Gone Glampin’

I love the outdoors. The fresh air, the wide open spaces, the opportunity of an exciting adventure at every turn. I see the joy on my kids’ faces as they explore nature, unabashed in all its glory. I could be outside all day, but when it comes to sleeping in the elements, the beautiful metaphors come to an end. I don’t like bugs and not having a bathroom nearby seems like a form of torture. I may love the earth, but I would rather visit the dentist than sleep in a tent on the earth’s floor.

Enter Glamping (glamorous camping). Glamping is my jam. It’s perfect for experiencing the outdoors from the comfort of home-like conditions.

We recently went glamping in Whitetail Woods Regional Park in Dakota County.

The cabin we rented for a nominal fee was quaint and simple

yet spacious enough that four of us didn’t feel cramped.

The surroundings were serene and tranquil

with a trail right outside our door

that led to a natural playground

where the boys played unassisted for two hours (2 hours!).

We watched the sun set over a quiet, still lake

and returned to our cabin to build a little fire.

When night fell, we retreated inside for a heated game of Bananagrams,

followed by a little Tenzi frenzy

before saying good night to the moon

and awakening to the beautiful warm sun and the sound of birds chirping

ready to start a new day, feeling refreshed and renewed.

Sometimes I wonder if all the time and energy spent planning these family adventures, packing and shlepping our belongings deep into the woods, is really worth it. That thought is quickly fleeting as I soon got confirmation of just how much we need these unplugged, special moments. My son sees this sign as we make our last turn to the campsite and exclaims

“Oh no, there’s no outlet to charge my iPhone!”

If you and your family would like to spend a night in nature with no outlets, you can reserve a cabin all year round right here.

Shine On-

Karri

PS – Kudos to you moms out there who can do real camping, you are my hero!