Club Cabin # B, Spence

For Tennessee locals seeking a truly unique and picturesque setting for a special event, family gathering, or small celebration, Spence Cabin, also known historically as Elkmont Club Cabin #B, offers an unparalleled experience within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This isn't a traditional campground in the sense of individual campsites, but rather a beautifully restored historic cabin available for day-use rental, providing a charming and serene backdrop for memorable occasions.

Nestled in the historic Elkmont area near Gatlinburg, Spence Cabin allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of the Smokies. It's a place where rustic elegance meets the tranquility of the wilderness, creating an idyllic atmosphere perfect for those special moments. Whether you're planning an intimate wedding, a family reunion, or a peaceful gathering, Spence Cabin provides a distinctive setting that captures the essence of Tennessee's most beloved national park.

Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) is located at Elkmont Club Cabin # B, Spence, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its specific placement within the historic Elkmont community makes it a prime and easily accessible, yet still serene, location for local Tennessee residents.

To reach Spence Cabin from Gatlinburg, visitors will drive approximately 8 miles south on Newfound Gap Road (US-441), then turn right onto Little River Road towards Cades Cove. After about 5 miles on Little River Road, you'll turn left onto Elkmont Campground Road. Continue for about 1.4 miles, then turn left just before the campground office (look for signs for Elkmont Nature Trail, Little River Trail, and Jakes Creek Trail). After crossing a bridge, take the second left into the parking lot. Spence Cabin is located a short, pleasant walk from the Little River trailhead, with designated parking spaces for renters near the cabin and additional parking at the trailhead. Nine reserved parking spaces are included with the cabin rental, which do not require a separate park parking tag during the rental period.

This location offers the best of both worlds: a feeling of secluded wilderness due to its placement along the Little River and within the historic Elkmont district, yet relatively easy driving access from Gatlinburg. The cabin is also within walking distance of several popular hiking trails, including the Little River Trail, adding recreational opportunities for guests.

Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) is available for day-use rental from April 1 through October 31, providing a unique venue within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While it's not a full-service catering or event facility, it offers a solid foundation for hosting various gatherings. Key services and provisions include:

• Day-Use Rental: The cabin is rented for daily use, typically from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This allows ample time for setting up, hosting an event, and cleaning up afterward.
• Event Hosting Space: The cabin features several rooms suitable for gatherings. This includes four small meeting rooms (118 to 165 sq ft), one larger room (432 sq ft) with a gas fireplace, and a 192 sq ft screened outdoor porch.
• Warming Kitchen: A functional warming kitchen is provided, equipped with a refrigerator and microwave oven. While there is no cook stove, electrical outlets are available for warming devices like slow cookers. Guests are responsible for bringing their own cooking and serving supplies.
• Restrooms: Two bathrooms are available, one of which is wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenience for guests.
• Basic Furnishings: The cabin comes with limited furnishings, including 40 folding chairs, four 6-foot diameter round tables, eight 2.5-by-6 foot rectangular tables, and six rocking chairs. Guests are responsible for setting up and returning these furnishings to their original storage location.
• Outdoor Patios: The cabin boasts a large screened outdoor porch and stone patios, including one directly facing the Little River, providing beautiful outdoor spaces for mingling and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Dedicated Parking: Nine reserved parking spaces are included with the rental, located approximately 100 yards from the cabin, with an additional two spaces directly at the cabin. These spaces do not require a separate parking tag during the rental period.
• Cleanup Supplies: General cleaning supplies and step ladders are provided for guest use, as guests are responsible for cleaning the grounds, building, and furnishings.
• On-Site Check-in: Guests must check in with park staff at the historical cabin location at 10:00 AM (EST) to receive the rental agreement, historical structure rules, and the door code.

It's important to note that the cabin does not have heat or air conditioning, but features ceiling fans in the main room and screened porch, and a gas fireplace in the main room for cooler weather. Guests may also bring portable gas barbecue grills and lawn chairs.

Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) offers a distinctive set of features and highlights that make it a highly desirable and memorable venue, especially for those who appreciate history and nature:

• Historic Significance: The cabin, originally known as River Lodge and built in 1928, was a grand vacation home for Alice Townsend, wife of Colonel Townsend, a prominent figure in the area's logging and railroad history. It was part of the exclusive Appalachian Club resort community in Elkmont. The National Park Service has meticulously restored it to its historic appearance, allowing guests to experience a piece of the Smokies' past.
• Picturesque Riverside Setting: Nestled at the confluence of Jakes Creek and the Little River, the cabin boasts a stunning natural environment. The screened outdoor porch and stone patios offer beautiful views and direct access to the tranquil Little River, providing a serene backdrop for any event.
• Ideal for Small Events: As highlighted by a reviewer whose daughter had her "absolutely beautiful" wedding here, Spence Cabin is perfectly suited for intimate gatherings, small weddings, family reunions, meetings, or training sessions. Its versatile rooms and outdoor spaces cater well to groups.
• Accessibility: Most of the cabin is wheelchair accessible, including one of the two bathrooms, ensuring that a wider range of guests can comfortably attend events.
• Proximity to Hiking Trails: Located near the Little River Trailhead, guests have easy access to some of the Great Smoky Mountains' renowned hiking trails, allowing for recreational activities before or after an event. The nearby Laurel Falls Trail (paved and accessible) and the self-guided Elkmont Nature Trail are also within reach.
• Elkmont Historic District Exploration: Beyond the cabin itself, guests can explore the surrounding Elkmont Historic District, often referred to as a "ghost town," with numerous other preserved unfurnished cabins and remnants of the former resort community, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• Potential for Synchronous Firefly Viewing: During the brief synchronous firefly season in early June, being at Spence Cabin places guests in a prime location to potentially witness this magical natural phenomenon, adding an extraordinary element to any event held at that time.
• Exclusive Parking: The inclusion of nine reserved parking spaces directly associated with the cabin rental is a significant convenience, especially in a popular park area where parking can be at a premium.

As a historic day-use rental facility managed by the National Park Service, Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) does not offer traditional commercial "promotions" or "discounts" in the way a private venue might. Its fees are set to support the preservation and maintenance of this historic resource within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, understanding its rental structure and unique benefits can be seen as a form of "offer" for those seeking a specific type of venue:

• Fixed Day-Use Rental Fee: The cabin is available for a set daily rental fee, which is currently $200 per day (as per some sources, but always confirm current rates on recreation.gov). This single fee provides exclusive access to the entire cabin and its grounds for your event from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM during its operating season (April 1 to October 31). This consistent pricing makes budgeting straightforward for event planners.
• Included Parking: The provision of 9 reserved parking spaces (and two at the cabin) that do not require a separate parking tag is a significant benefit, especially within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where parking tags are now required for most vehicles. This adds value and convenience for your guests.
• Unbeatable Natural & Historic Setting: The "offer" is primarily the unique opportunity to host an event within a beautifully restored historic cabin, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This setting alone provides an unparalleled backdrop that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere.
• Synchronous Firefly Access (Conditional): For events held during the synchronous firefly season (early June), being a renter of Spence Cabin may provide a unique advantage or proximity to the viewing areas, though specific access rules during this highly controlled period should always be re-confirmed with the park directly.

While there aren't seasonal sales or percentage discounts, the value lies in the exclusive access to a historic, beautiful, and strategically located venue within one of the nation's most visited national parks. To secure your date and confirm the latest rental fees and policies, reservations should be made well in advance through the official recreation.gov website, which manages bookings for this National Park Service facility.

For inquiries regarding Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) and to make reservations, as it is a facility within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, contact is primarily made through the National Park Service and its official booking platform.

• Address: Elkmont Club Cabin # B, Spence, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA (This is the physical location).
• For Reservations and Detailed Information: The primary method for booking and obtaining comprehensive information about Spence Cabin's availability, fees, and rules is through the official federal recreation website: recreation.gov. Search for "Spence Cabin, Great Smoky Mountains National Park" on this platform.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park Information:
  • Main Park Information Line: (865) 436-1200 (For general park questions, regulations, and directions).
  • Elkmont Campground Office (Seasonal): (865) 430-5560 (This number is for the Elkmont Campground kiosk, which might be able to provide some limited information about Spence Cabin during its operating season, though direct reservations are online).

It is highly recommended to utilize the recreation.gov website for booking as it provides the most current availability calendar, detailed rules, and the official reservation process. For specific questions not covered online, contacting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park directly is advisable.

For Tennessee residents, Spence Cabin (Elkmont Club Cabin #B) offers a distinctly suitable and deeply appealing venue for their special events and gatherings. It represents a unique blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and convenient accessibility within our beloved Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking a memorable experience right in their own state.

Firstly, its location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a tremendous asset. For Tennesseans, the Smokies are a cherished natural landmark, and having the opportunity to host an event in such an iconic setting adds a layer of significance and pride. The cabin's serene position along the Little River and its proximity to the historic Elkmont area provide a picturesque and tranquil backdrop that is both easily accessible from across the state and deeply rooted in local history.

Secondly, the cabin’s historical narrative resonates with Tennessee's heritage. As a preserved piece of the early 20th-century Appalachian Club resort community, Spence Cabin allows guests to step back in time. This historical context enriches any event, providing a unique talking point and an opportunity for locals to connect with the bygone eras of their region. The ability to explore the surrounding unfurnished Elkmont cabins further enhances this historical immersion.

Finally, its versatility as a day-use rental makes it incredibly practical for a variety of local needs. Whether it's a small, intimate wedding, a significant family reunion, or a community meeting, the cabin's flexible spaces, essential amenities like a warming kitchen and restrooms, and dedicated parking simplify event planning. The positive review highlighting its beauty for a wedding underscores its appeal as a charming and functional venue. For those planning a gathering and desiring a setting that is both distinctive and reflective of Tennessee's natural and historical splendor, Spence Cabin stands out as an exceptional choice, offering a truly unforgettable experience right in the heart of the Smokies.