It seems like there’s a day for everything -– including planning vacations. National Plan for Vacation Day is January 30. And since statistics show a good majority of adults don’t use their vacation days each year, here’s a little inspiration, a peaceful, out-of-the-way slice of heaven.
Less than a half hour from San Antonio, there’s a little slice of Hill Country heaven. Paradise Canyon Campground has been around since 1957. The friendly owner introduces himself as “Red” and tells me “everyone gets a nickname in Paradise.”
Red and his wife took over the 78 acres of riverfront property about 12 years ago. It’s peaceful and unplugged – no Wi-Fi or TVs and there are strict anti-noise warnings. It sits in a beautiful canyon with flowing streams, big swimming holes and rapids with a secret “cold tub.”
Paradise Canyon offers campsites right along the Medina River. A few have electricity hook-ups. But if you’d rather have your own bathroom and kitchenette, there are four tiny house cabins for rent. They can sleep up to six. There’s no stove, but each cabin has a grill and fire pit.
The main lodge is also for rent. It has three large bedrooms which can sleep up to 20 -– or 25 if you want to throw in a few air mattresses. It’s perfect for a family reunion with a large kitchen, a great room, outdoor basketball court and a green lawn out front begging for you to relax with loved ones and share stories.
For an even bigger group, Paradise Canyon is adding a brand-new special events building this Spring. Able to seat 60, the HGTV-worthy building is bookended by silos and has uber unique special touches in the interior. Also coming are more tiny houses on wheels that can be purchased on the spot. So you can literally take a piece of paradise home with you.
Pro Tip: They only accept cash or checks; no credit cards. Pricing varies by season.
My family will be back, to sit a spell by the zen river, jump off rocks into the water, and enjoy watching the kids have leaf races down the skinny spring ducts. Besides, I need to return to Paradise (Canyon) to get my nickname.
You can learn more about these and other Texas destinations in the travel issue of Texas Lifestyle magazine.
