On the road again…
Spring Adventures Begin!
After spending the last few months between Oklahoma & Texas, soaking up time with family, friends, and the comfort of stability, we’re hitting the road again! Heading east to continue our year-long exploration, chasing adventure, new experiences, and unforgettable memories.
There’s excitement in the unknown, in stretching our comfort zones, and in seeing what God has in store. While we’ve loved having our kids’ friends and activities just down the road, it’s time to embrace the challenge of life on the move again—God, family, the outdoors, and the freedom to explore.
Texarkansas
While it was just a quick layover, we absolutely LOVED Texarkana RV Park and Cabin Rentals! If we had stayed longer, we’d have been happy to call this home for a bit—but let’s be real, it’s Texarkana, and this family has way more exciting places to explore!
The park itself was a fantastic stop—spacious sites, full hookups, and a quiet, well-kept atmosphere made for a restful night. The easy pull-through spots made setup a breeze, and its prime location right off the highway made it perfect for a quick overnight stay. They even offer cabin rentals for those looking for a cozy spot off the road.
Plus, the friendly staff made us feel right at home. If you ever need a convenient and comfortable stop in Texarkana, this is a great one—but for us, the road was calling, and we were off to the next adventure!
Little Rock, AR
Little Rock wasn’t originally on our radar as a major stop, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise! We stayed at Downtown Riverside RV Park, which sits right on the Arkansas River, offering beautiful views and easy access to downtown. Being able to walk straight into the city was a huge perk, especially at night when the neon lights reflected on the water.
The RV park itself had a relaxed, welcoming vibe, with fun amenities like cornhole and a large firepit where we gathered in the evening, watching the stars slowly appear over the river. Hawkins loved exploring along the river on his e-bike (can you find him in the picture?!) It was the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the sights and sounds of the city.
One of the highlights was our tour of the Arkansas State Capitol. The building is a smaller-scale replica of the U.S. Capitol and is packed with history. Some fun facts we learned:
🏛 The dome is covered in 24-karat gold leaf—it shines beautifully in the sunlight!
⚖️ The building was originally a state prison before being transformed into the grand structure it is today.
🌳 The grounds feature several memorials, including a moving tribute to the Little Rock Nine, commemorating the desegregation of Central High School.
And one of the coolest parts? We got to hold $600,000 in cash during our tour! It was an unexpected surprise and definitely a fun story to tell. Turns out, stacks of cash are much heavier than you’d think!
After soaking in some history, we explored downtown and walking along the Arkansas River Trail. The area had a fun vibe, with street art, historic buildings, and plenty of places to pop into.
For food, we had to try Stickyz Rock ‘N’ Roll Chicken Shack—because how can you pass up a place with a name like that? It definitely lived up to its hype! Their chicken fingers were crispy, juicy, and downright addictive, and the rock ‘n’ roll theme gave the whole place a fun, laid-back energy.
Little Rock may not have been a planned destination for us, but we left with a newfound appreciation for this city. The mix of history, good food, and an easygoing downtown made for a great stop on our journey!
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is one of those rare places that truly has something for everyone. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming city offers a perfect blend of vibrant culture, breathtaking nature, and a warm sense of community. From the moment I arrived, I felt the magic of the mountains surrounding me—it’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and simply soak it all in.
The Timeless Beauty of the Biltmore Estate
No trip to Asheville is complete without a visit to the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned home in the United States, boasting 250 rooms and 175,000 square feet of luxury. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt II, the estate was completed in 1895 after six years of construction, featuring groundbreaking innovations for its time, including electricity, central heating, and a refrigeration system. Stepping through its grand doors feels like traveling back in time, with each room showcasing ornate architecture, priceless antiques, and breathtaking views of the estate grounds.
The kids’ favorite stop was the massive library, home to over 10,000 books personally selected by Vanderbilt. With its soaring ceilings, cozy reading nooks, and rich wood details, it felt like something straight out of a storybook. They also loved exploring the various bedrooms, each uniquely designed with period furnishings and luxurious details that sparked their imaginations about what life must have been like in the Gilded Age. Another highlight was the indoor swimming pool, an incredible feature for its time, even though it’s no longer in use.
Beyond the mansion, the 8,000-acre estate offers beautifully designed gardens by Frederick Law Olmsted, winding walking trails, and a working award-winning winery. If you’re a wine enthusiast, a stop at the Biltmore Winery is a must. Tucked away on the estate, it offers an intimate tasting experience that blends history with indulgence. Sipping a glass of their finest while surrounded by the elegance of the Biltmore was the perfect way to end the day—a moment of quiet reflection on a place where history, beauty, and adventure seamlessly intertwine.
Downtown Asheville: A City Alive with Creativity
Beyond the elegance of the Biltmore, Asheville’s downtown is a completely different, yet equally captivating, experience. The streets are alive with music and art, with talented street performers bringing energy to every corner. One of my favorite moments was stumbling upon a 10-year-old violinist, playing with a talent beyond his years.
Independent shops and art galleries line the streets, showcasing the talents of local artisans. From handcrafted pottery to one-of-a-kind jewelry, Asheville’s creative spirit is truly unmatched.
A Haven for Outdoor Lovers
For those who love the outdoors, Asheville is a dream. The Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its breathtaking views and winding mountain roads, is just minutes from downtown. Unfortunately, during our visit, we could only admire it through pictures and hear stories from locals—major sections of the parkway were still closed in both directions due to recent weather damage. Some of North Carolina’s most iconic hikes remained inaccessible, which was disappointing but also gave us a reason to return.
We did, however, find an alternative at the North Carolina Arboretum. Though not yet in full bloom, the gardens were still lovely, and the short hiking trails provided a peaceful escape. Since it had rained earlier in the day—and my daughter was in a walking boot—we opted for gentle, one-mile loops, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without overexertion. The kids partaked in a fun educational scavenger hunt of National Geographic photos, categorizing various animals and learning about their habitats.
Indulging in Asheville’s Sweet Side
I can’t say I explored much of Asheville’s renowned food scene, but I did fully embrace its chocolate scene! We chose just two special spots to indulge, and both were absolute winners.
First, the French Broad Chocolate Lounge—a chocolate lover’s paradise. From gourmet hot chocolate to decadent cheesecake and house-made ice cream, every bite was pure bliss. It was the kind of place where you savor each flavor and wish you had room for more.
Next up? Vortex Doughnuts—because what’s better than donuts before a visit to the Biltmore? Their unique flavors like lemon poppy seed and spicy mango caught my eye, but we played it safe with chocolate sprinkle, raspberry peanut butter, and cinnamon sugar. And let me tell you—they did not disappoint!
Where we stayed
Bear Creek RV Park in Asheville was a fantastic place to stay! The large pull-through sites made parking and setup a breeze, and we had wonderful neighbors who made the experience even better. The park felt safe and well-maintained, with easy access to Asheville’s top attractions, including the Biltmore Estate, downtown, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you're staying for a short visit or a longer adventure, it's a convenient and comfortable base for exploring everything Asheville has to offer.
The Spirit of Asheville
Beyond its beauty, what struck me most about Asheville was its resilience and sense of community. Even after challenges like Hurricane Helene, the city has bounced back with an inspiring energy. Local businesses, artists, and residents radiate pride in their city, and it’s contagious.
Asheville isn’t just a place—it’s an experience. Whether you’re marveling at the history of the Biltmore, wandering through artsy downtown streets, or soaking in the tranquility of the mountains, this city leaves an imprint on your heart.
As we pack up and hit the road after nearly four months at home, there's a mix of excitement and nostalgia—saying goodbye to familiar comforts but eager for new adventures ahead. With stops in Texarkana, Little Rock, and Asheville, the journey continues, and we can't wait to see what’s waiting for us just around the bend. Here's to the open road, endless memories, and the next chapter of our travels!
Next up, hitting a national park! Any guesses which one? This will be our 28th in the last year.
