Spence Cabin
Situated in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits the perfect wedding venue for those seeking peace, nature, and charm. One visit and you’ll fall in love with the Spence Cabin. It’s rustic yet romantic and small yet quaint. As a wedding photographer, it is among my favorite places to capture true love. And as a National Park Service-approved photographer, I am authorized to provide my services within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This, of course, includes weddings at Spence Cabin.
About Spence Cabin
Tucked away within the Elkmont Historic District is the Spence Cabin. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the cabin is a peaceful location perfect for small, intimate weddings of up to 40 guests. A large room of 432 square feet features a gas fireplace, and four smaller rooms range from 118 to 165 square feet. Furnishings include:
- 40 folding chairs
- Four round tables that measure 6 feet in diameter
- Eight rectangular tables that measure 2.5-by-6 feet
- Six rocking chairs
A warming kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave is available for use. There are plenty of outlets to help keep food warm in slow cookers. The traditional lighting is rather dim, adding to the cabin’s ambiance. Additionally, there is no air conditioning or heating but ceiling fans and the cool mountain air keep temperatures comfortable. In cooler weather, the gas fireplace adds a warm touch. When selecting a wedding venue, two restrooms and parking are important but often overlooked features.
The Setting
I love using the word peaceful to describe Spence Cabin. It truly is a place that takes the focus off the hustle and bustle of everyday life by centering you among nature. Guests enjoy the 192-square-foot screened-in porch that faces the Little River and the stone patio, which provides a close view of the river.
The cabin is rustic yet charming. Built in 1828, it radiates a quaintness not found in your standard hotel ballroom. Combined with the natural setting, the opportunities for capturing the intimate emotion between those saying I do, are amazing.
My style is natural light and documentary photography, making the Spence Cabin a location where I excel at my craft. I focus on capturing natural expressions, touches, and emotions, just like the surroundings in which they occur.
The Arbor
The stone arbor on the back of the property is a focal point for any wedding or elopement at Spence Cabin. The stone arbor can be adorned with lush greenery, beautiful florals, or fabric to complete any wedding theme. Imagine walking out to the stone patio and underneath a beautiful arbor. With rustic doors opening to reveal this secluded haven, your wedding day at Spence Cabin promises to be an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Capture the essence of your love story against the backdrop of the stone arbor and create memories that last a lifetime.
Spence Cabin Reservations
To book Spence Cabin for your wedding or elopement, there is a three-step process: Reserve, Apply, Pay. For inquiries about your reservation, application, or payment, please reach out to grsm_special_use_permits@nps.gov.
1. Check availability and make a tentative reservation by emailing your request to
grsm_special_use_permits@nps.gov prior to submitting an application OR reserve your date at: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234712. If the requested date and location
are available, a tentative reservation will be made to hold the location. Sites are available 1 year in advance.
2. Submit Application form (10-930 or 10-930s) in .pdf or .docx format to grsm_special_use_permits@nps.gov
3. Make payment (see fees & payment section). Application Fees are Non-Refundable. You can pay online at www.pay.gov.
• Finalized Special Use Permits will be emailed to the applicant and must be signed upon receipt.
• Application and payment must be received at least 14 days before an event and at least 21 days for
special requests. There are no guarantees a last-minute request can be accommodated.
• Permit holders must ensure all service providers understand and adhere to the permit conditions to
avoid termination of the permit. The permit holder may be held liable for any condition not adhered to by the vendor(s).
More information can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/wedding-information.htm
Spence Cabin Directions
As one may expect, Spence Cabin is tucked away amidst the lush greenery of the National Park. You may have difficulty finding this rustic cabin without cell service to get to this historic location. Before embarking on the path to Spence Cabin, make sure you and your guests are aware of the complexity of the trip and plan!
Spence Cabin Watercolor Map
Looking for an elegant Spence Cabin map? Try my semi-customizable watercolor map that is sure to wow your guests!
Step-By-Step PDF Guide
Need a little more assistance to get to Spence Cabin? No worries! I have created a step-by-step PDF with photos to help you! Download my Spence Cabin Directions guide for assistance in your planning journey!
Special Use Permit
You’ll need a Special Use Permit from the park to marry at Spence Cabin. Be sure to complete the required application and submit the $50 non-refundable fee no less than 14 days prior to your ceremony. Applicants must follow certain guidelines. Applying for a Special Use Permit is a fairly simple process and well worth the time, as marrying surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains is truly a magical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions for Spence Cabin
Spence Cabin is in the Elkmont Historic District inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about 15 minutes from Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It’s nestled in the woods right along the Little River.
The National Park Service allows up to 40 guests for weddings and events at Spence Cabin.
You can book Spence Cabin through recreation.gov.
Yes, a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service is required, even if you’ve rented the cabin. It’s a separate application and fee.
The cabin includes access to the main room, sunroom, kitchen area, indoor restrooms, and outdoor patio. You’ll also get basic tables and chairs for your use.
Yes! There are indoor restrooms with running water. There are NO mirrors in the bathrooms.
Yes, the cabin has a limited number of tables and folding chairs. If you want something fancy, you can bring in rentals.
You can, but it must be low-impact. NO nails, staples, or anything that could harm the structure or nature. And everything must be cleaned up thoroughly before you leave.
Yes, but it’s limited. There’s a small lot near the cabin, and some guests may need to walk a short distance.
Pets are allowed in outdoor areas on a leash but not inside the cabin itself.
Yes, you can have music, but remember there’s no cell service at Spence Cabin, so make sure any playlists are downloaded ahead of time.
Yes. The building and restrooms are ADA accessible, and there’s a ramp to enter the cabin. Further, there are handicap accessible parking spots at the cabin.
Yes! There’s a prep kitchen, and you can bring in food or use a licensed caterer. Just remember. No open flames or grills. Caterers should call 828-497-1930 at least 48 hours before the event to obtain permission to enter the park for business.
No overnight stays are allowed, but Gatlinburg, Townsend, and Pigeon Forge have plenty of nearby options.
You’ve got indoor space! The main room and sunroom are great for ceremonies if the weather turns on you.
Yes, with a Special Use Permit, you can take photos throughout Elkmont and nearby scenic spots.
The rental window for Spence Cabin is from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Someone from your party must be on-site at 10:00 a.m. to meet the ranger for the check-in procedure. A ranger will return at 8:00 p.m. sharp for check-out. If you plan to leave earlier, you can provide your check-out time during the initial check-in.
Only if you’re parking outside the 3 spots at the cabin and the 9 designated spaces allocated near the cabin. Those using the 9 reserved spots during a reservation do not need a parking tag.
Yes. There are three parking spots at the cabin and additional spots in the gravel lot near the main Elkmont parking area.
Yes, but they must have a valid parking tag and cannot block roads or unauthorized areas.
Yes. This is bear country! Stay alert, never leave food unattended, and follow all bear safety guidelines. Report any unusual bear encounters to the park service.
Spence Cabin is available for daily use from April 1 to October 31 each year.
The rental fee is $200 per day. A $400 refundable security deposit is also required at booking.
Yes. A $400 deposit is refunded 5–7 business days after your reservation, as long as the cabin is left in good condition.
You are! Guests must sweep, mop, return furniture, and clean up all areas before departure.
Yes. General cleaning supplies and step ladders are available on-site.
Yes, as long as they don’t harm the structure. NO staples, nails, tape, or anything that could leave a mark.
Yes, as long as they don’t harm the structure. NO staples, nails, tape, or anything that could leave a mark.
Yes, alcohol is allowed inside the cabin and on the patio, in accordance with state and park rules.
No. There is no service in Elkmont. The nearest limited service area is about 3 miles away at Maloney Point.
No. Open flames, candles, oil lamps, and portable heaters are prohibited.
No. Spence Cabin does not have heat or air conditioning.
Yes! The park highly encourages a site visit before booking. Site visits are available March–November by appointment. Call 865-436-1286. Hours vary by season.
Yes, but shuttle vehicles cannot exceed 25 feet in length.
No. Event directional signs are not allowed anywhere in the park. Please see my maps and guides for more information.
No. Bring flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for safety after dark.
I’ve got you covered! Head over to my planning shop for downloadable guides, checklists, and resources made specifically for couples getting married in the Smokies.
Destination Weddings
A destination wedding doesn’t have to mean a theme park or beach wedding. An intimate wedding in the woods is still a destination wedding. This is especially when it comes to Spence Cabin in the Smokies. While the park welcomes millions of visitors each year, an intimate wedding with your closest friends and family is what Spence Cabin is all about. The peaceful setting with only the sounds of nature surrounding you is a destination in itself. If this is the type of wedding venue you envision, you’ll want to establish contact with a wedding photographer. Specifically, a photographer with a CUA—that’s me—Erin Morrison Photography.
Erin Morrison Photography
My goal in wedding photography is to capture the true representation of who you are as a couple. I enjoy getting to know you before the ceremony and learning what makes you connect. Always up for a challenge, and I don’t mind getting a little crazy if the right shot calls for it.
Getting married is a big deal, but the wedding doesn’t have to be. If a smaller, more intimate wedding is your goal, seriously consider the Spence Cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a 1928 restored oasis, waiting for couples to celebrate their love within its walls, on its porch, or on its stone patios.
The national parks are for all to enjoy; therefore, the park service’s rules must be followed. It is required that your wedding photographer have a CUA. I have my CUA, a love of Spence Cabin, and I specialize in wedding photography that resonates with your love. I’m honored when couples ask me to capture their special day. If you are planning a wedding at Spence Cabin, let’s chat. The Spence Cabin is available for rental from April 1—October 31. The earlier we chat on the phone, the sooner we can get a date on the books! I would love to get to know you! Contact me today to inquire about availability and rates.
