Between Hendersonville and Saluda Is a Glamping Resort With Rare Access to Nature

Longtime locals Lark Elliott and her husband bought a run-down former summer camp, and had an entirely different vision for it: a luxury glamping resort with an adult-focused experience. And boy did they deliver. Approaching its 1-year anniversary this summer, Tuxedo Falls is a serene retreat in the Western North Carolina mountains offering access to some of the area’s most unique natural features. 

In developing the land, the owners found rare wildflowers, saw elusive blue ghost fireflies, and created private waterfall trails—and all of these wonders are exclusive to guests only. I visited Tuxedo Falls earlier this year to experience the magic for myself.

A Unique Four Season Getaway

My visit to Tuxedo Falls fell between winter and spring; the waterfalls were rushing from snowmelt, but the trees were still bare, and greenery was just beginning to creep through. Temperatures were mild and pleasant, allowing us to hike comfortably and even warm enough for our dog to take a dip (but not us). At night, we enjoyed the communal fire pit, and I could imagine the peak level of coziness this place feels like in the winter. 

I could also sense what’s to come in spring. Elliott told me of the mountain laurel and rhododendron blooms they found when developing trails last year, which are now accessible to guests. She also let me in on another natural secret: the property is home to the rare blue ghost fireflies, which come to only a small section of the Appalachian Mountains for a short time in May and June.

The rare fireflies don’t blink; they instead form a blue-white glow on the forest floor. While you can see them in the surrounding areas, like Asheville, the private luxury retreat would be the ultimate place to see them in total solitude.

Summer brings relief from the heat, with ample creek-wading opportunities and designated swimming areas. And of course, fall in Western North Carolina is like no other place in the U.S. The glamping tents at Tuxedo Falls are perfectly perched, offering spectacular and private mountain views you can’t get anywhere else. And depending on the time of year, you can partake in private fly fishing lessons or a yoga micro retreat on the property.

Amenities That Go Above and Beyond

The owners spared no expense in finding the perfect safari tent to ensure a comfortable experience for guests. We experienced rain on our trip, and while it was pleasant to fall asleep to the light patter of the raindrops, it was comforting to know that water wasn’t going to leak into our tent. The luxury tents are inspired by traditional African safari tents, are heated and cooled, and truly feel like you're indoors.

The layout was spacious for my husband, dog, and me (the private bathroom area was especially nice). My favorite part was the covered wraparound deck, which included a gate (super helpful for those traveling with a dog), a pizza oven, a grill, a dining area, and a soaking tub. Rooms also come with a yoga mat for outdoor practice. The kitchenette was fully stocked, making it easy to cook dinner and breakfast on-site. (I highly recommend the pizza making kit and pancake breakfast!).

Currently, the property has four tents and two treehouses. There's no shortage of unique places to stay in Western North Carolina but these treehouses were designed and built on-site by The Treehouse Guys, featuring playful features such as an indoor hammock net and a live tree built into the unit.

Note that kids over 10 are allowed, but trails and terrain may not be suitable for all ages. We found the property extremely pet-friendly, with dogs allowed (for a fee) in most tents and in one of the treehouses. Dogs are also allowed in the main lodge tent, a common area with an honor-system bar, games, communal tables, and meal kits available for purchase. 

Nearby Attractions in Hendersonville and Saluda

When it does come time to leave the property, you’re only about 15 to 20 minutes from two of Western North Carolina’s charming mountain towns. Saluda is sleepier with a train depot and a small main street with some shops, general stores, bars, and restaurants. 

Hendersonville’s downtown is a bit more bustling with breweries and a few blocks’ worth of stores, restaurants, and cafes. Both offer a quintessential Main Street vibe and are worth a visit. You’ll also find some dining options in Flat Rock and Zirconia if you’re looking for something even closer to camp. 

Outside of the property’s private hiking trails, there are even more opportunities to get outdoors nearby. Both Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest are easy day trips, and the Blue Ridge Parkway is about 40 minutes away near Asheville. 

Hendersonville’s Ecusta Trail is another must: a 6-mile greenway that connects downtown to the Horse Shoe area, with scenic views and points of interest along the way.

What’s Next for Tuxedo Falls

Elliott and her husband built the current infrastructure with expansion in mind and hope to eventually add tents and host more events and corporate retreats. There’s still plenty of land to develop, and they’re excited about what they might find. But for now, they’re content with the hard work they’ve put into the property so far and want to enjoy it at the current scale.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from a nearby city—both Atlanta and Charlotte are within a few hours’ drive—or a home base for a longer outdoor adventure, Tuxedo Falls glamping resort is the perfect spot for couples, especially if you travel with your pup in tow.