Swan Cabin
USFS · Lookout/Cabin · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Lookout/Cabin
- Hours
- Check in: 2:00 p.m.; Check-out: 12:00 p.m.; Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
- Reservations
- fs.usda.gov
- Nearest dump station
- North River Checking Station · 7.5 mi
- Coordinates
- 35.3579, -84.0043
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
For a primitive cabin experience, rent the Swan Cabin on the Cheoah District for $25 per night. This 1931 three-room log cabin has one and a half stories and includes a loft. Nine beds are offered, which include three double bunk frames, two single bed frames and a double bed frame. Each are strung with rope to accommodate sleeping bags. A pit toilet is located adjacent to the cabin. There is no running water at the cabin, although a nearby spring may provide a water source after being boiled or treated. A picnic table, grill and fire ring are located outside. Guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes, as well as lanterns or flashlights, bedding, towels, cooking and eating gear, food, garbage bags, toilet paper and other necessities.
From the USFS.
Is Swan Cabin free?
No. Swan Cabin charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through fs.usda.gov.
How do I get to Swan Cabin?
From Robbinsville, North Carolina, take Highway 129 north. After about 2 miles turn left onto 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Pass the Ranger Office and continue to the stop sign (2.2 miles). At the stop sign, turn right, continuing on 143 West for approximately 6.9 miles. Turn right on NC 1134 toward Joyce Kilmer. Continue only about 50 feet. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 81. Continue on this gravel road approximately 8 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 81F and continue for 2.7 miles. Swan Cabin is located on the left, off of Forest Service Road 81F.
Nearby
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
