Emberglow Outdoor Resort has a stay for every traveler, from yurts to tree houses
Not far from Lake Lure, a new resort appeals to a modern category of adventurer. Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers a host of lodging options, all within the glamping category.
Twenty unique camping experiences—from vintage Airstreams to safari tents to tree houses and tiny homes, and even a double-decker bus—are available with the amenities of a resort. On weekends, there are food trucks. At summer’s close, there’s a music festival. A general store carries essential needs, including clean-burning firewood. The pool is flanked with a spa-level bathhouse and a clubhouse. There’s electricity and HVAC systems and, best of all, Wi-Fi.
Additionally, Emberglow maintains three miles of trails to hike or bike. Considering 2023 is the NC Year of the Trail, what a great way to get off the grid and put foot to path. The area also entices with outdoor draws—like Chimney Rock State Park, the Flowering Bridge, and Lake Lure Beach—but there’s something extra charming about a stroll or a hike just steps from your weekend tree house.
Nighttime is a real showstopper here. The sky is blanketed with bright stars, and campfires pepper the property with firelight. A community bonfire with fan-favorite Adirondack chairs is located by the pool and playground; it’s a fun spot to meet neighbors and build s’mores.
Emberglow Glamp Sites
Treehouses
Luxe tree houses include private decks, full kitchens and bathrooms, and HVAC systems. Lofts and bunk rooms mean extra sleeping space, and several boast unique features like hammock lounges and twisty slides. But there are primitive tree houses, too (essentially elevated screened-in porches with power). They’re way more fun than pitching a tent and are nearly bug-free.
Yurts
The circular shape is classic, and giant skylights make the yurts at Emberglow super special. Canvas walls mean you get to commune with all the sounds of nature without inviting anyone inside. The biggest yurt on the property is 750 square feet; it’s also wheelchair accessible and sleeps five.
Airstreams
If staying in a vintage Airstream is on your bucket list, then Emberglow has five to choose from, and each one is named. Harold is a 1950 Westcraft Trolley Top. Gene is a 1952 Spartanette. Margie is a 1955 Spartan Imperial Mansion. Frances is a 1971 Airstream Sovereign, and Stella is a 1984 Airstream Excella.
Pods
A popular hiking shelter in Europe, pods are simple arched-roof structures built of wood. Emberglow’s pods were crafted in the Midwest. They are situated beside the creek and include private decks with grills. The unique structures include a double bed, a small private bathroom, and a kitchenette.
And More
Several high-end RVs are available to try out, as well as plush RV sites. Some include outdoor kitchens. Tiny homes flank one end of the property, which can be a lot of fun to experience if you haven’t stayed in one. There’s a furnished glamping safari tent set against the woods, too, and a three-bedroom cottage if you bring a crowd and want to stay together.
But the most unique stay on property is a 1962 double-decker bus, aptly named Big Ben. The UK-themed bus is replete with a ’50s-style Smeg fridge wrapped in the Union Flag, and there’s a life-size cutout of the Queen Elizabeth II in the driver’s seat, not to mention a full bathroom, dinette, and space to sleep five.
Found in Firewood
The invasive emerald ash borer can be devastating to the Western Carolinas. Do your part to help control the spread, especially when camping.
- The emerald ash borer is a highly invasive species in WNC. It’s slightly smaller than a penny in length, thin, and bright green. It was first identified by Clemson University in the Upstate in 2017.
- The NC Forest Service labeled the emerald ash borer a “firewood-vectored pest” because these species can be moved effortlessly in or on firewood. Use local wood for campfires or treated firewood to help slow the spread.
- At Emberglow Outdoor Resort, the community firepit is stocked with treated, pest-free wood, and affordable bundles are available at the General Store for fire rings at each campsite.
Emberglow Outdoor Resort, 95 Pinewood Trail, Mill Spring, NC, 828.625.2205, emberglowoutdoorresort.com
