“Mom, the stars,” my middle schooler said. I’m still savoring the peace of that moment as we enjoyed the night sky together this past weekend. You see, he and I are learning how to navigate the highs and lows and tug-of-wars that come with adolescence right now. We even boldly explored the haunted trail together the next evening. Not going to lie: my throat was sore from screaming. Dad’s on duty next year while I take our younger one to the Haunted Museum instead.
Maybe your family is like ours, and a getaway to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is just what’s needed too. Peak season may be June 11 – August 14, but there is still plenty to do during the camp resort’s “Spooky Season” and upcoming holiday months.
In fact, spots are filling up quickly for the final Halloween weekend. This is a don’t-miss for your little ghouls and boys, especially those who love a thrill. From trick-or-treating around the park to a costume contest and pumpkin-themed arts and crafts, the events schedule is abundant. The water park and lakefront zipline are even still open.
Start to finish, Saturday was a frighteningly fun day for my crew. After enjoying some doughnuts and coffee from our glamping post, we enjoyed a full breakfast at Scout’s Table –– finishing just in time to catch the golf cart parade (Watch out, fellow campers, because we are bringing our A game next year!) All fueled up, we headed out for some mini golf and gem mining.
Then it was time to enjoy the water park, some tasty treats, and a zip line into the lake. I am honestly not sure who had the most fun (the kids watching a 5-year-old corner me with water spray spouts or Dad and me racing down the slides.) The kids, who are at quarrelsome age, even got along most of the time while building loft forts, hiking around the hills, sneaking candy, and playing Gaga ball. That fact, and the crisp air, were pretty refreshing.
Before we hit the haunted trail, dinner was fireside, once again under the stars, with some charcoal-grilled brats and gooey s’mores for dessert. We were exhausted that evening and still didn’t get to do everything the park had to offer.
Book now bonus! Leaf season is gaining momentum a little late, so you’ll still be able to spot the fall foliage. Take in the view during the idyllic countryside drive to the resort or from the tranquility of a screened porch. Perhaps your crew would like to watch the sunset while grilling as the 
kids enjoy the jump pad. Maybe you’re like us and would have fun puttering up the ridge golf cart-style to take in the view. Whatever vantage point you choose, Blue Ridge Mountain beauty is hard to beat.
Give a gift that lasts: If you’ve been fretting about the supply chain when it comes to gift-giving this season, a getaway to the park for your family either during the holiday season or as a 2022 adventure is an excellent solution. Time away as a family to build memories and learn more about each other is priceless.
November: 11/5-11/28 All-Stars & Athletes Weekends
December: 12/3-1/2 Holiday Cheer Weekends
Get Smarty, and reserve your family’s spot today. The mountains are calling…
YOGI BEAR’S JELLYSTONE PARK CAMP-RESORT
182 Jellystone Pkwy Bostic, NC 28018
828-537-0273
