One Night in Saluda: Glamping, Rapids, and Good Vibes at Wilderness Cove

Inside: A real family review of glamping at Wilderness Cove in Saluda, NC.

---

We booked a one-night glamping trip to Saluda, North Carolina, mostly in search of a little adventure and a break from the usual routine. What we got was way more than expected: a cozy glamping setup, an adrenaline-pumping float down the Green River, and a charming downtown that I can’t believe I hadn’t visited before. It was the kind of quick getaway that somehow makes it feel like you’ve been gone for days, in the best way.

Disclosure: Our stay at Wilderness Cove was hosted, and we’re so grateful for their hospitality. This wasn’t a paid partnership — just our honest take on a place we truly enjoyed.

A City Rebuilding, But Still Beautiful

Saluda, a mountain city tucked in Western North Carolina, is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which tore through the area and left its mark. Thousands of trees were uprooted, roads and bridges were destroyed, and parts of Wilderness Cove Campground, including its beloved riverfront accommodations, were swept away.

But the spirit of the place? Still going strong. You can feel it the second you roll in. New pavement has replaced damaged roads, and while signs of the storm remain, there’s a visible energy of resilience.

The staff at Wilderness Cove have clearly poured their hearts into rebuilding, and it shows. They said their coworkers and bosses feel like family — they eat together, hang out, and genuinely look out for each other, which made us feel welcomed right away.

Glamping at Wilderness Cove: Rustic Meets Extra Cozy

We stayed in Premium Glamping Tent #10, and it was even more luxurious than we expected – surprisingly cozy, well-equipped, and genuinely comfortable. Even with a late arrival, check-in was a breeze and everything was ready for us when we got there.

Inside the tent was a pleasant surprise — a sturdy, canvas structure with a waterproof exterior and an airy, cozy interior. There was a metal queen canopy bed with bedding, AC, electricity, and even a freestanding wood-burning fireplace, which would definitely be helpful on cooler nights.

A futon, table, chairs, and the chandelier overhead added to the charm. There was also a steamer trunk stocked with two sleeping bags and a basket with two bathrobes, plus a Keurig with pods and cups for morning coffee.

Outside, the setup was just as thoughtful. We had an outdoor sink, mini fridge, fire ring with a cooking grate, front porch chairs, and a picnic table that made outdoor meals and game night enjoyable.

Side note: The tent walls are tough enough to keep out the weather but not soundproof, so don’t be surprised if the morning birds become your natural alarm clock.

The bathhouse was a short walk away and were kept very clean and there were actual hot showers.

A few things to know:

• Wi-Fi is available, but cell signal is limited.
  
• Some sites are pet-friendly; a pet fee may apply.

Tubing at Wilderness Cove

Tubing was the highlight of the trip.
Since Helene, the Green River has changed: more exposed rock beds, less shade, and there are stronger currents in places. Because of that, traditional tube rentals have been paused and now Wilderness Cove offers Mini Cats and inflatable kayaks exclusively. And trust me, that’s a solid call.

Watch! Our Trip Down the River

We went with the Mini Cats, and they were perfect: comfy padded bottom, easy-to-steer double-ended paddle, roomy enough to relax, but also sturdy enough for rapids.

We opted for a guided float, and I highly recommend doing the same for your outdoor adventure, especially if it’s your first time on the Green River or your first post-storm trip. Our guides, Nate and Melody, were awesome, knowledgeable, friendly, and low-key lifesavers. One stayed ahead, alerting us about upcoming rapids, while the other stayed behind us in case anyone got stuck (which we all did at some point). Their presence made the float feel exciting, but safe.

The full float is about 4.5 miles and took around 3 hours in the Mini Cat’s. You’ll start at Wilderness Cove Beach and finish at Big Rock, where the shuttle picks you up and brings you back.

First half: Class I and II rapids, and one optional Class III.
Second half: smoother, but still requires you to pay attention, not a lazy river.

What made the trip floating down the Green River even more memorable was that we saw a Bald Eagle, and later, a Great Blue Heron fly overhead. 

🛶 2025 Tubing Schedule & Tips:

📍 2025 Tubing Season: June 6 – September 7, 2025
📅 Fridays–Sundays only (advance reservations required—no walk-ups)
🚐 All floats include shuttle, paddle, and life jacket
🧼 Water shoes are required (bring your own or grab a pair from the camp store)

Mini Cat (Guided)

• Fridays & Sundays at 10 am
  

Mini Cat (Self-Guided)

• Fridays at 2 pm
• Saturdays at 10 am, 12 pm & 2 pm
• Sundays at 2 pm
  

Inflatable Kayak (Self-Guided)

• Fridays at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm
• Saturdays at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm & 2:30 pm
• Sundays at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm
  

⚠️ Safety Notes:

• All children must be 42” or taller to participate
• Life jackets are required for kids under 13 (and honestly, everyone in our group wore one the whole time—good call)
• No pets or alcohol allowed on floats
• Expect Class I & II rapids, with one Class III (optional)
• Ages 10+ is our personal recommendation—especially with current river conditions

Final Stop: Downtown Saluda

After rafting, we headed into downtown Saluda for a late lunch at The Purple Onion, delicious food and relaxed atmosphere. Then we wandered around checking out local shops and grabbed coffee, ice cream, honey, and some locally made sausage, which ended up in our spaghetti dinner back home.

There’s also McCreery Park right across the street, with a playground. Perfect for the kiddos if they still have any energy left after a sun-filled day tubing down the river.

A Short Stay That Stuck With Us: Wilderness Cove Review

---

Want MORE?!