Camping at Creekside Mountain Camping has become something of a pastime for my friends and me.

I think we tend to make it there at least 2 times per year, and that’s been for about the past four years. The later, hot summer months bring tubing down the Green River, but the spring months bring chilly nights and relaxing, temperate days.

But. Before getting to the campsite, we get the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful drive up the mountains and through Lake Lure and Chimney Rock; a drive that should definitely be on your list if you’ve never been. The wildflowers were in bloom, and I finally got a good shot of this great old building with old 7up and Pepsi murals on the sides.

The lake is great. There are plenty of things to do, from renting paddle boats, hanging at the beach, hiking along the shoreline paths, eating at a lakeside restaurant, or heading into the many small mom-and-pop country shops to check out the goods. Ice cream, barbecue, hot dogs, burgers, and awesome breakfasts are also found up and down the strip.

And there’s a great one-lane bridge in the middle of town where you have views up and down the river. The river is accessible at almost any entry point, and there are always plenty of people enjoying the cool waters.

OK. So after going through Chimney Rock, it’s up the mountain a few miles, past the apple cider mill, and up to Creekside Mountain Camping. On the way, make sure to stop at the little house that sells the chainsaw carved statues of bears, etc. If you’re interested, just leave your money in the “honesty” box and take the statue with you!

The campgrounds have group sites, cabins (great for a date, I’m sure), and plenty of tent space. We usually bunk up right next to the creek, quite literally, with only about 10-15 feet between us and the water. The sound of rushing water when you’re crashing in the cool night are perfect for washing away the stress of “real” life in the city.

I was lucky enough to have Lisa (above), Joy, Shelley, and of course the Bro-Dog as my company for the weekend. After missing the bus, since I was having a new clutch put in the Jeep, Bro and I finally made it up around 9:30 Friday night. Worth the trip. Below, you see what happens when I’m in charge of the fire. Fear ensues for Shelley and Joy, then they have to sit REALLLLY far away as not to get scorched. My bad.

Shelley made some wicked tasty pizzas, and later we had monster burgs. I topped mine with a grilled portobello and a tasty tomato, like triple cheese, then about threw out my jaw biting down on that beast. Worth the lockjaw.

Well. We pretty much did nothing for 36 hours but sit by the fire, cook, drink some beers, and play some bocce. All in all, a perfect day in the mountains!

Oh. And the hyper Bro-Dog actually lay down in the back of the Jeep for about 3 minutes on the way back. This is actually pretty rare, since it’s a bumpy ride. He’s a good Bro-Dog.

See you out there!