While the vast majority of today’s kids use a computer, watch TV, or play video games on a daily basis, only about 10 percent say they are spending time outdoors every day, according to a 2011 nationwide poll from The Nature Conservancy.
Let's say you want to get started camping. How do you begin without a big investment in gear?
The KOA in Cherokee, NC has plenty of cabins to get you started. Some with kitchens, bathrooms and linens, some more spartan, where you bring your own linens and use the nearby bathhouse. Perfect way to make the transition to camping for those who've never done it before.
Going camping at this particular KOA is a great start to experiencing an "outdoors life" thanks to these amenities and activities:
Two swimming pools, a splash pad and hot tub
The Raven Fork River runs right alongside the cabins. Bring your own tubes or rent them from KOA
Putt putt course
Jump on the giant pillow
Participate in a full calendar of activities put together by KOA including arts and crafts, nature programs and sports
Cook your own meals or buy them at the KOA grill
Play cards and board games with your family instead of vegging out with electronics
Roast marshmallows
Catch fireflies
Rent bikes or bring your own
Go fishing
If you want to enjoy the amenities of Cherokee you can drive down to them yourself or let KOA handle your transportation. Free.
ABOUT CHEROKEE
Cherokee is named for the Native Americans who have lived in the region for over 11,000 years. Although you’ll hear people refer to their tribal lands as the “Cherokee Reservation,” the proper term is the “Qualla Boundary.” The Boundary is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and defines lands held in trust by the federal government for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, a sovereign nation.
