I could definitely use some help in coming up with ideas for a family reunion / anniversary trip this summer. It's for my in-laws and I don't really know what all the requirements/desires are yet, but I'm trying to get the ball rolling.

15 people / 3 generations / 6 kids (ages 7-13) / grandparents are active hikers
driving from Indianapolis and DC area
late July / early August, 1 week in duration

I'm thinking of a relaxing yet active mountain escape. Given the logistical issues of a group of 15, I think we'd like a good base camp to enjoy the area but not move around.

Looking for hiking / rafting / swimming and possible "site" excursions (Dollywood?, Biltmore?, Chimney Rock?, Grandfather Mountain?). It will be good to have some options for the group. Eating variety would also be helpful, but we don't necessarily want the traffic of PF/Gatlinburg (for instance).

As you can see, I'm all over the map. Suggestions?

Hey, Indy Dad,

I'd suggest Lake Lure for a group of your size and age groups. Most of the big vacation houses are right on the water with docks, rafts, boats and kayaks. There is also a sandy beach with big slides and other water toys.

To find a big enough vacation rental, go to VRBO, select Lake Lure, then sort by number of bedrooms.

I will say that there are few good restaurants in the immediate Lake Lure area. However, Asheville is about 45 minutes away so you can easily enjoy its galleries, shops and restaurants. The beautiful NC Arboretum is nearby with trails for all levels of ability.

Lake Lure is about an hour from Sliding Rock, a natural mountain waterfall and slide. Kids ~ of all ages ~ love sliding down a smooth boulder into a pool of freezing water. Really not to be missed! After Sliding Rock, be sure to stop at Mike's on Main Street, an old-fashioned soda shop in Hendersonville, for lunch.

Lake Lure is also about 45 minutes from Flat Rock; you all might enjoy a production at the renowned Flat Rock Theater.

But, really, anywhere you choose to stay in western North Carolina would great.

Have fun!

Lake Lure & Chimney Rock is a great central location, however, the elevation is not that high so expect the weather to be warm. One of the joys of that area is to pack a picnic & you can literally pull over & jump in the river just about anywhere. I'd try vrbo.com for places too stay.

I like Lake Lure too and it may well fit all your criteria, but would echo the above comments - it will be hot in July/August (which is great for swimming/boating) and some may not consider the area to "real" mountains.

And while Asheville is 45 minutes away, that windy two-lane road can be considered either a "pretty" or "tortuous" drive.

For a higher elevation, you might try areas around Nantahala Lake, Lake Hiwassee, Lake Chatuge or Cliffside Lake.

Thanks for the replies. If we give up on the swimming and aim for more "mountains" would Townsend be a good place? Seems to get rave reviews here. Too out of the way for this crowd or reasonable?

I think staying 'around' Asheville gives you many more options, particularly w/access to the city, Biltmore, the Blue Ridge Parkway, wineries, etc.