For lakefront tent camping and plenty of fun for the whole family, The Shores of Asbury in Anderson, SC is a great summer adventure! Thank you most especially to The Shores of Asbury for hosting us at one of their tent camping sites.
Key Things to Know about Camping at The Shores of Ashbury
Tent and RV camping right on Lake Hartwell: wake up steps from the water at one of only a few lakefront campgrounds in the Upstate, less than an hour from Greenville.
Campers get free time on the aqua park: the Wibit floating obstacle course is the only one of its kind on Lake Hartwell, and registered campers get their first hour on it included with their stay.
More than just a campground: between the white sandy beach, waterfront grill, arcade, and on-site rentals, there’s enough to keep the whole family busy for the entire weekend.
You may have seen our story on The Shores of Asbury because of their incredible Wibit inflatable aqua course and white sand beach. It’s still there and better than ever, but we hadn’t camped there until now, so we’ve got a whole other side of the resort to tell you about!
We loved many things about camping there, but the biggest was probably the camping perks and the fact that there’s a lot to do for the whole family, from littles straight through teenagers. Our review is based on a previous stay, so please see The Shores of Asbury website for more details.
Paddling off the back of our campsite
About The Shores of Asbury
Karen McCullough used to camp at Lake Hartwell at Asbury Park when she was a child. Then the campground closed and remained that way for many, many years. But that special place was always on her heart and she often thought about it as she made her way to Nashville as a professional musician who also managed dozens of campgrounds and RV resorts and traveled to every state except Hawaii throughout her musical career.
When the opportunity arose to turn her old stomping ground into a legit resort and entertainment mecca on the shores of Lake Hartwell, she jumped right in and moved back home to Anderson.
Beach at the Shores of Asbury
Today, the Shores of Asbury is many seasons in. They have a restaurant, La Cantina, which serves traditional quesadillas, nachos, and other Mexican fare. You can eat and enjoy a beautiful view. They also have live music all throughout the summer, festivals, fireworks, and other entertainment.
I’ve seen it grow every season, and I was thrilled to have the chance to camp there.
Tent Camping on Lake Hartwell
The Shores of Asbury has many RV campsites, but I don’t have an RV, so I can’t really tell you about that part. I do have a tent (several, actually – I have a tent addiction), though, and love to use it!
As of 2026, there are 24 tent campsites, plus a couple of group sites and a handful of places to boondock. There’s no water or electricity at the tent campsites but the camp store has a charging station for your phones and there’s water near the bathhouse to wash dishes if need be. Each site has a picnic table, fire pit, and charcoal grill.
Tent site 1 at the Shores of Asbury
The group sites and tent campsites numbers 8, 9, 10, 1, and 2 are all on the water. I camp with paddleboards when I go to lakes so it’s imperative to be on the water. All of these are great if you do the same or just want to be on the lake for fishing or relaxation. Sites 3 and 4 aren’t on the lake but you can get to the lake pretty easily via a short walk. Sites 5-7 are not lakefront. You can find a full map of campsites here to help you choose the best spot for you.
Every site is different in terms of space to put up your tent(s). They are all really spacious and you can really just choose where to put up your tent because there aren’t any tent pads as of this writing. And almost all the sites are shaded, which is really awesome in the summer because wow, it gets hot. Site #8 is right on the water but does not have shade and site #9 is a little less shaded than others.
The Bathhouse, Arcade, and Laundry
Let’s talk about the bathrooms first because I’ve seen it all when it comes to campground bathrooms and many of them have me wanting to get in and out as fast as possible. These bathrooms aren’t like that. There are five individual bathrooms that are code-locked and cleaned daily. Each has a shower, hooks, a chair, and are air-conditioned.
These were the nicest bathrooms I’ve ever seen at a campground in my life. The only downside is that they are a few minutes walk away from the tent sites but hey, I really didn’t care because they were awesome.
Shores of Asbury playground
There’s also a small arcade with Pac-Man, an air hockey table, and a couple claw machines. One of my daughters absolutely loves arcades so she was thrilled to spend a few dollars trying to win things in the claw machines – which she amazingly did.
A coin-operated washer and dryer are also located in the same area as the arcade. These are in the same building as the bathhouse. Note that dogs are not allowed in any of the buildings.
Camping Perks
The Shores of Asbury has an utterly fantastic aqua park with inflatable obstacles reminiscent of the show Wipeout. My kids would probably choose to do one of these aqua courses over anything else I could possibly offer them over the summer.
When you camp at the Shores of Asbury, two registered campers per campsite get the first hour for free and six registered RV guests per site get the first hour for free at the aqua course before they open to the public. It’s super awesome and a lot of fun! If you want to play longer, they offer a discounted rate of $37/person for an all-day pass. This is so worth it.
Aqua course
There’s a big course for kids who are 47” and above and a smaller course for littles who are 37” inches tall. The aqua course is off a big, sandy beach so you can hang out there as well and kids can dig in the sand at the pirate ship.
More Fun Activities for Kids
As if the aqua course wasn’t reason enough to camp here, the activities for kids just adds on to the fun.
There’s a small playground with a slackline and zip line. One of my kids just did the zipline for an hour. She loved it.
Cute cow train at the campground
There’s a basketball hoop, kayak rentals, a cow train that the owner Karen runs in the evening that the kids so enjoy, lawn games, and events. When we were there, they had a festival with live music, a mechanical bull, and games like skeeball, penny toss, and fishing with magnets. It was a blast. I love these kinds of events because they take me back to my own childhood where simple things were the most fun.
All the other rules involve being courteous to campers, cleaning up your site, and ensuring everyone has a great time.
Fireworks at the Shores of Asbury
Making Your Reservation
You can easily reserve your campsite online or by calling the resort. There’s also a small camp store on site with ice, water, soda, candy, apparel, lighters, and other things you may need when camping.
**The Davidson River Campground remains closed through late summer 2026 for significant infrastructure updates. The campground was initially planned to reopen in May 2026, but the work requires additional time.**
Are you looking for the best place to camp in the Pisgah National Forest? We visited the Davidson River Campground near Brevard and think that you should consider it for your next camping trip! This campground offers not only hiking but also easy access to tubing.
The Davidson River Campground is located in the Pisgah National Forest (off 276) just outside Brevard, NC. It is about an hour and 15 minutes from Downtown Greenville, moments from major grocery stores and dining, and yet seems an entire forest world away.
Campers can enjoy wading in the knee-deep Davidson River, diving into the brisk swimming hole, hiking on beautiful mountain trails, tubing down the lazy waterway, fishing for trout, biking through the forest, or simply enjoying the quiet serenity found in the park’s many shaded campsites.
What to do at Pisgah National Forest
Throughout the summer and fall, the Pisgah National Forest offers many fun weekend events like firefly discovery, free s’mores, and bicycle parades – to name a few! Our family has had a blast camping at this wonderful getaway!
We have rented tubes (just up the road and just $5/tube!) and spent the afternoon on the river with our 4 and 5-year-olds, we’ve hiked the gorgeous North Slope Trail, played kickball in the camp field, and used our campsite as a launchpad for exploring the MANY accessible waterfalls in the area (including Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls – both just up the road).
How to Dress and Pack for Davidson River Campground
This region is actually home to a temperate rainforest, so expect cooler temperatures and some drizzly skies. Even on rainy afternoons, there is so much to do and explore like the Cradle of Forestry, the Ranger Station, and the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education. Come prepared with ample shelter, rain jackets, water shoes, and extra towels – this campground is still sure to please.
What is Camping Like at Davidson River
There are 160 well-shaded and nicely spaced gravel campsites for tents and rv’s. Reservations are required during peak season. And same day walk-ups are allowed mid-November through mid-March.
Some of the sites have direct access to the river (others are a short bike/scooter/walk away), all have large picnic tables, fire rings, tent pads, and lantern poles. Some offer electric, but most do not. All are close to restroom and shower facilities. The campground also offers firewood, ice, and even a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Always an adventure, the Davidson River campground had my kids exclaiming, “This is the best day ever!”
Inside: Local mom visits a fairy garden in Bullington Gardens located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and shares all the tips for visiting this magical garden!
Have you found the fairies in Hendersonville, NC? Bullington Gardens in Hendersonville, NC, just a little over an hour north of Greenville, SC, has an adorable fairy garden over the summer. And it’s free. Plus, there is an adorable Fairy Book Nook amongst the shade that features toadstool seats carved from Hurricane Helene recovery logs (the gardens were damaged by Hurricane Helene, but are now thriving)!
What could be cuter than finding fairies in the woods? Finding them in a beautiful and fun trail at Bullington Gardens in Hendersonville, NC, of course.
C.S. Lewis, a prolific and famous author of the Narnia chronicles, wrote this to his goddaughter, Lucy, in the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe:
My Dear Lucy, I wrote this story for you, but when I began it I had not realized that girls grow quicker than books. As a result you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again. You can then take it down from some upper shelf, dust it, and tell me what you think of it. I shall probably be too deaf to hear, and too old to understand, a word you say, but I shall still be your affectionate Godfather, C.S. Lewis
As a grown-up, are you ready to be old enough to read – or see – fairy tales again? If so, step into the Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail.
Watch! Here’s What You’ll See
Here are some scenes from our visit last year to the Fairy Trail.
The Gardens
Bullington Gardens is only a little over an hour north of Greenville and is a beautiful spot to stop and literally smell the roses. The gardens are public and encompass 12 acres right in the middle of the apple orchards in that part of Western North Carolina.
They also do several events and programs aimed at education and carry on the legacy and vision of Bob Bullington, who collected many unusual trees and plants. They often have school groups come out and learn about horticultural science.
I found the gardens to be just beautiful and so peaceful. The volunteers I interacted with were all so kind and helpful. It’s really a great place to visit for any occasion.
The Fairy Trail
The fairy trail is exactly as it sounds except cooler. The trail winds through shaded woods and guests are encouraged to find all the little fairy houses and trolls and llamas and bridges. It is really fun and entertaining!
The little worlds that the fairies inhabit are all unique and my kids and I just loved trying to find them all and figure out what was happening in each scene. The exhibits change every year (photos are from the summer of 2022 and 2023) but the creativity and genius stay the same.
The trail isn’t long, maybe a quarter-mile on natural, unpaved ground, but there are plenty of fairies and gnomes to find. Be sure to stop at the side trail before you get to the very end where there are lots of fairies and trolls and toadstools and gnomes doing yoga amongst the trees.
Bullington Gardens asks that guests be respectful of the fairies, only touch gently, and to stay on the trails. The trail is one way only, so if you want to take your time, go for it, but make room for others to pass. And please follow the rules of Leave No Trace, don’t litter, and don’t move the fairies from their little houses.
The Fairy Trail is open Mondays – Saturdays from June to August, 2026 from 9 am – 4 pm. There is a suggested $3.00/adult and $2.00/child donation to help maintain the gardens.
Special Fairy Events
Bullington Gardens is offering some cool fairy-themed events over the summer, like the Fairy Tea Party. Choose from ten different 2026 Fairy Tea Party dates on June 5, 12, 20, and 26; July 3, 10, 17, and 25; and August 8 and 15, with each event held from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. These parties are $30 per child, and you need to book in advance! In addition to that event, they also have a ton of other special events you can attend. Check the Bullington Gardens website for more info.
Per the gardens, parking is limited, and please do not park on Zeb Corn Road.
Tips on Visiting the Fairy Trail and Bullington Gardens 2026
The gardens are open year-round but the Fairy Trail is only open June to August, Mondays – Saturdays from 9 am – 4 pm.
There is no charge to visit the fairies or Bullington Gardens (unless it is a special event) but as a nonprofit, they gladly accept donations of $3.00/adult and $2.00/child.
I saw some people with strollers, but I’d say that unless you have an all-terrain stroller, it’s best to carry your littles or baby wear. The trail is natural, so not paved, which makes it hard to roll wheels on.
Please keep your children and dogs on the trail and don’t litter. The trail is one-way only.
The gardens received a grant for new restrooms, which were installed last spring.
Nearby Things to Do in Hendersonville
There are plenty of cool things to do in Hendersonville to make your trip up to see the fairies a day trip.
Get quick answers to the most commonly asked questions about the 2026 Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens.
Is the Fairy Trail free?
Yes! The Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens is free to visit, although donations are encouraged to help support the nonprofit gardens and educational programs.
When is the Fairy Trail open?
The Fairy Trail is typically open seasonally during the summer months, usually from June through August. Hours are generally Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, but it’s always a good idea to check Bullington Gardens’ website or social media before visiting.
Is the Fairy Trail good for young kids?
Absolutely. The Fairy Trail is designed with children in mind and is especially popular with toddlers and elementary-aged kids. Families love exploring the tiny fairy homes, whimsical woodland scenes, and hidden magical details throughout the trail.
How long does it take to walk the Fairy Trail?
Most families spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the Fairy Trail, though many stay longer to enjoy the rest of Bullington Gardens.
Is the Fairy Trail stroller-friendly or wheelchair accessible?
Much of Bullington Gardens is accessible, including several paved garden areas. Portions of the Fairy Trail itself may include uneven terrain and wooded paths, which can make some areas more difficult for strollers or wheelchairs. Bullington Gardens also offers off-road wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are dogs allowed on the Fairy Trail?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome at Bullington Gardens.
What will we see on the Fairy Trail?
Visitors can expect to find charming fairy cottages, tiny woodland villages, miniature shops and bakeries, fairy doors hidden in trees, whimsical decorations, and magical details tucked throughout the forested path.
Can adults enjoy the Fairy Trail too?
Definitely. While the Fairy Trail is especially fun for children, adults who enjoy gardens, photography, nature walks, or whimsical experiences often love it just as much.
Is parking available?
Yes, Bullington Gardens has free onsite parking for visitors.
Are there bathrooms at Bullington Gardens?
Yes, restroom facilities are available onsite for visitors.
Can we bring a picnic?
Visitors are generally welcome to enjoy a picnic in the outdoor garden areas, making it easy to turn your Fairy Trail visit into a relaxing family outing.
Is there a gift shop or fairy-themed merchandise?
Yes, Bullington Gardens often offers fairy-themed gifts and seasonal merchandise in their garden shop during Fairy Trail season.
What else is there to do nearby?
Many families combine a Fairy Trail visit with other Hendersonville-area attractions like apple orchards, downtown Hendersonville, playgrounds, hiking spots, and nearby parks.
Up for a cheap new adventure, only a short drive from Greenville, SC, that the whole family will love? Tryon International Equestrian Center is only an hour or so from Greenville, and a unique experience you will look forward to visiting again and again!
We’ll fill you in on where this hidden secret is, what they offer, and why you should visit!
When we first heard of the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), it sounded cool, and we knew we had to go. A beautiful oasis of horses, a carousel, and fun (and cheap) events? Um, yes! So we went and checked out Saturday Night Lights. Total gamechanger. We’ve been so many times now, and it really never gets old.
We’ll tell you all about why you should head over the border to the TIEC in 2026!
The forty-five-minute ride to Tryon was like driving across the picture on a postcard. Please note: as you drive up Highway 26, drive the speed limit. Troopers literally tuck themselves along the side of the road in an attempt to catch you speeding. The only reason I know this is because a friend told me. Really, it is. (Wink).
I perked up the moment we arrived. There is a security guard stationed at the gate to answer all your questions. Having never been, we had a lot. Although the festivities didn’t begin until the evening, the kind officer encouraged us to “have a look around.” So we did.
Four words came to mind: Who needs Churchill Downs? As soon as you enter the grounds, there is so much see. We went when there was nothing going on. I can only imagine what it looks like during events! The first thing our little one spotted was the carousel. There were restaurants and food/drink vendors galore. I won’t go as far as to compare it to Disney World but, during an event, Tryon International Equestrian Center could easily be the happiest place in North Carolina.
Before I go any further, allow me to share with you the best part of our journey. It wasn’t the shops, food or horses; nope, my favorite thing was the freshly squeezed lemonade. The real-life lemonade stand was parked right up front (at least it was the day we went) and they squeeze your drink right in front of you. It cost more than a quarter, but was well worth it.
But let me tell you about an event at the TIEC that just may rival some time at Disney – and it’s free except for parking.
Saturday Night Lights at Tryon International Equestrian Center
One of the coolest things about the TIEC is their free Saturday Night Lights program that starts in early summer and runs through October. The 2026 season kicked off on May 2nd, with summer dates through July 18th, 2026. Fall dates from September 19th to October 24th, 2026. You really won’t believe it’s free once you get there and find all the stuff they have for you to do.
Venetian Carousel
The Venetian carousel is a fan favorite, and anyone can see why – it’s so pretty. And it’s not just for kids. I’ve ridden it many times, and it’s just as fun for me as for my kids. You can ride it as many times as you like at Saturday Night Lights. For free. Yup, just keep riding.
Pony Rides
Saturday Night Lights has had pony rides in the past, but not every time we’ve come. It’s pretty hit or miss. So if your kid really, really loves pony rides, maybe just don’t tell them anything about it until you get there and see if they have them that night.
These are wildly popular, and they are the first things you’ll see when you enter the facility, so get in line right away if you want to do it. You’ll have to sign a waiver, and your kid will get fitted for a helmet and get a ride around once or twice in a circle. The horses we saw were really pretty, and the staff was great.
Face Painting
Most evenings at Saturday Night Lights, they do have face painting, but get in line early as they tend to fill up fast. For the past several years, face painting has been free, but a reader informed us that it is no longer free this year (2026), so if you’d like it done, be prepared to pay for it.
Mechanical Horse, Bounce House & Live Music
Saturday Night Lights really has things for every age. There is a horse bounce house, a mechanical horse (like a mechanical bull you may have seen in a country western bar, but for any age!), and a great band. We loved listening to the band while we ate dinner, and the kids played with hula hoops and ran and jumped over kid-size horse jumping obstacles.
Food & Drinks
There are vendors with fresh-squeezed lemonade and adult beverages, plus places to grab dinner. There are different food trucks every time, plus a sushi restaurant, a taco and nachos place (delicious by the way), an Italian restaurant, a diner, and an American grille.
You can sit anywhere you like, but we love to sit on the green hill on the west side of the stadium because kids can roll down it in between horse jumping. Or you can sit and listen to the band, or wherever else you want to sit and eat.
One pro tip during the cooler months of early fall: bring blankets! It gets chilly, and we saw so many people with blankets and considered them geniuses. They also looked very cozy. In the General Store, they sell coffee and hot chocolate, which I’d definitely recommend as well.
Horse Jumping Competition
While all the excitement of the free activities is a lot of fun, there is also a pretty incredible horse jumping competition that happens at 7 pm during Saturday Night Lights. You can sit anywhere you want in the stadium. I love sitting really close to the arena so I get a good look at the horses as they jump right in front of me.
Let me just say: I know nothing about this kind of competition. Like, zero. What I’ve gathered is that the rider loses points if the horse knocks down one of the bars they have to jump over or goes over the amount of time they have to complete the course. And the winner gets a lot of money. You also cannot be cheering and clapping while the horse is jumping the obstacles but you can cheer after they are done with their run.
All that to say, even though I have zero clue what is happening, I absolutely love it, as do my kids. The horses are stunningly beautiful, agile, and just so amazing. We all love watching them.
Parking Fee
There is a $10 parking fee starting at 3 pm for Saturday Night Lights. If you arrive before 3 pm, there is no charge. They take cash or credit cards.
2026 Schedule
All the free events happen from 5-7 pm, and then the competition goes from 7 pm to around 10 pm. Most nights are themed.
Here is the 2026 schedule: Spring
May 2nd
May 9th
May 16th
May 23rd
May 30th
June 6th
Summer
June 27th
July 4th
July 11th
July 18th
Fall
Oct 24th
Sept 19th
Oct 3rd
Oct 10th
Oct 17th
Plan your own trip to Tryon International Equestrian Center
In addition to Saturday Night Lights, TIEC hosts a wide array of events that are also open to the public. See the complete TIEC calendar of events. They also have lodgings right there at the equestrian center, which we imagine would be awesome to stay in.
Are you looking for family-friendly activities in Knoxville, TN? We’ve got your list! Local mom, Jordan, shares her family’s favorite things to do in Knoxville. From museums and theaters to arcades and sports, here are 20+ fun things to do with kids.
Alexa, play Rocky Top! Sorry, we know you’ll be singing that song all day, but we couldn’t help ourselves.
If you’re traveling to Knoxville, Tennessee, home of the Tennessee Volunteers, the iconic Sunsphere, and a great place for family fun, we’ve got just the list for you.
But before you go on an adventure, here are a few tips:
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and lots of water to stay hydrated.
Don’t forget your snacks, strollers, and comfortable walking shoes.
Check the social media pages of each attraction to be aware of any unexpected closings.
Have fun!
Zoo Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville is WILDly fun, as they say, and a perfect spot for family adventures. Our family loves to spend a whole day at the zoo during the summer months. You can walk around and see the animals and then cool off at the splash pad at the end of your visit. The zoo offers:
Several acres of animal habitats
An indoor and outdoor playground
A carousel and train you can ride
A splash pad (opens every year on Memorial Day)
Food vendors
Special events
Birthday parties
And so much more
Zoo Knoxville is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Address: 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive, Knoxville, TN
Cost:
Adult tickets: $26.95
Children ages 3-12: $21.95
Seniors ages 65+: $21.95
College student ticket (must present student ID and buy ticket at gate): $21.95
Muse Knoxville is a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) children’s museum. My kids love the art exhibit where they can create any craft they can imagine. And it works out for me because I don’t have to worry about cleaning up the mess! Muse offers:
A planetarium
14+ exhibits to explore
Outdoor play areas
A gift shop
Special events
Birthday parties
Muse Knoxville is open:
Tuesday through Friday: 10 am – 4 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 4 pm.
Address: 516 North Beaman St, Knoxville, TN
Cost:
General admission (ages 1-64): $12
Reduced cost admission: $6
Senior citizens (65+)
Tennessee educators with valid ID
Military and guests of military personnel with valid ID
The Knoxville Children’s Theatre is a great place to enjoy a show with your family. They perform a new show every month. You can purchase tickets on their website and select your preferred showtime. They sell refreshments at the front desk.
We had so much fun watching the Three Little Pigs at the Knoxville Children’s Theatre. If you want a seat close to the stage, be sure to get there early so you can grab your snacks, use the bathroom, and enjoy the show!
When visiting Knoxville, you must visit the iconic Sunsphere. Built in 1982 for the World’s Fair, the Sunsphere offers amazing views of Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Sunsphere is open:
Monday through Friday: 10am – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 5pm
Sunday: 12pm – 4pm
Please note: The Sunsphere Observation Deck is closed daily 12:30-1:30 (excluding Sundays).
Knoxville Museum of Art is in World’s Fair Park and features contemporary and historical art pieces from the East Tennessee region. They host community events often.
The museum is open:
Tuesday through Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday: 1 pm – 5 pm.
Closed Monday
Address: 1050 World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, Tennessee 37916 Cost: Admission is free
Nestled in downtown Knoxville, Market Square is a perfect spot to savor a meal, shop, enjoy dessert, play in the splash pad, and enjoy the sounds of the city. There are several restaurants on Market Square including, Emilia, Not Watson’s Kitchen & Bar, Soccer Taco, Ruby Sunshine, and Tupelo Honey. There are also shops including Urban Outfitters, Tree of Life Salon & Spa, and Rocket Fizz.
My favorite restaurant for date night is Emilia, but if you want a spot for your family to enjoy a meal, Myrtle’s Chicken & Beer is great!
After you eat dinner, walk over to Gay Street and enjoy ice cream at Cruze Farm Dairy! They have so many fun ice cream cone options for kids and a really fun seating area. Then stroll through Krutch Park in Market Square.
Market Square is open 24 hours Monday through Sunday, but shop hours vary.
Parking garages near Market Square include Market Square Garage, Langley Garage, and Locust Street Garage. Parking is free on nights and weekends.
The Market Square Farmer’s Market is a seasonal open-air market that lines the street every Wednesday from May through November.
Cruze Farm Dairy has several locations in East Tennessee. The downtown Knoxville location is on Gay Street near the Tennessee Theatre. Their ice cream experience is unforgettable, and its locally made at a family dairy. My kids love to beat the summer heat with a chocolate ice cream cone dipped in rainbow sprinkles.
The downtown Cruze Farm Diary is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
They have inside dining at the downtown location.
There is a parking garage directly in front of Cruze Farm’s downtown location.
They sell merchandise and fresh milk.
Address: 445 South Gay Street, Suite 105, Knoxville, TN Visit Cruze Farm’s website for more details.
Tennesse Theatre
After your ice cream break, catch a show in the iconic Tennessee Theatre located on Gay Street in downtown Knoxville. The theatre offers many shows throughout the year.
The box office is open Monday through Friday 10 am to 3 pm and closed on Saturday and Sunday.
You can tour the theatre by selecting a tour ticket on their website or request a private tour if you have 10+ participants.
Shows and show times vary according to the schedule.
When driving around downtown Knoxville, you might notice a big basketball on the roof of a large building. That’s the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, and it’s the largest basketball in the world. You can take a tour of the facility, learn about famous women’s basketball players and coaches, and try your hand at basketball on one of the courts.
The museum is open every spring/summer starting May 1st to August 31st from 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday. They’re open in the fall/winter starting September 1st to April 30th from 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.
Address: 700 Hall of Fame Drive, Knoxville, TN Cost:
You can tour the iconic Neyland Stadium while visiting Knoxville. Home of the Tennessee Vols, Neyland is the sixth largest college football venue in the United States. They offer 60-minute guided tours of the facility.
Tours available Monday through Thursday ONLY.
Tours are only offered at 10 am and you must pre-book online.
No walk-ups are allowed as booking is limited.
Tour check-in is at Gate 21 Plaza at Neyland.
Parking is available at Volunteer Hall Garage at 1525 White Avenue, and the cost is $1 per 30 minutes.
Address: 1235 Phillip Fulmer Way SW, Knoxville, TN Cost:
Adults are $20
Children (13 and under) are $10
For large groups, please call the office at 865-974-1205
If you’re visiting Knoxville in the fall, you can enjoy a Knoxville Ice Bears hockey game. Their season runs from fall to early spring each year. They offer an electric experience that is sure to keep your family entertained. The Ice Bears have a kids zone, concessions, merchandise, and plenty of photo opportunities with their mascot, Chilly Bear.
My kids are particularly sensitive to loud noises, but we didn’t have an issue at this hockey game. It’s loud when the fun music plays but not overbearing. However, if you have little ones who are sensitive to noise, bring headphones. Don’t forget to buy popcorn and enjoy the kids’ fun zone before the game ends!
The Knoxville Ice Bears play seasonally starting in the fall.
Address: Knoxville Civic Coliseum, 500 Howard Baker Jr Drive, Knoxville, TN Cost: Tickets are $15+ Visit the Knoxville Ice Bears website to learn more.
Tennessee Smokies Baseball
If you love baseball, a Tennessee Smokies baseball game is fun for the whole family. They have activities for kids, food vendors, fun events, and more.
We love getting to the game right as the gate opens so we can take advantage of the kid’s activities and grab dinner.
A game day schedule is available online.
Get to the game early to get a good parking spot.
Some of the stadium is shaded, but take a hat and sunscreen just in case.
Address: 500 East Jackson Avenue, Knoxville, TN Cost: General admission starts at $11 a ticket Visit The Tennessee Smokies’ website to buy tickets and learn about their promotions
Ijams Nature Center
Ijams Nature Center is an urban nature park right outside of downtown Knoxville that features over 10 miles of trails perfect for hiking, walking, biking, and bird-watching. They also offer swimming, climbing, natural playgrounds, canoe rentals, and more. My kids especially love the natural playgrounds and the indoor animal exhibit.
Grounds are open daily from 8 am to dusk. The visitor center is open Sunday through Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Bathrooms are located in the visitor center.
Ijams is dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash and you must clean up after them. No dogs are allowed in the visitor center.
They have a gift shop, hallway art gallery, and an exhibit hall with some animals on display that you will find in the park.
Ijams offers many educational opportunities, including field trips, homeschool opportunities, camps, nature preschool, and more.
You can rent their facility for birthday parties, weddings, meetings, retreats, and more.
Don’t forget bug spray, a towel if you plan to swim, comfortable tennis shoes or sandals as you will walk a lot, and water.
Address: 2915 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920 Cost: Admission is free, but donations are always welcome. Parking is $5 per car per day. Follow Ijams Nature Center on Facebook for more details.
Navitat Knoxville
Located in Ijams Nature Center, Navitat is an aerial adventure park with zip-lines, swings, nets, climbing, bridges, and more. Enjoy one of six adventure trails with your family.
Navitat Knoxville’s hours vary. Visit their website and click Book Now for available times.
They have two ticket options (a daytime ticket and a nighttime ticket) that include all of the adventures in the park.
You must be 7+ years old and weigh between 30-265 pounds to participate.
An adult is required to attend with all children under the age of 17.
Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes.
Book in advance to be sure you get the date(s) you are visiting.
Address: 2915 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN Cost:
Tickets for the Treetop Adventure Park are $59 + tax per person.
Tickets for the Navitat At Night are $69 + tax per person.
This admission price is the same for adults and children.
Sir Goony’s Family Fun Center is in Farragut, about 35 minutes from downtown Knoxville. They have paintball, a splash zone, a mini-golf course, and golf carts. Sir Goony’s also offers birthday party packages.
Sir Goony’s is open year-round (weather permitting):
Monday through Thursday 1 pm to 9 pm
Friday 1 pm to 10 pm
Saturday 10 am to 10 pm
Sunday 1 pm to 9 pm
If you reserve the park for a party, they can open at any time for your event.
Address: 10925 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN Cost: Each attraction in the park is priced separately depending on how long you stay. Follow Sir Goony’s Family Fun Center on Facebook for more details.
Main Event
At Main Event Knoxville, you and your family can enjoy bowling, gravity ropes, laser tag, arcade games, billiards, and good food.
Main Event is open:
Monday 11 am to 1 am
Tuesday through Thursday 11 am to 12 am
Friday 11 am to 2 am
Saturday 9 am to 2 am
Sunday 11 am to 12 am
Address: 9081 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37923 Cost: Varies by activity. Visit the Main Event Knoxville website to book and buy activities.
Bijou Theatre & The Bistro at the Bijou
Catch a performance and a meal at the famous Bijou Theatre in downtown Knoxville. They have a wide variety of music and performance art showings each year.
This is a cashless venue.
No large backpacks, purses, or duffel bags allowed. Clear bags not required, but all bags subject to search upon entry.
There’s a concession stand and on-site bistro.
Tickets and showtime are subject to the performance schedule.
Address: 803 South Gay Street, Knoxville, Tennessee Cost: Tickets start at $25 Visit the Bijou Theatre’s website for more details.
The Star of Knoxville Tennessee Riverboat
Take a ride along the Tennessee River on The Star of Knoxville Riverboat. You can enjoy a lunch, dinner, or sightseeing cruise depending on what you’re looking for. They have several cruise options that include a meal and some options that do not include a meal depending on the date you select.
Office hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.
Make a reservation in advance.
No dress code required.
Parking is at Calhoun’s on The River on Neyland Drive.
Cruises are non-refundable.
Address: 300 Neyland Drive, Knoxville, TN Cost: Tickets start at $27.60 for adults and $15 for children. Pricing depends on the date and type of cruise you select. Visit the Tennessee Riverboat’s website to learn more and book your cruise.
Maple Hall
Maple Hall is a boutique bowling alley that offers 11 lanes of bowling, a cocktail lounge, life-sized board games, a full food and drink menu, and more. They are located in downtown Knoxville.
Maple Hall is open:
Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 11 pm
Friday from 4 pm to 1:30 am
Saturday from 11 am to 1:30 am
Sunday from 11 am to 11 pm
You must be 21+ after 9 pm on Friday and Saturday nights to attend.
They do not take reservations.
Address: 414 South Gay Street, Knoxville, TN Cost: Bowling rates are per lane, per hour:
Monday through Thursday: $25 per lane, per hour
Friday: $39 per lane, per hour
Saturday: 11 am to 4 pm: $25 per lane, per hour and 4 pm to 1:30 am: $39 per lane, per hour
Try your hand at axe throwing. You can book your experience (walk-ups welcome if availability allows), learn a few safety tips from the team, and then have fun throwing axes with friends.
Craft Axe is open:
Monday from 5 pm to 8 pm
Tuesday through Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm
Friday through Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm
Sunday from 1 pm to 8 pm
Guests must be 16+ to enter after 8 pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address: 320 North Peters Road, Suite 107, Knoxville, TN Cost: Tickets start at $20 per person
Wondering where can you stay near downtown Knoxville? Use the map below to find great chain hotels, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals near the attractions you want to visit.
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Inside: A local mom review of Zoo Knoxville with all the tips and details you need for your visit.
If you’re looking for a day of fun in Knoxville, Tennessee, Zoo Knoxville is WILDly fun! You can spend a whole day here and not run out of things to do. In this guide to Knoxville, TN’s zoo, one local mom shares her favorite exhibits, plus tips and things to remember so you’ll have the best visit with your family. Use our guide to plan your trip to the zoo in 2026!
About Zoo Knoxville
The 53-acre zoo is in East Knoxville, about 13 minutes from Downtown Knoxville. There are around 1,500 animals to see and learn about throughout the zoo. When we moved to Knoxville, I took my kids to the zoo and was immediately sold on a membership simply because of how much there was to do. We visit several times a month and never tire of spending time here. Most families spend between 4–6 hours exploring the zoo, splash pad, rides, and play areas.
Stay Near Zoo Knoxville
Coming from out of town? Book a vacation rental or hotel near Zoo Knoxville. Use the map below with options nearby to find the perfect place to stay.
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Zoo Knoxville Tips & Things to Know
Before you visit, here are a few tips from a frequent Zoo Knoxville visitor:
Hours, Rules & Ticket Information:
Zoo Knoxville Hours: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Parking is $5 and free for members. Memberships pay off!
You can bring your own food & drinks to the zoo but glass containers and straws are not allowed. Or you can enjoy one of their 5 eateries if you don’t want to pack a lunch.
Ticket Pricing:
Members: Free
Adults: $26.95
Children (3-12): $21.95
Seniors ages 65+: $21.95
College Student with ID: $21.95
Children 2 and under: Free
Active Military & Veterans: Free
Firearms are not permitted on Zoo Knoxville grounds.
Zoo Knoxville is a vape and smoke-free campus.
Accessibility Features in the Zoo:
Wheelchair, strollers, and scooter rentals start at $12+
Sensory bags are located at the front desk
Quiet Zones (Located at the Barn Loft & Painted Dog areas)
Headphone Zones (Located at the Kid’s Cove, Wee Play Adventure & Safari Splash)
There are bathrooms throughout the park with changing stations.
Things to See at the Knoxville Zoo
Now that we’ve covered hours, rules, accessibility, and parking, let’s jump into all the exhibits & fun things to do at Zoo Knoxville.
What Animals are at Zoo Knoxville?
Zoo Knoxville has 12 habitats you can enjoy across the zoo. Grab a map of the zoo when you purchase tickets and plan a route that works for you.
Habitats include:
The ARC (Amphibian & Reptile Conservation Campus): This newer building is so neat to explore as it features Joe the sloth, lots of turtles, gigantic snakes (even a Reticulated Python), crocodiles, and more! This exhibit is mostly indoors but you can view the turtles outside as well.
Black Bear Falls: At Black Bear Falls, you can watch the North American Black Bears sleep, play, and interact. There is a large tunnel (resembling a bear cave) that will take you right up to their enclosure so you can get the best view of what they’re up to. This is an indoor/outdoor exhibit.
Boyd Family Asian Trek: Here you can laugh as beloved Georgie the Gibbons monkey swings in his enclosure, watch the Malayan Tigers take their afternoon nap, and admire the many Langurs swinging across their enclosure.
Chimp Ridge: This habitat is solely for the beautiful & majestic Chimpanzees. This enclosure is large and contains several viewing areas depending on where the chimps are hanging out for the day.
Clayton Family Kid’s Cove: This habitat contains many farm animals that you would find on a farm. The Kids Cove contains turkeys, raccoons, goats, beavers, guinea hogs, and more. This habitat also includes a small wading stream (best for toddlers), the Clayton Cabin playground, a large sandbox, and animal interactions.
Clayton Otter Creek: This habitat might be my favorite. You can watch the North American River Otters splash and play in their large water habitat. They are very active and are a popular exhibit at Zoo Knoxville.
Gorilla Valley: Gorilla Valley is another large habitat that houses beautiful Western Lowland Gorillas. They like to hang out in their indoor enclosure but often run through their large open-air enclosure. Zoo Knoxville recently welcomed a baby western lowland gorilla — the zoo’s first gorilla birth in nearly a decade — making Gorilla Valley an especially exciting stop for families visiting in 2026.
Grasslands Africa: A safari in Knoxville? Yes! You can see elephants, giraffes, white rhinos, and zebras! This area is all open-air and the animals are usually easily visible. Zoo Knoxville recently expanded its rhino conservation efforts with a newer southern white rhino habitat that opened to guests in 2025. Visitors can now see multiple endangered southern white rhinos as part of the zoo’s growing conservation program.
Pilot Flying J Wee Play Adventure: Here your preschool & elementary-aged kiddos can play on the indoor playground surrounded by a Komodo dragon, lizards, snakes, and more. This area features a sandbox, slide, and baby playspace.
The Boyd Family Red Panda Village: This habitat features fuzzy and sleepy red pandas. They like to sleep high up in their nets in the trees so be sure to look up when you visit.
Tiger Forest: This habitat is solely for the Malayan Tigers. Zoo Knoxville has a breeding facility for the endangered Malayan tigers.
Valley of The Kings: Here you can see the African Lions and Baboons. They are in two separate enclosures located near the Clayton Safari Splash Pad.
Clayton Safari Splash Pad
During the spring & summer months, you can cool off after a long walk around the zoo at Clayton Safari Splash Pad. This is included in your admission ticket so no need to pay extra! The splash pad typically opens in mid-May each year and stays open through Labor Day weekend, weather permitting. This area offers a gift shop, changing areas, and picnic tables to sit and watch your kids splash.
More Things to Do At Zoo Knoxville
Additional Fun Activities (Prices for extra activities may change):
Take a ride on the carousel located near the Clayton Family Kid’s Cove. Rides are $5 for visitors and $2 for annual pass holders.
Zip through the trees on the Soaring Eagle Zipline. This is a tandem zip ride. Single rides start at $13 per rider.
Take a spin on the Zoo Choo Train. Rides are $5 per ride.
Zoo Knoxville hosts seasonal events and special exhibits throughout the year, including Boo at the Zoo, holiday lights experiences, educational programs, animal encounters, and conservation-focused events. Check the official Zoo Knoxville events calendar before your visit for the latest happenings and limited-time attractions.
General admission tickets to Zoo Knoxville are currently $26.95 for adults and $21.95 for children ages 3–12 and seniors ages 65+. Children under 2 are free. Zoo members receive free admission. Zoo Knoxville adds a $2 per-ticket service fee for tickets purchased at the gate, so buying online ahead of time can save money and help you skip the line.
Is parking free at Zoo Knoxville?
Parking at Zoo Knoxville costs $5 per vehicle. Parking is free for zoo members.
Can you bring food into Zoo Knoxville?
Yes. Guests are allowed to bring outside food and drinks into the zoo. Glass containers and straws are not permitted.
How long does it take to go through Zoo Knoxville?
Most families spend between 4–6 hours at Zoo Knoxville depending on whether they visit playgrounds, splash areas, rides, and animal encounters.
What are the best things to do at Zoo Knoxville with kids?
Popular family attractions include the Clayton Safari Splash Pad, Kids Cove, Zoo Choo Train, carousel, otter exhibit, giraffes, red pandas, and Wee Play Adventure indoor playground.
Is Zoo Knoxville worth visiting from Greenville, SC?
Yes. Zoo Knoxville is about a 2-hour drive from Greenville, SC, making it a popular family day trip for Upstate South Carolina families looking for a larger zoo experience with interactive exhibits and splash areas.
Does Zoo Knoxville have a splash pad?
Yes. The Clayton Safari Splash Pad is included with admission and is typically open from mid-May through Labor Day weekend.
Is Zoo Knoxville good for toddlers?
Zoo Knoxville is very toddler-friendly with stroller rentals, playgrounds, splash areas, indoor play spaces, and interactive exhibits designed for younger children.
Are there indoor areas at Zoo Knoxville?
Yes. Several exhibits and play areas are indoors including The ARC reptile building and Wee Play Adventure, making Zoo Knoxville a good option even during hot or rainy weather.
We hope you have fun at Zoo Knoxville and would love to know what you loved most about the zoo!
Zoo Knoxville also makes a great family day trip from Greenville, SC and the Upstate area. The drive from Greenville to Zoo Knoxville takes about 2 hours, making it an easy weekend adventure for families looking for a larger zoo experience within driving distance.
Have you heard of reciprocal admission? Well, we are here to tell you what it is and why the program can benefit you (and your wallet) when visiting museums and science centers across the US! We decided to test the benefits of an ASTC Passport Program during a family trip to see if it was a deal worth the money.
Thinking about turning an adventure into an educational vacation? The Kidding Around team loves to learn on the road and has compiled a list of ideas for educational vacations for families in Upstate SC. From our nation’s capital to national parks, there is so much to see, memories to make, and things to learn.
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Educational Vacations for Families
There’s an opportunity to learn anywhere you travel. Between kid-friendly vacation spots with guided tours, interactive exhibits, self-guided strolls, and living history museums, learning experiences abound for families traveling the United States and abroad. In this section, you’ll find some travel tips, plus places our Kidding Around Team members have traveled with their families. They discovered some really fabulous learning opportunities.
If you’re thinking about a road trip, start with these 30+ tips for educational trips with kids from a mom who has traveled by car with four kids on several weeks-long adventures.
If you’re headed anywhere near a national park, don’t forget about the free national park pass for 4th graders. Every 4th grade student and their family can get into national parks for free. We’ve used this pass to visit the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and more!
Don’t miss the junior ranger programs while you’re at the national parks. Kids will learn a lot about each park or site and earn a special badge or patch when they complete the booklet. Read about our experiences at the following national parks.
If you’re a homeschool family who likes to travel, check out the opportunities at Traveling Homeschoolers. Here’s a review of a trip we took with them to the Rocky Mountains.
Spending time in Myrtle Beach? It’s an excellent educational trip for families since there are tons of ocean-related adventures, an aquarium, historic sites, and more!
Roanoke Island Festival Park, interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits celebrating the first English colony in America
Looking for a place to stay in North Carolina’s Outer Banks? Check out this beach house in Kill Devil Hills. It’s near the beach and has its own pool and hot tub!
A visit to the nation’s capital is one of the top educational vacations you can go on with your family. With monuments, museums, and rich history on every corner, this trip is one for the memory bank.
The mild weather all year round make Florida a wonderful place to go on an educational trip with your family! If you’re interested in space, nature, or marine life, Florida is THE place to go learn and have fun.
Looking to teach a science lesson about reptiles of North America? Head to Alligator Alley in Alabama!
Learn About Sea Turtles
Have a budding marine biologist on your hands? Plan a visit to Jekyll Island for a visit to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. You’ll learn all about sea turtle health and what threatens them in the wild. You’ll even see the sea turtle hospital.
Or, if the Outer Banks of North Carolina are more to your liking, you can visit the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Here, you’ll get to learn about sea turtles and see a sea turtle rescue hospital called the STAR Center. The aquarium is also home to many other sea creatures and reptiles.
Educational Day Trips Near Upstate, SC
There are so many educational day-trip adventures that are accessible to those living in the Upstate. There are some fabulous opportunities in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. If you’re thinking a day trip might not be enough of an escape, just string a few of these options together and grab a hotel or VRBO for a little vacation not too far from home.
Day Trips to See Dinosaurs! Plan a day trip to one of these fabulous places to see dinos in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
One of my favorite places to celebrate the outdoors with my kiddos is high atop the Blue Ridge Mountains at Mt. Pisgah Campground. The campground is right off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway (near Canton, NC at Milepost 408.6), and just about 1 hour from Greenville, SC and 20 minutes from Asheville, NC, making it an easy family getaway.
While individual sites are mostly wooded and tucked away, the entire area offers incredible panoramic views of rolling green-blue mountains from horizon to horizon. Sunrises, sunsets, hikes, picnics, drives—you name it—it all comes with an unforgettable view.
This Kidding Around parent review was last updated: May 2026
What to Expect at the Mt. Pisgah Campground
As it sits at an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet, the entire area has much cooler temperatures than Greenville. Even in the middle of summer, don’t forget a light jacket. If you’re camping in the fall, enduring the chilly air brings the payoff of vibrant fall color your family won’t soon forget.
The campground accommodates both tents and RVs with 125 total sites, and includes:
Drinking water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Full-service bathrooms (a big win with kids!)
The campground is open seasonally (typically late May through late October — 2026 dates: May 22–October 25), so be sure to plan accordingly.
Reserving a Campsite
Some sites can be reserved online and some are first-come, first-served.
71 sites are reservable on Recreation.gov (up to 6 months ahead)
54 sites are first-come, first-served
$30 per night (50% discount for Senior/Access pass holders)
No power hook-ups, so plan accordingly
And don’t forget to head down to the campfire circle for fun programs and marshmallow roasting. Ranger-led programs are often offered on Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm in the amphitheater at the top of B loop.
The Camp Store (and Nearby Dining!)
Directly across the street, through trails behind the campsites, is a quaint camp store that is always fun to visit. It’s got you covered when you realize what you forgot—lighter fluid, matches, and even coffee if you can’t get that fire going in the morning.
Open daily: 8 am – 8 pm
Right next door is the Pisgah Inn, which has a restaurant with mountain views. It’s a great option if you want a break from cooking or a warm meal after a long hike.
Things to Do Around the Mt. Pisgah Campground
What else can you do? Plenty!
The campground offers hiking straight from the sites. If you’re feeling ambitious (and your kids are too), you can trek about two miles up to the summit of Mt. Pisgah to a viewing platform that’s truly worth the effort. Our kiddos have done this many times over the years and have always enjoyed the hike.
Or drive about a mile to the trailhead of Frying Pan Tower trail, an uphill climb to an old fire watch tower with 360-degree views of the mountains.
If you want to take a dip or explore more, just head down the mountain along Highway 276 toward home and enjoy:
Head further along the Blue Ridge Parkway and find yourself in Asheville for the afternoon.
One of my kids’ favorite pastimes at this camp spot is simply driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway with the windows down and screaming their heads off in every tunnel we encounter. A warning, dear friends: there are many tunnels on the BRP. Share this tradition if you dare!
Best Time to Visit Mt. Pisgah Campground
Summer: Cooler temps than Greenville (great escape from the heat)
Fall: Amazing foliage and crisp air (pack layers!)
Late spring: Wildflowers and fewer crowds
What to Pack for Your Trip
A little planning goes a long way here! Be sure to bring:
Layers (even in summer)
Flashlights or headlamps
Fire-starting supplies
Food and snacks (limited options on-site)
Water shoes for nearby waterfalls and rivers
Bug spray and sunscreen
Driving Directions from Greenville, SC
From Greenville, take I-26 West toward Asheville, then connect to the Blue Ridge Parkway. From there, head south to Milepost 408.6 where you’ll find the campground entrance.
The drive itself is part of the fun—especially once you hit the Parkway!
FAQs About Mt. Pisgah Campground
Do you need reservations for Mount Pisgah Campground?
Not always. About half the sites are reservable online, while the rest are first-come, first-served. During busy summer and fall weekends, reservations are a good idea.
Is Mt. Pisgah Campground good for families?
Yes! With bathrooms, easy hiking access, and nearby attractions like waterfalls and Sliding Rock, it’s a great family-friendly camping spot.
What is there to do near Mt. Pisgah?
Families can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, the Cradle of Forestry, and even a quick trip into Asheville.
Are you wondering where the closest beaches to Greenville, SC are? Looking for the best family-friendly beaches in South Carolina? The Carolinas and other states in the Southeast are home to some of the best family beaches. We’ve included information on some top-rated beaches, plus other locations that were recommended by Kidding Around readers and families.
Some beaches are perfect for a day trip if you get an early start, and some will require a long weekend commitment. Whether you are looking for the closest beaches to Greenville, SC, or just trying to find “family-friendly beaches near me”, this list is a great place to start if you are planning a beach trip anytime soon.
