What are your future travel plans?

When people dream of traveling, it’s easy to picture faraway places with exotic names and postcards full of stunning views. But sometimes, the most beautiful adventures are waiting just down the road. As for us, we’ve decided that our future travel plans don’t need to begin across the country or over an ocean — they begin right here in our own backyard: North Carolina.

Camping Our Way Through the Carolinas

Our goal is simple — to visit as many state parks in North Carolina as possible. Not just as a checklist item, but as a way to truly get to know the state we call home. From the towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the soft sounds of ocean waves on the Outer Banks, North Carolina offers an incredible range of natural beauty, and we want to experience it all — one campsite at a time.

There’s something peaceful about staying overnight in a tent or our camper van, waking up to birdsong instead of an alarm clock. It’s in these moments that we feel closest to God, connected to creation and refreshed by the quiet peace that nature provides.

Why Start Local?

We believe that before you wander far, you should appreciate what’s near. Exploring local state parks not only gives us a deeper love for where we live, but it also helps us prepare for longer trips in the future. With each campsite, we learn something new — about setup, cooking over fire, off-grid living, and even what gear we need (and don’t need). It’s an adventure and a training ground all in one.

Plus, staying local helps us keep our budget in check, which is important as we work toward becoming part-time travelers. And honestly, it feels good to support local parks and communities.

Expanding the Map

Once we’ve wandered through North Carolina, we plan to expand into nearby states — South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia — taking our love for camping and exploration just a little further each time. We’re not in a rush. Our motto is to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

Each new park will bring its own views, trails, and quiet places to reflect and spend time with God. And of course, we’ll be documenting it all — from campfire meals to early morning hikes — as we go.

A Slower Pace, A Richer Life

These travel plans aren’t about chasing thrills or ticking off destinations. They’re about slowing down, being present, and finding joy in simplicity. There’s a richness in sitting under the stars, cooking a meal over an open flame, or just listening to the wind rustle through the trees.

So here’s to starting small and dreaming big — to exploring our home state and letting that love of local adventure guide us outward. Whether we’re nestled by a mountain stream or watching the sun set over the coast, we’ll be grateful for every mile and every moment.

North Carolina, here we come — one campground at a time.

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