Summary
Introduction to Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins
To call the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins a campground doesn’t quite do it justice, since it’s so much more than that. While the riverside accommodation, opening on Sept. 1, will feature 16 A-frame cabins in West Asheville, what truly makes it exceptional is the seamless blend of urban life and natural beauty found in North Carolina.
“The core mission of Wrong Way is to connect guests with the transformational qualities of the outdoors through comfortable accommodations, convenient access, inspiring experiences, and a little local culture,” a spokesperson from the lodge explained in a release shared with GoTravelDaily. “Wrong Way offers guests the chance to get outside of the home (and their heads) and rediscover what matters.”
Located at 9 Midnight Drive, just across the street from the French Broad River Greenway, the lodge boasts a genuine campsite ambiance, while being conveniently situated just a mile from Asheville’s vibrant River Arts District, and a mile from the Haywood Road area of West Asheville rich with eateries. Additionally, it lies two miles from the iconic Biltmore Estate and only three miles from downtown Asheville.
Cabin Features and Accommodations
Each of the 354-square-foot cabins features a hybrid “Scappalachian” design, blending the minimalist charm of Scandinavian aesthetics with the cozy warmth typical of the Appalachians, according to the lodge, which worked with Asheville’s BCA Architecture and interior designer Katherine Winkel. Local artisans contributed to the design, including woodworker Ben Grant, known for his wooden animal sculptures, and JF Kraftworks’ Julian Harris, who constructed countertops from reclaimed wood.
While the cabins are intentionally designed without TVs to promote outdoor activities, they comfortably accommodate up to four guests. Each unit includes a queen-size bed, sleeper sofa, full bathroom, workspace, mini-fridge, microwave, electric kettle, HVAC system, and Wi-Fi access. Standard one-room cabins feature a private balcony overlooking the greenway and river, whereas deluxe units offer added privacy with a separation between the bedroom and a private back deck. Pricing varies by season, with rates for standard rooms between $135 and $275 per night, and deluxe rooms ranging from $165 to $325.
Experiential Activities and Sustainability Focus
The property centers around a two-floor River Lodge that serves as both a communal space and a canteen offering snacks, beverages, and supplies. This lodge also features a 1,200-square-foot event space and an eight-person conference room.
Guests will enjoy grab-and-go meal options from Asheville’s Newstock Pantry, which was established by James Beard Award semifinalist Ashley Capps and partner Travis Schulz. These options can be savored in the cabins or taken along on outdoor excursions.
Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins is the ambition of former whitewater raft guides Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, who united over their passion for the river. A crucial aspect of the property’s offerings is its experience program, featuring a wide array of river-centric activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, river tubing, and calm water paddling. Additional outdoor adventures include zip lining, photo tours, rock climbing, forest bathing, mountain biking, and voluntourism.
Most importantly, the property emphasizes sustainability. The collection of cabins is intended “to support, preserve, and enrich Asheville’s nature-ways through all facets of the business,” according to the release. “With a focus on sustainable construction, products, and practices—along with commitments to community involvement—Wrong Way is dedicated to providing guests with a lodging option that aligns with responsible travel values.”
For those eager to catch a glimpse of the upcoming glamping destination, a limited number of rooms may be available in late August ahead of the official opening. Keep an eye on Wrong Way’s social media channels for more details.
