AOC - Squirrel's Nest

Last weekend, we went camping at Unicoi Sate Park with the AOC. I was really looking forward to going because you stay on little platforms on a hill, instead of in a tent (less packing and a better view).

Unfortunately, my camping "weather luck" has been horrible lately - there was no chance of rain this time, but the low was around 10 degrees Friday night and 20 degrees Saturday night. With some convincing, Travis agreed to go up there on Saturday morning and to stay that night if we could survive the cold.

We arrived early on Saturday and got there in time to set up (we ended up taking a tent to help insulate us from the wind) and join the group for a 3 mile hike into Helen. Helen is a cute town that caters to visitors and looks like an Alpine village.

Here's a picture of the group walking through town - we were a sight because everyone looked like they've been camping... we all had on thick jackets, snow hats, and backpacks (not cute sweaters and purses like the other tourists in town). Did I mention how cold it was - check out the frozen fountian!



While there, we went to a restaurant where everyone got big mugs of beer and hung out. The girls were happy because we got to be inside where it was warm and guys are always content when there is beer and football.



After spending a few hours in Helen, we all went back to Unicoi and hung out by the campfire. I was worried about how cold we would be overnight, but we had on so many layers that we barely even needed blankets. I was especailly warm because had the prime spot in the tent - between Bailey and Travis!