FAQ: Your Guide to Watershed Cabins in the Great Smoky Mountains
1. How close are Watershed Cabins to the NOC, Tsali Trail, Fontana Lake & Smoky Mountain Railroad?
Our cabins are located within a 20‑minute drive of Bryson City, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, Tsali mountain biking trails, and Fontana Lake. Some cabins are closer to Cherokee or the Nantahala Gorge. Each cabin listing includes a Google Map to help you plan your trip.
2. Why are your properties also listed on AirBnb or VRBO?
We use AirBnb and VRBO as marketing tools. Most vacation rental management companies use them. These websites increase costs for you and for management companies. We always recommend booking direct for the best price and service. Read more about this on our blog.
3. Do you allow pets? Are there any pet friendly cabins?
Yes! Pets are allowed in designated cabins only (max 2 dogs, $15/night per dog). Browse our pet friendly cabins here. Unauthorized pets will incur additional charges.
4. How secluded are the cabins?
Many of our cabins are completely private, while others are in wooded neighborhoods with natural separation. Seasonal changes can affect visibility. Let us know your preference when booking, and we’ll help guide you to the right cabin.
5. How many guests can the cabins accommodate?
We offer everything from cozy 1-bedroom cabins to larger homes like Fontana View 3, which sleeps 15+. Please respect occupancy limits for safety and comfort. Many resort cabins can be rented together for larger group stays.
6. Is there Wi‑Fi or internet access?
Most cabins offer free DSL or Wi‑Fi, though speeds and reliability can vary. We have portable Verizon hotspots available for a $19 setup fee. For dependable internet, guests can also use our Bryson City office Wi‑Fi.
7. What are check‑in and check‑out times?
Check-in is at 5 pm and check-out is at 11 am. These times are firm, especially during peak seasons. Contact us in advance if you need flexibility—we’ll do our best to accommodate.
8. What’s the minimum stay? Are one‑night stays allowed?
Most cabins have a two-night minimum, with longer requirements during holidays.
9. What supplies are included with the cabin?
Cabins come fully stocked with:
Hot tub (most cabins) and gas grill (all, propane included)
Washer/dryer, air conditioning
Linens, towels, basic kitchenware
Starter toiletries and cleaning supplies
Firewood if there’s an outdoor fireplace
10. What does housekeeping include?
Our fee covers post-departure cleaning and hot tub maintenance. No daily housekeeping is included unless arranged for long-term stays. Please leave the cabin tidy, though stripping beds or taking out trash is not required.
11. What is your smoking policy?
Smoking is prohibited indoors. Indoor smoking may incur additional cleaning fees or eviction.
12. Is there year‑round access to cabins?
Yes, but winter weather can occasionally impact road access. If the cabin becomes inaccessible due to conditions, we offer rescheduling or cancellation. However, general bad weather without road closures does not qualify for refunds.
13. What about cell phone reception?
Reception varies. Verizon and AT&T work best in most areas, while other providers may be limited.
14. How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking early for popular times like holidays, October weekends, and summer. We don’t require full-week stays, but cabins do fill up quickly.
15. What is the local weather like?
Expect hot days and cool nights in summer, comfortable winters, and the most rain in spring or winter. Weather can change rapidly, so bring layers and check forecasts before your trip.
16. What are the closest airports?
Asheville, NC (AVL): ~70 miles away
Charlotte (CLT) and Atlanta (ATL): ~3-hour drive, better for flight options
Knoxville (TYS): closer in distance but longer due to mountain roads
17. How do I find my cabin?
Exact cabin addresses aren’t provided upfront due to mapping inaccuracies. After booking, you’ll receive detailed driving directions. For GPS reference, use Bryson City (28713) or Almond (28702), then follow our instructions closely.
18. What’s your privacy policy?
We never sell or share your personal information. Booking or signing up for our newsletter allows us to send reservation info and occasional promotions. You can unsubscribe at any time.
19. What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations are non-refundable under 30 days notice before arrival date. Exceptions apply for severe weather or emergencies that render cabins inaccessible. We may allow rescheduling, but not for standard weather events or personal issues. Please review terms carefully before booking.
20. Do you offer motorcycle‑friendly cabins?
Yes, several cabins have paved access and are tagged as motorcycle-friendly, especially for those riding the Tail of the Dragon. Please use suitable vehicles and note that trailers are at your own risk. View our motorcycle friendly cabins here.
21. Do the cabins have internet?
Yes! All of our cabins have high speed internet. Some are off the grid but you can rent a cellular hotspot from us for a small fee.
22. Do any of your cabins have EV charging?
Yes, we have EV charging stations available at many of our cabins. View cabins with EV charging stations here. Please provide our team with advanced notice if you will be using the charger so we can make sure it is activated.