Place, Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center
15 min drive
Biltmore Estate
Place, Biltmore Estate
39 min drive
Asheville, NC (AVL-Asheville Regional)
Airport, Asheville, NC (AVL-Asheville Regional)
43 min drive
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 14)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Double Bunk Bed and 1 Single Bed
Loft
2 Double Futons
3 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub
Bathroom 2
Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub
Bathroom 3
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area
About this property
Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites
Experience a one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain getaway on a private 65-acre bison ranch. Wake up to peaceful mountain views and watch our herd of bison roam the pastures—then stop by during morning bison feedings for an unforgettable ranch experience.
Guests staying here can enjoy unique activities offered at the ranch including watching the bison feedings, signing up to be a ranch hand for the day, becoming a bison feeder, exploring our impressive model train museum, and joining in the fun during Hollywood Game Night. It’s an experience you won’t find at an ordinary mountain cabin.
With over 3,500 square feet, this spacious custom log lodge is perfect for large families or groups traveling together. The home features two private master suites with doors leading to the back deck, where you can relax and take in beautiful mountain views while enjoying the quiet of the ranch.
Inside, the heart of the home is the impressive great room with a massive stone fireplace, perfect for gathering after a day of mountain adventures. Comfortable seating makes it easy for everyone to relax together.
Downstairs, the game room is a favorite for kids and adults alike, featuring: • Life-size chess • Pool table • Air hockey • Ping pong • Foosball
After a fun day exploring the mountains, unwind in the private 8-person hot tub while enjoying the quiet surroundings of the ranch.
Family Fun Right on the Property
Children love hiking through the woods to our custom playground area known as The BC Corral. This outdoor adventure area includes: • Swings • Zip line • Slides • Rock wall • Cargo nets • Teeter totter • Horseshoe pit for the adults
It’s the perfect place for kids to play while parents relax and enjoy the mountain scenery.
Perfect Smoky Mountain Location
The lodge is conveniently located near some of the region’s most popular attractions:
• Cataloochee Ski Resort – only 12 miles away • Biltmore Estate in Asheville – about 30 minutes • Great Smoky Mountains National Park • Blue Ridge Parkway scenic drives • Great Smoky Mountain Railroad • Elk viewing in Cataloochee Valley • Cherokee Casino • Sliding Rock & Pisgah National Forest • Tubing, hiking, waterfalls, and more
Guests can also enjoy fishing on the Pigeon River, located within walking distance of the cabin, or take a short drive into town for shopping, dining, and antiquing.
Pet Friendly
We welcome pets of all sizes, because we know they’re part of the family too.
Whether you're looking for adventure in the mountains or a peaceful place to relax and reconnect, this unique Smoky Mountain lodge offers the perfect setting to make unforgettable memories.
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
A fee applies if more then 14 guests
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Please dispose of butts properly
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 14
Note from host: A fee applies if more then 14 guests
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances 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 deadlock
About the area
Clyde
Located in Clyde, this cabin is near theme parks. LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography and Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Lake Junaluska Golf Course and Balsam Spa. Consider Folkmoot Friendship Center for a night out or Waynesville Recreation Center if you're travelling with kids. Take in the nearby slopes with snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center - 15 min drive - 15.1 km
Maggie Valley Festival Grounds - 27 min drive - 26.9 km
Biltmore Estate - 39 min drive - 49.5 km
Harrahs Cherokee Casino - 51 min drive - 57.0 km
Getting around
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 45 min drive
Restaurants
Dunkin' - 16 min drive
Sherrill's Pioneer Restaurant - 15 min drive
Burger King - 15 min drive
Ammons' Drive In and Dairy Bar - 17 min drive
Blue Ghost Outpost - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites?
As of 7 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites on 11 May, 2026 start from S$539, 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.
How much is parking at Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Bison Ranch Retreat - Luxury Lodge with 2 Master Suites located?
Located in Clyde, this family-friendly cabin is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Pigeon River, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Haywood County Public Library and Blue Ridge Health - Haywood. Waynesville Recreation Center and Queen's Farm Stables are also within 12 miles (20 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We really enjoyed our stay! The property is beautiful inside and out. It is also very clean. Had everything we needed. The hot tub broke 2 kids out in hot tub rash. The driveway is so steep, so we didn’t really leave. The folks who own the property are the nicest people. We really enjoyed our time at Buffalo Ranch!
Ashley S.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Jan, 2026
Thank you Ashley for your review.
Glad you all enjoyed your stay. I am very sorry the kids got a rash. We drain & clean the hot tub after every guest. We double checked everything after we got your review.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
James
6 Sept, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We had a great time. The owners are incredibly friendly and helpful. They and the whole staff were very helpful and kind to the children. They really wanted us to have a good time. Would go back again.
The cabin was absolutely gorgeous. The kitchen was fully stocked with all the utensils, pans, bowls, coffee pot, toaster etc. The wi-fi was great and it had Dish network. The one lane road to the cabin was alittle sketchy but we did fine with a car and a minivan
Nice cabin in the woods. Enjoyed the hot tub, camp fire and grilling out. Lots of games to play when it rained. Plenty of space for our group to spread out. We also enjoyed the animals on the farm, especially the buffalo feeding.
Great experience with this property! Seal beach is a great local spot, easy walking distance to beach and downtown.
Quick drives to the more crowded spots.
Nichole E.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Sorry, Nicole...wires might've been crossed...we are in the Smoky Mountains :) not the beach.
Great vacation rental for large families. Enjoyed the buffalo feeding
We spent Thanksgiving week and our 50th wedding anniversary at the Tatonka Lodge. It was everything we wished for and more. Great family memories were made.
Lon E.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks Lon! :)
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Cindy O.
15 Jul, 2011
Wonderful place and people!
Fantastic stay! House is amazing and hand built by family. Owners are courteous and helpful. Property is spectacular! Our kids loved the hiking and animals. Highly recommend!
Cindy O.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks Cindy!! I appreciate your taking the time to write a comment. Hope to have you all back again in the future!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Tammy R.
6 Apr, 2016
Family vacay
What an awesome family vacation this was for us!!!!! Cheryl we cant thank you enough for everything you did!!!!!! The Roberts and Sisco family highly recommend this rental!!!!!!!
Tammy R.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks Tammy,
We greatly appreciate you leaving us a review online! You have such a lovely family! Hope to see you next time you visit the Smoky Mountains!
Cheryl
My family and I spent a wonderful week at the Lodge. There were 9 of us and it was very comfortable for all of us
Gail M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks for taking time to leave a review! Glad you all enjoyed your stay.
Cheryl
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Nancy H.
5 Nov, 2017
House was beautiful. Perfect for our family. Loved the life size chess game, fire pit, hot tub
Very comfortable furniture and beds. Could use more flatware but kitchen is well stocked. Great floor plan. Loved seeing all the animals and the owners were very nice.
Nancy H.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Dear Nancy,
So glad you all enjoyed your stay at Tatonka Lodge. I appreciate you taking time to leave us a review. Thanks for letting me know about our flatware, we will add another set to it asap!
Cheryl
This property was perfect for our group of eight—including our furry friends! Cheryl was fantastic to communicate with, and when we encountered a minor issue, she promptly sent someone to assist. The house had everything we needed and more, from the game room to the hot tub. We loved walking our dogs around the property and had so much fun seeing the goats, llamas, alpacas, and bison! I highly recommend this property, as well as any of Cheryl's other rentals. Buffalo Creek Vacations is truly amazing—we'll definitely be back!
Such a great location. We had a large group of family and had lots of room along with lots to keep us busy. Game room in the cabin with pool, Foss ball and even air hockey. Kitchen was good size for cooking up some big meals and the heated floor in the 2 master bedrooms were a big hit. The ranch had bison, lamas and even got to hold a baby goat. Staff was super friendly and really couldn't ask for more.
frank h.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Nov, 2022
Thanks Frank! Glad you enjoyed your stay!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
PATRICIA GAIL M.
9 Nov, 2015
Perfect Family Vacation
We arrived to find a lovely home, perfectly decorated, for our family vacation. We mostly enjoyed the outdoors at the cabin and the park within walking distance. The game room at the cabin was an added bonus! We had a small problem with the TV and he was there in about 10 minutes to fix it! This is the perfect home for a family retreat!!
PATRICIA GAIL M.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jun, 2020
Dear Gail,
So glad to hear you all enjoyed your stay at Tatonka Loge. We greatly appreciate you taking time to leave us a review online.
Thanks,
Cheryl
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Carol F.
14 Mar, 2010
This cabin was awesome!!!...
This cabin was awesome!!! We had so much fun- our plans were to go skiing
but the rain stopped that, we enjoyed spending time together in the cabin, plenty to do!! And when we got our car
stuck the guys were more than happy to help us out. Very grateful!!! Would love to come back and probably will soon!!
Carol F.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
YVONNE J.
11 Mar, 2019
#10 Experience
Had a great weekend. I will be back. Alot to do. Everyone was so friendly. Cabin was extraordinary. Very clean and beautiful. Views were breathtaking.
YVONNE J.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks Yvonne! So glad you all enjoyed your stay!
Cheryl
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Deborah D.
27 Jul, 2018
Property was excellent
House was beautiful, just as pictured. There was something for everyone to enjoy and there was so much to do in the area. I did not pay enough attention to the advice about 4 wheel drive being recommended but we made out okay on our July trip. Highly recommend this lodge if the steep road with cutbacks doesn't intimidate you. (It didn't stop us from doing anything we wanted.)
Deborah D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Thanks Deborah for taking time to leave us a review. So glad you all enjoyed your stay!
Cheryl
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Betty A.
14 Aug, 2014
A great Mountain experience w a family Ranch feel!!
Our family plus extended family had a great reunion on this mountain/ranch!! Tatonka Lodge was cozy, well equipped, and there was plenty to keep us busy and relaxed (loved the hot tub).
We appreciated the family feel with nearby family owners to answer our questions and allow us to help feed the baby goats:) The Great Smokey Mountains offered tons of nearby parks and recreation albeit steep climbs! Our favorite was Deep Creek park with the tubing down the creek/"rapids." Blue ridge parkway and Ashville also highlights. We saw God's handiwork and will come back !!
Betty A.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Dear Betty,
Thank you so much for taking the time to sign our online guest book. So glad you all enjoyed our ranch & your stay! Till next time, Cheryl
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl A.
6 Mar, 2013
Great ski vacation
We stayed at Tatonka Lodge with family friends for a great ski getaway. The home has plenty to entertain kids of all ages, and the owners were quick to respond to any questions we had. The location is good. 15-20 minutes from Cataloochee, 10-15 from the grocery store, restaurants, etc. It had rained before we came, so we didn't do a lot of hiking, but would love to return in the fall. Great spot for family getaways, girls' weekend, etc. The lodge is on a ranch with a single lane dirt road and the home sits on a steep hill -- just be prepared when consdering which vehicle to take.
Cheryl A.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Dear Cheryl,
So glad to hear you all enjoy your stay & we would love to see you all again in the fall. Thank you for taking the time to sign our guest book. Sincerely, Cheryl :)
Archival
10/10 Excellent
27 Dec, 2015
Tatonka Lodge = Great Family Fun
We decided on a last minute mountain getaway midweek & were so glad we chose Tatonka Lodge! First impressions walking into this cabin!! Wow!!! It was close to area attractions as well!
We loved seeing the bison fed in the mornings!!
Also, sitting under the stars in the big hot tub was fabulous! There was everything we needed in the kitchen as well to cook at the cabin a few nights--we also tried some bison steaks one night. Those were delicious!
Can't wait to come back...Also, read alot of reviews about the drive, we had a minivan & got there fine.
Thanks to the owners for all the thoughtfulness that went into this cabin!
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
Dear JJ,
So glad to hear you all enjoyed your stay at Tatonka Lodge! We greatly appreciate you taking time to review our cabin online.
Thanks,
Cheryl
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Steve M.
26 Jan, 2013
Beautiful Home and Views
The house was absolutely beautiful. It was warm and charming and had all the natural touches of a log cabin. It was spaceous enough for two families with teenage kids and had ample space for additional guests if needed. The house was clean and very well kept. When you visit, you must check out the photo album of the cabin inthe construction phase--awesome. The only problem we encountered was the road up the cabin--in the winter you really need a truck. They were kind enough to grade the road with a tractor which made it much easier to access the home which made the view all worth it!!!
Steve M.
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jun, 2020
Dear Bobbie, I am glad you all enjoyed Tatonka Lodge. Thank you for taking the time to leave us feedback. We also have plans to pave the rest of our road this year as well. :) Cheryl
About the host
Hosted by Cheryl Hillis
My brothers & my husband had shared a vision of expanding my fathers buffalo ranch when additional property became available to purchase. With all our knowledge & experiences combine we have built 4 log homes & have been renting them out since 2004. All the furniture in this cabin has been handmade by the wood on the property! Even the covered wagon bed, that was custom built my my father. Once my husband retires from the US Army in about 3 yrs our dream will be to build our log cabin on the property & be more hands on. God has blessed us beyond our wildest dreams. We hope you love the mountains like we have all come to love being transplants from a very flat NY!
Why they chose this property
What makes this property unique
While staying at Tatonka Lodge we feel you will really enjoy the peace & tranquility of being secluded on 65 acres. So many of our previous guest have wrote back & told us they had all these plans to sight see but then just loved hanging out in the cabin together enjoying the big game room & the children all love the uniquely designed playground as well as seeing the miniature horse, buffalo, goats & llamas.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests