We were gone for 3 days and 2 nights, but there’s so much to tell!! Ya’ll, this was one of my fave quick trips ever… we will definitely go back!

We started tent camping as a family when COVID hit, like many people did, as a way to have something to do and still kind of be away from other people. We’ve been on a few trips, and loved them, but wanted something a little different for fall break. We’ve realized we prefer a little more privacy than the regular camping areas usually offer, and this time we didn’t feel like staying in the tent. The Hipcamp app specializes in finding more private and unique places to camp/glamp, and I found this listing there. That said, if you like what I’m about to share, you can save money by booking directly with the host at TNwaterfallGetaway.com.

On the Beech Treehouse was the PERFECT getaway for our family. Owners Grant and Becky Miller were amazing hosts! Grant is really into building with materials he has on hand (think scrap metal, old satellite dishes, lots of wood and tin, and just an incredible amount of creativity and ingenuity), and the treehouse is one of those projects.

The little rounded part at the back is a small bathroom that is home to the most luxurious shower… we may have been in the forest, but this was an extra special touch! The center part is two stories, with a loft upstairs (accessed by a ladder, with an attached trap door you can leave open or closed), and a kitchen on the lower level. We found it to have most every day items, including dishes, some spices, a microwave, coffee maker, toaster oven, and a small electric stove top. We took a crockpot for minimal cooking but used the other items for breakfasts, and it was more than adequate for our needs. It also had a small fridge which was super helpful! Just outside the kitchen is a sort of living room, that’s open to the balcony. It can be closed off with canvas curtains for privacy. The balcony itself was my favorite part, as it overlooks the forest, gorge, and waterfall. We were there when the waterfall wasn’t flowing as much but it was still beautiful and just a lovely place to relax. Both kids slept in the loft and pretty much made it their space for the duration of our trip. Jeremy and I slept in the kitchen space (most people sleep in the open living room, but we got a bit chilly so we moved indoors.). The work table in the kitchen was on wheels, so it was easy to rearrange things throughout the day to make the space work best for our needs. The little outhouse has a composting toilet that was super simple and clean to use, and was much nicer than bathrooms we’ve encountered at most state parks! *note: this treehouse is at the top of the falls! ie: there are cliffs! Use your judgement and care when bringing small children! I would not recommend this location if you’re traveling with toddlers, but some of their other accommodations would work!

There’s plenty of hiking and exploring to be done while there, and we enjoyed having a picnic at the base of one of the waterfalls, playing in the creek, checking out the other structures they have on the property (that can also be rented and look so fun!), and walking the trails. Grant and Becky met us when we arrived and showed us all around, inviting us to gather wood on their property for our campfire and showing us the best places to hike.

In addition to the hiking, there is a lot of open space near the treehouse as well, so the kids had fun exploring and just playing. We built campfires, played some baseball, shot our nighttime light-up helicopters, and the stars at night were incredible! Both kids declared that they had never seen so many! One day, Brooks even found an arrowhead!

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE. This costs a little extra, but was 100% worth it. Grant took about a half day to show us how he welds the things he’s made, and he helped the kids create their own scrap metal projects! Lynnley was a little too young, so she picked out something quickly, Grant made the necessary cuts, and she was off on her merry way. She made a dinner “bell” where she bangs these two metal pieces together. He cut off the sharp end to make it safe for her 🥰

Brooks, however, had a specific idea in mind. He’s really into Minecraft, so he wanted a pick ax and shield. Grant let him look through his scrap metal, making suggestions for how he might use different items, until Brooks had a pretty firm idea of what he wanted.

Then they spent some time talking through where Brooks wanted cuts to be made, where he wanted things joined together, etc. Grant was great about giving ideas, but not pushing, and was happy to help Brooks create what HE had envisioned. Once a plan was in place, the crafting began! This part was tricky for Brooks. He was really interested in the process, but a lot of the work was loud and showered sparks, which was a little bit of a sensory overload for him. Grant continued to encourage him, and offered to let him participate in a safe way, but Brooks was more comfortable just watching, which was totally fine! We all stood back and watched in awe as the ideas came to life!

Once things were cut and welded to Brooks’s specifications, Grant showed him the almost finished product. This shot of his face when he saw his pick ax for the first time is my favorite!

A few finishing touches of paint and engraving came next. By this time, Brooks had learned he could trust Grant, and he felt comfortable doing the engraving himself. They worked together at first, and then Brooks just took off with it. He says this was his favorite part of the whole trip.

Grant finished off all the sharp edges, and just did a really nice job of making Brooks feel a part of the process, even when he wasn’t feeling so sure of things. I am always so thankful for adults who take the time to really try to understand our kids and get to know them!

We wrapped things up this morning and headed home, but not before we stopped for a quick two-mile hike on the Fiery Gizzard day loop trail. It was drizzling rain, but because of the tree canopy, we barely felt it, and really enjoyed being almost completely alone in this gorgeous forest. We had lunch at the Mountain Goat Market, recommended to us by Becky, and enjoyed every bite of our gourmet pizzas and some delicious macaroons!

Now I’m off to unpack and wash off all the mud. If you’re looking for a fun adventure, check out Grant and Becky’s website! And tell them we sent you ❤️