking and want to camp and be outdoors more and my husband isn’t really into it. This is inspiring me to look into some solo adventures. Plus, Ive lived Florida (most recently st pete) for 12, maybe 15 years and never considered camping at fort de Soto like this. Now we are on our own adventure…. We sold everything and have been traveling around USA (via airbnbs and furnished spots), for 18 months now. Thank you so much for sharing this.🧡

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

That is so awesome!!

@gandyands Жыл бұрын

Loved the adventure. And I especially love your life philosophy regarding travel and doing things. Bravo.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

💛

@mattiethesurfer 7 ай бұрын

I feel inspired and encouraged by your videos - thank you!

@annajo1963 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful beaches and great sunset. Thanks for the video!

@calmmusicforsleep Жыл бұрын

Awesome tour! So beautiful nature around! Pretty cool views!

@tinadelacruz3094 10 ай бұрын

Such a powerful message!

@jacquikostige4948 Жыл бұрын

You're such an inspiration. I loved what you said about doing things alone.

@jeanyates6259 Жыл бұрын

Loved your video. Glad you are enjoying FL and taking advantage of all the great places to see and do. I admire your willingness to do things alone. Stay safe and have fun.

@user-ne1iw7xo9s Ай бұрын

So glad I found this channel. I look forward to the adventures.

@fredburbage5344 Жыл бұрын

Love watching you. You do such a great job and you go to some very nice places. Thank you.

@vickifg13 Жыл бұрын

You are an amazing young lady. I love that you said why should I make my plans a round someone’s else’s day. At 67 years old I am still doing that. I need to start doing it on my own. Thanks for sharing your trip with us and my next camping trip I am going to try your recipes.⛺️🍁🪵💕

@Elizabeth-pt4bv Жыл бұрын

Totally enjoyed your adventure. Enough so that I was paying more attention to it then the spreadsheet I'm supposed to work on. Yikes. Beautiful place and so relaxing. Well done and thanks for sharing.

@lauracoard904 Жыл бұрын

We are really enjoying your weekend adventures in Florida. It's great that you're going to nature places that typically tourists don't even know about. Gary (I think that's what you named the bird) was a funny, unexpected, & uninvited delightful visitor. You have a great way of including unexpected things/animals in your videos. That also makes me think of the mud you had to go through while carrying your kayak. I'm glad you include stuff like that. I don't know if I remembered to comment on the video you took at the hospital during the hurricane. It was interesting and a different point of view than I saw on the news. I appreciated you sharing your accommodations too. Finally, I appreciate hearing from or about James. We know he is special to you and important in your life so it's great that you include some aspect in your video.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for watching Laura!! This comment made me smile big!! 💛

@LisaVicaire-hx5mu 9 ай бұрын

When Gary popped up that just made my whole day. I just love your video's ❤❤

@saltair1 Жыл бұрын

I really look forward to your vids. I’ve been following your journey since u first did the gear review before u did the AT,, you have amazing energy keep shining

@TheOaksHeart2024 5 ай бұрын

So happy I found your channel, and will be taking some of your advice to heart.

@judybryan9575 Жыл бұрын

So glad you made it over to Pinellas County and Fort DeSoto Park. Gary and his friend were happy to show you around Shell Key...LOL! He certainly wasn't camera shy! A great campsite with a beautiful view, you'll have to come back with James! Those nachos looked awesome!

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Thank you Judy!! :)

@lorenzoechevarria3235 11 ай бұрын

Looks like an amazing time!

@carlosmachado6600 Жыл бұрын

Our favorite place to camp when we lived in Florida!

@anneoconnor3614 Жыл бұрын

Just love your adventures. !! Gary is adorable …

@ang3lbass Жыл бұрын

That’s my favorite local camping spot :) Lithia Springs and EG Cummings are also some awesome spots nearby.

@mrmotorcity4207 3 ай бұрын

I love your adventures and channel. Much respect from Michigan ❤

@brucemartin6895 Жыл бұрын

You're gonna love Florida after you get familiar with the hurricanes and heat and humidity..Thanks for the video and you look happy and healthy..

@stevenmather1131 Жыл бұрын

So you like to camp, hike, kayak, explore, food, adventure your an all round perfect, fun to be around girl. Why can't more girls be like you. As always brilliant content showing us first-hand what places are like. We all thank you. Keep them coming take care and best wishes

@jasonjones5213 Жыл бұрын

Gary seemed pretty cool.Nice camping spot too.Those nachos had my mouth watering.

@WickedEarthAdventures 6 ай бұрын

It was cool seeing the birds so close to your kayak!

@anthonybarbour43 Жыл бұрын

Great video Kelly! Thanks for sharing your adventures. As a kayaker, I can relate to wading through the muddy muck more times than I care to recount. A couple years ago, my kayaker buddy died unexpectedly and none of my other friends cared to go as much as I did. As painful as it was, I had to start all over with a new set of liked minded adventure friends because as you say, life is too short to sit at home.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

So sorry about your friend. I’m glad you have been getting back out there tho! I’m sure your friend is looking down smiling everytime you get on the water :)

@mickaelmick5397 Жыл бұрын

I love the wonderful moment kelly , specially between 19 mn 30 et 20 mn, it s a amazing show 😀

@rondagipson2184 3 ай бұрын

You are an inspiration! Just started doing things solo and I love it! Very cool video! Loved the part of Gary and his friend joining you! I just subscribed to your channel!

@peter5045 Жыл бұрын

Nice!!! I'm glad you liked my recommendation 🙂. I was just there last weekend with my wife and son. I need to bring less gear next time, I may have went overboard with the glamping. Need to keep the family comfortable. I wonder if we were there at the same time. I was in campsite 11. I was the loud person snoring haha.

@aliciakay4725 Жыл бұрын

Really enjoyed coming along on your weekend trip! I felt like you were talking to me about doing things on your own and not waiting for others. My kids are grown now and I don't have my camping buddies as easily accessible to go with me and i want to do more hiking. I need to just get brave and go by myself. Thanks for the encouragement! :)

@user-fn9oz8oe4n 6 ай бұрын

That's good I'm glad to hear that

@johnnyguerra3754 Жыл бұрын

I agree, life is short. Go out and enjoy life everyday. I've been preaching this to everyone. Thanks for bringing us alone.

@ridethepace6005 Жыл бұрын

Camping there is definitely on my list. Thank you.

@gilbolhuis7697 Жыл бұрын

Great video, very interesting to see Shell Key and the fort. Those nachos look good, will have to try them.

@danielcgomez Жыл бұрын

A very nice Vlog Kelly! Such a nice overnight camp also ...I find it very rewarding sometimes being alone, to recharge and do lots of self-reflecting. Mostly sorting out my thoughts and enjoying focusing on nature and it's wonders. My wife & kids love camping also ...we don't get out as much as we would like, but when we do, it's always fun :) ...take care! Looking forward to the next adventure!

@agpawpaw5912 Жыл бұрын

This what I learned as well, we can’t rely or wait on other people. Alone not the best, but better then on coach watching KZfaq. God bless you!

@user-qm1gk7hp7w 3 ай бұрын

The Gulf , love it!

@nickwisor6165 2 ай бұрын

Amazing I've been looking for spots in Pinellas to do this all day so thanks for the video.

@scottjones3102 Жыл бұрын

Never go wrong the the Aldi!!

@pauldonathan5316 9 күн бұрын

Great place. Serious talk about having the right life jacket and wear it every time you kayak. Round these parts people drown all time, and I just want you to be safe. Girl, those nachos were awesome lookin... great times always!

@riversandcoffee Жыл бұрын

Friends come in all shapes and sizes... Gary sure did add to the adventure... Awesome camp and cook... Very fun...super entertaining video....😊✌️

@jimmyjenkins9240 Жыл бұрын

I truly enjoyed this adventure and can only imagine how you enjoyed it in person!

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Hahah definitely one of my favorite weekends here

@jamesconnell323 5 ай бұрын

It much better going alone than not going at all. I have always had a hard time finding Action Adventure friends because most are too lazy to do what we do. Especially Mountain Biking and Canoeing/ Kayaking/ Camping / Hiking. South Georgians like motorized… easy fun. At 65, I’ve had to slow down some myself.

@brucemartin6895 Жыл бұрын

Wow,,you virtually had the place all to yourself. The island .

@danareed1656 Жыл бұрын

that would be awesome! love your new friends

@suzanholder2525 Жыл бұрын

That's too cool live your best life

@WALKITOFFDavidSmith Жыл бұрын

Well great. Now I want some nachos. That bird following you had me rollin'. Great video!

@user-kf9fv1qj9u Ай бұрын

Beautiful camping spot Kelly

@bobpalermo8793 Жыл бұрын

Hi Kelly, you have this Florida video series down pat. So enjoyable to watch.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching Bob!

@MORALCOMPASSTOO Жыл бұрын

love it !

@stephenbeaver2035 6 ай бұрын

Been watching your videos. Thanks for the content. I am a Floridian and jealous of all the places you have been. Love that you often travel alone. My situation is different. I often think I can do what she is doing/ Someday I may get the chance. Until then enjoy the possibilities through your videos.

@Onewholovesrock Жыл бұрын

Good to see you made it to Ft. Desoto. Fun video. We were out there a couple times last week.

@ed8063 Жыл бұрын

Nice, you went to Shell! When you camp out there next time don't go around the front of the island, go to the back side. There are a few points where you can park your kayak and take a path through sand dunes to the beach side. We usually camp right at the edge of the bird preserve area. There's a path from the back right there.

@raymondjust5113 4 ай бұрын

Goodmorning Kelly Hays have a BLESS DAY TODAY

@wilbertolugo8700 Жыл бұрын

lovely video. love your serene karma. stay happy. nice change from the AT. enjoy life is short many blessings hugs

@newplanet7 Жыл бұрын

Finally we got to see how you put the Kayak on the roof. Effective af.

@NINZIE1949 Жыл бұрын

Love your spirit, as long as you don't your own company, your golden.

@user-kf9fv1qj9u Ай бұрын

Great video Kelly

@sandra-sm2qk Жыл бұрын

That was so funny... ur friend gary!

@Exploring_Gia Жыл бұрын

Lol that looks like soooo much fun I wanna go kayaking and camping in the keys 😮❤ I’m gonna have come hang with you and Gary sometime lol that was pretty cool… I totally agree I stopped living my life on someone else’s schedule, I have since got use to doing things alone too.. my life was always the same always waiting on someone to go do something I wanted to do now I actually enjoy my solo trips doing the same thing hiking, kayaking, and camping…

@tacoma_jon Жыл бұрын

Nice campsite Kelly. Those nachos looked amazing!!

@karenwernert1744 10 ай бұрын

The cormorants are awesome there. The will keep doing that.

@michelle_ajema 3 ай бұрын

The swimming birds are Cormorants, probably followed you around as your kayak stirred up fish which they like to eat. 😊

@AN-cy7xm Жыл бұрын

Have done this little trip, myself. The little island between where you launched and Shell Key has thin waterways through it (through mangroves). It is (by far) the best part of that little paddle. Serene and covered (almost like a tunnel in spots) and special. In case you go back.

@Csmcjewl Жыл бұрын

Love your videos! I just got hardshell kayaks this summer (In MI - season is all but done. Inflatables prior). OMG hard shell is SO much better!! Your videos are inspiring and I find myself mapping out where I can camp/kayak next summer. Can't wait. Meanwhile I'll keep watching your videos. You make me want to go to Florida! (haven't been there since I was 19 - I is OLD now.) :-D Love the videos!

@rangerinthewoods Жыл бұрын

You packed a lot into your weekend. And life truly is short. Glad you had your life jacket but Life Jacket Worn, Nobody Mourns.

@jzoop1 Жыл бұрын

Ship of Fools, good choice.

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

Yes. I’m the fool

@sandrap3047 Жыл бұрын

Your friend is hilarious! We went to Ft Desoto once. It's beautiful! Great camping spot! That campfire dinner looks delicious! Looks lilke Florida life is agreeing with you! You look very happy Kelly Hays!

@GabrielDoesOutdoors 8 ай бұрын

at 6:31 those were 100% dolphins. Sharks have straight fins. "If it's curved, just swerve. If it's straight, you finna get ate." That's how I remember it lol

@lisamonalisahikes Жыл бұрын

Never live in fear… I have traveled the world most of my life - alone! Yes as a women. Chase after those dreams! If things feel off you’ll know… then just pack up and leave. Having company is fun but sometimes being alone is better 😁 enjoy every minute God grants you

@torrencel.2662 Жыл бұрын

Wow! Of all the things I've seen you make, those nachos are my favorite. They look amazing! And the cheese.... woman after my own heart lol! Glad you're enjoying Florida.

@kamurray67 6 ай бұрын

Lady, i have no idea why your video was in my feed! I can say I enjoyed it and your personality is infectious. Thanks for the fun. I love kayaking. Lost two in a fire and didnt replace them. I may have to do it soon for spring is coming. I just saw the Buffalo River National Park sticker in your kayak. That is where I am from. The Arkansas Ozark Mountains will always be home for me even though I left many years ago.

@richardross7219 Жыл бұрын

If you carry a regular scout type knife, it has a can opener as one of its blades. It takes a little practice but once you're used to it, you can open a can in just 5 seconds. If you work the vaseline into the cotton ball(I use the ones from pill bottles) and then pull the ball apart the protruding fibers will light with just a spark. Good job on campfire cooking. Imagine having to carry that pan on a hike. Good video. Good Luck, Rick

@RJ-oz5fj Жыл бұрын

That’s my home turf- cool to see someone experiencing it for the first time. Every visit is different. I went in the kitchen and made nachos after watching this- no lie! Lol

@bryanford1139 Жыл бұрын

"Ju-lap-n-o" YES!!!! I knew we were sisters!!! 🤣

@kellyhays23 Жыл бұрын

😂🤣

@Golfpt62 Жыл бұрын

Loved Gary. He was a cutie. Loved the video

@sammymartinez556 Жыл бұрын

You’re one adventurous girl 👍 just stay safe out there. ❤😊

@ljpugsley2757 Жыл бұрын

Site 5 Ft DeSoto my fav. Close to bathrooms. 😊

@user-kf9fv1qj9u Ай бұрын

Nice looking kayak Kelly

@TheAdventuresOfDougan Жыл бұрын

Wow, you have a knack for camping, that’s for sure! First that campsite, it doesn’t get much better than that. In CA you’d have to be on a year long waitlist to snag anything close to that. Then the camp setup with the fire pit, tent, hammock, expert level. Finally the camp nacho’s OMG those looked so good and the cast iron pan would keep them crispy. You might have to share a link to the recipe, or, we can rewatch the video and pause 😂 Really enjoyed it!

@user-my7tz5yy2t 3 ай бұрын

Hi, I think your videos are great, camera work, editing, personality! Keep up the good work, stay safe!

@lilbo1Y1 Жыл бұрын

Looked like Dolphins to me, great video. Gary and his friend were cool to see.

@JonOvalle Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video! I’m going to book a spot there soon and follow your lead. 😊

@joshnorden3678 Жыл бұрын

I went to the fort this summer with some family and it was beautiful. We got to see some manatees while we were kayaking and one swam pass us on the beach! It’s an amazing place.

@sgbawg0 Жыл бұрын

I've been meaning to do a solo kayak and camping at SHell Key Island. Need to do a site survey first. Love Fort Desoto.

@vadaboy Жыл бұрын

That was a National Geographic level video. It was great to see James keeping in contact. The variety of the wildlife was spectacular. You have become an expert outdoor cook. The food looked spectacular. That was one of your best videos