Chirp chirp chirp echoes the sound of nature’s sweet- est alarm clock. Groggily, you begin to stir from a deep sleep, almost forgetting where you are. Then, it dawns on you. Whooo hoo! Excitement acts as a spring, rais- ing you up from your sleeping bag.You remember that you and your family are on a camping trip! Crawling over to the tent’s opening, you fill with anticipation of what the day will bring. Ziiiipp zzzzziip ziip.
A deep breath in, another one out. Mmmm aaah- hh. Waking up at a campground brings that same rousing feeling, present on Christmas mornings. Un- zipping the tent can feel like unwrapping a gift that keeps giving. Will the sky be pink and purple? Or will it be dark and misty, filled with low-lying rain clouds? Will the sun already be up, bringing warmth all around? Whatever is on the other side of this tent will be a gift. Because out in nature, every second is a new moment for discovery.
Hardly a step outside of the tent, and already you’re struck with a mouth-watering smell. Someone is cooking bacon over an open flame a few campsites up. After rounding up the kids and a few quick bites, it’s officially go-time for an epic staycation at Man- chester KOA Campground.
Nicknamed “The Secret Smokies,” this camp- ground provides many of the same opportunities that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park does without all of the additional drive time. Locals are fortunate to experience the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau right here in Coffee County. There is truly some- thing for everyone in the family, including access to caves, waterfalls, nature trails, a natural bridge arch, a fishing pond, and ample lawn games. More specific to chil- dren, the campground is equipped with a large playground, a pool with exhilarating waterslides, a splash pad, a sandpit, a jump pad, and many other fun outdoor activities and games. Watch your children light up with joy as they catch their first fish out at the pond, or spend the morning on the nature trail having sweet conversation with your significant other. Whatever you decide to do, you are guaranteed to have a blast during a staycation at Manchester KOA, where fun is just a short trip down the road.
Lodging at the campground is just as pleasure-filled as the recreation. The more primitive campsites exist as a haven for those who want to connect with nature and camp in tents. For those whose backs might not survive a night on the ground, there are vari- ous ways to lodge. Choose from cabins, teepees, safari tents, and even covered wagons. Or, if you like to sleep in your own bed, hookups are available for RVs, campers, and trailers. Of course, all guests have access to im- peccably clean bathhouses and common areas. Whether you desire to relax with family and friends or simply enjoy the great outdoors, you won’t be sorry if you let Manchester KOA be the next place you gather. Come create unforgettable memories. The possibilities are endless for an adventure-filled stay at Man- chester KOA Campground. -GN
