One of my co-workers loves to go camping with his family. They hook up their cute little pop up travel trailer, load up the kids and spend the weekend right in the thick of nature. I spent a good part of my childhood camping and though I'm an "indoor cat" now, I am sure that when my daughter gets a few years older, my husband and I will too invest in that special family time that involves sleeping bags, camp fires and zero phone reception.

I asked Ryan, my co-worker what they do when they camp and he explained that they hike, swim and spend time together. Okay, I can do that - especially if I'm not sleeping in a tent! This past week, I was turned on to a place right here in Evansville that can accommodate mom's need for a fully-functioning kitchen and jacuzzi, dad's adventurous side and a child's abounding curiosity and energy.

Yesterday, I went out to Burdette Park, tucked away on the Northwest side of Evansville. The staff explained that though the pool closes when school starts, there is so much more to do year-round.

Accommodations - With a Jacuzzi, Please

First, we visited the accommodations. The park has everything from The Hickory Lodge that sleeps up to 12 and chalets (Did someone say Jacuzzi tub?) that sleep eight. I had a friend that rented one for her daughter's "Glamping" birthday party. (Glam camping if you didn't know!) It's a nice little getaway for yourself or an affordable option for families coming in from out of town. If you are tougher than me, the park also offers a campground with full hookups and primitive camping.

Book a chalet for out-of-town guests, a staycation, holiday party or Glamping birthday party! - - Townsquare Media
Book a chalet for out-of-town guests, a staycation, holiday party or Glamping birthday party! - - Townsquare Media
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For Your Next Stress-Free Party

The park also has several shelters and party houses if you are planning a family reunion, birthday party, holiday party or even holiday dinner. My family has a big holiday dinner between Thanksgiving and Christmas and what a pain it is to get your house ready for 50 people. The next time I'm asked to host, I'm definitely skipping the stress and booking one of these! My favorite was the Lakeside Shelter. It holds up to 75 people and has a beautiful view. Each shelter is different and some come with a fireplace. You can also book one of the chalets for your party - they each have a beautiful patio and fully equipped kitchen.

The Lakeside Shelter has a beautiful view, can host 80 people and comes equipped with AC, heat, tables and chairs, fireplace, a charcoal grill, refrigerator, and a deck overlooking the lake. - Townsquare Media
The Lakeside Shelter has a beautiful view, can host 80 people and comes equipped with AC, heat, tables and chairs, fireplace, a charcoal grill, refrigerator, and a deck overlooking the lake. - Townsquare Media
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Kids Just Wanna Have Fun!

If your kids get bored, there's lots for them to do. Burdette offers miniature golf until Labor Day (equipment provided), tennis courts (bring your own racket and ball), sand volleyball courts, playgrounds, fishing lakes (fishing licenses available at Walmart) and a new hiking trail that goes all the way to USI. In the fall, there is a BMX track that hosts BMX racing and opening soon is an adorable little playhouse for children called The Fantasy House created by award-winning artist John McNaughton.

The Fantasy House isn't done yet but it will be a fun, interactive playhouse for kids! - Townsquare Media
The Fantasy House isn't done yet but it will be a fun, interactive playhouse for kids! - Townsquare Media
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Guest List Over 250? No Prob, Bob!

Finally, if you are booking a wedding or other extra-large event, be sure to check out Burdette Park's Discovery Lodge. It holds up to 700 people and boasts a beautiful interior and exterior setting.

There is so much to do at Burdette Park - even in the late summer and fall. Book your holiday shelters or chalets now because they are going fast and be sure to check out the 1st Annual BBQ, Bands and Brew competition and bierstube at Burdette on September 28th! Visit their website for more information, booking and pricing. And check out the photo gallery before for an inside peek at the park!

Location
5301 Nurrenbern Road
Evansville, IN 47712
(812) 435-5602

 

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