Road Trip Recap: Tennessee

Summer Road Trip: From New Jersey to Tennessee with My 10-Year-Old

This summer, my 10-year-old son and I hit the road with some friends for an unforgettable adventure to Tennessee. It was our second time making the trip, and while the journey was long, the memories we made were more than worth it.

🚗 The Drive Down

Our total travel time from New Jersey to Adams, Tennessee was around 14 hours. We broke the trip into two parts:

• First Leg: New Jersey to Knoxville, TN – About 10 hours

• Second Leg: Knoxville to Adams, TN – An additional 4 hours

We made a few necessary stops along the way—fuel, food, and stretching our legs. On the second leg, we also made some fun and strategic stops, which added to the adventure.

Weekend in Knoxville

We spent the weekend in Knoxville with our friends’ incredibly gracious family, who opened their home to us and made us feel right at home with warm hospitality and home-cooked meals.

One highlight was exploring Knoxville Market Square, a lively downtown market full of local vendors. From handmade wooden spoons and homegrown vegetables to buttery, seasoned corn on the cob and gourmet dog treats—there was something for everyone.

On Sunday, we visited Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church, their home church. It's one of the largest churches I've seen, offering three services that were each filled with people. The message and worship were uplifting, and the community was vibrant.

Coldstream Camp

Coldstream Christian Camp – Adams, TN

After Knoxville, we made our way to Coldstream Christian Camp in Adams for a week of service and summer fun.

I had the opportunity to assist in the kitchen alongside my friend Barbara. We prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the campers and staff—a big task, but made easier thanks to a dedicated team of young helpers who prepped and cleaned up after meals.

While we worked, our sons participated in full camp days from 9 AM to 4 PM (often arriving early to enjoy breakfast with the staff). The week was packed with activities:

• Indoor crafts and creative projects

• Swimming and water sports at the lake

• A baby animal petting zoo (a definite favorite)

• Daily chapel services with worship and lessons around this year’s theme: Jesus is a Prophet, Priest, and King

The atmosphere was joyful, structured, and spiritually enriching. The boys had a blast, and we loved being a part of something so meaningful.

Evening Fishing

🛣️ The Long Road Home

When the week wrapped up, my son and I left at 5 AM (Central Time) for the long trek back to New Jersey. We drove straight through from Adams—14 hours with only essential stops for food and bathroom breaks.

It was exhausting, to say the least.

Note to self: Next time, we’re flying.

Despite the long drive, this trip was such a blessing. From sweet moments with friends in Knoxville to serving at camp and watching my son grow in faith and confidence, it was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. But I’d definitely swap the car ride for a plane ticket next time!