“George Franklin Wright Memorial Fishing Pier” open around the clock; Yurts mix affordability and family fun

 Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and Hamilton County Parks & Recreation, Friday, held the grand opening of the new waterfront yurts at Chester Frost Park, alongside a ceremony dedicating the park’s new fishing pier in memory of beloved community member, George Wright, who passed away earlier this year.

“As we have focused on leaning into the strengths of Hamilton County, we have made continuous improvements at Chester Frost Park, which is one of the most spectacular local parks in Tennessee,” said Mayor Wamp. “These investments will create new opportunities for local families to spend days and nights at Chester Frost Park and introduce children from all walks of life to the sport of fishing. Our parks director, Matt Folz, has once again delivered a vision that will connect families with our parks in a meaningful way.”

The opening of four new waterfront yurts will provide visitors with a unique and luxurious glamping experience in the heart of Hamilton County, broadening camping opportunities at Chester Frost Park.

“We’re thrilled to officially open the yurts as a new style of camping for our visitors,” said Matt Folz, Director of Hamilton County Parks & Recreation. “As we continue to add other amenities, our hope is to expand on experiences offered at Chester Frost Park for our community and beyond to enjoy.”

Nestled along the Chickamauga Lake, each yurt is equipped with comfortable beds and modern amenities with access to the park’s laundry facilities and shower houses. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, hiking, and more.

The yurts are designed to accommodate families and solo travelers and offer affordable fun at $75 a night, including parking. Two of the four yurts provide the option for a hybrid camping experience with room to park an RV on site at no additional cost.

“Chester Frost Park is a jewel of our county, offering some of the best recreational opportunities around,” said Commissioner Ken Smith, who represents Hixson. “With the addition of the new fishing pier and yurts, families across Hamilton County now have an even greater opportunity to enjoy an overnight stay on the picturesque Chickamauga Lake, creating lasting memories at an affordable cost.”

A Soddy-Daisy native and frequent camper at Chester Frost, George Wright was a staunch leader in business, an avid golfer, and all-around lover of outdoor activities who spent countless days fishing at the park. Widely known in the north end of the county, Wright founded the George Wright Construction Company in 1985 and built numerous houses, commercial buildings, and developed subdivisions in the Soddy area spanning decades. Wright previously served as president of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Chattanooga and was awarded Homebuilder of the Year in 2008.

“George was a good man who I had the pleasure of knowing for many years,” said Commissioner Gene-O Shipley, who represents Soddy-Daisy. “He did so much for Soddy-Daisy, and I can’t think of a better way to honor his legacy and the impact he made on so many. I’m grateful to everyone who made this happen.”

The “George Franklin Wright Memorial Fishing Pier” is now open to the public 24/7. Yurt reservations can be made here for stays beginning August 30th.