Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - 28 min drive - 15.0 miles
Smokey Mountain Trains Museum - 28 min drive - 15.0 miles
Nantahala Brewing Company - 28 min drive - 15.0 miles
Bryson City Gem Mine - 29 min drive - 16.4 miles
Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 43 min drive - 29.0 miles
Getting around
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) - 147 min drive
Restaurants
Cardinal Coffee - 23 min drive
Sheffield Mine - 23 min drive
Wild Rose Cafe - 22 min drive
Mountain Perks Too - 25 min drive
Davis Ray's Commercial Refrigeration & Appliance - 24 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin
NO CLEANING OR PET FEES! Fall in love with our secluded Off-Grid Cabin located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wake up to the sounds of a babbling creek and beautiful mountain views, hike the Road to Nowhere, kayak the Little Tennesee River, cook hot dogs over an open fire, and then open the glass panel garage door and fall asleep under the most beautiful sky you will ever see.
Rowdy Bear Highlights:
• 12ft glass panel door that opens the cabin to nature • Queen Tempurpedic bed • Rain Captured Shower • Fire Pit
The Space:
The Rowdy Bear is an Off-Grid Cabin that is situated in the Great Smoky Mountains with easy access to both Bryson City and Franklin. The cabin itself was built using rough sawn wood acquired from a local sawmill. Many of the items used in the cabin came from local shops or antique stores.
There is a 2000-watt Solar Generator in the cabin that can be used for lights, charging cell phones, and running the pump for the shower. The Solar Panels are enough to charge the Generator to 100% each day.
Rainwater is used for showers. The gutter system on the cabin is used to catch rainwater. The downspout runs into a "First Flush Diverter", which allows any dust, dirt, or anything else that might land on the roof between the rainstorms to be diverted away from the water storage tank. The clean rainwater then fills the water storage tank. Be aware that Rainwater is fine for showers, but is not meant for drinking.
Propane is connected to a space heater and the shower. The space heater is 17,000 BTUs, which is plenty for colder nights. The shower has an at-source water heater and can heat the water up to 120 degrees, which is more than enough for a hot shower.
A porta potty is provided for bathroom purposes and is cleaned and restocked every Thursday.
Pets are allowed!
The following items are provided:
1. Linens 2. Towels 3. Coffee, Coffee Pot, and Coffee Cups 4. Body Wash 5. Shampoo 6. Board Games 7. Lanterns 8. Two Person Table and Chairs 9. Two Rocking Chairs 10. four Adirondack Chairs for the Firepit 11. Firepit 12. Outdoor table for food and drinks 13. Propane Torch for lighting fires
Area Details:
The Rowdy Bear is situated on 2.5 acres of land. There is a large section cleared off where the cabin is located. There is plenty of room for the fire pit, vehicles, animals, and any outdoor games you might want to bring (cornhole).
Both Bryson City and Franklin are fairly close to the cabin. Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away, while Franklin is approximately 30 minutes away. Both towns offer great little downtown areas that have shopping and restaurants. Don't be afraid to try the food trucks, they have some of the best food.
Bryson City has many trails for hiking such as the Road to nowhere, Noland Divide Trail, Three Waterfalls Loop (FYI: There are three waterfalls on this trail), and Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. The fishing in Bryson City is also great and the guided trips are very reasonably priced. I would suggest going in the morning and doing a float trip.
Franklin is bigger and a little more spread out than Bryson city, but there are a lot of neat little stores and restaurants. I personally like going to the Currahee Brewing Company. Currahee is right on the river and is set up to host live bands and it gets pretty lively in the late afternoons and evenings on the weekends.
Small Details:
One of the things you would want to bring is a 1 lb propane bottle for the Torch that is provided. Using the torch to start a fire is much easier than kindling.
The solar generator has enough power to run the small coffee pot if you don't want to use the percolator. The generator also has enough power to run hair dryers. The main thing you want to keep in mind is anything that uses a heating element will drain the battery quickly. Lanterns are provided If needed. Overall, you should be good to go, but it is something to keep in mind.
The cabin is heated and features a kitchenette and a patio, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Other standard amenities include a coffee maker and a dining table.
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 200 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
2 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do near this cabin?
This cabin is located in Bryson City, just steps from Nantahala National Forest. You'll also find Mason Mountain Mine and Pincu Pottery nearby.
Will I be able to park at this cabin?
No, there isn't parking at this cabin.
Is this cabin associated with a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.
What amenities will couples enjoy at The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin?
Couples staying at this cabin will appreciate amenities like a kitchenette as well as ski lift privileges and a firepit.
Are there hot tubs at The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin?
No, this cabin doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this cabin provide breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cabin.
Does this cabin have connecting rooms?
No, this cabin doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Can I book a room with a balcony at The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin?
Yes, every cabin at The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin comes with a deck.
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping Cabin Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 12 reviews
10 - Excellent
10
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 12 reviews
8 - Good
2
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 12 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Luke M.
Dec 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice secluded stay.
It's a nice secluded dry cabin. It's well equipped and is built well. My wife and I enjoyed our stay and would like to return some time in the future. Maybe when it's warmer haha.
Luke M.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
8/10 Good
David D.
Oct 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Broken promises
Fire torch was missing
Fire starters were broken
Unable to start fire 1st night
David D.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Courtney B.
May 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Review
Majestic view, neato.
Courtney B.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Stephen S.
Oct 16, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning views
I wanted to experience the leaf change season and this was the perfect place to see it. The pictures do not compare to the real life experience. I will defiantly be booking this cabin again for next years changes. It truly is a hidden gem!
Stephen S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Clayton S.
Oct 9, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Highly Recommended!
The location, craftsmanship and resourcefulness are second to none. Do yourself a favor and take time to immerse yourself in the beautiful mountain environment!!
Clayton S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Donna S.
Oct 5, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Very cool place. The only problem I had was neighborhood dogs barking at all hours sometimes for hou
Overall nice experience
Donna S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kari D., Wilmington, NC, USA
Jul 26, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Neat Off the Grid Cabin
myself, my boyfriend and our 2 dogs stayed at this cabin in July. it superrrrr cute and the setup is very cool honestly. it was off the grid, no wifi or service, back in the country vibes with a Mountain View.
if you 100% hate bugs, want wifi/service, want AC, and are allergic to bees: I would recommend to stay away from this cabin. only because there are bugs obviously cuz you are in the woods/mountains, you are off the grid for a reason, no AC in the cabin (we did bring a plug in small fan for night time air flow), and my boyfriend sprayed a bunch of wasps/yellow jacket nests the second day we were there. he got stung on the face the first night by one of these huge yellow jacket hybrid bees (we've never seen them before so we don't know what they even are called lol). I was so freaked out I slept in the car that night haha HOWEVER, us spraying a lot of the nests seemed to be A HUGE HELP. we didn't see those big whatever-they-ares the last 2 nights and I was able to sleep very well lol I saw other reviews about the bugs being so bad, BUT the owners did put up a huge net over the garage door opening which helped with bugs but again, there are holes in the floor and whatnot so bugs are going to get in (also being in the woods).
I saw reviews where there are 2 codes and there are 2 codes so make sure to pay attention! I screen recorded each email so that I had access to all the info with no service.
Brett and Leslie were both VERY responsive!! they even gave us suggestions for places as well as where we could take the dogs.
we left the dogs one morning to hike in the Great smoky mountains national park. we left the garage door open for shade and closed the gate. we came back like 4-5 hours later and they were just fine, living their best mountain lives!
the road to the cabin wasn't terrible. it is a gravel road all the way up and it goes up a pretty decently steep hill. I have a FWD Mazda cx5 and it did just fine going up and down the road! (obviously wouldn't make it up in the winter time if there's snow or ice though).
overall our stay here was enjoyable. the fire pit was awesome. the rain shower was a neat experience too. the location was great and not super far from everything we wanted to do. I DO wish there was just some kind of air flow INSIDE the cabin itself.... like an overhead fan that ran with the generator or something. BUT we would still stay here again, just probably try it out in the fall/winter time next time!
Kari D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Colin S.
Jul 22, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Overall Great Stay - Would Recommend!
The stay was clean, welcoming and of course had a stunning view! It’s almost hard to get moving in the morning when you can lay in bed with beautiful sunrises; and at night sunsets. The shower was super comfortable and easy to use. Never came close to running out of water and the linens and towels provided were clean and fluffy. The bed was beyond comfortable. We found this to be the perfect blend of camping out and having a nice comfortable home.
Colin S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Emily M.
Jul 18, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Weekend Trip!
My boyfriend and I stayed at this cabin for a weekend in the Smokies. This property was BEAUTIFUL! Super secluded with amazing views and cute cabin with a super comfy bed. There were a few bugs from the flooring so I would suggest a net under the cabin but nothing too bad and we were lucky enough to get a few fireflies in :) Great little cabin and we would LOVE to come back some day!
Emily M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
8/10 Good
Heidi B.
Jul 12, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Cabin with amazing scenery!
The cabin was beautiful! Being able to see that mountain view from the porch and bed was amazing! Usually staying in places the bed isn't always that great, but the mattress was very comfortable and the linens were soft. The shower was so easy to plug in the cord and get a quick shower after a long day of hiking, plus it had great water pressure! The owners have a lot of information about the towns if you need and can offer great advice. The instructions they send for the cabin are very easy to follow, I did recieve two different codes to get in so I took a picture on my phone of both to be safe and I am glad I did because otherwise you have to drive to town to get cell reception (which is expected based on location). I do recomend bringing a battery operated mini fan to help get air in the cabin at night, as the air is still and hot because you can't leave big door open due to the bugs. You can not leave any type of light on inside the cabin at night because lots of bugs will come in. I feel as though the floor should have a vape barrier under it, could even use landscape fabric, but something to maybe staple to the bottom outside because many bugs were coming up thru the floor boards so I sprayed bug spray. Maybe even spraying home defense would help. I always expect bugs in the mountains, but I don't want to sleep with them. Maybe an extra shelf between the two already would be handy and some extra hooks. Overall, I would love to have a place like this, its amazing!!! Thank you for having us!!
Heidi B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Mary F.
Jul 10, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
100% BEST Kept Secret
My boyfriend and I stayed there for a long weekend and let me tell you. THIS is the place. Very private, secluded. Be prepared for no AC which was a little toasty BUT the rain cooled it down and it was nice! Bring a portable battery operated fan if you are someone who enjoys the AC. Property looks just like the pictures! Shower pressure was superb. Bed was super comfy. About a 25 min drive to Bryson City. We hiked the deep creek trail which was so nice! Overall, highly recommend staying here. One thing I thought could be included was a booklet of all the instructions printed out that are emailed to you. Also be prepared for zero cell signal. It was SO nice to be off the grid!