November 2009 Web Xtra Coverage. In November’s issue of Florida Sportsman, roving reporter and kayaker Jerry McBride recounts his camping trip to the Everglades, just in time for you to plan one for yourself this winter. Here are a few more photos and planning tips to get you into the story in our November issue.

Ranger Bertram points out potential Everglades National Park shoreline campsites. Campers must obtain permits at Welcome Center.

Although many park facilities—the Flamingo Lodge in particular—remain closed due to hurricane damage, the boat ramp and marina are open for business.

Launching Sam Heaton’s old Ranger aluminum “Gatorboat” mothership at the ramp, loaded with kayaks, tents, coolers and gear for three days in the boonies.

Our monster mothership after unloading at the campsite. Anchor with bow facing offshore. Tether stern to mangrove stumps. Bring lots of rope for securing boats and tents. Note grounded sailboat down the beach. They floated off on a high tide the next night.

Not a good way to start the day. A week of east winds blew all the water toward Texas, leaving Ol’ Gator high and dry. Fortunately we had our kayaks.

My kayak and home away from home. A mothership lets campers haul what would otherwise be luxury items.

Sam’s fishing craft and accessories. We came back the second day to find his tent blown over, impaled and ripped on a stump. Fortunately, there weren’t any bugs. Bring big, long tent stakes and rope or cord to hold tent in soft shell beach.

Sam hooked to a good trout in a low-tide creek.