Springmaid Mountain in Spruce Pines, North Carolina is one of the most family-oriented, affordable mountain vacations in the Southeast. Secluded, yet offering many outdoors activities, Springmaid Mountain is a relaxing get-away whether you just want to sit on the porch and sip cider or experience the great outdoors from a more active perspective.

From tent camping to a variety of cabins and a bunkhouse, lodging is varied at Springmaid Mountain. Each of the cabins has special features, like a location near a fishing pond or overlooking the river. Cabins range in size from efficiencies complete with kitchenettes to a five bedroom cabin that sleeps 12. Most of the accommodations include a wood-burning Franklin stove, wonderful for heating the main room and relaxing to the crackle of a wood-burning fire. Porches or balconies are also featured on most of the accommodations and make for a great place to drink your morning coffee as the day begins, a wonderful play area for the children, or a relaxing spot in one of the porch rockers as you watch wildlife in the woods or by the river. Cabins are pet-friendly for dogs only, but they must be kept on a leash and aggressive breeds are not allowed.

There is also a 32-bed bunkhouse, complete with a commercial kitchen and a very large gathering area. This facility is perfect for a family reunion or a church youth group.

Attractions in the area vary; however, you may never want to leave the property. There are many options for fishing with six stocked ponds on the property and a river that runs through it. No licenses are required for pond fishing; however, fishing in the North Toe River does require a NC fishing license. The river also provides wonderful opportunities for tubing, rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Lifejackets and paddles are provided; rental fees for the water crafts are quite reasonable. Hiking trails are plentiful and include various spots of interest including a swinging bridge and a waterfall trail. Pick up a map at the property office and explore! There is also horseback riding and hay rides. Whether you enjoy trail rides or just want to introduce your child to horses with a lead line walk, the stables at Springmaid Mountain can supply you with just the right horse. In addition to trail rides that range in duration from an hour to half a day, Springmaid will also board your own horse during your stay.

If you want to get off the property and enjoy the area, there are multiple destinations for day excursions. Linville Falls, Blowing Rock and Asheville are no more than two hours away. The Penland School of Crafts is a short thirty-minute ride and is a national center for craft education with workshops geared towards almost everyone’s interests. Gem Mountain is located in Spruce Pines and will give you and your children the experience of panning for gold and precious gemstones.

While cabins feature full kitchens and cooking up a great pot of chili after a day of hiking is always rewarding, there is also a variety of area dining for the days when you don’t want to spend time in the kitchen. Dry County Brewing features pizza and hand-crafted beers, while the Knife & Fork is fine dining at its best based on farm-to-table fare. The Mountain View Restaurant serves causal fare with a wonderful view from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Diner boasts a wonderful breakfast and serves lunch as well. There is even a tropical flair in these mountains at The Tropical Grill, which serves island cuisine from around the world. There is something to tempt everyone’s taste buds and soothe everyone’s hunger pains!

Whether you need a long weekend break or a week-long adventure, Springmaid Mountain is a great spot for families, groups, or a get-away for a couple wanting to recharge. It is one of North Carolina’s best mountain retreats still off the beaten path. Plan to relax and enjoy from the moment you arrive.