The 15 Best Cabins in Cherokee NC for Rent

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Cherokee, North Carolina is a town that’s immensely rich in culture and history, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

It’s no wonder that more than 4 million people visit Cherokee NC each year to explore all the natural beauty and man-made attractions the area has to offer.

Cherokee is home to the Oconaluftee entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited of all national parks in the United States.

It’s also close to tourism hotspots like Bryson City (home to the Nantahala National Forest and Fontana Lake) and Maggie Valley (a popular place for snow skiing), so the possibilities for outdoor adventure are endless.

No matter what your interests are, you’ll need a place to rest and recharge after a long day of exploring the local hiking trails and waterfalls.

Read on for our list of the 15 best rental cabins in Cherokee NC, which includes an array of 1 to 4+ bedroom options and a detailed list of their amenities.

Cabin Rentals in Cherokee NC Guide

Downtown Cherokee Loft (Sleeps 4)
The Love Nest (Sleeps 2)
Lady Luck Getaway (Sleeps 2)
Scenic Fox Ridge Cabin (Sleeps 2)
Rising Ridge Cabin (Sleeps 6)
Appaloosa One (Sleeps 4)
Poppy’s Cottage (Sleeps 4)
The Cove at Country Acres (Sleeps 4)
Ocona Lake Escape (Sleeps 6)
Vacation Home in Whittier (Sleeps 4)
Modern Mountain Retreat (Sleeps 6)
The Ridge At Country Acres (Sleeps 8)
3 Bed 3 Bath Vacation Home in Whittier (Sleeps 6)
Summit Escape (Sleeps 10)
The Caldwell Lodge (Sleeps 13)

1 BR Cabin Rentals in Cherokee NC

1. Downtown Cherokee Loft

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 0 Miles

Sleeps 4 • 1 BR • 1 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

The Downtown Cherokee Loft is perfectly named for its prime location, which make it one of the most convenient Cherokee rentals for those who want to explore the Blue Ridge Mountain town.

Located just a few minutes away from some of the area’s best restaurants and shops, this loft is perfect for those wanting to stay right near the action.

It’s also a short 15-minute drive to Bryson City, which is home to some of the best attractions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The airy and spacious feel of this interior layout lends an upscale touch to the inviting space.

Amenities

The Downtown Cherokee Loft has a King-sized master bedroom and a Queen-sized futon, so it can comfortably sleep 4 guests.

Guests have access to a full kitchen with a stove, dishwasher, coffee maker, and refrigerator, as well as tableware and cookware.

There’s also a washer and dryer available to use during your stay.

This rental also includes high-speed internet and a foosball table for entertainment.

2. The Love Nest

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 3 Miles

Sleeps 2 • 1 BR • 1 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

One of the best riverfront cabins in Cherokee NC, this is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

The Love Nest sits right on the Oconaluftee River, with views of the river and its wildlife (including otters, Canadian Geese, and various North Carolina birds) right from the front porch.

The river can be accessed via a private dock, so guests are welcome to bring their kayak or canoe to explore the scenic area.

As with many of the cabins in Cherokee NC, this rental is just 10 to 15 minutes away from popular attractions like Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

Amenities

The cozy Love Nest cabin features a Queen-size bed and sleeps two people.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the cabin, with a Roku and access to Netflix for those nights (or rainy days) when all you want to do is cuddle and chill.

The intimate kitchen has all the things you need for preparing a special dinner, and the rustic feel and stunning river views offered by this Cherokee cabin promise a quiet, cozy stay.

3. Lady Luck Getaway

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 2.6 Miles

Sleeps 2 • 1 BR • 1 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

This tiny house located just a few miles from town is the perfect Cherokee mountain cabin.

At just 400 square feet, this small property features stylish modern decor both inside and out, making it one of the most unique cabin rentals near Cherokee NC.

The Lady Luck Getaway boasts spectacular views of the North Carolina mountains, whether you’re outdoors or gazing out the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Amenities

The Lady Luck Getaway sleeps two people in its Queen-sized bed, with a comfortably intimate living space complete with a comfy couch, TV, and dining area.

If you find yourself craving a home-cooked meal rather than dining in local restaurants, the cabin comes with a fully-equipped kitchen

There’s also a washing machine and dryer, and the lounge furniture on the front porch makes it a fantastic place to relax after a day of Blue Ridge Parkways hikes and waterfalls.

4. Scenic Fox Ridge Cabin

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 8 Miles

Sleeps 2 • 1 BR • 1 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

Located 5.3 miles from the Harrah’s Casino, the Scenic Fox Ridge Cabin is one of the best cabins in Cherokee NC for rent for couples seeking a rejuvenating mountain retreat.

This charming cabin is cozily decorated with lots of wood, which gives it a warm, welcoming appeal.

This pet friendly cabin rental also offers creek access, so you can take your pups for a dip in the water or enjoy a waterside meal at the picnic table.

Amenities

The Scenic Fox Ridge Cabin sleeps 2 people, with a comfy King-sized bed that encourages you to linger.

Wi-Fi is available in all areas of the cabin, and there’s a fireplace, flat-screen TV, and DVD player for indoor entertainment.

You can craft an at-home meal in the fully equipped kitchen, or simply relax in the hot tub or outdoor furniture and enjoy the scenic views.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Maggie Valley NC

2 BR Cabin Rentals in Cherokee NC

5. Rising Ridge Cabin

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 0.5 Miles

Sleeps 6 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

This family-friendly cabin located in the heart of the Smokies offers countless amenities for an excellent value.

What makes this one of the more unique Cherokee cabin rentals is that it includes free activities, including tickets to the Biltmore Estate, Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, and more.

The prime location of this Cherokee cabin provides guests a convenient spot for day trips to Bryson City NC and Pigeon Forge TN.

The Rising Ridge Cabin is beautifully decorated and updated to create a perfectly romantic getaway.

Amenities

Besides the activities listed above, the property offers other amenities to visitors, which make it an ideal cabin in Cherokee NC.

On the deck, guests can enjoy relaxing in the hot tub or cooking out on the BBQ grill. Inside, the game room offers lots of fun, with a ping pong table and a TV for movies or video games.

Guests can also cozy up to the gas fireplace inside, or the fire pit outside for roasting s’mores after a long day of exploring one of the most popular North Carolina Mountain Towns.

6. Appaloosa One

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 1.3 Miles

Sleeps 4 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

This pet-friendly Cherokee NC cabin is rated 4.9/5 stars for a good reason.

Located just minutes away from some of the area’s best attractions and restaurants, this cabin is perfect for families who want to go sightseeing during their visit.

The Appaloosa One rental property has a welcoming feel to it, with wooden walls and warm tones used to decorate the vacation home.

Guests can spend their nights cuddled up next to the fireplace while watching a movie from either the DVD library or on the Smart TV.

Amenities

Appaloosa One is one of the nicer 2-bedroom Cherokee cabins we’ve seen, with each room having a Queen-sized bed.

You’ll feel right at home in the fully furnished kitchen, which is complete with dishes, modern appliances, and a coffee maker. There’s also a grill and an outdoor dining area to immerse yourself in the mountain scenery.

There are also hiking trails to the Oconaluftee River located right beside Appaloosa One’s sister cabin, Appaloosa Two.

7. Poppy’s Cottage

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 1 Mile

Sleeps 4 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

If you’re looking to try your luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, but you don’t want to stay there, this is one of the closest Cherokee cabins for rent.

Located within walking distance of the Casino (and just 15 minutes from downtown Bryson City), Poppy’s Cottage is the perfect location for guests wanting to soak up all the area has to offer.

This rental feels just like home, with a bright, updated atmosphere.

You can make yourself at home in the cozy interior, or outside in a rocking chair on a porch overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Amenities

Poppy’s Cottage features a spacious floor plan, with an open kitchen and dining area for guests to gather and dine together.

There are two bedrooms to choose from, with a King-sized bed in the master and a Queen in the other.

There are Smart TVs in both bedrooms, as well as a flat-screen TV in the living room and Wifi throughout.

Outside, guests can fire up the BBQ grill or relax at one of the cottage’s many outdoor seating areas.

8. The Cove at Country Acres

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 3.7 Miles

Sleeps 4 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

One of the more traditional Cherokee mountain cabins, the Cove at Country Acres is a vacation home located just a few minutes’ drive to Cherokee or Bryson City.

This log cabin features upscale rustic decor, with sophisticated elements scattered throughout and a full kitchen with all the appliances and dishes you’ll need.

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this rental cabin is located on a 30-acre property that overlooks a valley filled with farm animals like cows, donkeys, and llamas.

Amenities

The Cove at Country Acres sleeps 4 comfortably, with 1 King-sized bedroom and 1 Queen-sized bedroom.

Tired from a long day of exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway? Cozy up next to the gas fireplace in the living room, or roast some s’mores outside at the fire pit, which is surrounded by Adirondack chairs.

Guests can also enjoy their fresh cup of morning coffee outside on the porch swing.

9. Ocona Lake Escape

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 3.1 Miles

Sleeps 6 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

This cabin in Cherokee NC is the ideal private escape for those wanting a quiet destination.

Though it’s not technically on a lake, the cabin is located on the Oconaluftee River, so it’s perfect for fishing or kayaking, with lots of outdoor recreation opportunities nearby.

This pet friendly cabin also allows you to bring your furry friends for a fun, relaxing NC getaway.

Amenities

The Ocona Lake Escape offers a peaceful retreat, with no close neighbors and tranquil waters that float right up to the property’s private shoreline.

With 2 bunk beds and a King-sized bed to choose from, guests have plenty of space to relax after a long day exploring the major Cherokee NC attractions.

Inside, guests can play games, watch TV, or read by the fireplace.

Outside you’ll fine an outdoor fire pit with a lounging and dining area, a hot tub, and a BBQ grill.

10. Vacation Home in Whittier

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 3.6 Miles

Sleeps 4 • 2 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

This vacation home is centrally located between popular North Carolina towns like Cherokee, Bryson City, and Maggie Valley.

One of our favorite log cabins for rent in Cherokee, this place has charm to spare with its classic, yet modern décor.

The secluded rental property is private and quiet, yet you’ll find myriad entertainment options and restaurants just a few minutes away.

Amenities

A perfect getaway for families or smaller groups, this cabin features 2 King-sized bedrooms to choose from.

There’s free Wi-Fi and a TV with cable, plus a DVD player and fireplace in the living room area as well.

Outside, guests can relax in the Adirondack chairs around the fire pit, or enjoy the gorgeous views from the porch swing.

This cabin rental near Cherokee NC includes both a full kitchen and a BBQ grill, with dining areas inside and outside at picnic tables.

3+ BR Cabin Rentals in Cherokee NC

11. Modern Mountain Retreat

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 1.9 Miles

Sleeps 6 • 3 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

The aptly-named Modern Mountain Retreat is the perfect home away from home for anyone seeking larger cabin rentals in Cherokee NC.

It’s beautifully decorated both inside and outside, and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

The contrast of rustic wooden walls and updated modern furnishings gives this rental property an unmatched atmosphere for guests to return to after a long day of exploring local trails and waterfalls.

Amenities

The Modern Mountain Retreat has 3 bedrooms and sleeps up to 6 people, including one King-sized bed and 2 Queen-size beds.

If you grow tired of exploring Cherokee restaurants, you can stay home and cook in the kitchen, or outside on the gas grill.

The back deck is fully furnished with lounge chairs and a dining area, as well as ambient lighting and a gas fire table that’s perfect for chilly nights during fall in North Carolina.

12. The Ridge at Country Acres

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 2.5 Miles

Sleeps 8 • 3 BR • 2 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

The Ridge at Country Acres is a luxurious mountain retreat that’s perfect for families or larger groups.

The charming decorations include exquisite woodwork and modern details that combine to create an upscale rustic getaway.

Situated on a picturesque hillside, this Cherokee NC gives guests the best of both worlds, with attractions such as the Museum of the Cherokee People and the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual Co-op just minutes away.

Amenities

The Ridge at Country Acres sleeps 8 people comfortably, with 2 King-sized beds, 1 Queen-sized bed, and 2 Twin beds located in 3 bedrooms and a spare loft area.

Inside, guests can relax in the spacious living room (which includes a flat-screen TV) or in the fully furnished kitchen.

Outside, you can savor the stunning mountain views while sitting around the campfire, cooking on the grill, or relaxing on the porch swing with a glass of wine from nearby NC wineries.

13. 3 Bed/3 Bath Vacation Home in Whittier

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 5 Miles

Sleeps 6 • 3 BR • 3 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

Located in Whittier, this cabin rental near Cherokee NC (5 miles from downtown) is a great option for families wanting a warm and inviting space for their vacation.

Beautifully decorated with warm wooden walls and ceilings, this large c abin offers a refreshingly quiet and secluded mountain retreat.

You can take a day trip to Bryson City by heading 11 miles in one direction, or head to Cherokee in the opposite direction to explore all that these small towns have to offer.

Amenities

This 3-level vacation home sleeps up to 6 people, with 1 Queen bed, 1 Full bed, and 2 Twin beds.

The Whittier cabin has lots of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy their stay, with televisions and DVD players dispersed throughout the rental property.

Outside, the cabin offers spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains, which can be enjoyed from multiple spots, including the seats around the fire pit and the rocking chairs on the deck.

14. Summit Escape

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 5 Miles

Sleeps 10 • 4 BR • 5 BA

Check Rates: Booking.com

Summit Escape is a lavish mountain hideaway located just 5 miles from Downtown Cherokee NC. It’s perfect for larger groups and families, with something to please guests of all ages.

The beautiful views that can be seen from the 2 back decks should be enough to sell anyone looking for time away in the mountains. But there are plenty of other amenities as well.

This is another one of our favorite pet friendly cabins in Cherokee, allowing you to bring your furry friends along at no additional charge.

Amenities

The Summit Escape offers lots of different sleeping options, with 3 Queen beds, 1 King bed, and a pull-out sofa bed. The spacious cabin’s 4 bedrooms all have an ensuite bathroom

There’s a game room with a pool table for indoor entertainment, as well as Wi-Fi and TVs located throughout the rental property.

Outside, guests can relax in the hot tub or take in the scenic views from one of the cabin’s three decks.

Guests can also enjoy swimming in the seasonal community pool or playing golf for an additional fee.

15. The Caldwell Lodge

Distance from Downtown Cherokee: 4 Miles

Sleeps 13 • 5 BR • 5 BA

Check Rates: VRBO

The Caldwell Lodge is a luxurious retreat that’s perfect for large families or groups.

The massive Cherokee rental cabin measures around 6000 square feet (including a game room) and is located between Cherokee and Bryson City.

Located just 6 miles from Harrah’s Casino and Bryson City, this excellent location offers countless opportunities to explore delicious restaurants and entertainment options.

Amenities

The spacious lodge sleeps up to 13 people, with 4 bedrooms and a large loft with 3 twin beds to accommodate everyone comfortably.

There’s WiFi available at the cabin as well as board/card games, 8 televisions, books, and a pool table and foosball table to provide entertainment inside.

The upscale rustic charm of this large cabin is sure to leave guests rejuvenated as they find their slice of heaven here in the Great Smoky Mountains. -by Molly Frazier, images via VRBO & Booking.com