Embrace Adventure: Top 5 Extraordinary Mountain Cabins at Bear Camp

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

Do you find yourself dreaming about a beautiful mountain getaway that combines luxury, comfort, and endless possibilities for adventure? If so, Smoky Mountain cabins might be the type of accommodation you’re looking for.

Here you’ll find unique Tennessee mountain cabins rich with luxurious features and plenty of things to do for the whole family.

In this guide, we’ll look at the five most extraordinary mountain cabins and why they are the perfect backdrop for your next vacation.

1. Pigeon Forge Getaway

You have the unique opportunity to escape to the Gritz Carlton II, a 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom cabin that sleeps up to 19 guests.

The main level features an open floor plan with two bedrooms with a king bed and private bathroom. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream brought to life on a vacation. It comes with two sinks, a double oven, and seating for up to 20 people. The great room, furnished with comfortable seating and a gas fireplace, is the perfect spot to gather and enjoy the magnificent views.

The upper level of Gritz Carlton II has a bedroom with a king bed, triple twin bunk beds, a private bathroom, and another with a king bed and a Jack and Jill bathroom.

The game room on this level has everything you need to stay entertained. It comes with shuffleboard, air hockey, and plenty of games.

The lower level is what really brings people in with a fantastic indoor heated pool, outdoor hot tub, and an impressive theater room with seating for 16.

3. Big Bear Lodge

Experience rustic charm and excitement at the 4,900-square-foot - Big Bear Lodge. Nestled on 4 private wooded acres with stunning LeConte Mountain views, this lodge is just a 5-minute drive from Pigeon Forge Parkway.

The great room has a stone fireplace and 75-inch TV. This is the perfect spot to gather and enjoy each other's company. The massive fully equipped kitchen and dining area, with seating for 10 and additional bar seating, makes mealtimes a breeze.

Big Bear Lodge offers 10 bedrooms, each with luxury mattresses for a perfect night's sleep. Choose from 6 king beds, 1 queen room, 2 bunk rooms with full over full bunk beds, and 3 queen-size sofa sleepers in the theater room and sunroom.

The lodge also boasts 8 full baths, 4 of which are oversized designer-crafted walk-in showers with granite vanities. The game room, with billiards and a poker table, and the theater room provide endless entertainment options. Step outside and enjoy the 1,300 square feet of living space, including a fire pit and a brand new 8-person hot tub.

4. Mystic Moonlight in Sky Harbor

Escape to Mystic Moonlight, a luxurious 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom cabin that sleeps 14 guests. Nestled in Sky Harbor, between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, this custom-built cabin offers breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. With king beds in each bedroom, 2 living rooms, and an arcade game, Mystic Moonlight is perfect for family reunions or weekend retreats.

Each of the three levels boasts a deck with spectacular mountain views. The main level features a fully equipped kitchen, dining room seating for 8, bar seating for 4, and a living area with a stone gas fireplace and TV.

A king bedroom on this level includes a large Jacuzzi tub, TV, and a walk-in shower. The upper-level loft area houses a pool table, perfect for friendly games, and 2 additional king bedrooms with private baths.

The lower level offers 2 more king bedrooms with private baths, a spacious 2nd living room with a queen sofa sleeper, an arcade game, and a home theater system. Step outside to the full deck with an attached walkway leading to the covered hot tub and relax while taking in the awe-inspiring mountain views.

5. Majestic Splash

Majestic Splash offers luxury and convenience in this 6000+ square foot log home that’s only a short drive from some of the best attractions in the area.

The property has 8 bedrooms - 9 bathrooms and can sleep up to 22 guests. The main area of the home is a huge rec room complete with a TV, pool table, and plenty of seating and entertainment options.

One of the standout features is the large heated indoor pool which we’ve come to see as a great luxury for cabins in the Smoky Mountains. There’s also a spacious gazebo which is great for weddings, reunions, birthdays - and pretty much any other event you want to have.

The prime location of Majestic Splash is another thing that makes it so great. It’s only a few minutes away from Dollywood, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge. There’s plenty of parking and no shortage of luxury amenities so you’ll want to check out this mountain cabin for yourself.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a Smoky Mountain vacation, there’s no better place to rest your head than Bear Camp Cabins. We have one of the largest assortments of mountain cabins ranging from large and sprawling like the ones in this guide - to small and affordable. Whatever you need, we have a cabin in the mountains.

Book your cabin adventure with Bear Camp Today!