This super-cool floating cabin with High-Speed Internet on Fontana Lake NC offers all of the modern day conveniences in a unique off-grid setting. Accessible by boat only, the Fontana Firefly is located on the outskirts of Bryson City North Carolina. The cabin can comfortably accommodate 2 guest but is capable of sleeping 4. Consisting of approximately 400 square feet of interior space, the cabin has one bedroom and one sleeping loft each outfitted with a queen bed.
The cabin has a full-size bath and kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, stove, oven and microwave. All linens and towels are provided. The coffee maker is a K-Cup type and there are coffees and coffee essentials also provided. There is plenty of dock and deck space for spending time outside relaxing, fishing and sunbathing. Of course If you must stay connected to the outside world, Starlink internet is also provided.
MUST READ IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. The water levels of Fontana Lake vary greatly between the winter and summer seasons. The cabin floats year round and is available for occupancy during all seasons. You will want to do your research on the best launch depending on the season, Lemmons Branch is accessible year round and is personally our favorite. Information on water levels can be found on the TVA website.
2. This is an ‘off-grid’ cabin best suitable for those who understand the potential challenges and issues that can occur when camping without city provided electric power, water and sewer! The cabin is powered by a robust 4.5kw solar system. However, in cases of high energy consumption coupled with multiple cloudy days the battery storage system can become depleted. There is a ‘gas tank’ gauge on the back wall that indicates the amount of power/charge remaining in the batteries. If and when this gauge reads 25 Volts, the system is effectively out of power and the sun will need to recharge the batteries. Water for the cabin comes directly from the lake and is filtered through two sediment, one carbon as well as a UV filter. Waste water is collected in holding tanks beneath the floor. If too much water is used and the tanks fill completely you will be out of water. The moral of the story is that moderate consumption is the best practice. If you leave the water running or all appliances on for an unreasonable amount of time you will not have a pleasant stay.
3. The cabin is accessed by boat only. If you bring your own boat there are a number of launches that can be used to access the cabin. The closest full-service is Alarka Marina. If you do not have a boat you can rent one from Alarka Marina (828) 488-6749. These folks and their new fleet of pontoon boats will set you up with all of the boating gear you’ll need for a great visit!
4. Because the cabin floats, the wake created from boats and high winds can be felt strongly at times. If you are prone to any motion sickness, the Fontana Firefly is not for you unfortunately.
5. The cabin has an elevated second story deck. Climbing on and/or jumping from this deck into the lake below is strictly forbidden. The lake can have submerged trees that can not be seen with the naked eye making this behavior extremely hazardous.
6. Swimming under the cabin and docks is strictly forbidden and also extremely hazardous.
7. The cabin has two Ring Cameras at each doorway facing outward. These are turned off once a guest successfully checks-in. Additionally, there may be exterior cameras not directed at any living area but on the cabin structure and systems themselves such as the flotation, solar array, etc.
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Bryson City
Located in Bryson City, this cabin is on the waterfront. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Pincu Pottery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center and Sheffield Mine. Smokey Mountain Trains Museum and Bryson City Gem Mine are also worth visiting.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - 12 min drive - 14.9 km
Smokey Mountain Trains Museum - 12 min drive - 14.9 km
Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 15 min drive - 19.7 km
Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 26 min drive - 37.2 km
Restaurants
McDonald's - 13 min drive
Bryson City Brewing - 15 min drive
McDonald's - 13 min drive
Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits - 13 min drive
Big Wesser BBQ & Brew - 19 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake!?
As of 18 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake! on 4 January 2027 start from NZ$1,481, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Floating & Glamping on Fontana Lake! located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps away from Fontana Lake and Nantahala National Forest. Tuckasegee River and Pincu Pottery are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Modern floating cabin with everything you need for a comfortable stay on the water. Dave was easy to work with and provided clear communication on the unique aspects of the property. It’s in a quiet cove with very little boat traffic on weekdays, close to 2 public boat launches.
We had a family issue come up and were unable to stay. However, Dave was a super communicator and was very accommodating. We will book this floating home at a later date.
This is one of the most unique places I've ever stayed. It's a like new cabin beautifully painted and decorated. It might even be new. I spent five nights there with a couple friends. Fontana lake is a magical place to stay with the classic Smoky Mountain fog and outstanding views. This cabin made the perfect base camp for our fishing expedition. Thank you Dave for being a great host!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
About the host
Hosted by Dave Miller
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests