Summer Camp

Mosquitoes and humidity come to mind when I recall summer camp, but I didn’t have the fortune of growing up in Asheville, N.C. Tucked into the Appalachian Mountains, this Western North Carolina town is active and only a short drive to adventure and full of history. When the mercury rises, the chilly mountain waters and outdoor adventures are natural magnets for explorers like me.
Start off by splashing around at Sliding Rock near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mother Nature built her own pool and 50 foot slide that’s now a part of the Pisgah National Forest. The place gets packed, so be sure to arrive early. Also, wear old clothes and some type of protection for your feet. The entrance fee is $1 per person; kids 6 and younger are free.

Tubing is a little more adventurous, and many of the river outfitter companies offer trips on local rivers. They also offer plenty of adventure for when bobbing along isn’t enough fun. Be prepared to get drenched while whitewater rafting. The French Broad River is the closest river for whitewater rafting, and it’s only about a 3- minute drive from Asheville.
After a day of adventure, check into a cheap Asheville hotel. You’ll be happy that you’ll have a nice warm bed and a hot shower after being sprayed by buckets of water.