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Wellspring Mountain

100%

· Lowgap, North Carolina

500 acres

10 sites

6 Lodging

4 Tent

Welcome to our Hipcamp; we are excited that you are here! Are you drawn to the outdoors and filled with fond memories of summer camp days? Wellspring Mountain has been a tranquil haven for 75 years, evolving from its early beginnings as an apple orchard turned wilderness therapy camp, its now home to Wellspring Mountain Botanical Sanctuary & The Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. Come experience this captivating property that has brought respite and retreat for many over the years! The majestic Saddle Mountain, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, cradles Wellspring Mountain Botanical Sanctuary. Here, nature flourishes with lush foliage and a variety of wildlife that quench their thirst from spring water-fed creeks and streams. We are delighted to share this picturesque paradise with outdoor aficionados and nature lovers alike! Over three decades, our lovely grounds served as a boy's camp until it closed in 2010. We took up residence in 2015 and have worked diligently to bring the property back to life. Though there is still much progress yet to be made, even with limited resources, we've managed some impressive renovations! Only 10 miles away by road, the Blue Ridge Parkway is less than a mile from the property peak, if you fancy a mountain scramble! Our mile-long driveway connects to the Surry County's Scenic Bicycle Trail and there's an abundance of options for biking, hiking, and paddling within 20 miles from camp. There's never been a better time to experience nature at its best when you visit us! As you explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountain region, it's important to familiarize yourself with the wildlife you may encounter. Here's a comprehensive guide to common wildlife, including benefits, and potential precautions associated with each species: White-tailed Deer: Encounter: Deer are commonly seen throughout the region, especially during early morning and dusk. Precautions: While generally harmless, deer may become aggressive if they feel threatened or if you approach them too closely. Black Bear: Encounter: Black bears are present in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They usually avoid human contact but can occasionally be seen foraging for food. Precautions: Bears are generally not aggressive unless provoked. To avoid conflicts, ensure that you don't leave food or trash outside, and maintain a safe distance if you encounter a bear. Eastern Box Turtle: Encounter: Box turtles are terrestrial and can be found in forested areas. They are known for their distinctive appearance and slow movement. Precautions: Box turtles are harmless and typically retreat into their shell when approached. Avoid disturbing or handling them to prevent stress or injury. Timber Rattlesnake: Encounter: Timber rattlesnakes are venomous snakes found in rocky areas and forests. They have a distinctive rattle on their tail. Precautions: While rattlesnakes generally avoid human contact, if provoked or cornered, they may bite. Stay on marked trails, watch where you step, and give them a wide berth if encountered. Eastern Copperhead: Encounter: Copperheads are venomous snakes commonly found in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They prefer rocky, forested areas. Precautions: Copperheads can deliver a painful but rarely fatal bite. Stay on designated trails, wear sturdy footwear, and be cautious when exploring rocky terrain. Eastern Boxelder Bug: Encounter: Boxelder bugs are common insects that gather in large numbers on trees, buildings, and rocks. Precautions: Boxelder bugs are harmless to humans. They may be a nuisance if they invade buildings in search of warmth during cooler months. Red-tailed Hawk: Encounter: Red-tailed hawks are majestic birds of prey commonly seen soaring in the sky or perched on tree branches. Precautions: Hawks are not dangerous to humans, but it is advisable to keep small pets on a leash when outdoors to prevent them from being mistaken as prey. Eastern Garter Snake: Encounter: Garter snakes are common snakes found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and gardens. They have distinctive stripes running along their body. Benefits: Garter snakes help control populations of rodents and insects. Eastern Rat Snake: Encounter: Rat snakes are large, nonvenomous snakes that can be found climbing trees or hiding in rock crevices. Benefits: Rat snakes play a crucial role in rodent population control, making them beneficial to human habitats. Harmless Mammals: Eastern Chipmunk: Encounter: Chipmunks are small, striped rodents commonly seen scurrying around in wooded areas, gathering and storing food. Benefits: Chipmunks help disperse seeds, contributing to the growth of plants and trees in the ecosystem. Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: Encounter: Cottontail rabbits are small mammals with distinctive white tails that can often be spotted hopping through fields and forest edges. Benefits: Cottontail rabbits are important prey species for predators and contribute to the natural balance of the ecosystem. Eastern Gray Squirrel: Encounter: Gray squirrels are abundant in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are known for their bushy tails and acrobatic climbing skills. Benefits: Squirrels play a role in seed dispersal and provide a food source for predators such as hawks and owls. Eastern Box Turtle: Encounter: Box turtles are terrestrial and can be found in forested areas. They are known for their distinctive appearance and slow movement. Benefits: Box turtles are important for seed dispersal and nutrient cycling in the forest ecosystem. Virginia Opossum: Encounter: Opossums are nocturnal mammals with a rat-like appearance. They are often seen scavenging for food at night. Benefits: Opossums help control populations of insects, rodents, and ticks. They are also resistant to many diseases, including rabies. Eastern Gray Squirrel: Encounter: Gray squirrels are abundant in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are known for their bushy tails and acrobatic climbing skills. Precautions: Squirrels are generally harmless and tend to avoid human contact. However, be cautious of them near food sources, as they may attempt to steal or damage food left unattended. Eastern Wild Turkey: Encounter: Wild turkeys are commonly spotted in the region, particularly in open fields and wooded areas. Benefits: These birds play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Seeing them can also be a delightful experience. American Black Vulture: Encounter: Black vultures are scavenger birds often seen soaring in the skies, especially near open fields and forests. Benefits: Black vultures help maintain the cleanliness of the environment by feeding on carrion. They play a crucial role in the natural decomposition process. American Beech Tree: Encounter: American beech trees are widespread in the Blue Ridge Mountains and are known for their smooth gray bark and distinctive leaves. Benefits: These trees provide important habitats for various wildlife species, offer shade during hiking, and contribute to the overall forest ecosystem. Poison Ivy: Encounter: Poison ivy is a plant found in wooded areas, often with three shiny green leaflets and a vine-like growth pattern. Precautions: Contact with poison ivy can cause allergic dermatitis in many people. It's important to learn to identify the plant and avoid direct contact to prevent skin irritation. Virginia Creeper: Encounter: Virginia Creeper is a climbing vine found in forests and along trails. It has five leaflets and is often mistaken for poison ivy. Benefits: While it may resemble poison ivy, Virginia Creeper does not cause dermatitis. It provides food and shelter for birds and adds aesthetic value to the environment. Blackberry Bushes: Encounter: Blackberry bushes are common in the Blue Ridge Mountains, producing delicious edible fruits during the summer months. Benefits: Blackberries are a local delicacy and offer a tasty snack for hikers and wildlife alike. Be mindful of thorns when picking them. Mountain Laurel: Encounter: Mountain laurel is a flowering shrub that graces the Blue Ridge Mountains with its beautiful pink and white blossoms. Benefits: The mountain laurel is a beloved native plant, adding beauty to the landscape and serving as a valuable food source for various pollinators. Remember to enjoy the benefits of the natural environment while being cautious and knowledgeable about potentially harmful plants like poison ivy. Stay on marked trails, observe wildlife from a safe distance, and have a memorable time exploring the wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains! With endless outdoor and recreational spaces for you to explore, it's no wonder why many people can't resist staying on the mountain! Our visitor area offers ample recommendations that you won't want to miss out on. Plus, we're always happy to provide suggestions while you're here if there's something specific your family is looking for. Come see what all the fuss is about - adventure awaits! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out. If you would like to see more pictures we are on Instagram @wilderness_camping_nc and FB @wellspringmountain If you would like to learn more about the herbal school, find us at @eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine Happy Trails! Terrie and Thomas

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Location

Lowgap, North Carolina, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Hosted by Terrie And Thomas E.Joined in October 2020

Response rate: 100%

100%

54 ratings · 56 reviews

Madison K.recommends

June 9, 2023

Boondocking In Botanical Sanctuary

Great Camping with Amenities!

Terrie and Thomas have created such a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere at their site! I stayed at their boondocking site and they had all amenities to make it camping with the comforts of facilities for restrooms, hot and clean showers, and a wonderful communal kitchen space. They were kind in making sure we had all we needed and had assistance on site for any additional needs during our wonderful stay. Highly recommend this site for folks looking to escape with the soothing sound of the creek nearby. Thank you both for everything!

Patrick R.recommends

June 3, 2023

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Great spot😍

We loved camping here! Everyone was so nice and accommodating! The camp has great views and is only a short drive to Mt. Airy and Elkin! Both very cute small towns. Everything was so clean and well kept! There were picnic tables in The Pines camping area that made it very easy to cook camp meals if needed or we were also allowed to use the hostel style kitchen they have on-site. We would highly recommend any of the offerings they have for their property, we will definitely be back! Hopefully with family using the A-frame outlook cabin!

John M.recommends

May 13, 2023

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Camping with the Boys

The tent camp "In the Pines" is a flat level clearing arranged for 3 individual sites. The area was mowed and clean. The facilities, which include a nearby bath house, rest room and kitchen with potable water were not only clean, but pristine by any tent campers dream. Foot traffic from the other accommodations on the property was very low. Our group enjoyed just hanging out. Trail hiking at Pilot Mountain and a foray north on the Blue Ridge Parkway are within a 20-30 minute drive. The area is wonderful for a getaway. Terrie and Thomas are great host's and accommodating. We plan to return again..

Mea M.recommends

March 18, 2023

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Terrie was so sweet! She was very responsive and accommodating. The property was also so gorgeous and definitely worth the visit.

Raven W.recommends

November 1, 2022

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Wonderful Place!!

Perfect for a fall trip to see the blue ridge and the trees! Beautiful drive up. Convenient to both NC and VA. Host was very accommodating and kind! Facilities were neat and clean. They had a camper’s kitchen and bathroom which was very convenient. My husband and I will definitely be coming back here.

Kristina W.recommends

October 23, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

Grateful guests

This campsite is beautiful! Exploring the grounds and old cabins of what used to be a boy’s camp was fun. While we loved the group campsite we stayed in, we hope to return soon and stay in the A-frame! Terrie was such a gracious host! We felt so welcome and she even helped us out with tents to stay in since unfortunately we left our poles at home!! Couldn’t be more happy with our experience!

Maria C.recommends

October 17, 2022

Tiny House at Artist Studio

Tiny cottage dream

Nestled amongst the fall trees, was this tiny cottage. Much like a fairy tail dream, the cottage was surrounded by pure and beautiful nature. The bed was warm and cozy and having a kitchen to cook my meals was a true perk. The house was fully stocked with everything I needed for the weekend. It was a lovely stay.

Lindsay W.recommends

October 10, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

A special place!

What a gorgeous place! Terrie and Thomas were excellent and the accommodations are top notch. Highly recommend and we will be back!

Mindy C.recommends

October 9, 2022

Room 2

I loved being able to get up in the morning and going for a hike basically to get outside my door. I stayed in the hostal the room was clean and nice and the mini kitchen was great for me to make my own food

Luke L.recommends

September 26, 2022

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Peace among the pines!

Camping amongst the giant pine trees was great. The layout of the property is really cool, and it has great trails to explore. We barely scratched the surface and the host Terrie Anne was so friendly and gracious. We will definitely be back!

Jessica U.recommends

September 7, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

In the pines was wonderful and Terrie & Thomas were fantastic hosts. The facilities (bathroom, showers, kitchen) are so nice and really make camping a lot easier with a family. The campus is beautiful and we enjoyed our long weekend!

Jordan K.recommends

September 6, 2022

U-Pick (undesignated primitive)

Well-kept camp grd w/friendly host!

My husband had a wonderful time camping at Terrie and Thomas' place. Terrie did a great job communicating with me prior to our trip and during our visit. The directions they gave on Hipcamp were spot on. Fortunately, we did have service all the way to their place as well as at our campsite. Their properly was beautiful and well-kept. We did not use the community fire pit, but it looked very nice. The bathhouses were perfectly clean and couldn't have asked for better. We would come back!!

Shaun B.recommends

September 5, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

Relaxed camping, plenty of comforts

Terrie Ann and Thomas are excellent hosts. Communication was perfect, from directions to check-out. Certainly some of the bests hosts are family have had on Hipcamp, VRBO, or Airbnb. The property is extremely well maintained. Terrie Ann and Thomas are breathing new life into the forty acres, and it’s quite an impressive project. We had a rain half of our stay, and so the well-stocked kitchen and impressively clean bathhouse made camping with 4 small kids easier. There is a great trail on the property, and our kids loved the creek. Tent area is level with a great ring of trees around it; and if you have people in your party who don’t like using a camp toilet, there is a private bath room 50 feet away. We didn’t have to bring firewood in, we paid for two bundles before we arrived, and Thomas had the wood stocked in a sheltered area near the tents before we got there, and he left a wheel barrow behind for extra ease. Relaxed camping at its finest, have been recommending it to people all weekend.

Melisa G.recommends

August 29, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

Camping with multiple aged kids

Loved our 4 day 3 night stay. Music on the mountain was fun. They have a stage and the space is kid and pet friendly. Host are very welcoming and they keep the space clean. Kids had a blast they offer a playground so that’s a bonus. Can’t wait for our next camping trip.

Steven B.recommends

August 22, 2022

Tiny House at Artist Studio

Simplicity at its Best

What a gem in the Mountains, I decided that I would surprise my wife with a stop out of the ordinary for us as we were heading to the beaches of NC to meet up with our children & grandchildren and we took this unbeaten path to the Artist Studio...Simplicity at its best, comfortable & clean, it was everything they said and more...it took us back to our youth, with a simple phonograph and 6 albums, a good book and listening to Roberta Flack, Marvin Gaye, Arlo Guthrie and more...sitting on the patio, with a nice fire , we watched the Super Moon come up and a beautiful Sunrise in the morning ! Thank you for the wonderful experience and hospitality !

Bond L.recommends

August 21, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

This spot was just so exceptional - truly an under appreciated gem. Terrie was an amazing host - gave us a quick tour of the site and checked to make sure we had everything we needed. The camp Itself is a great blend of private and group spaces, and can accommodate folks who want to stay in a cabin or tent camp. I timed the visit to coincide with an artist performance - what a magical experience! I highly recommend this site, especially if you can make it in time for a performance. I’ll definitely be back!

Tim H.recommends

August 14, 2022

Mountain Serenity

This is our 2nd visit to Wellspring Mountain, the last time we tent camped, this time we stayed in the A Frame, Mountain Serenity. We found the A Frame to be clean, very well set up, and comfortable. We enjoyed the live music series from the vantage point of a naturally sloped lawn on a crisp summer evening. Pleasant all of the way around. If you would like a peaceful place to unwind I highly recommend a visit.

Jed S.recommends

August 1, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

Favorite place to camp in all of NC. Couldnt recommend it more.

Reba K.recommends

July 26, 2022

Site 5 - Mountain Hostel

The Mountain Hostel was very comfortable and covered all my needs. I enjoyed meeting and getting to know the other guests. The property is beautiful! I loved my entire stay and will happily return in the future.

John H.recommends

July 26, 2022

Site 1 - Mountain Hostel

The facility was super clean, the hosts were great, and the setting was beautiful. Back in the woods, but if you want that setting, it can’t be beat!

Karen W.recommends

July 25, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

What a difference a year makes! We stayed In the Pines a year ago and were thrilled to have the opportunity to stay again this year. Thomas greeted us happily and was more than accommodating with drive up access to our site to unload. The sites remain well maintained with easy access to the kitchen and bathroom. Thomas and Terri have spent the year clearing property for group fire pit, gathering and entertainment as well as updating, upgrading and remodeling current structures. We had the opportunity to hike one of thier newly cleared hiking paths and what a treat for the senses! Absolutely beautiful! Thomas and Terri took the time to chat with us and tell us all about the past year and thier plans for the upcoming year. If you have the opportunity to camp In the Pines take advantage of it and enjoy the ambience, hospitality and the beauty. If you want to get unplugged this is the place to do it. Thanks for another great experience!

Holly T.recommends

July 18, 2022

Tiny House at Artist Studio

Staying at the cabin was excellent. It is cute and cozy with a comfortable bed. Lots of nearby hiking and waterfalls.

Lyric J.recommends

July 18, 2022

Room 3

Mountain Nirvana

Thomas and Terrie are amazing! The very best of all amenities. Cheerful hosting and kindest of humans. Life on the mountain made me not want to ever leave.

Rachael P.recommends

July 18, 2022

Mountain Serenity

Love it!

The A-frame is just perfect. Cozy and comfortable with a great non-toxic mattress. Lots of attention to details that I appreciate. And you couldn’t ask for more in the setting. It’s beautiful and inspiring. Can’t wait to go back!

Wendy F.recommends

July 17, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

This was the perfect place to camp! The tent area is peaceful, with lots of space for each camper, and everyone has access to the community kitchen, bathhouse, fire pit and trails. I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in one of Thomas’s exceptional herbal medicine classes while I was there. I highly recommend all of it!

Ellen M.recommends

July 12, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

Terri Ann and Thomas were wonderful, accommodating hosts. Nice flat setup for our rooftop tent and backpacking tent. Quiet setting. The kitchen and bathhouse were clean and well-stocked with the basics. Having the dining hall during heavy storms was essential. Everyone, especially our toddlers, loved wandering the grounds searching for ripe peaches, blackberries, and wineberries. We will definitely be back!

Lindsay P.recommends

July 6, 2022

In The Pines Group Camping Site

We absolutely loved camping at Wellsprings Mountain with Terrie and Thomas. They were outstanding hosts! The camp kitchen, dining hall, and bathroom were great considering it rained both nights we stayed. We also enjoyed picking the wild berries along the property. This site is great for couples, families, and a four legged friend! We hope to return again.

Virginia P.recommends

June 23, 2022

Tiny House at Artist Studio

Quietly tucked away on hundreds of acres of conservatory land in Lowgap NC, on the campus of the Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine, Wellspring Mountain is a unique property ripe for exploration and enrichment. During our stay at Wellspring Mountain, my husband and I lodged in the beautiful, spacious artist studio. The studio space was very clean, generously stocked with kitchen essentials, and extraordinarily comfortable. The bed, specifically, afforded us one of the most restful nights of sleep we’d had in weeks. Walking the grounds of Wellspring Mountain was a true pleasure. If nature is your love language, you will really appreciate your time here. There are beautiful gardens, wildflowers, hiking trails and streams. Wildlife can be spotted with every turn of the head. With acres to explore, there is no shortage of opportunity to discover something new. A review of this Hipcamp wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our wonderful hosts. We couldn’t have hoped for a better experience with Terrie Ann and Thomas. They are both exceptionally kind, engaging people, and spending time with them and the other guests at this Hipcamp was easily the highlight of our visit. The sense of community at Wellspring Mountain was unexpected. My husband and I left with great memories and new friends. Thank you for sharing your Hipcamp with us, Thomas and Terrie Ann. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our time with you two at Wellspring Mountain and deeply appreciate your genuine hospitality

Colleen M.recommends

May 23, 2022

In The Pines (Individual Sites)

Amazing hosts

This was our first hipcamp experience and we unfortunately ended up leaving early because my son started feeling sick. The camping options were well maintained and having the bathrooms with showers was a real plus. Terrie was an absolute pleasure to work with and we are looking forward to returning in the future to have the full experience.

Jed S.recommends

May 10, 2022

U-Pick (undesignated primitive)

Best place to camp in NC

One of the most beautiful places I have ever been. Rich in the beauty of nature, and breath taking mountain views. Thomas and Terrie have put so much time and love into their property, and you can really tell. They are also amazing hosts and some of the sweetest people you will meet. Truly a great place to stay for whatever adventure you have planned. Cant wait to visit again.

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