Jewel’s Woods: My Long Journey Building a Retreat Near the Coast
How It Started
If you had told me in 2020 that at 50-something I’d be the proud owner of 46 acres of peaceful woodland just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, I might’ve laughed. But here I am – Jewel Leigh – creator, builder, and host of Jewel’s Woods, a private retreat for anyone who seeks a cabin near the coast, a quiet escape, or a place to reconnect with nature and/or loved ones.
It all started with a vision. I stumbled upon this land tucked away in North Carolina near the South Carolina border, and something about it spoke to me. It wasn’t much to look at then – just some swampy brush, trees, and weeds, but I saw beyond that – I saw enormous potential. I envisioned cabins near Myrtle Beach where families could gather, adventurers could camp, and weary souls could recharge.
What followed was a journey of determination, grit, and more than a few tears. Finding contractors who actually showed up and followed through was a challenge in itself. I learned how to operate a tractor, troubleshoot plumbing, battle insects, and navigate permit processes. Bewildered by runaway inflation (that absolutely decimated my budget) and lack of reliable help, I did what I could and pushed myself harder than I ever thought possible – mentally, physically, and financially. There were many days I wanted to quit, but the dream of creating a retreat with elevated camping in the Carolinas kept me going.
How It’s Going
Today, Jewel’s Woods is a haven for family getaways and elevated camping for groups, couples, and solo travelers. I offer five unique lodging options:
- The Blue Baby Barndo: A cozy suite with a queen bed, full kitchen, screened porch with a hot tub, and a patio overlooking the pond.
- The Sabre 5th Wheel Camper: Spacious and comfortable with a queen bed, pull out full bed, a kitchenette, and a deck perfect for morning coffee.
- The Rustic Cabin: Featuring a queen bed, queen pullout sofa, kitchenette, screened porch, and a shady deck with a grill.
- Pad, 50 amp service and water hook up for visiting camper
- The entire campground: All three units, and all of the amenities for a small group. You could also bring in other RV’s to boon dock, and/or tents to add to the fun.
offering vacation rentals near the coast. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?
Beyond the quaint lodgings, guests enjoy two miles of trails for hiking, biking, or riding ATVs or horses, a stocked pond for fishing and paddle boarding, and a screened gazebo for relaxing. The game shed is a favorite – filled with fishing poles, lawn games, and even a bike. Whether you’re here for solitude or connection, Jewel’s Woods offers the space to breathe.
The reviews have been humbling. Guests call it “a hidden gem,” “a perfect oasis,” and “phenomenal.” I’m honored to be recognized as an AirBnB Superhost, but more than that, I’m proud of what this place has become – a retreat built from the ground up with love, sweat, and a whole lot of heart.
Here’s the Why
I’ve had periods in my life where I desperately wanted to escape to someplace peaceful, where I could recharge and regroup. That was my main motivation for creating Jewel’s Woods. But as it happens, the rentals in Jewel’s Woods are vital to my Rock ‘n’ Roll Travel Show dream, because the resulting income is meant to get me back on the road so I can travel to any place that has anything to do with any “vintage pop” artist or song. Why is this important? Because I absolutely love creating and sharing content about the world and music, and I believe that positive, authentic, creative content is very important these days. And, no, it’s not curing cancer or creating world peace, but it does educate, entertain, and raise the vibration of those who share my love of travel and music.
So if you’re looking for cabins near Myrtle Beach, a place for a small wedding, retreat or celebration in nature, or just a peaceful spot for camping in North Carolina, I invite you to experience Jewel’s Woods. It’s more than a vacation – it’s a story of triumph, and it proves that you’re never too old to start a business or chase a dream. I’d love for you to be part of it.