Spence Cabin

Warren Bielenberg

Quick Facts

Location:

Elkmont

Significance:

Point of Interest in Elkmont Historic District

Amenities

2 listed

Parking - Auto, Shelter/Cabin

Overview

This large cottage was built in 1928 as a vacation home for Alice Townsend, wife of Colonel Townsend, who owned both the Little River Lumber Company and the Little River Railroad. The cabin was part of the Appalachian Club resort community, whose members escaped to the mountains in summer to enjoy tennis, picnics, dances, and swimming in the chilly waters of the river. The National Park Service has restored the Spence Cabin to its historic appearance.

The Spence Cabin may be rented online for daytime use from April 1 through October 31. (Certain organized activities and events require special use permits.)

How to Get There

• From Little River Road, turn onto Elkmont Road and continue to the campground intersection.
• Keep left toward Little River Trail until the road turns into a one-way loop.
• The Spence Cabin is located a short walk from the Little River trailhead.
• Parking is available at the Little River trailhead and in a small gravel parking lot designated for the cabin.
• Spence Cabin includes 9 reserved parking spaces that do not require a parking tag during facility rental. Any vehicles parked outside of the 9 reserved parking spaces will require a parking tag.

Accessibility

Most of the cabin is wheelchair accessible. Parking for 2 to 3 vehicles is available at the front of the building with additional parking just a short walk away.

Similar Points of Interest

• Appalachian Clubhouse