In Franklin, North Carolina, Winding Stair Farm offers a unique blend of nature, agriculture, and hospitality. The enterprise combines a retail nursery, organic farm, and campground, embodying sustainable agriculture and community engagement.
In 2017, Stacy Bredendieck and Greg Mullins acquired the former Spring Valley Nursery, transforming it into Winding Stair Farm and Nursery. Their vision extended beyond preservation, aiming to create an educational hub for future gardeners and farmers.
General Manager Amanda Chappell explained to Smoky Mountain News, “Greg and Stacy said, ‘We can’t lose this. It’s a great community place.’ And, at the same time they purchased the nursery, they were also developing the Mountain Farm location.”
The campground part of the property, located at 7984 West Old Murphy Road, is a highlight of Winding Stair’s operations. Chappell describes it as “this magical getaway,” offering primitive camping and glamping experiences.
Visitors can choose from regular campsites, glamping sites with power and water, and even a full apartment rental.
The nursery, spanning nine acres at 57 Saunders Road, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., showcasing the public face of Winding Stair.
Education is central to Winding Stair’s mission. The farm serves as an incubator for aspiring gardeners and farmers, offering hands-on learning experiences and workshops. “We like to think of the farm as an incubator place for people where you can learn in this garden,” Chappell said.
Winding Stair Farm regularly hosts community events, promoting local food systems and sustainable practices. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the property’s natural beauty. Chappell shares, “I’m very happy. There’s a reason ‘soul’ and ‘soil’ sound the same—being out here feeds your soul.”
Featured image by Winding Stair Campground via windingstairfarm.com/camping