If there is just one thing true about summers in South Korea, it’s the fact that it’s hot. I mean, hot hot. We arrived back at Camp Humphreys in May, and it’s gotten progressively hotter by the week, which has been quite the change from life in Alaska. In fact, we’re still well in the mid- to upper-80s most days right now, and it’s humid as all get out…but we’re soaking up every ounce of summer that we can. We’ve spent quite a few summer days at the Gangdanggol Valley river here in Asan, and it’s been such a nice break from the incessant heat.
Summer Days at the Gangdanggol Valley
When we were stationed here last time, much of our time here in South Korea was sort of marked (or really hindered) by Covid restrictions. So, with life in full swing this time around, it’s been so refreshing to really get out and explore. Mind you, however, lots of our adventures are pretty tame because, being pregnant with twins, I’m uncomfortable at best. Sign me up for all the swimming adventures though!
The Gangdanggol Valley in Asan is actually only about 30 minutes from where we live, or about 45 minutes from Camp Humphreys proper. It’s not one of those “attractions” that Americans stationed here flock to, but it’s definitely popular with the locals. Just a few minutes up the road from Oeam Folk Village, the Gangdanggol Valley is a shaded paradise with cool, running water, plenty of shallow pools, amenities nearby, and ample space for visitors to enjoy a break from the heat.
Our Favorite Part of the Gangdanggol Valley
First and foremost, it’s one of those underrated little adventures that’s so close to home, it’s practically begging you to overlook it – and plenty people do. Each time we’ve gone, the area has been packed, but we’ve never had an issue finding parking (which is a rarity on the peninsula), and we’ve never had an issue finding a place to call our own during our visit. We just sort of claim a spot on the rocks, set up our little “camp,” and enjoy the cool water for hours.
The best part for the boys is that some of the pools are deeper than others, which gives them the opportunity to properly swim. They also absolutely love scaling the rocks nearby, climbing up the little waterfall, and searching for fish. For Mieke, who is still not a proficient swimmer, there are also plenty of shallow pools where she can splash and play, so there’s no shortage of fun for all of us. And for Ryan and I? The best part is it’s kind of a mindless outing – just easy, fun, relaxing, and enjoyable. Honestly, if you only enjoy one local adventure in the summer here, it should be swimming at the Gangdanggol Valley.
Tips for Visiting the Gangdanggol Valley
Address: For Naver – 충청남도 아산시 송악면 강당리 강당골
Parking: There is a dedicated upper and lower-level parking lot offering ample free parking. They do fill up fast on hot days though, and people often start parking along the street wherever possible.
Cost: Free! That’s probably the best part of all of this. There are little vendors nearby on the hottest summer days who accept cash, but most people show up with picnic gear and spend the hottest hours of the day just soaking it all up.
Tips: It’s kind of a no-brainer, but you cannot have any fires or cooktops onsite due to wildfire risks. Most Americans probably wouldn’t think this far, but Koreans enjoy making ramyeon onsite, so it’s worth noting. Pack in and pack out goes without saying, and bring sunscreen!
Amenities: There are restrooms by the parking lot, as well as a water bottle filling station.
