Simple Pleasures Glamping is offering a new glamping experience nestled on a 100-acre woodland area on Old Monticello Rd. NW in Milledgeville.
Whispering Woods is a small 314 square feet globe dome nestled in the woods, offering individuals a serene camping experience with all the usual amenities of a home, including air conditioning, plumbing, a kitchen, and more. The dome has a small deck and is near a stream and a few hiking trails that visitors can enjoy.
“It is about 15 minutes from downtown Milledgeville and is an experience for individuals or couples,” said Cindy Millsaps, owner of Simple Pleasures Glamping. “Glamping refers to glamorous camping, so our dome offers windows for scenic views, a small kitchenette, a full-size bathroom, a small deck with seating arrangements, and trails that lead into the woods and toward the stream nearby. We also allow visitors to add to their experience by signing up for a pop-up sauna or for hammocks and other extra amenities.”
Millsaps and her husband initially launched the business in 2022 and secured the private land to open the first dome this year. They are currently working on adding more domes with priority on keeping it as a quiet, secluded experience. According to their website, the Bag End Retreat will be the name of the area once more domes are built.
“My husband and I both worked in engineering for a long time and also have experience with shortterm rentals. I also ran my own business until we collectively decided to sell it and invest in a new opportunity,” said Millsaps. “Glamping has become increasingly popular, and the government has designated Milledgeville an opportunity zone, so we viewed some properties in the area and felt it was the perfect location.”
Milledgeville offers a secluded experience with lots of scenery from woodland areas and rivers to Lake Sinclair. It also offers a city experience for the days visitors want to have a touch of civilization and go shopping or out to eat.
“The Whispering Woods is named after my daughters’ favorite movie Totoro. In the movie, the family that moves near the woods are secluded but also still very friendly with the town and supportive to their community,” said Millsaps. “That is what we are offering. A unique, comforting camping experience that also connects to a welcoming community with lots to offer.”
Millsaps’ husband’s company, Tranquility Property Holdings, also offers a lake retreat experience called Sunset Cove. This lakefront property can accommodate up to eight people. Settled on Honey Suckle Road, the property offers a lakeside view, a pool, a large home, and is also located near downtown Milledgeville.
“It’s the best option for a family to gather and have access to more interaction right on the lake,” said Millsaps. “Sunset Cove offers kayak and paddle boards to its residents and has a dock for customers who would like to bring their boat.”
Though Millsaps family is from Lawrenceville, they visit the properties every weekend to keep them maintained and greet guests. They also prioritize using local builders and seeking approval from county and local groups prior to any developments.
“We want to be a service to the community and another experience for visitors,” said Millsaps. “We plan to retire to Milledgeville and the home we will move into is currently under construction.”
A minimum stay of two nights is required to book during the year, though during the “busy season” or around the holidays that number increases to four nights. Up to three pets are allowed at either property with the addition of a $50 per pet fee.
Bookings can be made at sunsetcove-sinclair. com/glamping and a contact page is available on the website for further questions. Simple Pleasure allows for a full refund if a customer cancels within 30 days and a partial refund if a customer cancels within 15 days.
“At this time, we cannot accommodate parties or events at The Whispering Woods and out of respect for our neighbors, we do not allow either at Sunset Cove. However, we offer a personalized stay for every customer or family and are continuously working to add more to both of our properties,” said Millsaps.