With the perfect mix of nature, history, and outdoor adventure, Cherokee is more than just a charming small town in North Carolina. In addition to the abundance of rivers, mountains, and roadside attractions, it’s also home to one of the only three recognized Cherokee tribes in the country, making it one of the most culturally significant towns on the east coast.
Cherokee also happens to be a bustling tourist destination, which is great for couples, families, and travelers with pets. There’s a wide range of pet-friendly accommodation, from rustic log cabins in the forest to mountainous homes with sweeping valley views. To help take the pressure off planning your trip, we’ve scoured the internet for some of the best pet-friendly vacation rentals in the area.
We know that Cherokee has plenty to offer you and your furry best friend. Spend the afternoon exploring the depths of Smokey Mountain National Park, swimming along the banks of the Oconaluftee River, or trekking through the plethora of self-guided trails. A few nights in Mother Nature, and you’ll come back happy and refreshed as ever!
1. Ol’Smoky Log Cabin on the River
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a traditional, rustic log cabin, then this charming abode is guaranteed to delight. The cabin is located directly on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, just a few feet away from the flowing Oconaluftee River. That means you can go trout fishing every morning (the river is stocked with brown and rainbow trout twice a week!) or spend the afternoon tubing and swimming. If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, then you’ll be happy to know you’re just one-mile from Outdoor Drama, the Cherokee Museum, and the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
On the inside, you’ll find 3 bedroom and 2 bathrooms, which can comfortably sleep up to 6 guests. There’s also a stocked kitchen, living room with TV, and a flat yard with a charcoal bbq. We love the expansive front porch, which looks directly over the river, boasting some of the coolest views in all of Cherokee. While the cabin is located in nature, you’re still never more than a few minutes from the best attractions in the area, which makes this vacation rental one of the best places to stay.
2. Cherokee Charm Cabin
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
This stunning 1 bedroom 1 bathroom cabin is incredibly spacious and has plenty of activities to keep you and your guests entertained all weekend. Play a game of billiards in the upstairs loft, have a relaxing soak in the outdoor hot tub, or lounge by the stone fireplace after an exhilarating day of sightseeing. There’s also an outdoor gas grill and wood-burning fireplace, so you can listen to the crackling logs as you unwind under the stars.
Best of all, the owners have graciously thrown in tickets to Cherokee’s greatest attractions – all for free! You’ll get free admission to Biltmore and Smoky Mountain Railroad, as well as free excursions such as white water rafting and jeep rentals. Between the wonderful amenities in the cabin and the all-inclusive adventures around Cherokee, we know you’ll have an action-packed vacation when you stay in this rental.
3. Camp Brannum Cabin
Fees: $45 per pet, per stay.
Policies: Maximum of 3 pets allowed. Pets must be well trained and housebroken, if not you’re subject to a $200 penalty.
Fence: No
Situated next to the breathtaking Mountain Valley Horse Pasture near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this vacation rental (affectionately known as Camp Brannum) is guaranteed to wow you from the second you arrive. In the yard, you’ll have a camp-style fire pit and an outdoor hot tub, both with picturesque views of the mountains and horses. And from the cabin’s front porch, you can hear the babbling waters of the nearby creek which runs through the property.
On the inside of the cabin, you’ll find 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, which can accommodate up to four guests comfortably. There’s also a fully stocked kitchen, a cozy living room with a hand-built stone fireplace, and a laundry room with a washer and dryer unit. Although there is plenty of room for you and your pet to roam, Cherokee’s other natural landmarks are in close proximity. You’re next to several hiking trails and waterfalls, as well as a 15-minute drive to the Nantahala River.
4. Foxwood Retreat
Fees: $45 per pet per stay.
Policies: Maximum of 3 pets allowed. Pets must be well trained and housebroken, if not you’re subject to a $200 penalty fee.
Fence: No
If you’re looking for something more modern than a rustic cabin, then consider this beautiful 2 bedroom 2.5 bathroom home near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
You’ll still enjoy the cozy amenities like cathedral ceilings and a stone fireplace in the great room while also having the modern comforts like an updated kitchen and bathrooms. In the yard, you’ll also be treated to a large outdoor deck with a hot tub, gas grill, and dining room set. On the grassy lawn, you’ll also find a fire pit where you can unwind around the crackling fire at night.
When it comes to attractions, this vacation rental is also in close proximity to many attractions in Cherokee. You’re just minutes away from downtown Cherokee and Harrah’s Casino, as well as the Oconaluftee River, where you can go tubing, fishing, or swimming.
There are also several hiking trails and waterfalls in the area, which you can explore with your four-legged friend. With so much around you, we know you won’t go a day without something fun to do.
More Pet-Friendly Stays Nearby
- 12 Stunning, Pet-Friendly Airbnbs in Maggie Valley, NC
- 6 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Wilmington, NC
- The Top 13 Pet-Friendly Cabins in Boone, NC
- 15 Pet-Friendly Cabins in Chattanooga, TN
- 10 Rustic, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in West Virginia
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