North Carolina's Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in the state, is home to a wildly historic building that was built in 1911 and became the world's largest pumping station. (More on that below.) After the closing of the pump station, the structure was converted into a bit of an elite hunting lodge that now sits empty, awaiting a metamorphosis. In the meantime, the structure is hauntingly beautiful - and worthy of a visit, if only to see the sheer size and marvel at the exterior.
You'll find the former Mattamuskeet Lodge next to the Visitor Center for the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge located on the edge of the lake in Swanquarter, North Carolina.
A little background, in case you didn't grow up hearing about the geography of North Carolina: Lake Mattamuskeet, as mentioned, is the largest natural lake in the state.
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It's located over on the coast on the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula. Many historians and geologists believe the origin of this bean-shaped lake was a large meteor that struck the Earth millions of years ago. It's considered one of the largest Carolina Bay lakes on the coast and once was home to a large Native American colony.
Lake Mattamuskeet spans some 18 miles in length and 7 miles in width.
Many northern birds find the shallow lake (it's a mere two and three feet deep in most places) a safe haven for wintering. But the lake hasn't always been as we see it today.
Back in 1911, the world's largest pumphouse was constructed here in order to drain the lake.
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The idea was to give neighboring farmers some relief for their crops. It seems the natural lay of the land meant all of the new rainfall on their crops went right into the lake. Huge canals were constructed. They were so big and deep that they were navigable. An entire community, called New Holland, sprang up in place of the lake. Homes and businesses were built right in the former lake bed. Most of it is now long gone, except the parts on the south central side of the Lake Mattamuskeet within the National Wildlife Refuge.
So what about the old pumping station? After the project of draining the lake was abandoned in 1934, the pumping station became a hunting lodge.
After that venture came to a close, the U.S. Congress gave the building to the State of North Carolina in 2006. According to the Mattamuskeet Lodge website, the funds are yet to be fully allocated to completely restore the building and give it a new purpose.
If you want to see the old pump station and lodge, you'll just need to navigate to the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center in Swanquarter. The lodge is a few hundred yards up the road.
The history of Lake Mattamuskeet, the pumphouse, and Mattamuskeet Lodge is as fascinating as is the exterior of this haunting old building with a tower that resembles a lighthouse. Have you seen it in person?
Need to get away for some rest and relaxation? Or, perhaps you’re getting a little cabin fever from spending so much time at home? There’s no better way to escape than to a cabin rental in North Carolina, where you’ll have the entire house for your stay. From remote hideaways in the woods to romantic retreats for two, luxurious accommodations with hot tubs, to scenic getaways surrounded by nature, here are the best cabins in North Carolina for every budget.
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Luxury Cabins in North Carolina
On the other end of the spectrum, sometimes, you just want to treat yourself. You've earned it! When you want to treat yourself to a luxurious getaway surrounded by nature, these luxury cabins in North Carolina fit the bill.
1. Sleepy Bear Cabin, Burnsville
Address: Burnsville, NC
Size: This 2,877 sq. ft. home has four bedrooms and three full bathrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests.
Price: $299/night
Amenities: Private location with jaw-dropping views, hot tub, sauna, jetted tub, loaded game room, high-end kitchen.
It doesn't get more luxurious than this well-appointed cabin in Yancey County, North Carolina. Surrounded by stunning views and boasting top-tier amenities such as a jetted tub, hot tub, sauna, and a loaded game room, Sleepy Bear embodies the grandeur of a mountain lodge with a massive stone hearth that anchors the soaring ceilings and open living floor plan.
2. The Skybox Cabin, Mars Hill
Address: Wolf Laurel, NC
Size: This spacious cabin has four bedrooms and four bathrooms and sleeps up to 11.
Price: $437/night
Amenities: This cabin has two spacious decks, a hot tub, two fireplaces, a fully-stocked game room, new kitchen appliances, and even a private chef that's available upon request.
Stay overnight in the Skybox Cabin, a glorious cabin that lets the Great Outdoors inside. Vaulted ceilings, an amazing deck, an outdoor hot tub, and ample natural light and windows will make you feel as though you're on top of the world when you stay at this luxury cabin!
3. Chimney Rock Treehouse, Chimney Rock
Address: Chimney Rock, NC
Size: Stay in this luxurious treehouse for two guests, complete with one bedroom, one bed, and one bath.
Price: $414/night
Amenities: This rental offers amenities such as scenic river and mountain views, a bathtub, a washer and dryer, cotton linens, extra pillows and blankets, a fire pit, and a hot tub.
Welcome to the Chimney Rock Treehouse, a luxurious 680-square-foot studio offering breathtaking views of Chimney Rock. This brand-new build features a spacious deck, hot tub, paddle boards, and a fire pit, making it the ideal location for both relaxation and adventure. Situated within walking distance of the Village of Chimney Rock and just a short drive to Lake Lure Beach, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore and unwind. The treehouse includes modern amenities, a king-sized bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and stylish decor to ensure a comfortable stay at one of the best cozy cabins in North Carolina.
Romantic Cabins in North Carolina
There's something undeniably romantic about a cabin in the woods, and call us biased, but we happen to think this state has the most beautiful scenery in the country! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin surrounded by fall foliage or a weekend getaway for two, these romantic cabins in NC are winners in the romance department!
4. Camryn's Hideaway, Bryson City
Address: Bryson City, NC
Size: Designed for couples, this cabin has one bedroom and one full bathroom.
Price: $176/night
Amenities: High-end appliances, recently renovated, outdoor hot tub and fire pit, and more.
This mountain-chic loft-style cabin sits nestled among the trees in a perfectly serene setting. It was recently renovated to accentuate the loft-like design's modern elegance and create abundant private outdoor space. This cabin is a perfect place for a couples getaway, writing retreat, solo escape, or as a base camp for outdoor adventures in the surrounding area. Sit outside on the partial wrap-around deck, by the fire pit, or soak in the hot tub under the stars and feel lost in the forest, yet you are surprisingly convenient to all the area attractions!
5. River Magic Cabin, Hot Springs
Address: Hot Springs, NC
Size: This 1,700-square-foot cabin has one bedroom and two bathrooms and can accommodate up to four.
Price: $202/night
Amenities: This cabin has jaw-dropping views, a hot tub, spacious Great Room, wood-burning fireplace, smart technology, high-end appliances, and more.
Romantic and enchanting, River Magic Cabin is the perfect retreat for couples looking to get away from it all. With high-end appliances and cozy features such as spa robes, a hot tub, lux linens, and more, this cabin is so comfortable you might never want to leave!
6. The Treehouses, Bryson City
Address: Bryson City, NC
Size: A lovely romantic cabin with a king bed bedroom and one bathroom perfect for a cozy stay in the Smokies.
Price: $345/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, fireplace, hot tub, grill, bocce ball court, outdoor game area, hiking trail to a playground and waterfall.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
Cabins in North Carolina with Hot Tub
There's nothing a soak in a hot tub can't cure, and these cabin rentals prove it! Soak up the splendid scenery of our state when you book a getaway at one of these cabins in NC with a hot tub.
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7. AVL Modcabin, Asheville
Address: Asheville, NC
Size: Perfect for a couples getaway or a family of four this two-bedroom cabin sleeps four with one full bathroom.
Price: $325/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, fully-stocked kitchen, fireplace, washer & dryer, hot tub, grill, creek with picnic table, hammock, outdoor games.
Ratings: 4.9 stars
8. Log Cabin, Black Mountain
Address: Black Mountain, NC
Size: This impossibly charming cabin has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and sleeps up to eight.
Price: $411/night
Amenities: This cabin has a beautiful deck, amazing views, king bed, modern kitchen, high-end appliances, smart technology, and more.
Relax in the lap of rustic luxury while enjoying long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in this three-bedroom log cabin that sleeps up to eight guests. It's located on 14 private acres near Asheville and also comes equipped with a hot tub. Sound perfect? We think so!
9. Lola's Getaway, Lake Lure
Address: Lake Lure, NC
Size: A delightfully fun brand-new cabin with two bedrooms and one luxurious bathroom that sleeps four (the cabin not the bathroom).
Price: $368/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, fireplace, washer & dryer, hot tub, fire pit.
Ratings: 5 stars
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Affordable Cabins in North Carolina
Looking for an affordable getaway in the Tar Heel State? From rustic cabins to backcountry log cabins, you have lots of options! Below are some affordable cabins in NC that offer R&R... without costing an arm and a leg!
10. Creek-Side Cottage, Black Mountain
Address: Black Mountain, NC
Size: This 800-square-foot cabin has one bedroom and one bathroom and sleeps up to four.
Price: $140/night
Amenities: This cabin has an open floor plan, king bed, full kitchen, screened-in porch, and private (babbling!) brook.
With a secluded location that features both a babbling brook and a small waterfall, Creek-side Cottage is an impossibly charming cabin that's truly surrounded by nature. Outdoor features like a screened-in porch and hammock make for leisurely evenings spent basking in the quiet scenery of the wilds of North Carolina, while a robust list of indoor amenities makes this affordable cabin a true gem!
11. The Ole Cabin, Zirconia
Address: Zirconia, NC
Size: This historic log cabin has one bedroom with two beds and one bathroom.
Price: $115/night
Amenities: This cabin has a beautiful deck and outdoor living area that's surrounded by 40 secluded acres. While there is no central heat or AC, this cabin has WiFi, a kitchenette, and is pet friendly.
Stay overnight in an authentic 1800s hand-hewn log cabin in Zirconia, North Carolina. This charming abode has one bedroom and one bath and includes additional sleeping space for two more people on the convertible futon sofa. Enjoy the gardens, the forest, and a number of springs on the property. It's located in Zirconia, an easy 15 minutes south of Hendersonville.
12. Mountain Farm Getaway, Tuckasegee
Address: Tuckasegee, NC
Size: Enjoy a cozy farm stay perfect for two guests, featuring one bedroom, one bed, and one bath.
Price: $128/night
Amenities: This rental offers amenities such as scenic mountain views, a dedicated workspace, a private patio, a stainless steel gas stove and oven, and a cozy fire pit.
One of the best cabin Airbnbs in North Carolina is the Tent and Table Farm, a serene 20-acre retreat located at 4000' elevation in the heart of Nantahala National Forest. Surrounded by nature, you'll be minutes away from waterfalls, hikes, and lakes in Western North Carolina. Enjoy the chirping birds in the morning and the glow of lightning bugs and stars at night. Stay in a charming timber-frame cabin with a king bed, couch, and desk. The nearby tiny house offers a kitchen and bathroom. Experience the tranquility of nature and refresh your soul with wilderness therapy.
Secluded Cabins in North Carolina
Looking to get away from it all? The following secluded cabins are surrounded by the wondrous wilds of our state yet packed with amazing amenities and features for a comfy, cozy getaway.
13. Private Log Cabin, Vilas
Address: Vilas, NC
Size: This 1,600-square-foot cabin has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and sleeps six.
Price: $153/night
Amenities: This cabin has a beautiful deck, brand-new king and queen beds, luxury linens, a Jacuzzi tub, children's loft, smart technology, high-end appliances, and more.
Your quintessential cabin in the woods, this cozy VRBO is a true escape in the wilds of North Carolina. This family-friendly cabin offers a wonderfully remote getaway with all the creature comforts you need, from smart technology to new appliances - and lots of room to spread out.
14. Bearadise Log Cabin, Warrensville
Address: Warrensville, NC
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and one bathroom and sleeps up to four.
Price: $131/night
Amenities: Smart technology, "Fantasy Spa" with a private hot tub, full kitchen and appliances, pet friendly, secluded.
Relax and rejuvenate in a charming and rustic log cabin near West Jefferson. A cozy spot to get away from it all, Bearadise offers two bedrooms and everything you'll need for a getaway weekend.
Thinking about going on a vacation close to home? It's a growing trend! Have you gone on a vacation this year? We'd love to hear about your favorite places to stay!
If you're having trouble deciding where to stay, take a look at this list of some of the best places to stay in NC. And if you're looking for unique things to do while relaxing, you have to check out these one-of-a-kind experiences.
A lovely family campground in Boone, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains provides the best of both worlds. Located on a mountainside creek at 3,500 feet in elevation, it's hard to believe that the bustling downtowns of Boone and Blowing Rock are right down the road. Let's take a look at one of the best campgrounds in Boone, North Carolina.
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If you feel like a lot of us - camping in North Carolina is a treasured activity.
But for those who think a drive through the wilderness is too much, this campground is conveniently located near Boone and Blowing Rock but still gives a country feel.
One feature is the rushing water from Laurel Fork Creek that drops down into the Watauga River offering a beautiful rustic camping experience.
I rolled through right after dinner time when the light worked its magic offering sun glints in the rolling water - not to mention the calming effect the sound has on the entire campground - reminding us: We are outdoors.
It's right underneath the bridge that leads to the cabin and tent camping areas.
I followed the road around to the 18 cabin rentals where folks sat on their porches, and some had built fires even though it was pretty warm outside.
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These charming, one-room log buildings are approximately 13 feet x 13 feet.
Each cabin contains a small table and chairs, a full-sized bed, and twin bunk beds. Be sure to bring your own linens.
The cabins have power but are without heat and air conditioning.
A fire ring, water faucet, and picnic table are also provided.
The newly remodeled bathhouse is clean and offers private hot showers.
The facility is just a short walk from the cabins and tents in the shelter of the towering trees.
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The tent camping area is across the lawn from the cabins where I found a colorful number of them pretty close together.
Folks enjoyed conversations by the creek.
And some of the tents were on wooden platforms.
The pavilion has several picnic tables and a play area with a volleyball net and other activities.
If you go off campus, this campground in North Carolina is close to many attractions, including Blowing Rock, Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad, and the Blue Ridge Parkway which offers extraordinary scenery over any distance you wish to drive.
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I found at least 50 RV spots of which the majority include water, electricity, sewer, and cable.
Don't be surprised if you plan on spending a weekend but stay a month: It happens!
And in case you forgot something, the camp store offers some necessities, bundles of firewood, cold drinks, and other treats.
Enjoy the pool table, a pinball machine, games, books, movies, and a cozy fireplace for those chilly mornings and evenings the mountain air can bring.
Check-in on all sites and cabins is at 1:00 p.m. with checkout at 11:00 a.m. Quiet hours are respected between 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
The next time you visit any of the surrounding, charming towns, consider an affordable stay at Flintlock Campground.
Have you been to this family campground in Boone, North Carolina? Share your comments below. And while you're there, check out the sights on this nearby road trip. Get some ideas from our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List.