Contain Yourself (in a tiny house container village, that is!)

In the days of reduce, reuse, and recycle, the concept of repurposing just about anything you can is definitely a priority. If you glamp, you must love the outdoors so the idea of lessening your carbon footprint is probably something you look to do as often as you can. When tiny homes came on the scene as glamping options, they made perfect sense to an outdoor lover who also embraced the minimalist lifestyle. The tiny home lifestyle takes advantage of every possible square inch of space in these unique glamping accommodations – from horizontal to vertical, everything had a purpose. Plus, the settings were pretty great, too!

Enter the tiny house container village as the newest trend (and one that makes perfect eco-sense) in glamping accommodations. Shipping containers are rugged and durable and are finding a new purpose after “retirement” as the latest in accommodations for the outdoor and sustainability enthusiast. Shipping containers are often single use, meaning once they arrive, it’s not economical to ship them across the ocean for a second voyage. These shipping containers are looking for a second life, and being repurposed as a tiny house is a great way to bring them to life…again. And just like our tiny homes, they’re perfectly appointed with all the amenities you can ask for including kitchens, bathrooms, cozy sleeping spaces, and living areas. They are now an option when you choose to glamp at Wisconsin’s Yukon Trails.

Tiny House Container Village at Yukon Trails

Welcome our very first container clan, the Tiny House Container Village at Yukon Trails. Introducing Barrett, Brooks, Sienna, Wren, and Sylvan. All have kitchens and full bathrooms and all but Barrett, sleep 4 while Barrett comfortably sleeps 2. Rentals begin May 23 so come check out our newest, coolest, containers at the open house event on May 20, 2023.

The wooded wonderland that is Yukon Trails is near all the fun of the Wisconsin Dells, the award-wining Driftless Glen Distillery in Baraboo, and Mirror Lake State Park, which is great for hiking, fishing, and biking. Yukon Trails itself features a fish fry every Friday, and a jam packed activity schedule all season long.

Meet our newest accommodations below!

Meet Sienna - Sunset Chaser - A Petite Retreat


Meet Sienna: A bit of a night owl, Sienna comes alive as the sun begins to set. She has a bright personality and a warm demeanor, making everyone she comes across feel seen and heard. She has a penchant for color and design, and incorporates this into both her wardrobe and her home, as well as her friends’ through giving them little gifts and decorative items for their own spaces. Her favorite time of day is dusk, and in the summertime, she makes it a habit to watch the sun set, and the fireflies come out to light up the sky. To Sienna, dusk marks the end of the work day and the beginning of her time to live life on her own terms. As soon as the sun is set and the stars are out, you can often find her putting a record on her old record player, flipping through design books and websites, and rearranging furniture in her home. This cozy charmer sleeps 4. Book your stay in Sienna.

Meet Brooks - Water Lover - A Petite Retreat


Meet Brooks: From kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, to the adventurous rafting and wakeboarding, a day out on the water is a day well spent for Brooks. His love affair with water sports began as soon as he started taking swim lessons and shortly thereafter began begging to go to the pool and water parks every day, even in the rain. He kicks off each day with a swim to wake himself up and start the day off on the right foot. Brooks is a goal setter and is likely training for his next big race, and his ambitions have taken him far in life. He is a determined leader who knows how to motivate his team and bring people from all walks of life together. Brooks’ demeanor has a quiet confidence, making him both trustworthy and easy to be around. When he’s not out on the water, he’s likely playing intramural sports with his friends, or planning his next trip to coincide with a race. Brooks sleeps 4. Book your stay in Brooks.

Meet Barrett - Curious Explorer - A Petite Retreat


Meet Barrett: Fiercely protective of his friends and family, Barrett is strong, thoughtful, and courageous. He enjoys hiking and going off the beaten path both in life and in his travels. Though he can be hardheaded in some aspects of life, those closest to Barrett know he makes decisions with his heart and is a real softie when it comes to his family (including his dog). Barrett is extremely intelligent and introspective, which has treated him well in life, specifically when he takes the road less traveled. He believes there is always something to learn, and his natural curiosity has served him well in his travels, explorations, and relationships. Barrett welcomes challenges in his life and views them as an opportunity to grow. His courage knows no bounds and many turn to him when they need inspiration or a reminder of their own strength. The tiniest of the containers, Barrett sleeps 2. Book your stay in Barrett.

Meet Wren - Plant Enthusiast - A Petite Retreat


Meet Wren: Wren is a true songbird, always singing her favorite song or making one up as she goes about her day. Her friends and family often let her know she’s humming out loud before she’s even realized she’s doing it. Aside from singing, Wren has a love for flowers and the outdoors. She is constantly trying to figure out ways to bring the outdoors in. Taking full advantage of the natural light in her home, Wren fills shelves and nooks with her favorite plants, nurturing them and helping them thrive, and always keeps a centerpiece of fresh flowers on her kitchen table. Her maternal instincts are second to none and she forever knows just the right thing to say, whether someone needs a judgement-free listening ear or a touch of tough love. She is a busy body and chooses movement over stillness, flitting from one responsibility to the next, filling her calendar with friend catch ups, volunteering opportunities, or gardening. Wren can accommodate 4 guests. Book your stay in Wren.

Meet Sylvan - Loyal Friend - A Petite Retreat


Meet Sylvan: Sylvan is stoic and loyal. He is someone who can be called on in a moment’s notice and not just arrive, but truly show up in every sense of the word. He is patient and grounded, which serves him well and has allowed him to make his hobby of woodworking and carpentry into a full-time job. Sylvan prides himself on staying connected with nature, through regular hikes and familiarizing himself with the various species of wood he’s working with. He strives to give a second life to the trees and turns them into pieces and fixtures that will live on for centuries to come. Sylvan is steadfast in his passion for the great outdoors and aims to respect nature through the food he eats and the lifestyle he lives. His goal in life is to limit his footprint while he forges his own path, and to breathe in as much fresh air as he can each day. This tiny house vacation rental sleeps 4. Book your stay in Sylvan.

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5 of The Most Beautiful Places in America

There are all kinds of lists when it comes to the most beautiful places in America. Some are based simply on the natural scenery (think the Texas Hill Country during the bluebonnets bloom time or the colorful fall foliage along the Kancamagus Highway come autumn) while others focus on the charm a specific place exudes like the Bavarian-styled Leavenworth, Washington, or the iconic New England villages dotting the Berkshires in Massachusetts. Whatever the reason, it cannot be disputed that America is indeed America the Beautiful. We’ve listed a few to check out when glamping with Petite Retreats.

Lake Tahoe (California): Lake Tahoe made busytourist.com’s list which cites the sheer beauty of this freshwater lake as the reason. The waters of this 22-mile long lake are crystal clear and because of the roughly 1,600-foot depth, the colors of the water range from green-blue to dark navy blue. Surrounded by the snow-capped Sierras, the lake is a sight to behold. Book a cozy cabin or cottage at Tahoe Valley and explore the area. Emerald Bay is said to be the most beautiful spot within this beautiful location.

Thor’s Well (Oregon): Can a sinkhole be beautiful? Oregon’s Thor’s Well certainly proves the possibility. This 20-foot deep sinkhole that is believed to be a collapsed sea cave is a sight to be seen. Not only are the ocean views amazing, but come high tide, waves cause a violent spray to come out of the top. Stay in your choice of a cottage or cabin at nearby Thousand Trails Whalers Rest and take a drive south down the coast to see this natural phenomenon.

Skagit Valley Tulips (Washington): Come spring, the Skagit Valley in Washington State comes alive with color as more than 300 acres of tulips are in bloom. There is an annual Tulip Festival that runs from April to early May (tulipfestival.org). Book a glamping cabin at Thousand Trails La Conner to take in this beautiful blooming location.

Cottages at Narrows Too Camping Resort
Cottages at Narrows Too Camping Resort

Acadia National Park (Maine): The rocky shores, the granite peaks, soaring trees, several ponds, and wildlife combine to make this New England national park one of the most beautiful places in the country. Stay in a glamping cabin at Mt. Desert Narrows or Narrows Too in our Bar Harbor location and enjoy the scenic Acadia National Park.

Hamilton Pool Preserve (Texas): An historic watering hole in Texas makes the list thanks to the emerald green waters of Hamilton Pool Preserve which is fed by a 50-foot waterfall and nested at the basin of a limestone grotto. Definitely worth a visit – so plan to check it out and reserve a cabin at Thousand Trails Medina Lake which is about 40 miles away.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take This Year

Think about this – as of February 1, summer is still roughly 140 days away. Spring break is closer but it seems like everyone is traveling at the same during spring break getaways so fighting crowds could be a downside there. Ok…so what do you do? Enjoy the weekend getaway, as often as you like! These quick trip options may just be the travel fix you need after a long work week and before you can take a long extended getaway that, as we figure, is still about 20-plus weeks away!

Pacific City RV & Camping Resort Yurt
Thousand Trails Pacific City RV & Camping Resort

Leave the city behind and head to the beach with a quick getaway from Portland to Thousand Trails Pacific City RV & Camping Resort. Glamp in a relaxing yurt accommodation here and plan to commune with the nature found in this great Oregon Coast setting. Wanna whale watch? Mark your calendar for the week of March 24 which is when Whale Watching Week 2023 begins along the coast. Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot for birding, wildlife watching and hiking as several trails here are open year-round. Take a drive to the Tillamook Cheese Factory and enjoy ice cream or that big wheel of cheese you’ve been dreaming of! Or, just walk the beach and watch the waves crash against the rocks! Pretty neat weekend getaway for sure.

Natchez Trace Tiny House Village
Natchez Trace Tiny House Village

The Natchez Trace Tiny House Village is about a five-hour drive from major cities like Cincinnati and Indianapolis. That’s not a bad little road trip to find the relaxation of these southern charming glamping accommodations and the southern hospitality found in all the nearby attractions. With Natchez Trace as your home base, you can do big city fun in Nashville or enjoy small town charmers like Leiper’s Fork and Franklin. Nashville highlights include the Country Music Hall of Fame, the classic Ryman Auditorium and the great honky-tonks and eateries found in the city’s Broadway Historic District. Leiper’s Fork has don’t-miss barbeque and biscuits at Fox & Locke and an eclectic assortment of shops, plus the Leiper’s Fork Distillery, featuring Tennessee spirits. Franklin offers a Saturday Farmer’s Market, the Franklin on Foot walking tour, which is a great way to the town’s historical sites and plenty of shopping and eating options.

If you’re lucky enough to call any of the major cities in the Sunshine State home, you are at least blessed with plenty of regular sunshine. But all sun and no play, can make for some dull weekends, so we suggest a getaway to a colorful cottage at Encore Tropical Palms Resort in Kissimmee (conveniently located only a mini-road trip away from points like Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa/St. Pete and Sarasota.) Because the weather cooperates most days, outdoor fun is definitely doable here. Paddle Shingle Creek in a kayak, swim with the manatees on a guided tour of the Crystal River, or bike the many trails in the area. Shingle Creek in fact has a great trail for pedestrians and cyclists – the Shingle Creek Regional Trail. If kitsch is on the menu – consider visiting Gatorland or Eli’s Orange World, both of which are worthy of some great shots to share on all things social media! Of course, there are the major theme parks if you want to feel like a kid again and upcoming local festivals include EPCOT’s International Flower and Garden Festival (begins March 1) and the Orlando Wine Festival is set for March 24-26.

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Holiday Glamping – How Festive!

Give yourself the gift of glamping this winter and take a trip to a location that offers plenty of holiday festivities as well as winter fun. Consider these glamping spots:

Leavenworth, Washington: This charming town in Washington State ranked as one of the top 25 Festive Christmas Towns in America, according to House Beautiful magazine. First thing on the holiday to-do list is make a reservation for one of the charming tiny houses at Leavenworth Tiny House Village and get set to make merry. One unique holiday experience would be a visit to the Nutcracker Museum that displays 7000 nutcrackers from over 50 countries. And of course, a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm puts you up close and personal with distant kin of Dancer, Prancer, and the whole team that guides Santa’s sleigh. To enjoy all the fluffy white stuff (Leavenworth averages 89 inches of snow in winter), consider snowshoeing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, sledding, and skiing. Check out Leavenworth.org for more info on outdoor sports. Downtown Leavenworth does not disappoint with its twinkling lights and perfect setting for browsing the shops and wine tasting, among the snow-capped mountain backdrop.

St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida: According to travelawaits.com, St. Augustine, Florida, is a great place to spend the holidays. The reasons include plenty of twinkling lights (more than 3 million!), festive decorations and all kinds of special events. Starting with the Nights of Lights, which runs through January 31, 2023, and offers great selfie opportunities so you can be the centerpiece of the all the dazzle. Two of the best spots for the shots include the Bridge of Lions and the Plaza de la Constitucion. Rent a cabin or cottage at Bulow and enjoy the Florida sun in winter, holiday shopping in St. Augustine or the nearby St. Augustine Premium Outlets, and the Lighthouse Illuminations exhibit at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which runs through January 14.

Santa Barbara, California: ZooLights, the Santa Barbara Zoo’s holiday lights display features more than 50,000 LED bulbs lighting up a spectacular animal adventure, holiday-style. Illuminated lanterns showcase the animals and nature scenes representing wild places from around the world. The 36th Annual Parade of Lights at The Harbor takes place on December 11 and several holiday pop-up markets will be open throughout the month where you can find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Makers & Wares Market in downtown Santa Barbara and Yes Store at the La Arcada Shopping Center are just two of these great markets to browse. Check out the glamping accommodations at Rancho Oso and get set for some great glamping to kickoff the holiday season.

Rancho Oso Cabin
Rancho Oso Cabin

Dallas, Texas: If everything is bigger in Texas, then it stands to reason that holiday events are crazy big, too. Book a glamping cabin at Bay Landing and check out how the Big D does the holidays. Enchant Christmas Dallas seems like one-stop shopping for holiday fun. In addition to the interactive light maze adventure, there is also ice-skating, a holiday marketplace, live entertainment, and the Tipsy Tree Lounge with all kinds of holiday spirits (the drinking kind, that is)! What’s a holiday celebration without food? If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy the Downtown Lights Holiday Foodie Tour, a curated food tour through downtown Dallas. You can eat, drink, and enjoy the “Merry Everything” holiday lights and displays.

Cabins at Bay Landing RV Campground
Bay Landing RV Campground

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Reasons to be Thankful for Glamping

If you became a camper by way of the glamping trend, you know that there is plenty to be thankful for when it comes to glamping. There’s a bit more of a solid structure to keep you comfy and cozy at night, there are some pretty neat glamping accommodation options in some pretty fun locations, there’s no need to arrive before dark so you can set up camp, and the list goes on. Here are a few more things to be thankful for when it comes to glamping with Petite Retreats.

Yurts: What makes a yurt so great is its spaciousness. Most yurts can easily accommodate six people, so they are great for family trips as well as getting together with your best glamping group. Plus, they are totally cool – there’s no denying that. You’ve got a sturdy canvas roof overhead, plenty of room to socialize indoors and out, plus amenities you can’t find in a tent, like mini kitchens, ceiling fans and cable TVs! Petite Retreat yurt accommodations can be found in California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Tiny Houses: The tiny house trend is only getting bigger as glampers find that these “home away from home” accommodations have everything you need for a perfect glamping adventure. First off, Petite Retreats’ tiny house locations are near some of the most popular travel destinations like Nashville, Tennessee, Oregon’s Mt. Hood area, Washington State’s Bavarian-styled charming town of Leavenworth, Boston’s quintessential New England towns, the vortexes of Sedona, Arizona, and the Florida Keys. Secondly, the Petite Retreat tiny homes are perfectly appointed from hip décor to the amenities like kitchens and full bathrooms! All you need to do is pick a location, settle in and check out these great areas, knowing that your comfortable tiny house awaits you at the end of a long day exploring.

Leavenworth Tiny House Village
Leavenworth Tiny House Village

Variety: If you’ve done the tiny house or the yurt glamp, there are still a lot more choices – including the unique tepee, glamping tent, and covered wagon options available at some of our California locations. Plus, there are cabins and cottages in great locations around the country. Want to experience a glamping trip in the mountains? Check out the two Lake George, New York, locations or Tuxbury Pond in New Hampshire. How about glamping near Maine’s charming Bar Harbor or the bucolic Pennsylvania Dutch Country? Our glamping accommodations are the spice of outdoor life! 

Rancho Oso RV Campground
Rancho Oso RV Campground

Location to Events and Attractions: Always wanted to experience Coachella? Book a stay at Palm Springs. Have you been wanting to see just how crazy Key West’s Hemingway Days can get? Book a stay at one of Petite Retreats’ Keys locations. How about touring Nashville’s historic Ryman Theater and taking in a show or indulging in a fried bologna sandwich at Robert’s Western World? Nashville glamping is possible with a reservation at the Natchez Trace Tiny House Village. Are healing vibes and great hikes on the agenda? Verde Valley can accommodate a Sedona glamping adventure. Check out petiteretreats.com and find your perfect glamping location.

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4 Sweet Petite Retreats

Did you know the original recipients of the gift-giving and acts of kindness on the first Sweetest Day was not necessarily romantic partners? The story goes the gentleman who came up with idea, Herbert Birch Kingston, an advertising man for a Cleveland-based candy company, did so with orphans and the elderly in mind. Sweetest Day is recognized on the third Saturday of October. So, whether you choose to celebrate with a sweetheart, or instead show someone a random act of kindness by perhaps taking them glamping, check out these sweet Petite Retreats that are perfect for an October getaway.

Bend-Sunriver Yurt
Bend-Sunriver Yurt

Bend-Sunriver RV Campground: Rent a cottage, cabin, or yurt at Bend-Sunriver and experience the beauty of Bend. Hike, mountain-bike, drink some brews, and enjoy the charm of downtown Bend. There’s also the Bend Ale Trail and Smith Rock State Park, which offers 12 hiking trails and stunning views. An interesting adventure would be a visit to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument where you can explore a lava tube or walk the Trail of Molten Lava.

Palm Springs RV Resort
Palm Springs RV Resort

Palm Springs RV Resort: Here’s an idea for a random act of kindness – take yourself hiking in the beautiful desert lands of Palm Springs. Book a colorful cottage (guaranteed to make you smile) at Palm Springs RV Resort and be kind to yourself (and whoever you choose to take along on your adventure). Get in touch with your artistic side with a visit to the Palm Springs Art Museum. Find out about good things for our environment with a visit to the San Gorgonio Wind Farm or book a Jeep Tour through Joshua Tree National Park and soak up the healing vibes.  

Pacific City RV & Camping Resort: Let the Oregon coast be your sweet spot this October and book a cozy cabin at Pacific City. Walk the beach and listen to the rolling waves or drive into Tillamook and check out the Tillamook Creamery and enjoy a free cheese factory tour with samples! Take a leisurely drive on the Three Capes Scenic Loop and don’t miss the Octopus Tree, a roughly 300-year-old Sitka Spruce and the iconic, and definitely photo-worthy, Cape Meares Lighthouse.

Circle M RV & Camping Resort: Take your heart to the heart of Amish Country with a visit to Pennsylvania’s charming Lancaster County. Book the perfect glamping cottage or yurt at Circle M and get ready to be charmed by a simpler way of life. Take a guided buggy ride through the countryside, visit the Amish Farm & House to learn the Amish ways, or learn how to twist a pretzel at the Julian Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. Stroll downtown Lititz and see what the unique shops have to offer and check out the town’s Wolf Sanctuary (wolfsanctuarypa.org).  For those looking to make their trip to Pennsylvania extra sweet, a stop by the Wilbur Chocolate Store may be in order. Chocolate covered treats, a variety of baking chip flavors, and more Wilbur specialty items are available here. You can also watch candy makers create fudge while delighting in the smell of chocolate throughout the store.

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5 Things to Do In and Around Yosemite National Park

So do we mean five things to do in the magnificent national park itself, or the surrounding area outside Yosemite? Actually, a little bit of both. We’ve highlighted some great stuff not to be missed inside the park and some other pretty cool stuff not to be missed around the area.

Yurt at Yosemite Lakes
Yurt at Yosemite Lakes

Speaking of cool, are you aware of how cool the glamping accommodations are at Yosemite Lakes, which is pretty much up the block from Yosemite National Park (about 5 minutes from the entrance)? Glamping accommodations at this great location in Groveland can include cabins, cottages, and yurts. Choose whichever suits your glamping needs best and get ready to explore this beautiful area of California.

  1. Yosemite National Park: Of course, there are the must-sees like Half Dome, El Capitan, and the waterfalls (there are more than 25), but there are also some lesser known, but just as amazing, things to see and do here. Consider a visit to the Yosemite Museum, the first of its kind built inside a National Park. The museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Ahwahnechee people. Cooks Meadow is a great way to see the beauty of the park and the neat thing is that the trail is very friendly for wheelchairs, strollers, and the less-seasoned hiker. Cooks Meadow has a 2-mile loop trail and the average time to complete it is under 40 minutes. The Ansel Adams Gallery is another place not to miss – his stunning photos of the park are world-famous. In addition to works of Adam’s, the gallery also has books, handicrafts, and Native American jewelry.

  2. Wine Roads and Trails: Visit yosemitesierrawineroad.com to download a map of boutique wineries to visit on this route that traverses the backroads of Yosemite. Another option is to travel the Madera Wine Trail, located in one of California’s most famous growing regions – check out themaderawinetrail.com for a downloadable map.

  3. Visit Jamestown: Jamestown is an old mining town about 30 minutes from Yosemite Lakes and the spot where gold was first discovered in Tuolumne County in the 1848 by James Woods. The town became known as the Gateway to the Mother Lode. There are several antique shops and eateries, plus you can pan for gold here (gold-panning-california.com).

  4. Ride the Steam Train: A ride on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is a great way to see the Sierra National Forest. Climb aboard and have a seat in the open-air cars and enjoy the scenery. Several options for rides are available, including the Moonlight Special that includes dinner and entertainment. During the summer months, the train hosts the Yosemite Jazz Trail, which features a steam train ride ending with “unplugged” performances by various jazz artists every Saturday. For information visit ymsprr.com.

  5. If you’re planning a November trip to the area, check out the Pomegranate, Fruit, and Nut Festival that of course showcases, pomegranates, fruits, and nuts (this is an annual event each November so you can plan ahead, too). This year’s event is set for Saturday, November 5, and promises cooking demonstrations, educational seminars, and fun facts about the pomegranate (pomegranatefestival.com). Make note that Yosemite also hosts holiday dinners and events within the Park through the holiday season that include a Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas Day brunch, and a New Year’s Eve celebration.
Cabins on the River at Yosemite Lakes
Cabins on the River at Yosemite Lakes

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5 Things to Do Near Columbus, Georgia

Looking for peace and serenity among the well-chronicled Georgia pines, with a little bit of outdoor adventure, southern hospitality, and old-town charm thrown in for good measure? Plan a stay at Pine Mountain RV Resort and prepare to be stunned by the beauty of nature found in this western Georgia gem of a location.


Just an hour from Atlanta, 45 minutes from Columbus and only three miles from the amazing Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain RV Resort has it all when it comes to location, amenities, and cool glamping accommodations. Cabins, yurts, and brand-new glamping tents are options as well as tent and RV sites. Plus, the resort is pet-friendly so all pets, not just Georgia Bulldogs, are welcome here.

Pine Mountain RV Resort
Pine Mountain RV Resort


As for nearby attractions, we found 5 things to consider when enjoying a glamping getaway here! We don’t include Callaway Gardens, because no visit to this area should not include time spent at this magical attraction that features botanic gardens, nature trails, the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, and several special annual events like “Pumpkins at Callaway,” which runs through October 30, and the holiday event “Fantasy in Lights,” which is scheduled for November 18 through January 1, 2023. Visit callawaygardens.com for more information.

Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
  1. Little White House and Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park: FDR came to the area in 1924 looking for relief from his polio in the waters of nearby Warm Springs. He returned many times throughout the years and the home where he stayed, dubbed The Little White House, is now a National Historic Landmark (visit gastateparks.org/LittleWhiteHouse for details on visiting). When in the area, he often picnicked at Dowdell’s Knob, which is now part of Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, Georgia’s largest state park at 9,049 acres. The Park includes the very popular 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail, which offers views of plenty of pines and several waterfalls. The Park also has 42 miles of hiking trails, 28 miles of horseback riding trails, and swimming, birding, fishing, and geocaching opportunities, plus canoe, kayak, and aqua cycle rentals for water fun. Don’t miss the photo op with the statue of FDR which can be found at Dowdell’s Knob.
  2. World of Coca Cola: From sampling to smelling to trying your hand at creating your own version of the famed soft drink, World of Coca Cola has something for everyone. There’s the history of how local pharmacist John Pemberton first invented the drink to a detailed tour of the bottling process. Then there’s the vault where the secret recipe is kept and loads and loads of pop culture items featuring Coca Cola. Take a pic with the Coca Cola Polar Bear, view historic artifacts from the soft drink’s international promotions and purchase personalized items at the Coca Cola Store. Located in Atlanta, World of Coca Cola is open 7 days a week. Details can be found at worldofcocacola.com.
  3. College Football Hall of Fame: Since it was founded in 1951, the location of the College Football Hall of Fame has been passed around more than a game-day fumble but has called Atlanta home since 2014. Spread over 3 floors with themed galleries, the HOF is home to more than 50 interactive exhibits and includes a 47-yard football field. The Quad features the three-story Helmet Wall with helmets displayed representing 755 schools. All players inducted into the Hall of Fame are recognized with an augmented reality display with stories and video. Every Saturday during college football season, the HOF hosts their GameDay Tailgate with games, prizes, and of course, football action. For information visit cfbhall.com.
  4. Odds and Ends: Some unusual things to do the area could include a visit to (and lunch at) The Lunchbox Museum in Columbus, which features over 5,000 pieces of lunchbox memorabilia. And, since 2021, the museum houses several other collections including the Nehi Drink Museum, the Royal Crown Cola Museum, and the Tom Huston Peanuts Museum – all contained in one spot. Visit thelunchboxmuseum.com for details. Want to see Atlanta in a unique way? Take a stroll around the city and look for the tiny doors. There are 20 7-inch tiny doors created by artist Karen Anderson Singer to “reflect the spirit, architecture and other unique elements of the surrounding community” hidden around the city. To find a map of the tiny doors, visit tinydoorsatl.com.
  5. Movies and More: Are you a fan of the Marvel Universe, or perhaps the creepy gang of zombies from The Walking Dead are more your cup of tea? Have you watched Sweet Home Alabama more times than you can count? If any of this is to your liking, you may enjoy the Southern Hollywood Film Tour, a two-hour driving tour with plenty of photo ops (southernhollywoodfilmtour.com/tours) that highlights filming locations for the above-mentioned faves. Viator also offers several celeb-related tours including the Touring Dead Walking Tour or one centering on the Bravo TV hit, The Real Housewives of Atlanta (viator.com). Or, seek out famous locations on your own! Fans of The Hunger Games movie series will recognize President Snow’s mansion (really The Swan House at the Atlanta history Center) or the futuristic interior of Atlanta’s Marriott Marquis that doubled as the Tribute’s quarters in the film. If you liked the Vampire Diaries, a drive to nearby Covington (about 75 miles from the resort) might be of interest. Here you’ll find locations that served as the Mystic Falls Clock Tower (actually the historic Newton County Courthouse), both Lockwood mansions, and Gram’s House. For location details, visit screenrant.com/the-vampire-diaries-filming-locations-sets-fans-visit-explore.
Pine Mountain RV Resort Glamping Tent
Pine Mountain RV Resort Glamping Tent

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Tiny 101

Tiny Houses – They’re the talk of the town and all the rage. If you haven’t tried one, your friends may consider you a bit cheugy. The tiny house trend has continued to grow rather than wane in popularity, whether they are used as a permanent residence or a glamping getaway where all the comforts of home, including a roof over your head, are must-haves.

Why are they so popular? For one, they are eco-friendly and energy efficient in that they use few materials to build and less energy to cool and heat. Tiny house = tiny carbon footprint. Another plus is the creative use of space and storage. Almost everything has a dual purpose – stair risers can also double as storage drawers; the extra space up top near the roof – that’s a cozy sleeping loft. Vertical space is put to use not just for art, but also for kitchenware and other necessary items.

Otto at Leavenworth Tiny House Village
Otto at Leavenworth Tiny House Village

From a glamping perspective, you’ve got a cozy, dry spot to come home to after you’ve spent the day outside. One thing about the tiny house, since there is less inside space, the great outdoors are that much more inviting. For the first-time glamper, a tiny house accommodation might be just the thing needed to turn them into a “yes, please let’s glamp again” kind of person. Plus, do we need to say it? They are absolutely adorable.

So, before you feel left out of the tiny house loop, check out our fabulous tiny house rental offerings, pick a dreamy location, and find out what’s the big deal about tiny houses.

Mt. Hood Tiny House Village
Mt. Hood Tiny House Village

With five individual Tiny House Villages, plus two tiny houses at Verde Valley RV & Camping Resort near Sedona, there are plenty of choices. Pacific Northwest locations include Washington’s Leavenworth Tiny House Village and Mt. Hood Tiny House Village in Welches, Oregon. Warmer climate options include the sunshine-filled Florida Keys location, Sunshine Key Tiny House Village and our newest tiny house village for a near-Nashville getaway, Natchez Trace Tiny House Village. Looking to spend time in New England? Head to New Hampshire to enjoy the tinies at Tuxbury Pond Tiny House Village.

What can you expect from a tiny? Plenty! All have full bathrooms and the majority of them have a kitchen and TV with cable. If there’s no full kitchen, there are kitchen amenities like coffeemakers and mini fridges. They range in size sleeping anywhere from 2 to 7 people and several are pet friendly so if your companions are the furry kind, they’re welcome to the tiny experience. You can expect spacious indoor living space and décor and design straight out of Tiny House Today (if there was such a magazine.) Cozy quarters for a top-notch glamping experience, for sure.

Location-wise, you’ve got outdoor adventure at any location. Hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are just the beginning. Plus, there’s the proximity to major cities and their attractions like Seattle (from Leavenworth), Portland (from Welches), Nashville (from Natchez Trace) and Boston (from Tuxbury Pond). There’s the serenity of Sedona and the beautiful Red Rocks when you choose Verde Valley and the island-hopping, laid-back life of the Florida Keys when you choose Sunshine Key. This is one trend you want to be a part of! Don’t get left out in the cold (especially if you’re glamping), check out all the fabulous tiny house options at petiteretreats.com and make your reservation soon.

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3 of the Best Glamping Accommodations for Summer

We all know the popularity of camping has taken off in the past few years and more people are camping than ever before. And of course, glamping has gone from a little know activity to being the “only way to camp” for some. So, what’s the difference? In reality, you’re still camping but glamping notches up the accommodations for sure. Check out some of the best glamping accommodations offered by Petite Retreats.

Yurt at Tranquil Timbers Campground
Yurt at Tranquil Timbers Campground
  1. Yurts: These circular domed tents date back to the 5th century and the word yurt actually translates to “home” in many languages. Yurts are spacious yet cozy and the yurts at Petite Retreat locations have kitchens and TVs –  just like home! Yurt glamping opportunities can be found in California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin. Make it a beach experience and rent a yurt at Oregon’s Pacific City or a wooded wilderness adventure at Wisconsin’s Tranquil Timbers, on the state’s magnificent Door County Peninsula.

  2. Tiny Homes: Tiny homes are exactly that – all the comforts of home but just consolidated into 200 to 350 square feet! The tinies at Petite Retreats locations are decorated straight out of a magazine, located in some of the most popular vacation destinations, and really provide one of the best glamping experiences you may ever have. Our tiny homes have kitchens, bathrooms and sleeping lofts as well as plenty of space for indoor living when you’re done with outdoor adventure. From a location standpoint, renting a tiny home near Nashville, Tennessee, the beaches of New Hampshire or the Florida Keys, the woodsy Pacific Northwest, or the gorgeous Arizona Red Rock Canyon are all possibilities.

  1. Completely Unique: Have you ever camped in a covered wagon? Or a real glamping tent? Check out these unique accommodations at Petite Retreats.

The Glamping Tents, located at beautiful Marina Dunes, have queen-sized beds, two bedside tables with lamps, and cozy outdoor spaces, too. With a glamping tent, it’s like spending the night in your own bedroom. No need to pitch a tent or blow up the air mattress. When you’re done with the day, settle into bed, switch off the lamp and enjoy a comfortable sleep with the moon and stars as nightlights. Marina Dunes is adjacent to the Marina Dunes Preserve and a short drive to Monterey, where attractions include Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

The Covered Wagon option is the perfect accommodation when you choose to glamp at Rancho Oso in Santa Barbara. Bedding down in the Covered Wagon at this western-ranch style campground will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time, except you have electricity. The Covered Wagon has camping cots and plenty of outdoor space for activities, including the glamping favorite: a campfire. Other unique accommodations at Rancho Oso include a tipi and western-style cabins. This is a fantastic location if you want to go to the beach, explore the wine country here, or beautiful downtown Santa Barbara. The campground itself offers a Western Village and horseback riding.

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