by Helena Oliviero / © 2021, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Now is a glorious time for enjoying the outdoors—going on hikes, roasting marshmallows and maybe even sleeping under the stars.
For those wanting to unplug and reconnect with nature without having to rough it (at all), “glamping”—or glamorous camping—may be just right.
[The state of] Georgia is home to several destinations where you can cozy up with nature without sacrificing the comforts of home.
Here’s a look at four of them:
Candlelight Forest treehouses in Chickamauga
Candlelight Forest, situated on 200 acres of hardwood canopies and a meandering creek, is home to two cozy treehouses nestled in the woods. These treehouses are ideal for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors but maintain [their] creature comforts.
Sophie’s Roost and Le Petit Chateau treehouses sleep up to six people, and each features two bedroom nooks, 1½ baths, outdoor kitchenettes with gas grills, running water and decks with spectacular views. Inside, you’ll find a coffeemaker, mini fridge and microwave.
Unwind, unplug and enjoy a wide range of activities, from movies projected on tree-hung sheets to late-night s’mores and treasure hunts. You also will find a hammock cove, a seasonal farm stand and a lake for canoeing and paddleboarding. Check in at an old-fashioned candy store. Rates start around $200 [per night].
thecandlelightforest.com
Yurts at Sweetwater and other state parks
The yurt concept is more than 2,400 years old. But the round, rustic abodes now are a popular glamping trend across the [U.S.], and Atlanta’s closest state park, Sweetwater Creek, is home to 10 yurts.
About a 30-minute drive from Atlanta, in Lithia Springs, the yurts are tucked away in a quiet, wooded section of the park. Made of wood and canvas, the yurts sleep up to six people and come with beds, futons, screened windows and locking doors, as well as an outside deck, picnic table and grill/fire ring. There are no bathrooms inside the yurts at Sweetwater Creek, but clean bathroom facilities are nearby in the yurt village.
Yurt reservations at Sweetwater Creek begin at $95 per night.
gastateparks.org/SweetwaterCreek
...
Visit The Atlanta Journal-Constitution online.
