Cloud Mountain Sanitarium

For North Carolina locals, the allure of the Blue Ridge Mountains is often about finding that perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. While traditional campgrounds offer a classic outdoor experience, sometimes a truly unique setting can elevate a trip from good to unforgettable. Enter Cloud Mountain Sanitarium in Balsam Grove, NC – a property that, despite its intriguing name, offers a modern, welcoming, and activity-rich retreat for groups looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Western North Carolina's natural beauty. This article is crafted for you, our fellow North Carolinians, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes this "sanitarium" a one-of-a-kind destination for your next mountain escape.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium isn't a traditional campground in the sense of rows of individual tent or RV sites, but rather a large, private property available for group rentals that includes ample space for camping and RV parking. It's designed as a "cycling compound" and a "launching pad" for various outdoor activities, making it ideal for clubs, families, or large groups of friends. The name itself is a nod to its purpose: a place for outdoor enthusiasts to "get well" and recharge amidst the mountains. Let’s explore the unique aspects of Cloud Mountain Sanitarium and discover why it might be the perfect base for your next group adventure in North Carolina.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium is a distinctive property located in Balsam Grove, North Carolina, designed specifically for groups seeking a base for outdoor adventures. It's described as a "cycling compound" that has evolved over 25 years to be a "sweet spot for road and Mt. biking." The property, spanning five acres, offers a blend of comfortable indoor lodging and extensive outdoor space, making it suitable for larger gatherings of up to 12 or more people, with future plans for expansion. The name "Sanitarium" is playfully used to suggest a place where individuals, particularly cyclists, can come to "get well" and return to their daily lives refreshed and in a better mood after being immersed in nature.

Unlike a public campground with numerous individual sites, Cloud Mountain Sanitarium operates more like a private group rental that offers camping and RV parking capabilities. It's ideal for those who desire privacy and dedicated space for their group, whether they are focused on mountain biking, hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the serenity of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The property aims to be a welcoming and accommodating hub for outdoor enthusiasts, providing amenities that support an active, nature-centric vacation.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium is situated at 155 Forest Trl, Balsam Grove, NC 28708, USA. Balsam Grove is a small community located in Transylvania County, North Carolina, an area renowned for its lush forests, abundant waterfalls, and extensive network of trails within the Pisgah National Forest. This puts the property squarely in what's considered a "mecca" for outdoor activities.

The location is particularly ideal for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers, offering direct access to "100's of routes both Road, Gravel, and MTB" right "out the front door." It's conveniently located about 5 miles from the Davidson River Trailhead and numerous other trails in Pisgah and Wayahutta forests. Nearby natural attractions include Living Waters (with three easy waterfalls), Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and Graveyard Fields, all within a reasonable drive. Larger towns like Brevard (18.1 miles away), known for its breweries, restaurants, and shops, and Asheville (around 46 miles), with its vibrant arts scene and Biltmore Estate, are also accessible, offering a balance of seclusion and convenience. Access to the property is via a circular driveway that can accommodate up to 10 vehicles, with additional space for small RV/trailer parking. For North Carolina locals, its position makes it a prime central hub for exploring the state's western outdoor treasures.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium provides a comprehensive set of services and amenities tailored for a comfortable and active group stay:

• Group Accommodation: The main offering is a large vacation rental house with multiple bedrooms, a bunkhouse, and a sleeping loft, capable of accommodating groups of up to 12 people comfortably (with plans for more).
• Small RV/Trailer Parking: The property includes designated space for "Small RV/Trailer parking," allowing for a mix of lodging types for a group.
• Fully Equipped Kitchen: The house features a "fully equipped" kitchen with a dishwasher, spices, toaster, 4-burner stove, oven, pots, and pans, enabling groups to prepare their own meals.
• Outdoor Living Spaces: Extensive outdoor amenities include a covered porch with seating and heat lamps, two fire pit areas (one with seating), a fire ring, picnic tables, a second-floor balcony on the bunkhouse, an outdoor shower, and an outhouse.
• Wood Provided: Firewood is supplied for the wood-burning stove/fireplace and outdoor fire pits.
• Indoor Comforts: The house is equipped with two flat-screen TVs, a wood-burning stove and fireplace for heat, a 6-person dining table, a coffee station, and a kid's loft with a TV. Portable A/C units are also available.
• Linens and Towels: Linens and towels are provided, reducing what guests need to pack.
• In-Unit Washer/Dryer: For longer stays or after muddy adventures, an in-unit washer/dryer is available.
• Bike Washing Station: Catering to its cycling focus, a dedicated bike washing station is provided.
• Pet-Friendly: The property is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along.
• WiFi: Internet connectivity is available, which is crucial for modern travelers.
• Responsive Host: The owner, Scott, is consistently praised for being "very responsive," "easy to communicate with," and for providing "detailed information about local places."

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium boasts several unique features that make it a standout choice for groups looking for an active mountain getaway:

• Prime Outdoor Activity Hub: Its location is a major highlight, serving as a direct "launching pad" for world-class mountain biking, road biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, hunting, kayaking, and more within the Pisgah National Forest.
• Secluded and Private Setting: With 5 acres of land, the property offers "solitude" and a "secluded location," ensuring privacy for groups away from public crowds.
• Ample Group Space: The combination of a large house with multiple sleeping arrangements (sleeps up to 12+), spacious indoor living areas, and numerous outdoor gathering spots makes it perfect for medium to large groups.
• Thoughtful Amenities for Active Guests: Features like the bike washing station, provided wood, and well-stocked kitchen cater specifically to the needs of active outdoor enthusiasts.
• Direct Access to Waterfalls and Trails: Its proximity to numerous famous waterfalls (Living Waters, Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls) and hiking/biking trails (Epic 215 Climb, Dupont State Forest) is a huge draw.
• Unique and Eclectic Decor: Reviewers mention "quirky touches" and "unique decor and furnishings," adding character and a fun ambiance to the indoor spaces.
• Exceptional Host Support: The owner's responsiveness and willingness to provide local recommendations (hiking, breweries, etc.) greatly enhance the overall experience.

To inquire about booking Cloud Mountain Sanitarium for your group's next North Carolina adventure, or for more detailed information, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 155 Forest Trl, Balsam Grove, NC 28708, USA

Phone: (513) 800-7339

Mobile Phone: +1 513-800-7339

It is recommended to visit their official website for the most up-to-date information on availability, pricing, and house rules, as bookings for this type of unique group rental are often managed through specific platforms or direct inquiry with the owner.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium in Balsam Grove, NC, is exceptionally well-suited for North Carolina locals, particularly those who are passionate about outdoor activities and are looking for a unique group-friendly base. For residents across the state, its prime location within the "mecca" of Western North Carolina's outdoor recreation offers unparalleled convenience. You can literally step out the door and access hundreds of miles of biking and hiking trails, pristine fishing spots, and stunning waterfalls within minutes, making it an ideal "launching pad" for your adventures.

The property’s unique setup as a private group rental, rather than a traditional per-site campground, offers a level of privacy and dedicated space that is highly appealing for local clubs, family reunions, or groups of friends. This means you have the entire five-acre property to yourselves, allowing for uninhibited relaxation and camaraderie. The comprehensive amenities, from a fully equipped kitchen to outdoor fire pits and a bike washing station, cater directly to the needs of active guests, ensuring a comfortable and practical stay. Furthermore, the highly praised, responsive, and knowledgeable owner, Scott, acts as a local guide, enhancing your experience by providing tailored recommendations for exploring the area. For North Carolinians seeking a distinctive, activity-centric, and private mountain retreat for their group, Cloud Mountain Sanitarium offers a truly refreshing and memorable escape into the heart of the Blue Ridge.

Cloud Mountain Sanitarium

155 Forest Trl, Balsam Grove, NC 28708, USA