Deep Creek Lodge

We had a girl of 11 get too far ahead on the river. We told her to grab the rope, but she got scared and froze. Once we got her to let go, she wanted to head for shore. My friend fell on the way, hurting her elbows and hip, and was bleeding badly. When our whole group made it ashore, we weren't thinking about private property. We were trying to reach a road to call for help or give first aid, but got chased off two private “rental” properties. We were on rope away. Before we started, I asked where the tube takeout was. The staff member acted as though she didn't know what I meant and pointed at the tubes. I clarified that I meant where to get out after floating, and she pointed to a map under plexiglass on the counter that wasn't helpful. The map and river signage need to be better, and staff should know what a takeout is. You know there are rude neighborhoods around there, so help guests have a good time. Being chased around with someone limping and bleeding was absolutely ridiculous. The injury may have been our responsibility, but the poor signs, unhelpful map, and staff member's lack of knowledge were yours. What a waste of $107.

The tubes seemed sturdy, with solid bottoms and a small backrest that was comfortable. Getting them checked in and returned was easy. I got 10 tubes in different sizes, mostly red, for just under $100, and the service was great. The parking lot where you start tubing costs $5 per day. You do have to walk a bit to reach the river, but a 7-year-old managed it while carrying her tube, so it wasn't too much of a problem.

We had a perfect day for tubing down the creek, and everyone working there was friendly and helpful. We're from Florida, so the water felt about like the springs back home. It was a great activity and experience. If we're in the area again, we'll come back, and I'd recommend it to anyone.

The toasted coconut ice cream from the outpost store was my favorite. Wize guys restaurant is right on site, the staff are friendly, and they have lots of nice merchandise to remember the trip. You can rent tubes there for tubing on Deep Creek, and it's about as close as you can stay to smoky mountain national park. We had a great stay and will recommend it to others.