Lyndi and Darrin’s Mission to Make Franklin County Feel Like Home.

by | Sep 2023

BEAN ACRES Farm Camp, bordering Tims Ford Lake, located on 48 acres of family-owned farmland in Franklin County, has become a cherished haven for children over the past four years. Lyndi Bean and her husband, Darrin, turned her vision of a place where children could experience the simple joys of childhood into a reality. Bean Acres LLC is known for its stunning wedding venues, church camps, delightful celebrations, and enriching children’s summer camps that capture the hearts of families in Franklin County. 

The day at Bean Acres Farm Camp starts with a hearty breakfast prepared by Tullahoma Nutrition and delivered to the campers at 9 a.m. The schedule varies each day, offering a range of activities such as animal time, crafting, and engaging board games.

The farm houses various remarkable animals, including chickens, rabbits, cows, goats, ponies, and even a donkey. Interacting with these animals is a highlight for the children as they learn about the natural world around them. 

“I love seeing kids’ eyes light up when they feed a chicken for the first time or their first interaction with the animals,” Lyndi remarked. 

“I just love that the kids get to be kids and just be outside. When they go home, they’re dirty, sweaty, and stinky because we’re always outside. They get to be kids here on the farm.” 

Bean Acres LLC provides nutritious lunches and snacks to energize the young campers throughout the day. Afternoons are perfect for water games, particularly during the sweltering summers. The Beans are sure not to forget the educational aspect of Bean Acres Farm Camp, as they collaborate with community organizations such as the Franklin County Sheriff ’s Department, the Winchester Fire Department, Tims Ford State Park Rangers, Franklin County Soil Conservation, Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, and the Middle Tennessee Raptors, are only a few to mention. 

Photographed by Brooke Snyder.

“We invite anyone within the community to share their expertise with the farm campers,” she explained. 

“We want them to leave here not only with cherished memories but also with newfound knowledge learned at camp.” 

For Lyndi and Darrin, Bean Acres Farm is not just a venue but a testament to their love for Franklin County and commitment to making the community feel at home. Both having been born and raised in this tight-knit Southern haven, they couldn’t imagine calling any other place “home. 

The farm’s transformation from a humble plot of land to a cherished children’s paradise has been a journey of discovery for the couple. Despite not growing up on farms, they have introduced chickens, cows, goats, rabbits, and a donkey turning their family’s farm into a haven of something extraordinary while learning about farming themselves. 

The success of Bean Acres Farm Camp is measured not only by the joy it brings to the children but also by the outpouring of support from the community. Parents consistently praise the camp, sharing stories of their children’s newfound friendships and unforgettable experiences. 

Lyndi’s passion for children and dedication to their growth and happiness shine through every interaction. Her involvement in church activities and nonprofit organizations reflects her commitment to fostering the well-being of young hearts and minds. 

Photographed by Brooke Snyder.

“We’ve always loved kids, and this is a dream come true,” she said. 

“My husband had gone back to college to complete his business management degree. He had to write a business plan during his studies, and this was when we started discussing what business he would write about. So I started imagining my dream, and he started writing the business plan.” 

Children and families learn the transformative power of embracing life’s simple pleasures on Bean Acres Farm. Children relish muddy adventures, chase butterflies, and make lifelong friends at camp. 

Lyndi believes in allowing children to explore, get their hands dirty, jump in mud puddles, and enjoy being a kid. She encourages them to trust themselves, be self-reliant, and appreciate the wonders of nature. Families can come together to create lasting memories and celebrate milestones. 

The community lies at the heart of everything the Beans do. 

“Community, to me, is important. I love how our small community comes together, helps each other, and helps us provide an even more awesome experience for the kids during the summer. We provide the venue and animals while the community brings even more learning opportunities for the children,” Lyndi remarked. 

The children’s laughter and the parents’ contented sighs blend with the gentle rustling of leaves. In this enchanting corner of Franklin County, Lyndi and Darrin have nurtured a place where children’s dreams and the involvement of community members take flight, imaginations soar, and the indomitable spirit of Southern hospitality resides. They have made Franklin County feel like home for children and families, one magical summer at a time. GN 

More Good News

Legacy in Motion

Legacy in Motion

LEGACY. A term that has many definitions. It can be one’s money or assets, faith or values, or reputation. While it can mean so many things, what is important to remember about a person’s legacy is...

read more
Giving the gift of lights

Giving the gift of lights

JASON DAUGHERTY is a lover of Christmas. He enjoys the time of year when the family gets together and shares gifts and fellowship, along with the birth of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He not...

read more
Songs for the Season

Songs for the Season

OVER A century ago, the Festival of Lessons and Carols was introduced by the King’s College Chapel In Cambridge, England. According to the college’s website, the event was introduced in 1918 to...

read more
Bringing the Local Butcher Back

Bringing the Local Butcher Back

JEFF EBNER was riding his motorcycle on a hot Florida day when he stopped at a stoplight and noticed his shoe was stuck to the road. “I checked my shoe thinking I had stepped on a piece of chewing...

read more
Come Gather Here

Come Gather Here

CHEERS, THE Central Perk, Paddy’s Pub, MacLaren’s, and Monk’s Cafe. What do they all have in common? They are all iconic gathering places. Places that came into our lives each week, via our...

read more
The art of Preserving History

The art of Preserving History

PAINTERS CREATE with oils, pastels and watercolor. Sculptures work with clay, stone, and wood, and musicians experiment with melody, harmony, rhythm, and form. Each of these types of artists work...

read more
Remembering those who served

Remembering those who served

MY GRANDFATHER was a World War II veteran. He served as a staff sergeant for the United States military. He woke each morning and raised the American Flag, displaying it proudly from a front yard...

read more
The good stuff takes time.

The good stuff takes time.

MARTHA CAROL Luttrell, more commonly referred to as MC Luttrell, has played a foundational role in organizing a community outreach event in Franklin County over the last several years. Her tireless...

read more
Juneteenth

Juneteenth

“FREEDOM” enters the chatroom, and immediately it’s all, barbecued meat and who’s got the biggest bang of a firework show. While Independence Day is our nation’s designated time to pause and...

read more
Training for success

Training for success

Α NEW DOG, we imagine, would be a wonderful addition to our homes. We immediately picture wet kisses and cold evening cuddles. We see the perfect spot for his bed in the living room corner and...

read more
Licenses and Learning

Licenses and Learning

POWERBOATS, HOUSEBOATS, jet skis, jon boats, and even sailboats all make appearances at the annual Spirit of America Youth Boating Camp on Tims Ford Lake.  As the interest in water recreation...

read more
Juneteenth

For God and Country

FRANKLIN COUNTY residents have a long history of service to their country. It’s a history still being uncovered and honored through the Franklin County Veterans Flag Memorial, an American Legion...

read more