The best view around.
I have been camping at Jomeokee since 2013. In those years I have come to know the Paces on a personal level, most of that coming within the last two years. What first caught my attention about the place was the lack of a “front desk”. The reception for Jomeokee was a golf cart, and the register was a red solo cup in the cup holder, pretty simple operation. When I first arrived there in 2013 I was in awe of the place with its wide open pastures, and possibly the best damn view of Pilot Mountain around. But what kept me coming back was the Paces, Tom and his dad. They made campers feel like they were at home at Jomeokee and they were never too busy to strike up a conversation with a camper. I heard so many stories about concerts and parties and campers. I realized very quickly that this was a special place. Last year I asked Toms oldest daughter to interview Alan about the campground. I only wish I hadve published this article sooner, so he could have read this. Rest Easy Alan Pace. You will be missed.
Avery: What Led you to buy the Campground?
Alan : A friend of mine, Paul Everhart. He told me about a piece of land in Pinnacle NC and that I should take a look at it. At that point I had never even heard of Pinnacle NC. We drove up to look at the property and I could not stop thinking about how great the view of Pilot Mountain was, so I decided to purchase the Property.
Avery: The Campground had been neglected for years, what were some of the challenges starting back up?
Alan: The biggest issue was neglect. The bathhouse was in bad shape, so it had to be rebuilt. We just took it one step at a time and worked hard to bring a better experience each year.
Avery: What are some of your favorite memories at Jomeokee?
Alan: My favorite memories were fixing up the Campground with my sons Tom and Wilson. Plus meeting campers from all over the world, sharing food and stories. If i had to list my favorite events it would be when Willie Nelson played in 2012 and any of the WTQR Family Reunions back in the 80s & 90s.
Avery: What is it like getting to know people from all over the world?
Alan: Different people bring different points of view and traditions. It was always nice meeting new people and learning about the rest of the world through their experiences.
Avery: Where did the name Jomeokee come from?
Alan: The name Jomeokee is native american from the Saura Indian tribe, it stands for “Great Guide”. When I bought the campground from Lester Flatt I needed to rename the Campground. I thought the original name Jomeokee fit perfectly.
Simple words from a man that lived a full life. I am honored to be connected to this place and this family like I am. It seems like we are all searching for our place and our people, and I can say that if Jomeokee aint it for me, then I don’t know where to look. I am grateful for that friend Paul all those years ago for planting the seed of what is now a mighty oak. I know that when I step foot on Jomeokee, Alan will be there with me, with all of us.
Life is Short. Eat Dessert First (an old family saying)
