The best treehouse rentals near Townsend, Tennessee

Nicknamed “the peaceful side of the Smokies,” Townsend, Tennessee is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area provides access to a wealth of camping accommodations, including primitive backcountry camping, glamping in canvas yurts equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, and tiny home rentals featuring full kitchens, soaker tubs, and cable TV. After setting up in any type of camp, venture into the Great Smoky Mountains to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail, view a snapshot of history in Cades Cove, or experience a bird’s-eye view from the observation tower on Clingmans Dome. For fun that’s a little closer to town, the underground natural world of Tuckaleechee Caverns awaits.

98% (399)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nicknamed “the peaceful side of the Smokies,” Townsend, Tennessee is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area provides access to a wealth of camping accommodations, including primitive backcountry camping, glamping in canvas yurts equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, and tiny home rentals featuring full kitchens, soaker tubs, and cable TV. After setting up in any type of camp, venture into the Great Smoky Mountains to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail, view a snapshot of history in Cades Cove, or experience a bird’s-eye view from the observation tower on Clingmans Dome. For fun that’s a little closer to town, the underground natural world of Tuckaleechee Caverns awaits.

98% (399)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

95%

(66)

37mi from Townsend · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging · Hartford, TN

In the heart of the Smoky Mountains surrounded by Cherokee National Forest lies Standing Bear Farm, a turn of the century multi-generational farmstead including the original homestead, barns, outbuildings and farmhouse. The outbuildings have now been converted to a bunkhouse and cabin where we offer rustic lodging to hikers and others interested in stepping back from today's hectic lifestyle to a time in America's past when life in rural back-country Appalachia was considered the "good life". We are accessible by road via I40. There is a small exit due to construction (BE CAREFUL, as we have had Hipcampers miss the exit) Keep left, go underneath the interstate and up the gravel road (going around the road closed signs) to our hostel which is the first building you come to. We are first-come, first-served in Northbound thru hiking season (March 15 through May 15), however, reservations are available at all other times of the year by contacting us via phone 4234870014 (Call) or 4236080149 (Call or Text). Hike or drive-in. Business hours: 8am-8pm. Open year round and on holidays. Call ahead if arriving early in the morning or late at night. We offer shuttles to various beautiful hikes, waterfalls, and more—on and off the trail. Please call or text us for prices and scheduling or you may email to get a price quote. Price varies based on party size, distance, and road conditions and closures. Give us a call to inquire about our kenneling and shuttle service for your furry friends that are not allowed in the GSMNP. We have trail-foods and ready-to-make foods available on site for all your hiking needs. We also have a camp fuel for sale as well as toiletries and other trail essentials. Restock on essential food items to get you on to Hot Springs (northbound) or through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (southbound). We also have items to cook on hand such as pizzas, burgers, and much more! Book today for a taste of authentic, rustic Appalachian charm. Our farm is steps away from the wilderness, with all the amenities you need. We look forward to meeting ya!

2. GlampKnox Canvas Campground

95%

(179)

23mi from Townsend · 5 sites · Lodging · Mascot, TN

GlampKnox, where the outdoors and camping meet luxury! GlampKnox is the new way to glamp! Our BRAND NEW canvas tents sleep 2 to 6 people comfortably with cozy beds, towels and linens provided, outdoor HOT and cold shower, INDOOR SPACE HEATER and private men's and women's bathrooms. Relax by the fire pit, and enjoy our LED lantern, ice machine, fan, private parking, extended covered porch with rocking chairs, and views of the beautiful Cumberland Mountains. This is the perfect getaway! Available for rent: 20 lb PROPANE FOR THE SPACE HEATER TO WARM THE TENT: $50 or Bundle of wood, matches and fire starter for $15 *PLEASE MAKE REQUESTS BEFORE 5PM, OUR STAFF GOES HOME TO THEIR FAMILIES. THANK YOU. HOWEVER, FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT DIRECTIONS OR ISSUES YOU MAY HAVE 24/7. Follow us on Instagram @GlampKnox

3. Mountaintop Fantasy

98%

(236)

47mi from Townsend · 4 sites · Lodging · Cullowhee, NC

FALL/WINTER SPCIAL: 40% off weeknights. NEW FOR 2025: Glenville High Treehouse and landscaped Overlook Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best Treehouse 2023, the Glenville High Treehouse ( the "Treehouse" ) and the Overlook await you in 4 acres. The two sites are directly across our driveway from each other. The Treehouse affords covered interior sleeping for 6 ( combination adults an kids ), a W/C and shower, WiFi, TV, all necessary cooking and dining equipment, water equipment and room to pitch a tent if desired. The Overlook site is landscaped,shared and offers a covered overlook, various out door dining and lounging tables, large outdoor stone fireplace and water and fishing equipment shared only with us. PLUS free access to the community dock and our canoes and kayak. Playground for the kids including trampoline. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; swim, canoe, kayak and fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; enjoy the numerous nearby waterfalls; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just hang out. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite far from the madding world.

4. Treehouse Hollow and Cabin Rentals

100%

(1)

38mi from Townsend · 3 sites · Lodging · NC

Beautiful cabin listing! Come and enjoy trout fishing on 1000 feet of our private, stocked, creek. The "Bear's Den" is a one bedroom, rustic, unique, and cozy cabin, located in the Great Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. It is the perfect getaway for couples looking to escape city life, and unwind. The inside is rustic, with barn wood accents. The creek, is a short walk from the cabin. Appalachian Trail and waterfalls nearby. The space Barn wood shutters and accents, pebble stone tiled bathroom floor, glass shower doors, cozy, outdoor fire pit and chairs, outdoor park model charcoal grill, hot tub complete with lights, outdoor dining table for two in the screened in hot tub area, wifi, and an outdoor fire pit. Guest access Follow the “Bear’s Den” signs to the parking area. Other things to note Inquire about our new creek-front, two bedroom, with hot tub, on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/wayahcreekcabinswatersedge. Eagles’s Nest Treehouse, hot tub, wifi, fire pit, creek front is on the same property: https://www.airbnb.com/h/treehousehollow Please read the House Manual before booking. We have a firm check in/check policy: 4:00pm is check in, 10:00am is check out. We cannot allow cats due to allergies. We do allow 1 dog, please message us with any questions. There is a $50 pet fee. Please close the hot tub after use and turn the lights and the jets off. The temp shouldn’t be raised above 104 degrees. We have bundles of firewood for sale for $8.00/bundle located on the other side of the barnwood wall. Please place cash in the little antique mailbox located above the firewood, on the wall. Don’t leave trash outside overnight due to wildlife. Please place trash on the other side of the barnwood wall to be picked up in the morning. We provide 6 towels, washcloths, hand towels, dish towels, blankets, dish soap, paper towels (1), toilet paper (4 rolls), disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, hot tub towels, small pet clean up bags, outdoor trash can for pet clean up, small hotel size shampoo and conditioners, lotions, soap, hair blow dryer, outdoor fire pit, bundled fire wood for sale, and a charcoal grill. We hope you enjoy your stay here, and please message us if you need anything. We are willing to engage with guests and answer any questions you may have, while still ensuring your privacy during your stay.

Stories from the community

John

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Great place to stay. Quiet and peaceful. Great staff!

Access to canoes and a dock just a short drive (or walk) from the cabin.

Eifel

October 2025

1 night at Mountaintop Fantasy

This a very unique and cozy treehouse cabin in a beautiful location, right by Lake Glenville. It is a comfortable space with lots of amenities for a fun weekend in the mountains, and feels very secluded surrounded by woods and at a high elevation. Despite being there in rainy weather, it was beautiful with all the fall foliage! And Peter is a very friendly and welcoming host. I would certainly recommend a visit!

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Brian

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

This Treehouse/ Overlook was just right for glamping - all accommodations and ease of use! Warm space to sleep with WiFi, open air kitchen with full accessories, heated full bathroom and shower while being able to enjoy the view of the mountains and nature. Instructions and directions are well thought out and posted for everything. Layout is an easy walk and well designed - great place to to relax and just enjoy your time! Our furry host, Molly was a pleasure to meet and get to know too! Good times had by all!

T

Twila

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

I had a pleasant and comfortable stay at Standing Bear! While I wasn't actively hiking, I got to enjoy the community of hikers who stop at this beautiful property on their way on the AT. I stayed in the private room top tree house and enjoyed the evening fires and open air kitchen. I was met with accommodating and generous staff ( Rodney and Grateful) who made sure I felt welcome and had what I needed. The owner, Maria clearly has a heart for all the people who come through. Lots of love for Standing Bear and I hope to be back as a hiker one day!

R

Ryan

October 2025

1 night at GlampKnox Canvas Campground

Loved this experience! Very unique and enjoyable! The host was very generous with firewood as well. Don't even get me started on the bed, HOTEL quality!

Fire pit area with swinging benches to the side of the cabin.

M

Morgan

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

We had such a great time at the treehouse! The view is absolutely stunning; none of the pictures do it justice. We visited during peak leaf season, and it was beautiful. The location is perfectly secluded and private, yet close enough to enjoy all the attractions in Highlands and Cashiers if you want to explore. We went with three adults and three kids (2, 4 & 5) and the cabin had plenty of space for everyone. Our first night there was much colder than what we were used to coming from home, but the space heaters kept us nice and toasty! Most of our time was spent around the fire and on the swings. The treehouse was stocked with more utensils and appliances than we could have ever needed, and it was such a treat to have a flushing toilet and hot water. The highlight for our kids, though, was the hosts’ adorable puppy, Molly! She hung out with us most of the time and completely stole our hearts (and a couple shoes) but we loved every second of it. The kids were so sad to leave her when it was time to go. The host was wonderful. He checked in frequently and was always available when we had questions, but never overbearing. He left us fresh eggs when we arrived and even had firewood available for purchase when we realized we’d forgotten ours. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. 10/10 recommend this magical spot!

L

Lourienne

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to GlampKnox Canvas Campground

Absolutely fantastic! This location is private and the bed is extremely comfortable. My toddler and two dogs had a blast. We will definitely be back!

J

Jeremy

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Place is great. Had problems with reservations but that's part of the charm. Amenities are rough, but great if you are roughing it.

a

amy

September 2025

With kids

2 nights at Mountaintop Fantasy

The owner has done a great job equipping the spot with everything you may need for a wonderful glamping experience. The view is INCREDIBLE!

Colby

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

Peter was great! Made sure we had what we needed and then gave us the privacy that this awesome treehouse offers. Our family of four enjoyed everything about it, from the views to the layout of the cabin. We are on our way home, already talking about when we can make the trip back!

C

Christopher

September 2025

1 night at Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

I love Standing Bear Hostel! It was a great niche experience on the Appalachian Trail and a staple of what the area has to offer! I encourage anyone to go check it out. The people are great, and just be genuine.

P

Peyton

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

The land and views were beautiful! We loved having multiple areas to hang out at

A

Andrew

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Great spot with all the amenities you would need on site. would definitely recommend staying here

Arlee

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Excellent place. Clean and welcoming. All the staff I met were kind and accommodating ~:) plus showers have HOT water 💯

Natalie

August 2025

With pets

1 night at GlampKnox Canvas Campground

We had a great stay in Tree Solo! The hosts at GlampKnox thought of everything— we had a bug net to keep the tent insect-free, our own outhouse, water, power, fans, and lanterns. The land is beautiful, and the horses and barn cat are an added bonus! Would definitely recommend.

R

Ruthy

August 2025

With pets

4 nights at Mountaintop Fantasy

Everything about our experience was magical! Peter has thought of everything in creating this rental. I brought 4 of my boys up here (ages 2-19). The cabin was plenty big enough and we could have fit another person. He had everything we needed on site and it was wonderful to have a real toilet and shower with hot water. We definitely want to come back again! Peter is an attentive and respectful host!

H

Hailey

July 2025

With pets

1 night at GlampKnox Canvas Campground

Absolutely loved this place. Teesolo is the best site in property. The staff was incredibly accommodating. The facility was beautiful. The outdoor shower was so cute and the bathroom was clean! I was also super surprised that there was also an outhouse by the tent. The tent stayed perfectly dry and I had no issues with mosquitoes or anything of that nature. They even provided an extra bug screen incase I slept with the door open. My pups and I Absolutely loved this place. The front porch Absolutely was the icing ontop of the cake. 10/10 could not recommend this enough. Id love to come back and stay for a longer period of time.

J

Jefferson

July 2025

1 night at GlampKnox Canvas Campground

Beautiful spot. We stayed in the solo tent which I recommend if you want extra privacy. The barn is so beautiful. The outdoor shower located at the barn is such a great space. Everything was super clean, the host was really responsive through the app, and they provided clean water for dishes. Easy to find given the written directions. Just an overall great space. Would stay again!

Martin

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

Great spot and wonderful people, I appreciate the location and the vibes.

Bill

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

Peter, his communication and property are excellent. Truly enjoyed our stay, the accommodations, and the area. The sleeping area and deck are fantastic. The views are amazing. The lake and the surrounding areas are just close enough. But not too close. Private. Quite. So relaxing. We will be back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best treehouses near Townsend guide

Where to go

Cades Cove

A lush valley flanked by mountains, Cades Cove is a great place to spend the day when camping near Townsend. The 45-minute drive from town brings campers to this iconic paradise, where hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and sightseeing amid historic buildings abound. Cruise down the 11-mile road that loops through the area, or wander on foot via the 5-mile trail to Abrams Falls. On-site campsites come with a range of amenities like picnic tables, fire rings for grilling, and access to restrooms with flush toilets.

Clingmans Dome

The highest point within the Great Smoky Mountains, Clingmans Dome has a steep, half-mile pathway that leads to an observation deck with 360° views of surrounding mountain peaks. Campers will be set with plenty of places to call home, including equestrian campsites, RV campsites with dump stations, and backcountry tent campsites. The access road is often closed due to weather conditions in winter, so double-check availability before booking.

Tuckaleechee Caverns

A 5-minute drive from the center of Townsend, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a must-see attraction. Boasting 24-foot-high stalagmites and the 210-foot Silver Falls—the world’s tallest underground waterfall—Tuckaleechee is a once in a lifetime experience. There are a variety of nearby campsites to choose from nestled into the shores of Little River. Campers can find perks like free wifi, fire rings, and picnic tables, as well as a mix of back-in and pull-through RV campsites featuring full hookups.

When to go

Townsend has relatively temperate year-round weather, but it gets chilly enough in winter for snow. Look into road or campsite closures prior to booking in the colder months. April, May, September, and October are prime picks for quieter campgrounds and warm weather for outdoor activities. Spring brings wildflower-filled valleys in Cades Cove, while fall revamps the forests with color as deciduous trees drop their leaves.