Happy New Year 2023

Happy New Year 2023 is here!

Camping during winter can have it’s perks typically it’s not too busy and you are more likely to find a site easily. Also, most places offer a winter discount or seasonal rate. And it’s always a great way to destress and enjoy time with the family!

Winter Camping at Byrd’s Branch things to do:

• Build a campfire & Roast marshmallows
• Go exploring
• Visit Wineries or book a wine hopping tour with Elkin Vine Line
• Take a hike on the mountain-to-sea trail to Carter Falls & Grassy Creek Vineyard
• Do a Scavenger hunt
• Go Antiquing
• Visit Stone Mountain State Park
• Check out Mount Airy and visit the Andy Griffith Museum
• Cook some delicious meals or try a new restaurant
• Read a good book
• Play a card/board game
• Create a hot cocoa bar or adult beverage bar
• Journal
• Make crafts
• Do a movie night
• If weather allows have a snowball fight or go sledding

Upcoming Activities/Events

• January Winter Special 15% off stay (2-night min.)
• January 16th Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• February Guest Appreciation Month 15% off Stay (2-night min.)
• February 10th-12th Sweetheart’s Weekend Receive a complimentary bottle of wine & chocolate with stay
• February 14th Valentine’s Day
• February 25th Mardi Gras Beads & Dice Game

Cooking at Camp

Campfire Ham & Bean Soup
Ingredients

• 1-pound dried navy beans
• 2 small onions
• 8 cups water
• 4 cups cubed fully cooked lean ham (1-1/2 pounds)
• 2 smoked ham hocks
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. Place beans in an ovenproof Dutch oven; add enough water to cover by 2 in. Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 1-4 hours or until beans are softened.
2. Chop 1 onion; slice second onion and separate into rings. Set onions aside. Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid. Return beans to the pan. Add reserved onions; stir in the remaining ingredients. Cover pan and place on the grill rack over indirect medium heat.
3. Cover grill: cook for 1 hour or until beans are almost tender. Uncover Dutch oven; cover grill and cook 30 minutes longer or until beans are tender. Discard ham hocks.