Summer Solstice Camping Weekend in the Smokies
June 23 @ 7:00 pm - June 25 @ 11:00 am
Situated in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges, with pristine mountain streams and rivers. At 2,200 feet, Smokemont Campground provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia.
Summer Solstice is June 21st – a perfect time to enjoy the Smokies where temperatures are about 10 degrees cooler than the valley. Enjoy a relaxing weekend in a beautiful place! We will be camping in Group Campsite #1; I have extra tents/gear for borrowing – select that option on the registration form.
SCHEDULE (all events in EST and subject to adjustment):
FRIDAY: arrive and set-up camp no later than 7pEST; dinner is included at 7pEST (assorted sides, hot dogs, etc)
800-900p: National Park Team Trivia with Prizes
SATURDAY: breakfast on your own
1000a: hike from the campground to the waterfall – about 1.5 miles one way, rated easy
Noon: lunch provided – build your own sandwiches/wraps with chips/dip and fruit
1-3p: free time — optional horseback riding (additional $40 per person paid ONSITE to the outfitter) or there are longer hiking trails from the campground you can explore
3-5p: Team Games with prizes! Make sure you bring shoes to walk/run!
530p: Pasta dinner with salad, garlic bread, etc (meal items assigned after registrations)
730p: Summer Solstice Celebration (solstice logs, face paints, etc)
SATURDAY:
5a: carpool to Newfound Gap for sunrise 615a (it is so worth getting up this early — sunrise over the mountains is incredible)
8a: group breakfast (items will be assigned after registration)
10-11a: Break camp and head out
CAMPING GEAR: you must bring your own gear (tent, etc) or borrow available group gear– no electrical hookups available. Please keep in mind the GSMNP is in a rainforest so there is always the possibility of light rain showers — this is what makes the park such a special place so be prepared to enjoy! Bring layers and jackets — this time of year the evening/night temperatures can dip into the 50s with daytime temps in the high 70s or low 80s.
GROUP MEALS: assigned after registration
UTENSILS: please bring reusable utensils for yourself — absolutely no plastic anything! Paper napkins/towels will be provided.
Dogs: No
Children: No
Cost: $38 per person (includes campsite reservation at group site, Friday Night dinner/Sat Lunch, solstice things, and campout swag bag)
NOTE: each attendee must contribute 1-2 bundle of firewood (MUST purchase onsite for $7-8 per bundle — park rules)
****REGISTER/PAY HERE****