From pool time to pickleball and every activity in between, Bright’s Creek is a North Carolina family fun destination. Our mountain community welcomes neighbors of all ages and stages, whether its retirees living a life of leisure, couples enjoying their second home in the mountains, or young families exploring endless ways to play.
This month, we had the pleasure of chatting with four special Bright’s Creek families about how they’re having tons of fun together, right here in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Get to know the Dinklers, Lassiters, Hornes, and Thompsons as they take us through their special memories and the moments that make family life at Bright’s Creek unlike anyplace else.
Thanks to our abundance of amenities right here within our gates, families never have to leave the community to enjoy fun-filled days that fade into memorable nights. Best of all, the magic begins the second you enter Bright’s Creek, where majestic horses spend their days grazing, waiting to greet you on your way in. The Thompson family can’t resist making a pitstop to say hello on every visit.
Here’s a closer peek at the standout activities that our four featured families just can’t get enough of at Bright’s Creek.
Hanging Courtside
The fastest growing sport in the U.S. for the last four years in a row? Pickleball! At Bright’s Creek, families definitely take full advantage of our well-kept courts, whether for pickleballin’ or playing tennis. But, the Lassiter family, full-time Bright’s residents, have a fun hack they shared with us when it comes to the courts.
“We love to respectfully repurpose the courts when there aren’t tennis games going on. Our kids, Addy (8), Lawson (6), and Hudson (4), really enjoy setting up a little racetrack for their bikes and scooters. We also love playing baseball or softball out there. Another favorite family hobby is watching the tadpoles after a rain, right next to the courts!” says Andria Lassiter.
Magic at The Mill
Our lifestyle center, The Mill, is the social epicenter of Bright’s Creek, making it the perfect destination for families to stay and play.
“There’s a real sense of community at the pool,” says Andria. “And a killer view when you’re swimming.”
The Dinkler Family, dad Carling, mom Ayame, and daughter Ansley, live year-round in New Orleans, but discovered Bright’s Creek two years ago. They just can’t get enough of life poolside. “I think about us in the pool, looking out toward the golf course and mountains and always think we’re so lucky to be here,” says Carling. Daughter Ansley, (7), also loves to bowl and finds herself right at home in our two-lane bowling alley. Don’t miss our blog all about bowling here!
Playing A Round
It’s no secret that Bright’s Creek is known for being home to one of North Carolina’s best golf courses. Designed by renowned golf course architect, Tom Fazio, this tranquil escape blends ultimate playability and perfect views. Longtime Bright’s member and former PGA Tour pro, Kyle Thompson, along with his wife, Emmi, and their kids Sophie (16), Sam (14), and Raleigh (9), couldn’t agree more. Fun fact, Raleigh is named for Kyle’s three wins at the Korn Ferry Tour Event in Raleigh!
“I’ve traveled the world and played amazing golf clubs, but Bright’s Creek is really special. You can hear water flowing at every hole. One of my favorite memories at the club is last October when the leaves were changing and the backdrop was just beautiful. We were all playing golf and our kids ran down the fairway at the 7th hole. It’s an image we’ll never forget.”
Another perk of playing here at Bright’s? “It’s not overly crowded, so it’s a great, no-stress course to teach the kids golf etiquette,” says Kyle.
The Horne family, Todd, Stephanie, and kids, Harper (12), and Holton (10), couldn’t agree more. “I was searching for a golf club in the mountains that my family would enjoy, but also a place that I could bring clients,” says Todd. “Our son Holton is a golfer and always says to not tell anyone about Bright’s Creek because it’s just so peaceful and quiet. It’s a great place to play a leisurely round with the kids, but it’s also so much more than just a golf club.”
Carling Dinkler, an avid golfer, also loves bringing his daughter out to play a round. “We get full use of the club and now Ansley is coming out to play, too,” he says.
The Lassiter’s are learning to love golf as well. Sundays are spent playing 9 holes—but their favorite part might just be golf cart rides with their signature speaker and some tunes along for the ride.
Hitting the Trails
North Carolina hikes are what dreams are made of. Sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Pristine lakes. Mild temperatures. It’s no wonder hiking has become a favorite family pastime for so many Bright’s Creek families.
“During our Discovery Weekend, we came to Bright’s and went on a hike to the waterfall. It’s one of my most vivid Bright’s memories. It’s just the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle,” says Todd Horne.
The Dinklers had the same idea. “On our last trip up, we hiked to waterfall, and just sat for an hour, hanging out, throwing rocks, and just disconnecting for a bit.”
Want to learn more about Bright’s Creek hikes? Don’t miss our blog post featuring resident hiking guide, Ron Tunkel.
Holiday Cheer
There’s a special kind of charm around the holiday season at Bright’s Creek. The Dinklers love Boo at the Barn during Halloween, where you’ll find games, obstacle courses, relay races, costumes, and loads of fun. And check out the cute family photo from New Year’s Eve! The Horne family has enjoyed the Easter Egg Hunts and Valentine’s dinner. And a visit from Santa at Christmas is always a hit.
“Fourth of July is amazing at The Mill,” says Andria Lassiter. “The community comes alive during the holidays—Santa is always a good memory! We also just love celebrating the holidays with our neighbors here at Bright’s—it really does feel like a big family. Our kids have tons of adopted grandparents!”
Endless Entertainment Outside the Gates
Mill Spring, NC, and Western North Carolina are true gems for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, artists, and equestrians. Check out some of the top destinations that our Bright’s Creek families named as their go-to stops again and again.
Lake Lure, just 25 minutes from our gates, and Lake Adger, 15 minutes away, are the ultimate destinations for however your family loves to lake day. From lounging and swimming to boat rentals and fishing, there’s something for everyone in the fam to enjoy. You just might catch the Thompsons renting a pontoon boat for the day!
Looking Glass Creamery, just about 30 minutes from Bright’s Creek, is a Lassiter family favorite for ice cream.
The Tryon Equestrian Center offers first-class sports, entertainment, and hospitality at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At just about 25 minutes away, it’s a favorite for Bright’s families. The Lassiters love Saturday Night Lights and ice skating all winter. Plus, they offer free rides on their iconic carousel on most weekends!
A trip to Tryon isn’t complete without checking out the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, where the Dinkler family loves exploring their unique array of camps for kids. The Tryon Antique Mall is also the perfect pitstop for families and older kiddos who love a good treasure hunt.
Yet another popular North Carolina day trip that’s only 40 minutes away is the amazing city of Asheville. The Hornes and the Dinklers call it a top destination, with ziplining, hiking, climbing, and even family-friendly breweries to visit.
If you’re looking for a place for your family to call home, Bright’s Creek is calling. Contact our real estate team directly at (828) 600-5132 to book your Discovery Tour today.