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Posts Tagged ‘North Carolina’

Play with Goats and Hike at Carl Sandburg’s Historic Home in Flat Rock, NC

Posted on by Kidding Around Team | 3 Comments

Have you visited the Carl Sandburg home in North Carolina? We love the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site for many reasons – great hikes, gorgeous views, and adorable goats you can pet and play with – but there is so much more to do at the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site in Flat Rock, NC. The Carl Sandburg home, Connemara, is less than an hour away from Greenville, so visiting makes for a perfect day trip. Tours of the historic home and access to the pasture, barn, and trails are currently free! 

carl sandburg home in north carolina

Looking for more day trip ideas? Check out our guide to Ultimate Guide to Daytrips Near Greenville, SC to plan your next adventure with your family! 

Visiting the Home of Carl Sandburg- Connemara 

Connemara, home of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and writer Carl Sandburg, is located in the charming town of Flat Rock, North Carolina. It’s an easy drive across a beautiful mountain, just below Hendersonville, NC. Once you arrive, you will find several trails branching from the National Park Service parking lot, including the contact station, Front Lake (restrooms and brochures), Front Lake Loop, and the wide main road that heads up towards Connemara. 

One of the wonderful things about being so close to Connemara is that you can read Sandburg’s children’s book The Huckabuck Family one morning and then get in the car that afternoon to see where the book’s author wrote and explored and ate and laughed and walked.

Tours of Carl Sandburg’s Home

Poet Carl Sandburg and his family lived at Connemara from 1945 until his death in 1967. Currently visits to the farm, grounds, and House tours are available Wednesday-Sunday. Tour tickets for adults are $10 each and tickets for kids 15 and younger are $1. House tours are free in 2024 on January 6th, March 23rd, June 15th, and October 19th-20th. It is highly recommended to make reservations for house tours, as tour capacity is 10 people and fill up quickly.

The house has been left exactly as it was when Sandburg passed away in 1967. The rooms of the home are teeming with books that Sandburg touched, read and studied. The view from this house elicits a smile just thinking about the poet sitting in his chair on the rocks being inspired by the same image. The Sandburg’s had over 17,000 volumes of books. The man liked to read.  Inside the basement of Sandburg’s home is a sweet little gift shop and a room for viewing a video about the writer’s life. During the year there are several events scheduled that are engaging, educational, and fun!

Visiting with Goats at the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site

As you head past the lake, up towards the house on the gravel road, and past some of the older historic structures, you’ll eventually end up at the dairy barn. This is where the goats live. The property continues to be a working goat farm to this day. Gentle, adorable, loving goats. Goats that love kids petting and touching and hugging them.  The goats are actually descendants of Mrs. Sandburg’s own prize-winning goat herd.

The barnyard is also home to chickens and giant shady trees and rock walls and green fields. Excellent for a picnic. During April and May the barnyard is full of babies, so when visiting in Spring be ready to hear lots of awes from your kids.

The goat farm is unique in that visitors can walk in the pasture with the goats (and in the enclosure with the kids!) as well as explore the barn, not only meeting the goats, but petting them and watching them feed and interact. The hours of access to the barn and goat pasture will be daily from 10 am – 3 pm and is free. The entire park is open from sunrise to sunset.

Reading to a Goat During National Literacy Month

September is National Literacy Month and March is National Reading Month. Both fit nicely with the theme of the entire park given Sandburg’s choice of career. So to honor the heritage of the park and give guests a pretty good reason to come there, the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site invites visitors to grab a book and read to a goat (or several). 

You can bring your own book, although I don’t recommend it for one very important reason, which I will get to in a second. They also have books in a red wagon right outside the gates to the barn that you can borrow and bring into the pasture to read to the goats. We found a couple of great books that both my kids really enjoyed. The goats did, too. 

Carl Sandburg Historic Site - reading to goats

Once you pick out your book, you can go see the goats. All the goats you’ll interact with are females and they are really sweet and curious and have no idea about personal space. The very first time I ever went to see the goats was when my kids were super little, they were terrified because the goats are pretty big if you’re a little kid. Now my kids, ages 10 and 7, love the goats and enjoy petting them and this time, reading to them. 

So reading to goats is not an easy task. We really tried. One of the goats ripped out a page and started eating it, which we grabbed back because you know, they have special diets, which don’t include books. This is why you may not want to bring your own book. We ended up sitting with a few goats who may or may not have been sleeping and reading the books. I had a book of Sandburg’s poetry, which was wonderful to read while at his home. 

My oldest daughter found a nice, docile goat with a white coat who seemed to be totally enthralled with being read to. It was very cute to watch. 

We spent about an hour with the goats and our attempts at reading books. We had a blast and reading was such a bonus because books are pretty popular at my house and we all enjoy it.

But reading to goats? A whole level of awesomeness. 

Hiking the Carl Sandburg Home National Site Trails

In addition to the home and the barns, which are plenty to fill an afternoon, there are hiking trails on the property that are family-friendly and quite rewarding. You can also take the rambling walk back to your car and trek around the beautiful fishpond. It’s a great path to wear your children out with good, honest exercise so they can nap on your drive back across the mountain to Greenville.

If you are up for a challenge, you can take the Memminger Trail Loop and the big Glassy Mountain Trail up to the Glassy Mountain overlook. It is 1.25 miles, but the 523-foot increase in elevation makes this a more challenging hike. Although there are several other options for reaching Glassy Mountain from the parking lot, they are all about the same length with the same workout.

The exposed rock makes for interesting plant communities in the various seeps, and the overlook is the only spot in the park with a view of the mountains. Round trip, this strenuous hike takes around 4.5 miles. 

Kids Track Trails at the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site

You might notice a Kids in Parks TRACK Trail kiosk at the entrance. The Kids in Parks network is a family-friendly collection of outdoor adventures called TRACK Trails. Each TRACK Trail features self-guided brochures and signs that can enhance your outdoor experience, and you can earn prizes for tracking your adventures.

Get more info on the Kids in Parks program from our Kids In Parks Review on Kidding Around

Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock, NC

Things To Know Before Visiting the Carl Sandburg Historic Site

A couple of things to note when planning your visit:

  • Wear closed-toed shoes because you’ll be going in a field, which has lots of grass, some mud, goat poop, and other things you don’t want on your feet. 
  • Bring water. The hike up to the goat barn isn’t long, a bit over a quarter mile, but it is somewhat steep. There are water fountains to refill your bottle, and you can also purchase small snacks and water bottles from the bookstore. Please recycle your bottles! 
  • There is no charge to visit the historic site, hike the trails, or go to the goat barn.
  • House tours recommend a prebooked registration, and only 8 people are allowed per tour. Tours are currently free!
  • Backpacks and large bags are not allowed on the tour, so plan accordingly. 
  • Strollers and backpack child carriers are not allowed on the home tours, but soft-front carriers are allowed for babies and toddlers.
  • The hours of access to the barn and dairy goat pasture are every day from 10 am – 3 pm. The entire park is open from sunrise to sunset. 
  • The pedestrian bridge from the parking lot to the main entrance is currently closed. In order to access the park you’ll walk from the parking area .4 miles around the lake and another 1/3 mile up a steep grade. If you require accessibility assistance, please call 828.707.8125 when you arrive.
  • Visitor Center/Park Store is open Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 4 pm. This is where you can pick up Junior Ranger program packets, get information for your visit, purchase books, and more.

Directions to the Carl Sandburg Home 

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
81 Carl Sandburg Lane
Flat Rock, NC 28731

828.693.4178

Get Directions for Carl Sandburg’s Home.

Other Western NC Travel Ideas:

Kidding Around WNC: things to do in Western North Carolina towns

There’s so much to see in WNC!

Find more fun in our Kidding Around Guide to WNC.

After visiting Carl Sandburg’s home, spend the day in nearby Hendersonville, NC!

Things to Do in Hendersonville, North Carolina

Has your family ever visited the Carl Sandburg home?

Snow Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip in Mars Hill, NC Delivers Fast, Wintry Fun

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Head up to Zip ‘N Slip in Mars Hill, NC for a fun, fast ride on any of their eight snow tubing lanes. We checked them out and have all the details on enjoying this fun, winter entertainment. 

You cannot miss Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing Park in Mars Hill, North Carolina. It’s right off Highway 26 heading through NC towards Tennessee, about an hour and 40 minutes from Greenville, SC. And wow, you’re in for some fast and fun rides at this snow tubing park. 

Zip 'N Slip Snow Tubing Park
Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip
Best snow tubing, skiing, and tubing near Greenville, South Carolina

Want more? Here’s our guide to all the fun places to hit the slopes.

About Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing Park 

Zip ‘N Slip has eight snow tubing lanes that can run more than 800 feet long in optimal snow conditions. How long is that in terms of flying down on a tube? About 20 seconds! It’s really fast, especially in colder weather. 

My kids – ages 13 and 9 – had a blast at this snow tubing park and it was well worth the drive up there. The owner is really nice and has owned the property for more than a decade. He initially wanted to build a hotel and shopping center on the property but ended up having so much fun with the snow tubing park that he kept the fun winter activity as it was and updated the park and equipment. 

There are eight snow tubing lanes. At least there were when we went. Because of weather and snow-making abilities, this can definitely change each season or each week or month even as the park is able to create the snow needed for the hill. Or if they just get a ton of snow through Mother Nature, then it’s even more fun. It is always a good idea to check the social media pages or website of any seasonal activity before you head out to ascertain the conditions of the park. 

There are heated bathrooms at Zip ‘N Slip as well as hot chocolate and a fire pit. They sell hot dogs, nachos, and mac & cheese as well. We were promised free marshmallows to roast after our tubing run but headed out too fast. We saw some people with sticky fingers though so we know they enjoyed the treats. 

And if you forget your winter gear like hats, gloves, or even socks, you can purchase them at the park. 

Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip 

Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip was unlike most places I’ve been because the guests, once they got their safety briefing and tickets, were pretty much on their own. It was definitely fun but like the Wild West of tubing. 

Once you get your tube, you’ll head over to the Magic Carpet ride, an escalator-type contraption that you stand on while holding onto your tube. Pro tip: lean forward on it so you don’t fall backwards. Once you get to the top of the hill, you’ll step off ever-so-gracefully and be able to choose which lane you want to go down. 

Tubing at Zip 'N Slip
Tubing at Zip ‘N Slip

There aren’t any staff members at the top of the hill so you just choose your lane and go down or wait until the person in front of you goes down. We didn’t have any issues with waiting or choosing our lanes. Because there are eight lanes, we got in a lot of runs and rarely had to wait for a spot. 

But it does get a little tricky at the top pulling a tube amongst other people while navigating snow. I slipped twice but in my defense, it was a little icy. And I’m clumsy. I was fine. 

Once you choose your lane, you put your tube leash inside the tube and then get in your tube and shimmy to the edge of the great abyss, uh, lane. Ideally, you’ll want to check to make sure no one is at the bottom of the lane you are planning to slide down. If they are, wait until they are gone and then go. Also watch out for people who may be walking in front of your lane. Wait for them to get out of the way and then shimmy your tube closer – or get someone to push you- to the edge and go down. Wheeee!

Once you get down to the bottom, get out of your tube, grab the leash and get out of the way. Fast. I cannot emphasize how fast you need to move once you are at the bottom. There are no staff to tell you to get out of the way or signal anyone at top that it’s ok to send down the next people. You’re responsible for getting out of the way so do it. 

And pay attention. People are going to come down those lanes whether you’re paying attention to someone in a giant tube heading in your direction or not. 

And have fun! Depending on how many people are there, you may get through a lot of runs during your time on the hill. I can’t even count how many times my kids and I went down. It was probably at least 30 times. We had the first slot of the day when we went at 10 am and it wasn’t sold out. The slot at Noon was sold out and there were definitely more people. So when you go, maybe choose the earlier time slot.

Tips on Visiting Zip ‘N Slip 

We’ve been snow tubing to several places and some of these tips follow our previous advice but read on because a few are very specific to Zip ‘N Slip: 

Bring a change of clothes: depending on the weather, snow will melt and you’ll get wet. If you don’t want to drive home in wet clothes, bring a change of clothes, socks, and shoes. 

Wear layers: we were hot after the first 15 minutes and ending up shedding our hats, gloves, and jacket. It’s best to wear layers, especially if the temperatures will rise while you’re there.

You don’t need snow gear: it’s just snow tubing and you’re not skiing. Pants and boots, even hiking boots, hats, gloves, and a jacket are fine. 

Get out of the way at the bottom of the hill: when you finish your tubing run, move and move fast. The way the lanes are designed, unless you’re in the furthest half of the lanes, you’ll have to walk in front of most of the lanes to get back to the magic carpet. If you don’t move fast, you may be in the way of another tuber coming down the run. 

Pay attention: for reasons mentioned above, pay attention to your surroundings and make sure your kids are watching for fast tubers coming down the lane when they are making their way back to get in line to go back up. 

Watch the weather: if you’re going up on an unseasonably warm day, check with Zip ‘N Slip to make sure they are operating normally and secondly, get the first available time slot of the day. You’ll go way faster on colder snow than when it starts to melt a little when the weather warms up.

Keep an eye on your kids: this is standard advice but here, kids need to be watched as they go up the magic carpet and make their way down the lanes and then grabbing their tubes and doing it again. They just need to be aware of their surroundings. 

It can get muddy: at the bottom of the tubing hill, there’s a lot of straw and snow, which is great for stopping your tubing run. But when the weather is warm, the snow will melt and it will get muddy. This didn’t bother myself, my kids, and really anyone I saw there but just be aware that you may get dirty and refer to tip #1 about bringing a change of clothes. 

Be kind and respectful: we had a blast while tubing and everyone was great. But during busier times, there may be some jostling of uncontrollable giant tubes at the top or people not paying attention at the bottom or on . Have patience and be kind.

Fire pit at Zip 'N Slip
Fire pit at Zip ‘N Slip

Tickets to Zip ‘N Slip 

You can get tickets for an hour or two hours. One hour is $30/person and two hours is $45/person. Kids must be at least 3-years-old to go tubing and kids ages 3-5 are free and must ride in the lap of an adult. 

You can – and should, especially on busy holiday weekends – make reservations online. Save time by filling out your waiver and bringing it with you.

Zip ‘N Slip also offers discounted rates for school and homeschool groups of 15 or more. Keep an eye out for Homeschool Day as well since tickets are heavily discounted. We scored $15/person tickets for two hours of tubing during a recent Homeschool Day!

Hours 

The snow tubing park is usually open from mid-December through mid-January Monday-Saturday from 9 am – 9 pm and Sundays from 9 am – 6 pm. From mid-January through early March, the park is open Friday-Sunday and holidays like President’s Day and MLK Jr. Day. They also have special events like Homeschool Day. Follow their Facebook page for details.  

Stay in Mars Hill, NC

If you want to make your stay a little longer, here’s where to stay in Mars Hill, NC near Zip ‘N Slip.

Kidding Around earns when you book through this map through an affiliate relationship with Stay22.

Bonus Day Trip Fun 

Because the snow tubing park was a bit of a drive, my kids and I wanted to extend our adventure a bit. So we went to explore nearby Burnsville, NC and had such a great time! The little town has a beautiful downtown and town square. They have several shops that sell homemade items like scarves, clothing, and hats plus an adorable toy store, a huge general store, a specialty tea shop, a beautiful shoe store, and lots more. 

Burnsville NC
Scenes from Burnsville, NC

While we didn’t eat in Burnsville, there are a couple restaurants plus a coffee shop right along the main street area of the town. We spent about two hours wandering around the shops till our hearts content and could not have been more smitten with the town. I certainly plan to go back and explore it more when we are up in that area again!

Additionally, the Biltmore is on your way back from Greenville if you want to add that to your day trip itinerary. 

For more places to go snow tubing, see our big story on the Best Places to Go Skiing and Snow Tubing Near the Upstate. 

Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing Park
10725 US-23, Mars Hill, NC
828.689.8444
Zip ‘N Slip Website | Zip ‘N Slip Facebook

Driving Tour: Stunning Waterfalls in NC That Involve No Hiking

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez | 7 Comments

Want to see the great outdoors without actually hiking? Kidding Around’s Kristina loves hunting out great waterfalls. She’s created this amazing driving tour packed full of stops where you can see waterfalls without hiking. It’s a perfect day trip activity. She even included a map with all the stops. So fire up that GPS or pop open your favorite map app and get going!

Looking for more waterfalls?
💧Love waterfalls? Here’s our list of Waterfalls in the Southeast with great hiking in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennesse.
💧Also, if you happen to just love waterfalls like we do and are looking for opportunities to keep them clean and pristine, look into volunteering at any of these outdoor places.

There are few places I’d rather be on the weekends than hiking with my kids to some spectacular waterfall. I’ve done a lot of them and plan lots more. But sometimes hiking a few, or more, miles just isn’t happening. But waterfalls? Yes, I still want to see them!

So if you have the grandparents on board and can’t hike or if there is no way you are listening to kids whine for two hours in the woods or for whatever reason you aren’t hiking, we’ve put together an epic (yes, this is epic) waterfall tour in North Carolina for the ultimate day trip that will kill it on your Instagram feed.

If you need more fun in Western NC, see our big Guide to WNC!

North Carolina Waterfall Driving Tour Map

Just beyond the South Carolina/North Carolina border lies the “Land of the Waterfalls” – it’s true, there is an actual sign that says this – so this is where our epic tour takes you. And because we love our readers and want to make things super easy, we also put together a map of the tour!

I suggest you pack a lot of snacks, drinks, lunch, and some car entertainment since you will have to spend time on the road, even though the drive through the mountains is gorgeous.

You can do this tour starting at either the first or the last waterfall as it takes about the same amount of time as well.

Looking Glass Falls

This waterfall is huge and gorgeous. It’s been on my list since I saw an incredible shot of the falls frozen during the winter. I was really hoping to catch the same photo when I went but it wasn’t cold enough. However, ice did cover the stairs at the very bottom of the falls and the surrounding trees, branches and rocks. It was awesome.

You can literally see the falls from the car but park it anyways, get out and if you have people who are willing and able to walk down the stairs, you can get a close-up view. But if not, you will still get to see the falls in all their glory.

Directions

From Greenville, take 276 W to 25 N and take Exit 5 to 25 N. Take Crab Creek Road to 64 W in Brevard and then take 276 N into Pisgah National Forest. The falls will be on your right.

Sliding Rock

Right down the street from Looking Glass Falls in the Pisgah National Forest is the popular summer destination of Sliding Rock. During the winter, there is no one there and you don’t have to pay to enter (during the summer season, it is $5/person).

You can see Sliding Rock from the top where the bathrooms are located and it’s a short walk down the stairs to the platform that overlooks the gigantic natural waterslide.

The pool is about eight feet deep and during the summer there are lifeguards to keep everyone safe. It’s a sight to see though!

Directions

From Looking Glass Falls, keep going on 276 into the forest and Sliding Rock is about four minutes away on the left.

Bridal Veil Falls

It’s about an hour and 20 minutes from Sliding Rock to Bridal Veil Falls in between Cashiers and Highlands but the drive along 64 is gorgeous. And you can go through Brevard if you like and grab lunch (I’d suggest Square Root for higher end cuisine or grab some delicious pastries and bread to make sandwiches at the Bracken Mountain Bakery) to space out the trip and fuel up. We also love stopping at the original O.P. Taylors toy store in downtown Brevard.

Bridal Veil Falls is literally on the side of the road. You could even stay in your car and see this beautiful 60-foot cascading waterfall but really, you should get out because it’s so pretty, especially in the winter when it freezes over occasionally and icicles drop down and make the whole scene ethereal.

You can walk behind this waterfall too, which makes it even cooler. You used to be able to drive behind it but you aren’t allowed anymore.

Directions

Take 276 back to Brevard and make a right on 64 W. Take that all the way through Cashiers and the falls will be about 11.5 from Cashiers on your right.

Dry Falls

A two-minute drive down the road will bring you to Dry Falls on the left. Park in the lot and either use the handicap accessible ramp to go to the overlook or in the warmer months head down to the falls and walk behind them and take photos to make everyone you know jealous.

These falls are huge and loud and incredible. If you are able to walk behind the falls, stay on the path and behind the railing and don’t walk out on the rocks. Waterfalls are dangerous and you don’t want to become a statistic.

If you’re hungry on your way out from Dry Falls, stop at Slabtown Pizza in Cashiers for delicious pizza.

Directions

Stay on 64 W for .8 miles and the falls and parking will be on your left.

Bonus: Lake Jocassee Overlook

I wasn’t expecting this driving to the last waterfall stop so it was a bonus for me. About three miles or so from Whitewater Falls is this overlook that will take your breath away.

You can see all of Lake Jocassee and marvel at the beauty of the gorge. Stop, take photos, have a snack. It’s worth it.  

Directions

It’s on Route 130 from Cashiers to Whitewater Falls. You can’t miss it.

Whitewater Falls

The last waterfall on our list is the biggest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, standing at a whooping 411 feet tall, cascading down the mountainside in all it’s beautiful glory.

Whitewater Falls is just under 40 minutes from Dry Falls and is totally worth the trip. Even though I promised no hiking, don’t be mad about this quarter-mile paved trail to the falls. The sign says the falls are a half-mile from the parking lot but they mean round trip. The trail is very short and the view is amazing.

If you are ambitious and want to get out energy from the car ride, head to the stairs on the right, which will take you down to the viewing platform where you can see all of Whitewater Falls. It’s a nice little workout getting back up those 154 stairs.

Directions

From Dry Falls, go east on 64, hang a right at the center of Cashiers onto 107 South, and then make a left onto 130 North and follow signs to the falls. It’s about 25 miles total.

For other wheelchair accessible/short walk/roadside waterfalls around Western NC, see Blue Ridge Mountain Life Wheelchair Waterfalls and this list of roadside waterfalls.

For more waterfalls, see our Guide to the Southeast’s Best Waterfalls.

Mountain views and scenic overlooks near Greenville, SC

More Gorgerous Places: Less Hiking

Driving Tour: Scenic Overlooks & Spots Near Across the Upstate

Winchester Creek Farm: Meet Alpacas and Feed Mini-Horses at This Farm

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez | No Comments

Love alpacas and mini-animals? Take a trip to Winchester Creek Farm in Waynesville, NC for a fun day trip with your family!

Media tickets were provided for this review, which was updated in January 2024.

The drive up to Winchester Creek Farm in Waynesville, NC is probably worth the trip alone. The beautiful scenery of mountain peaks and valleys, eventually wind their way to the feet of the Smoky Mountains, where the farm is situated. Winchester Creek Farm, about a 90-minute trip from the South Carolina Upstate, has alpacas and many miniature animals like cows, horses, and donkeys, as well as super fluffy sheep and an adorable little Juliana pig. 

And if you’re making a trip to Asheville, NC, be sure to check our guide of everything to do, eat, and see while you’re there!

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You Can Hike With Llamas at Earthshine Lodge

Posted on by Liene | 1 Comment

If your family needs a break, head to the mountains for a chance to hike with llamas at Earthshine Lodge! Kidding Around Greenville contributor Liene visited a retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains with her family, and found the llama hike to be an enthralling experience – one of many experiences Earthshine Lodge has to offer! Find out about the llamas, the Earthshine Lodge property, and their upcoming holiday event that includes brunch with Santa. Get ready for a great time!

Media tickets were provided for this review, but opinions are solely those of the author.

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Riverside Retreat in Saluda, NC: Easy and Fun Family Getaway

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Only an hour from the Upstate, Wilderness Cove Campground in Saluda, NC feels a lot further away. Let the river soothe you to sleep, hike the Green River Gamelands, or go tubing over the summer at this fun campground. 

UPDATE June 2025: Wilderness Cove Campground has been rebuilding since Hurricane Helene and they are now offering water adventures over the summer! They have added lodgings so go check them out and help support their recovery. This particular place we stayed is not available any longer to our knowledge but they have other options.

Thank you to Wilderness Cove Campground for inviting us out to do this review. 

I have tubed down the Green River a few times and have always loved it. Staying on the Green River is just as much an adventure and one you can do right at Wilderness Cove Campground all year long. 

We’ll tell you what they offer, things to do in the area, and how to book your trip. 

About Wilderness Cove Campground 

You may already know about this place because it’s one of the big tubing outfitters on the Green River. But maybe you didn’t know they offer riverfront cabins, bigger family cabins, tent sites, and glamping tents. Wilderness Cove Campground is owned by Outdoor Adventure Retreats, a family of campgrounds throughout the Southeast offering unique access to outdoor recreation, led by Andrew Garcia and Ben Cohen.

They offer tubing over the summer and the campground is open all year. They also offer some neat classes like fly fishing.

Accommodations at Wilderness Cove

The campground is right along the Green River but not all the rentals can hear those soothing sounds. We stayed at one of the small riverfront cabins where we could hear the river, which was awesome. The cabin has a full bed plus a loft, which has a twin bed. There’s a fire pit, Keurig, and a mini-fridge but these are rustic cabins. It’s basically camping but indoors with beds and electricity.

Heating and air are provided, as well as linens, but you’ll have to walk to the bathhouse or pit toilets. 

The bathhouse is nice. It was clean and had both toilets and showers. Bring your own towels and flashlights. 

The glamping tents are a lot closer to the bathhouse but we didn’t stay in those so I can’t give a firsthand review. They did look pretty awesome though. 

Here are how many people each place/site can accommodate: 

  • Glamping Tent – 3 people (max of 2 adults)
  • River Cottage – 3 people (max of 2 adults)
  • Large Glamping Tent – 4 people (max of 2 adults)
  • Standard Cottage – 4 people (max of 2 adults)
  • Double Glamping Tent – 6 people (max of 4 adults)
  • Deluxe Cottage – 6 people (max of 4 adults)
  • Green River Guest House – 7 people
  • Individual Primitive Campsite – 4 people
  • Group Primitive Campsite – 20 people
  • RV Sites – No preset limit. Up to 2 adults and 3 children included at no extra charge. After that it’s $5 extra per person.

The campground does have WiFi but we found it to be a bit spotty at some points. Cell service is minimal at the campground. 

Things to do at Wilderness Cove Campground 

The campground is located adjacent to the Green River Gamelands, which has almost 17 miles of beautiful trails. I’ve hiked all through there and the Narrows trail is my favorite because you can watch the kayakers tackle the huge rapids (it’s extremely steep to get down and up though – there are ropes). But there are miles of other trails to hike at all levels.

You can access the Gamelands across the street from the campground itself. Or you can hike the six-mile round trip hike to Milton Bradley Falls. The trailhead is just steps away from the riverfront cabins and camp store. 

And, of course, over the summer, you can go tubing on the Green River. Tubing season is usually Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. 

If you have a NC fishing license, you can fish in the river as well.

If you love kayaking, you can rent a kayak from Wilderness Cove and run the river. We saw some kayakers who had ran the river that day staying at the campground. The Green River is well-known for its kayaking opportunities.

Things to do Nearby 

Hendersonville is just a short 25-minute drive from Wilderness Cove and there are so many things to do there: apple picking, snow tubing, free museums, the Team ECCO aquarium, more hiking, and shopping. We have a big list of Things to do in Hendersonville to give you ideas. 

Flat Rock is also close by, where you can play with the goats at the Carl Sandburg Home or hike on the property for free. Grab a pizza or baked good at the Village Bakery on your way home. 

Saluda, NC is close as well. The small town has great restaurants like the Purple Onion and Wildflower Bakery. 

We didn’t do this although I’d like to but the Gorge Zipline is just down the street from Wilderness Cove. I love ziplining and this place has excellent reviews. 

Wilderness Cove is also not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah Forest, and miles and miles of amazing trails to enjoy. Since we went during leaf season, we headed up about an hour and 15 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway near Craggy Gardens to see some fall foliage and we were not disappointed. I love staying at places that are great base camps for adventures. 

Booking Your Stay at Wilderness Cove Campground 

You can book your stay online at the Wilderness Cove Campground website. Note that some accommodations are pet-friendly. 

Prices per night start at around $91/night for the riverfront cabins and glamping tents. Tent and RV sites are cheaper while the cabins that hold more people go up from there. 

Please drive slowly down to the river. The road is very curvy and sometimes you can’t see around the curves. 

Wilderness Cove Campground
3772 Green River Cove Road, Saluda, NC
Facebook | Wilderness Cove Website

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Relax in a Hammock, Pan for Gold, and Make S’mores at Gold River Camp in NC

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Inside: We are sharing all the details on Gold River Camp in NC, where you can pan for gold, make s’mores, and relax in a hammock!

If a unique family or couple stay is in your future, Gold River Camp & Cabins in beautiful Marion, NC should be on your list for their location, outdoor entertainment area, and beautiful accommodations. Overnight accommodations were provided so we could do this media review. 

When Kathryn and Trevor first visited the land that is now the site of Gold River Camp & Cabins, they drove home in silence, each guessing that the other also knew that they had found the spot they wanted to not only call home for themselves but build their dream cabin and glamping village at. It was a done deal. 

Two years later, Gold River, which sits along the banks of the Second Broad River, has several glamping tents, two tiny riverfront houses, and several cabins for guests. Kathryn and Trevor live on-site with their two adorable children and have created an escape that many of us have been searching for – a place to reconnect as a family or couple and just get away from our busy lives. 

A Gold River Camp and Cabin Pavilion

About Gold River Camp & Cabin

Everything at Gold River is laid out and designed to be an invitation for guests to relax and unplug. There are Adirondack chairs everywhere, hammocks strung in several places, the bubbly, calming sounds of the river, chairs sitting on the river bank, fire pits waiting to be lit, and comfy cushions for lounging on. Literally, every place you turn, there is something that issues a silent invitation to you to relax and enjoy your time. 

This is the goal of Gold River Camp for their guests – to come to a place where time slows down a bit and where they can easily relax and unplug yet be recharged when they leave, which you really won’t want to do after visiting. 

There are two luxe glamping tents on stilts that have a boho vibe and are very comfortable. Two bell tents, primitive camping sites, tiny cabins, and cabins that have private bathrooms are also offered at Gold River. So, depending on your level of camping comfort, they’ve got everything you need. 

Philosophy

Before Kathryn and Trevor bought the Gold River Camp and Cabin property, they had traveled extensively and stayed in all kinds of interesting places. The one thing they found to be a highlight of most of the spots they went to was the communal aspect of meeting people from around the world and you know, actually talking face-to-face instead of spending all the time traveling on phones or laptops. That stuck with them and they brought the same philosophy to Gold River, wanting to make it a place where people could gather together, hang out, and just talk, whether it’s meeting new people or reconnecting with your own family or loved one. 

Gold River Camp and Cabin glamping camp sites
Luxe glamping tents

Being in the North Carolina mountains, cell service is spotty and none of the accommodations have televisions so Gold River has a big open-air pavilion with super comfortable lounging areas, swings, games, coffee makers, and grills. They have picnic tables, hammocks, and fire pits, as well as gold panning. It’s an obvious gathering place and we loved hanging out there during our time at Gold River. 

When my kids and I were at our cabin, we took advantage of the games offered and my kids just laughed so loud while playing Apples to Apples. It was a joyous sound and we had so much fun. 

Accommodations 

We stayed in The Cottage, a one-bedroom cabin with a bathroom and futon. It was so cute and comfortable and I appreciated the full kitchen, which I used to cook breakfast and dinner during our trip. The kitchen was well-stocked with pots, pans, salt and pepper, cooking spray, and utensils, which was an added bonus. 

Gold River Nook Cabin

I got a peek at a couple of the other places to stay, like the adorable Gold River camp cabins by the river (moms who need a getaway alone, this is your place to go), romantic nooks, and the luxe glamping tents. I thought everything was so beautifully decorated that it made the experience even more of a getaway from everyday life. It was easy to feel transported to someplace special here. They even have primitive riverfront tent sites or bell tent sites if you really want to embrace the outdoors, but still have access to accommodations.

Bathhouse

Because not all of the accommodations have private bathrooms, a bathhouse is available for those guests who need it. There are three huge showers and a men’s and women’s bathroom. Since I was there for a review, I tried out one of the showers and it was so nice! The stall was very clean and spacious with lots of hot water and a chair inside to put my clothes and towel. 

The bathrooms were also very clean and large, and the bathhouse isn’t far from any of the cabins or tents. The place has lights that turn on at nigh,t and some of the accommodations are provided with lanterns for nightly bathroom runs. 

Activities at Gold River

Gold River isn’t just a cute name for the glamping campground. The Second Broad River, where the camp is located, was known for its gold panning during the Gold Rush of the late 1800s, and even today, people can still find gold there.

Gold River has gold pans, shovels, and screens available for guests to use free of charge. That was the first thing my kids decided to do and they had such a blast getting in the river and panning for gold. We had no clue what we were doing but they had fun and found some cool rocks. The river is the perfect way to enjoy some downtime. We wouldn’t figure out how to actually pan for gold until the next day when we visited Lucky Strike Gold & Gem Mine. Here, you will find a gold gem panning operation that makes for a fun family activity.

Panning for gold in the Gold River in Marion, North Carolina

There is also a little sandy beach next to the river for guests to hang out at plus lots of hammocks (my favorite), swinging chairs, picnic benches, fire pits, and grills. You’re welcome to use any of those things during your stay. 

I personally really loved the open-air pavilion with comfy pillows on a low-to-the-ground table (a nod to other cultures that typically utilize this kind of community space). 

And both nights we lit a fire and made s’mores next to the river. They have firewood for sale as well as marshmallow roasting sticks to borrow. My kids would probably tell you this was their favorite part. Don’t forget the bug spray if you’re a mosquito magnet like myself.

Nearby Activities

Kathryn has multiple itineraries she put together for guests, which I really appreciated since it made my job so much easier! On our way there, we picked up dinner at Todd’s Chicken, about 15 minutes away and it was really good. I rarely eat fried chicken and was happy I made an exception for this place. We got fried chicken, mashed potatoes, biscuits, green beans, and gravy and had enough for dinner for the next night. Definitely recommend. 

We also checked out Lucky Strike Gold & Gem Mine, not three minutes down the road from Gold River. You can read my review of our time there and how we actually found gold. I didn’t think it would happen but it was such a cool experience. This is one of the closest activities within 30 minutes of camp.

Mile High Bridge at Grandfather Mountain
Mile High Bridge at Grandfather Mountain

We also took advantage of nearby hiking trails like one of my bucket list hikes: Crabtree Falls. The trail is only about 2.5 miles long and is located about 45 minutes from Gold River. The waterfall is a 60-foot spectacular site that is stunning. I was so happy we added this hike to our time in the area. 

A free activity that also relieves stress is just five minutes down the road from Gold River. Brackett Town Farms is a nonprofit farm where you can hold and pet baby goats, donkeys, bunnies, horses, and chickens. It’s awesome but be sure you make an appointment before you go.

Holding a baby goat at Brackett Town Farms
Pure happiness

Other activities are fishing at a nearby trout farm and visiting wineries. Catawba Science Center is 45 minutes away and you can get in free if you have a Roper Mountain Science Center membership. I wish we had several more days there because there’s a lot to explore.

Linville Gorge and Grandfather Mountain are very close, about an hour away, and Chimney Rock is about 40 minutes away. Lake James State Park is a great option as well since it has a sandy beach to enjoy during the warmer weather and is just a short 25-minute drive from Gold River. 

Honest Mom Review

I really enjoyed our stay at Gold River and loved spending so much time outdoors with my kids. Kathryn and Trevor put so much thought into Gold River from the layout to the design to the communal aspect. As parents themselves, you can tell they made a place where families could relax together and make special memories. 

Making smores at Gold River
Gold River Camp

The location couldn’t have been more ideal either. It is a little slice of paradise nestled in the mountains. That area of Western North Carolina just has so many fantastic places to explore and being the adventurer that I am, I was like a kid in a candy shop. It was a joy to be able to stay at Gold River.

Booking Your Trip

You can book your trip to Gold River through the Gold River website. Prices vary depending on time of year and accommodation you choose but they generally range from $57 up to $140/night. They also have primitive tent sites starting at $34. There are rooms you can rent as adjoining spaces if you need more bedrooms. You can also rent out the entire camp for a special event like a wedding. 

Gold River does offer some pet-friendly accommodations.

Gold River Camp & Cabins Website
43 Polly Spout Road, Marion, NC 
704.724.6277

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Relax in a hammock, pan for gold, and make s’mores at Gold River Camp in North Carolina!

Pick Addictive Asian Pears at Pilot Mountain Pears: Hendersonville, NC

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Ever have an Asian Pear? They are incredibly delicious, juicy, and a must-try fruit. Pilot Mountain Pears has acres and acres of them available for u-pick this fall in Hendersonville, NC.

I have been obsessed with Asian pears for years and get ridiculously excited whenever I see them in grocery stores or farmers’ markets. They are generally light brown in color with the texture of an apple and a crunchy but juicy center- like the kind of juicy where you bite in and the juice runs down your arm – that kind of tastes like a cross between an apple and a pear. 

If you’re also a fan of Asian Pears, you might be wondering, “Is there any place with u-pick Asian Pears? Or any Asian Pear picking near me?”

Yep!

Asian pears at Pilot Mountain Pears

At Pilot Mountain Pears in Hendersonville, NC, and only an hour from Greenville, SC, not only can you buy these wonderful fruits but also pick them your self. You’ll definitely want to add this orchard to your fall adventures!

They open for the 2025 season on Friday, August 15th.

About Pilot Mountain Pears

The orchard is owned and run by the Laughter (pronounced LAW-DER) family. I met Beth and her husband, Davi,d and they showed me around the orchard, the little shop, and the packing barn. David really loves Asian pears and he planted about 1,000 of the trees more than a decade ago and just kept replacing the apple trees with Asian pear trees until that’s pretty much all they grow now. 

The couple are both locals and have been married for 27 years. They have two grown children who help out on the farm when they are home but mostly, it’s Beth and David who are the driving force behind the orchard. They’ve done a lot on the farm in terms of making a fun u-pick experience for guests since they first opened to the public three years ago and word has spread almost solely through word of mouth about how amazing their Asian pears are. 

Asian pear picking at Pilot Mountain Pears
Asian pears ripen on the tree

Why Asian Pears Are So Amazing

I love apples just as much as the next person but Asian pears are on a whole other level.  The Asian pears come from a tree native to East Asia and were originally eaten by the rich, noble people of China. Around 1850, the exotic fruit was brought to America by Chinese laborers. There are hundreds of varieties and you may hear them called apple pears, sand pears, Japanese pears, or Korean pears. 

The pears aren’t like regular pears that are literally ripe for ten minutes and then turn to mush. Asian pears last a lot longer, especially if you refrigerate them. They are juicy and sweet and delicious and crunchy. They are usually ripe when they turn a little past light brown but can also be eaten when they have a green color to them or light brown. 

U-Pick at Pilot Mountain 

With 5,000 Asian pear trees at Pilot Mountain Pears, you’ll have plenty of fruit to choose from. The farm grows mostly Olympic Asian pears, which are huge.

When you arrive at the farm, you’ll see the orchard store. Park there and you can go get a wagon or bag and if you’re really brave, you can grab a pick stick (a very long stick with a metal cage at the top to pick the highest fruit on the trees – also known as long swords for kids). 

You’ll be directed where to start your picking. Once you’re done, you go back to the store, where your amazing Asian pears will be weighed and you will pay for your goodies. 

They also sell fried apple pies like apple turnovers, apple slushies, and pear juice. I tried the Asian pear juice and whoa. Like, major whoa. This was the sweetest, but not too sweet, tangy, but not too tangy, most refreshing drink. You’ll want to drink it straight from the container. 

The store also has really cute tumblers, hats, pottery, shirts, and other fun stuff that you’ll probably want to take home to remember your awesome experience at Pilot Mountain Pears. 

Visiting Pilot Mountain Pears

The orchard opens to the public Friday, August 15, 2025 and will be open until October 12th. Hours are Fridays-Sundays from 10 am – 5 pm. Follow Pilot Mountain Pears on Facebook and check before you go to make sure they are sticking to their regular hours.

Prices for u-pick Asian pears are market price/pound. You can also purchase pre-picked pears. Admission to the u-pick orchard is $2/adult.

Farm store at Pilot Mountain Pears, Asian pears
Farm store

No pets are allowed in the orchard. There are porta-potties on the property. 

And if you want to hang out and eat all your Asian pears, fried apple pies, or drink your slushies, there are picnic tables behind the farm store that overlook the orchard with mountains on the horizon. It’s gorgeous. 

Nearby Things to Do 

Making a day trip to Hendersonville is one of our most favorite activities, so we have plenty of options for a fun day trip there: 

Black Bear Fall Tubing 

Go tubing down a giant hill at Black Bear Snow Tubing – but without the snow (that’ll come in the winter). Read our full review for all the details. 

Hike Bearwallow Mountain 

Bearwallow Mountain is easily one of our favorite family hikes because it’s not that hard and the views are unbeatable. It’s a 2-mile roundtrip hike and you get 360-degree views of the mountains. Bring up some Asian pears for a snack. 

Bearwallow Mountain in Hendersonville, NC
Bearwallow Mountain Summit

Play with Llamas

Ellaberry Llama Farm is super close to Pilot Mountain Pears and you can take a llama through an obstacle course or go on a hike with them. We love this farm!

Try a Free Activity

We have a whole story on free things to do in Hendersonville like the Air Museum, Mineral Museum, and Train Museum. 

Play with Some Goats

No story on Hendersonville is complete without me telling you that you can play with the goats at the Carl Sandburg Home for free. It’s a beautiful place for a hike as well. 

Eat at the Village Bakery

This small eatery in nearby Flat Rock has some pretty fantastic brick oven pizza and salads. They close at 5 pm so be sure to get there before closing. If they have any bread left over on their Day Old Bread shelf, grab it because it’s 50% off. 

Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC.

More ideas for things to do in Hendersonville are available at our Guide to Hendersonville, NC.

If you’re looking for more Asian pear orchards, there aren’t any! But if you’re looking for apple orchards in the area, see our big Guide to Apple Orchards in and near the Upstate.

Pilot Mountain Pears
Circle L Farm Dr, Hendersonville, North Carolina 28792
Pilot Mountain Facebook

Have you ever gone to an orchard for U-pick Asian Pears?

Float Down a Lazy River with Brevard Tubing in NC

Posted on by Kristina Hernandez |

Want to float on down a cool, lazy river over the summer? Then Brevard Tubing in Brevard, NC, about 90 minutes from Greenville, SC is just the place to do it. Thank you to Brevard Tubing for inviting us out to try tubing with them!

River tubing is a true favorite activity for my family over the summer and we go to Brevard, North Carolina often since it’s less than 90 minutes away and has some incredible waterfalls and hiking trails. I was thrilled to learn of Brevard Tubing, a tubing outfitter who opened the summer of 2023, and couldn’t wait to try out tubing with them in the French Broad River. They open for their 2025 season on May 24th.

About Brevard Tubing

Although only a couple years old, Brevard Tubing is already on their way to becoming a favorite of families and those looking for a fun time on the river during the summer due to its ideal location, all-access tubing pass, and family-friendliness.

Brevard Tubing was started by the same guy who founded Zion Tubing out in the national park in Utah. I had no idea this existed so now I’ve got a new goal whenever I can travel out to Zion National Park!

Tubes with Brevard Tubing
Tubes for your tubing run

Ideal Location

Brevard Tubing is located right along a calm section of the French Broad River not even a ten-minute drive from the entrance to Pisgah Forest. I really loved this because it’s not far from my favorite waterfalls, hiking trails, and brewery, which I’ll get to in a bit.

When you’re driving to Brevard Tubing, look for the big, pink tube at the gravel driveway and turn there. You’ll park in the small parking area, sign your waiver, get your life jacket if you want one (they are mandatory for kids ages 12 and under but adults can wear them if they want), and then get on the bus for the short drive to the put-in location on the river.

Also, I was impressed with how the owners of Brevard Tubing considered safety. The weather was pretty iffy the day we went with rain on and off but they checked the weather apps for lightening or any inclement weather right up until we got in the water. The weather held out for us but I appreciated how the owners took safety seriously.

Tubing the French Broad

I’ve tubed at a lot of places and this run was very calm. The rapids were really small and easy. There was only one larger one, which was more like some faster water over a few big rocks. If you’ve tubed the Green River, this was the complete opposite. This section of the French Broad is more like a lazy river. And the tubes all have bottoms so while you may get splashed, you won’t be in the water if you don’t want to be.

Both sides of the river during your tube run is on private property so you have to stay in the river except for the confluence of where the Davidson River pours into the French Broad. There’s a little rocky beach and swimming area that you can hang out at. You can also walk up the Davidson a little ways if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

The river, for the most part, was pretty shallow, about up to our waists. The initial drop in part was probably one of the deepest. Our kids fell in (or rather, intentionally tipped their tubes over) many times and were able to touch the bottom. Either way, kids have to wear a life jacket if they are 12 and under.

We didn’t see much wildlife except for a beautiful Blue Heron that checked us out and then flew over the river behind us. There are probably turtles around and *gasp* snakes (because, well, it’s the outdoors) but we didn’t see any. The water is chilly but not freezing. It felt great when we were in the direct sun and heat.

The entire tubing trip took us a little over an hour. Depending on river conditions, it could be more or less. But Brevard Tubing allows you to tube as many times as you want the day you go!

Booking Your Tubing Trip

You don’t need to book your trip beforehand. You can just show up, sign your waiver, pay, and get on the river. If you have a bigger group, give Brevard Tubing a call (828.515.3556) so they can prep the tubes and life jackets.

Tubing on the French Broad River
Look at how relaxing this is

Kids need to be 4-years-old to get on the river and kids ages 12 and under need to have a life jacket. Sandals or sneakers – basically shoes that will stay on your feet – are also required.

Based on our tubing experiences, it’s best to bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and a change of clothes. As of now, there aren’t changing rooms on site but they do have a porta-potty.

Tickets are $30/person and includes unlimited shuttle and tube rides. If you’re a NC local, your ticket is $25/person.

Hours are 9:30 am – 5 pm daily. The last tube drop is at 4 pm.

Things to do Nearby

There’s a lot to do nearby if you want to make it a day trip.

Looking Glass Falls

This roadside waterfall is a favorite of ours. Lots of people swim in the chilly waters so bring a towel and change of clothes if you’re feeling adventurous. There is no hiking to get here but there are lots of steps to go to the bottom.

Highway 276, Brevard, NC

Sliding Rock

This super popular natural waterslide gets packed over the summer. You slide down the slippery rockface into a pool below and then do it as many times as your cold body allows. They are open 10 am – 6 pm daily from May 23-September 1, 2025 and there are bathrooms, changing rooms, and lifeguards on site. During opening hours when staff is present, the cost is $5/person and kids under 3 are free.

Highway 276, Brevard, NC

The Cradle of Forestry

We love this cool spot in Pisgah Forest because you can learn all about the natural environment, history of the area, and explore hands-on activities. There is also a one-room schoolhouse and small village outdoors. Admission to the Cradle of Forestry is $10/ages 13+, $5/ages 4-12, $5/federal pass, and half price if you have the America the Beautiful Pass. For special events, sometimes there are extra fees and sometimes they are free. They are open Wednesday-Monday 10 am – 5 pm.

11250 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC

Sierra Nevada Brewery

The Biltmore of breweries, Sierra Nevada is very family-friendly with a small play area for kids outdoors, cornhole, lots of covered spaces to relax and enjoy music or the views, and delicious food and brews. It’s a little over 20 minutes from Brevard Tubing. Hours are Sunday – Thursday from 11 am – 9 pm, and Friday – Saturday from 11 am – 9 pm.

100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC

Downtown Brevard

You can shop, go gem mining, or explore the original O.P. Taylors in downtown Brevard. The town is downright adorable and is one of our favorites to wander around in.

Brevard Tubing
44-98 Everett Road, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

Have you been tubing yet with Brevard Tubing?

Where to go tubing near Greenville, SC and find great "tubing near me".

For more places to go tubing, check out our Guide to Tubing in NC, SC, GA, and TN.

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