Southern Hospitality

Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: Winter 2024

Our Outdoor Columnist Deena Bouknight has expended considerable ink extolling the bliss of discovering and reveling in the Wild Places right in our backyard.

That’s why I was galvanized by the open-ing of Southern Belles Glampground, an exclusive retreat for adults (and their four-legged “fur babies”) seeking an escape to the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

With six lovingly restored campers, adorned in exquisite mid-century style, it’s a world of elegance and relaxation.

At Southern Belles Glampground, the vintage campers are a testament to timeless charm and attention to detail. Each camper offers a cozy sleeping space for two, providing a haven of comfort. Step onto your private deck and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of nature. Just behind each camper is a private hammock in the woods for your afternoon siestas. In addition, there is a hammock in the common area over the creek.

Indulge in the beauty of open-air dining as you employ the gas grill, allowing you to savor meals beneath the wide expanse of the sky. From sunlit brunches to moonlit dinners, the grill is your partner in crafting delightful outdoor feasts.

And as evening tranquility settles in, kindle the Solo stove to weave a gentle, inviting warmth into the surroundings.

The lodge at the glampground is designed to be easily accessible for all guests. It’s been renovated with a 1950s-style decor that adds a touch of nostalgia while offering a comfortable space. Besides providing shared guest spaces, the lodge also serves as the location for the glamp-ground office.

Inside the fully renovated lodge, you’ll find everything you need for a great stay. The kitchen comes fully equipped for cooking your own meals, and there’s even a commercial-grade ice machine for your convenience. The lodge also includes a full bathroom with a bathtub, a washer and dryer, and all the basics you might expect.

When it’s time to rejuvenate and pamper yourself, the meticulously designed bath-house stands ready. Located in a renovated vintage log cabin, there are two full-size bathrooms that all guests share. These bathrooms are furnished withshowers, hot water, toilets, sinks, mirrors, and outlets. Essentials are provided including towels,shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper and blow dryers.

Beyond the sanctuary of Southern Belles Glampground, nature lovers can explore forested trails leading to mesmerizing waterfalls, or immerse themselves in the world of fly fishing in one of the nation’s four top fly-fishing rivers (check in with our own Matt Canter and Chris Wilkes before you set out). For those with a taste for adventure, mountain trails offer cycling opportunities amidst stunning panoramas.