As the warm embrace of spring transitions into the early hints of summer, the allure of the outdoors beckons. For those yearning for a respite from the urban clamor, 'Wellchon' presents four enchanting destinations for memorable camping and picnic experiences, catering to various preferences and promising rejuvenation amidst nature's beauty.
★ Recommended Scenic Camping & Picnic Getaways ★
Eco Wanggok Village (Jeollanam-do, Naju): A haven for pet owners and families, offering eco-friendly activities and delightful camping with your furry companions.
Daksil Village (Chungcheongnam-do, Geumsan): A tranquil escape nestled by the Geumgang River, boasting natural wetlands and serene camping grounds.
Bongjwa Village (Gyeongsangbuk-do, Pohang): A spacious and amenity-rich village centered around agricultural heritage, featuring diverse camping facilities and equestrian activities.
Supulro Yangsuri (Gyeonggi-do, Yangpyeong): A revitalized ecological park along the Bukhangang River, perfect for leisurely picnics and nature walks.
Jeollanam-do, Naju - Eco Wanggok Village: A Pet-Friendly Ecological Paradise
Nestled in Naju, Jeollanam-do, the Eco Wanggok Village has garnered popularity among pet-owning families and environmentally conscious travelers. This unique destination seamlessly blends ecological awareness with recreational activities, offering a plethora of experiences, including the highly acclaimed "Welcome, Dogs! Healing Camp."
True to its name, Eco Wanggok Village champions sustainability through engaging "Eco" programs. Visitors can participate in zero-waste workshops, crafting natural cosmetics, solid toothpaste, and shampoo bars. The upcycling workshops provide opportunities to transform discarded materials into charming crafts like coffee ground planters and reclaimed wood coasters, fostering a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship.
The village's woodworking program is another significant draw, with a dedicated center showcasing exquisite wooden artistry. Participants can unleash their creativity by assembling pre-cut wooden pieces to create delightful interior décor items such as frog-shaped trays, cutting boards, and tissue boxes.
However, the highlight for many is the "Welcome, Dogs! Healing Camp," a program perfectly timed for the pleasant spring weather. The village's campsite transforms into a haven for both humans and their canine companions. Expansive grassy fields invite dogs to roam freely and play to their heart's content, while evenings can be savored with delightful barbecue gatherings, creating an idyllic healing experience.
Adding a touch of whimsy and consideration for their four-legged guests, the campsite is adorned with playful signs like "Noldagagae" (Play and Go) and "Pyeonhaeshwigae" (Rest Comfortably), along with colorful garlands, clearly signaling a welcoming environment for pets.
For those seeking an extended stay, the village offers three charming guesthouse rooms for overnight reservations, allowing for a relaxed exploration of all that Eco Wanggok Village has to offer. If creating unforgettable memories with your beloved family and furry friends amidst nature's embrace is your desire, Eco Wanggok Village comes highly recommended.
Chungcheongnam-do, Geumsan - Daksil Village: Tranquility by the Geumgang River
Legend has it that Daksil Village in Geumsan, Chungcheongnam-do, derives its name from its geographical shape resembling a golden hen incubating eggs. Upon entering the village, a large rooster sculpture serves as a whimsical welcome, hinting at the unique charm that awaits.
Situated along the midstream of the Geumgang River, Daksil Village boasts the largest natural wetland in the Geumgang River basin. Agriculture thrives here, with ginseng cultivation and rice paddies dotting the landscape. The village's surroundings offer ample opportunities for exploration, including the Daksil Naru (ferry crossing) along the riverbank, the Imjin War relics and Geumgang River observatory at Jeogoksanseong Fortress, and the picturesque Geumgang Solbaram Trail, perfect for leisurely strolls.
The focal points for visitors seeking outdoor experiences are the Geumgang Ecology Science Experiential Center and the Geumsan National Leisure Autocamping Site. The latter is a veritable camper's paradise, featuring an on-site swimming pool that adds a refreshing element to summer camping trips. Its popularity is evident in the consistently full booking schedule.
Geumsan National Leisure Autocamping Site Information:
Operating Period: Tuesday to Saturday (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Operating Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM, Check-out 11:00 AM
Reservation Method: Online booking and payment
Fees:Tent, Caravan, Camping Car: KRW 30,000
Bungalow: KRW 50,000
Log Cabin: KRW 70,000
On-site Camping Car Rental: KRW 100,000
The Geumgang Ecology Science Experiential Center offers an engaging way to learn about the Geumgang River's ecosystem and natural environment. Its diverse experiential programs cater to all ages, ensuring a fun and educational visit.
Furthermore, the center provides hands-on activities such as woodworking, natural crafts, plant-based crafts, and traditional rice cake pounding (for groups of 20 or more). These nature-integrated experiences promise a delightful time for friends and families seeking to connect with the environment.
Gyeongsangbuk-do, Pohang - Bongjwa Village: A Spacious Retreat with Equestrian Flair
Bongjwa Village, nestled in the Gigye-myeon area of Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, draws its name from the majestic Bongjwasan Mountain. This rural experiential village is a collective of five smaller villages, united by a focus on agricultural and ironworking cultural heritage, offering a range of interactive programs and educational opportunities.
Phoenix imagery is prevalent throughout Bongjwa Village, stemming from a local legend:
Long ago, during a great flood when the heavens and earth were reshaped, a phoenix perched atop a high mountain and folded its wings. This place was thereafter known as Bongjwa (Phoenix Seat).
Understanding this legend adds a layer of cultural significance to a visit to this charming village.
Bongjwa Village boasts an exceptionally well-equipped campsite with approximately 60 individual sites and pension-style accommodations for those preferring a camping experience without the gear.
A versatile space featuring a grassy field and a stage transforms into a swimming pool during the summer months and a futsal field during other seasons. This adaptable area provides ample room for family outings and large group gatherings, ensuring a comfortable and activity-filled stay.
A unique highlight of Bongjwa Village is the Pohang Equestrian Park. Here, visitors can enjoy introductory horseback riding experiences and even pursue equestrianism as a sport. Unlike the casual tourist rides often found in Jeju, this park offers a more formal experience with proper equipment and disciplined riding instruction.
Catering to various seasons and group compositions, Bongjwa Village offers a diverse array of experiential programs. Families, in particular, will find a wealth of engaging activities designed for day trips or overnight stays, promising cherished memories in a welcoming rural setting.
Gyeonggi-do, Yangpyeong - Supulro Yangsuri: A Riverside Ecological Haven
In Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi-do, lies Supulro Yangsuri, an ecological park offering serene strolls along the Bukhangang River. This verdant space was once slated for apartment development but was thoughtfully transformed into a haven for nature and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for picnics.
A well-maintained ecological forest trail meanders through the park, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. A leisurely walk along this path takes about an hour, offering a refreshing experience where clean air and the picturesque Bukhangang River create a sense of tranquility and healing.
Expansive lawns provide ample space for families with children to play freely and joyfully. The iconic Yangsu Bridge and Yangsu Railway Bridge stand side-by-side over the Bukhangang River, offering the unique sight of passing subway trains. Throughout the park, seasonal flowers and lush ecological forests create a visually stunning landscape, making Supulro Yangsuri a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
These four distinct destinations, each with its unique charm and offerings, provide a compelling invitation to escape the city and embrace the rejuvenating beauty of Korea's countryside. Whether you seek pet-friendly adventures, tranquil riverside camping, spacious recreational facilities, or peaceful ecological retreats, 'Wellchon's' curated selection promises an unforgettable spring or early summer getaway.
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