Firefly

▲ Firefly Safari Tent – Where Magic Dances in the Night

Step into enchantment at the Firefly Safari Tent—a luxury retreat where nature’s own light show comes alive each summer evening, creating memories that will sparkle in your heart forever.

This elevated sanctuary offers the perfect blend of comfort and wonder, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest and positioned just outside the Deep Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re seeking adventure on nearby trails or simply yearning to unwind in nature’s embrace, Firefly provides the ideal basecamp for making cherished memories.

The tent welcomes you with fresh, natural decor featuring a cheerful bright yellow door and playful firefly motifs scattered throughout—a delightful nod to the magical evening spectacle that awaits. Spend your days exploring waterfalls and mountain trails, then return to soak in your private hot tub while watching nature’s own fireworks dance through the trees.

Below your elevated retreat, discover a charming trail that meanders along the creek, complete with swings, bridges, and an arbor—your own private wonderland ready for exploration and quiet moments of reflection.

★ Features at a Glance:

• Elevated luxury safari tent with magical firefly views
• Fresh natural decor with bright yellow door and firefly accents
• Rustic barnwood bed in cozy bedroom area
• Full kitchen and comfortable living area with French doors
• Stand-alone soaking tub + spacious walk-in rain shower
• Private hot tub on enormous wrap-around deck
• Covered outdoor seating area with ceiling fan
• Fire pit and stainless steel grill for outdoor dining
• Magical string lights for dreamy nighttime ambiance
• Large flat-screen LG TV with streaming and antenna
• Designated workspace and comfortable seating
• Creek-side trail below with swings, bridges, and arbor
• Just steps from Deep Creek entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Year Purchased: 2024

Hi, I’m Jeanetta – your host at Elk Hollow Resort!

Thank you for considering one of our Elk Hollow properties for your Western North Carolina getaway!

After 34 years in the rental industry—and with the support of my husband, Mike—I chose to pour my heart into building a peaceful, one-of-a-kind retreat in Bryson City, NC.

Just half a mile from the Deep Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Elk Hollow is truly my slice of paradise.

With quiet surroundings, a gentle stream, hardwood trees, and frequent visits from wild turkeys and deer, it’s a place that continuously feeds the soul.

Creating a warm, welcoming guest experience is my top priority.

I want every visitor to feel relaxed, safe, and completely at home—with more to do than they have time for, and more fun than they ever expected!

I’m happiest outdoors and cherish time with my two children, six wonderful grandchildren, and lifelong friends. We’ve made countless special memories in the mountains, and I hope you will too.

Although I love exploring new places, my favorite moments are still found at home—entertaining, connecting, and enjoying the simple joy of time well spent with loved ones.

I can’t wait to welcome you to Elk Hollow!

★ Why Choose Firefly Safari Tent?

I love how close Firefly is to the Deep Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

It’s a peaceful hidden gem, full of hardwood trees, a gentle stream, and wildlife like turkeys and deer.

The nights are pure magic, with star-filled skies overhead and the mesmerizing dance of fireflies during summer months.

Cozy up by the fire pit and enjoy the starry sky, perfect for an intimate evening.

The night sky shines brilliantly, offering a stunning backdrop as you warm up by the fire.

Afterward, retreat to your luxurious Safari Tent in the treetops or explore the charming creek-side trail below, taking in the soothing sounds of nature that make every moment of this getaway truly magical.

● Important Policies & Rate Notes

We require two items immediately after you book:

• Rental agreement with ID (insurance requirement)
• A $500 security hold is required 2 days before arrival and will be released 3 days after checkout. This helps us maintain a peaceful environment by discouraging pets and parties and ensures our housekeeping team has the time needed to prepare your stay to the highest standards.
• No pets, including Emotional Support Animals.
• No children and no indoor smoking permitted.
• 24/7 exterior video surveillance is used for guest safety and property protection.
• Due to the elevated location, we recommend having an all-wheel or 4-wheel drive vehicle or being comfortable driving mountain roads with sharp turns. Alternatively, parking is available below (but you’ll want to be in excellent walking shape for the climb up!). There are approximately 10 steps to access the deck and 3 steps to the fire pit area.

★ Unique Benefits of the Firefly Safari Tent

• Magical Firefly Experience – Watch nature’s own light show dance through the trees during summer evenings—an unforgettable natural spectacle.
• Bright & Cheerful Design – Fresh natural decor with a sunny yellow door and playful firefly motifs that bring joy to every corner.
• Creek-Side Trail Adventure – Your own private trail below featuring swings, bridges, and an arbor for exploring and quiet reflection.
• Elevated Treehouse Vibes – Positioned high in the hardwoods with panoramic views that make you feel like you’re floating in the canopy.
• Entertainment Options – Large flat-screen LG TV with streaming capabilities and antenna for connecting with your favorite shows or local programming.
• Rustic Barnwood Charm – Beautiful rustic barnwood bed adds authentic mountain character to your retreat.
• All-Weather Outdoor Living – Covered seating area with ceiling fan plus wrap-around deck for any weather condition.
• Star-Filled Evenings – Fire pit perfectly positioned for incredible night sky viewing and cozy conversations.
• Nature’s Soundtrack – Fall asleep to the gentle babble of the creek and wake to birdsong filtering through your windows.

Guest Access

• Check-In Made Easy: Guests will enjoy keyless entry for added convenience.
• Your personal access code will be sent 1–2 days before check-in to ensure a smooth arrival.

The Space

Firefly is a luxury safari tent designed for those seeking to connect with nature’s magic while enjoying modern comforts. The tent has an open and spacious feel with a relaxing ambiance, decorated in fresh, natural tones with a bright yellow door and playful firefly accents scattered throughout.

In the center of the tent, the living area features two comfortable chairs and an ottoman where you can put up your feet and relax. Connect and stream your favorite shows on the large flat-screen LG TV, watch local programming with the antenna, or simply gaze out the glass French doors to the wooded backdrop while sipping your morning coffee.

Large windows and doors allow plenty of natural light to flow through the rooms, while ceiling fans move the air to keep everything comfortable and fresh.

The fully equipped kitchen sits behind the living area, complete with plenty of cabinetry, refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, microwave, gas range, and oven. Guests have everything needed for easy meal preparation and can enjoy meals at the table for two in the living room or step outside to dine on the deck.

The bedroom area features a beautiful rustic barnwood bed, designated workspace, and lamps for reading. Wrap-around windows open to screens so you can listen to nature’s songs lull you to sleep, or unroll the canvas for a dark and cozy room.

On the opposite side, the full bathroom includes a privacy curtain, stand-alone soaking tub, spacious walk-in rain shower, and vanity with sink and mirror.

The exceptional outdoor living space truly highlights this magical setting. String lights create enchanting ambiance while you prepare meals on the stainless steel grill or gather around the campfire in the fire pit. The enormous wrap-around platform deck features a hot tub—perfect for soaking after a day of hiking while you sip wine and gaze up at the star-filled sky. When weather turns wet, the covered seating area with overhead ceiling fan keeps you comfortable.

Below the tent, explore your private trail that runs along the creek, complete with swings, bridges, and an arbor—a delightful discovery that adds even more magic to your mountain escape.

◉ Firefly Safari Tent – Key Amenities

• Elevated safari tent with magical firefly and mountain views
• Fresh natural decor with bright yellow door and firefly motifs
• Rustic barnwood bed in comfortable bedroom area
• Full kitchen with all appliances and dining table for two
• Stand-alone soaking tub and spacious walk-in rain shower
• Private hot tub on enormous wrap-around deck
• Covered outdoor seating area with ceiling fan
• Fire pit with seating for magical evening gatherings
• Stainless steel grill for outdoor cooking
• String lights for enchanting nighttime ambiance
• Large flat-screen LG TV with streaming and antenna
• Designated workspace and comfortable living area
• Creek-side trail below with swings, bridges, and arbor
• Just outside Deep Creek entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location Description

Elk Hollow is nestled just a stone’s throw from the Deep Creek entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and a short five-minute drive from the charming streets of downtown Bryson City.

Here, you can hike the Waterfall Loop, a 2.4-mile trail that offers three picturesque waterfalls: Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Indian Creek Falls. In warmer months, you can tube down the creek or enjoy horseback riding.

▲ Things to Do Near Firefly Safari Tent

~ Deep Creek Waterfall Loop (5 min away) Hike to three stunning waterfalls—Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek—on an easy 2.4-mile loop. In warmer months, rent a tube and float down the refreshing creek.

◇ Road to Nowhere Grab a flashlight and drive six miles on the “Road to Nowhere” that leads to a 1,000-foot tunnel—a perfect outing on even the hottest or rainiest day.

◉ Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Take a ride on one of the few remaining narrow-gauge steam railroads. Seasonal excursions like the Polar Express bring enchantment when the town sparkles with lights.

~ Fly Fishing & Tubing Bryson City is known as the Fly Fishing Capital of the South. Try your luck in the Tuckasegee River or spend the day tubing through crystal-clear waters.

~ Nantahala Outdoor Center Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining await just a short drive away. Perfect for adrenaline-seekers or first-time adventurers.

● Downtown Bryson City This charming “Hallmark” style town invites leisurely strolls down Main Street, where you’ll find bookstores, galleries, unique shopping, fly-shops, antique stores, and plenty of down-to-earth eateries, along with craft breweries and local food trucks.

◉ Cherokee & Oconaluftee Enjoy “Unto These Hills” outdoor drama performed on summer nights, visit Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, or spot elk at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

▲ Mountain Adventures Explore mountain biking at Tsali Recreation Area, boating and fishing at Fontana Lake, or get a taste of the Appalachian Trail.

◇ Tail of the Dragon For thrill-seekers: 318 curves in 11 miles—a famous drive for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, just an hour away.

◉ Day Trip Adventures Visit Cataloochee Ski Resort (45 minutes), tour the Biltmore Estate in Asheville (1 hour), or take Highway 441 through Newfound Gap to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for entertainment, shows, and Dollywood.

Getting Around

Guests will need a vehicle to access the property and explore the area.

Asheville Airport (AVL) is the closest airport, about 50 miles away.

Note: If your chosen dates are not available in the Firefly tent, we have other Romantic Safari Tents and Hard Wall Yurts at Elk Hollow. Feel free to ask!