Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a pet along to Wildacres?

Sorry but no. Pets are not allowed in any buildings (except service dogs).

How do I get more information about my particular program?

There are links to group information on the schedule page of this website.

Who assigns rooms and roommates for my group?

Room assignments are the responsibility of the group. It is important that you let the group leader know of any special needs you may have.

Do I need to bring linens and towels?

Wildacres provides linens and towels. Some people like to bring an extra towel or two but it is not necessary.

What’s the best way to drive to Wildacres?

There’s a good map on this website. Interstate 40 is the nearest major road about 30 minutes south of Wildacres. Many people enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it usually takes longer, and should be avoided in bad weather or fog.

Can my spouse come along and not participate in the program?

Some groups allow this if there is room at the facility, but it’s better if everyone is participating. Contact your group leader.

How can I get from the Asheville or Charlotte airport?

There is no public transportation in our area and the closest car rental is Asheville. Many groups make arrangements for their guests to get from Asheville. Groups may arrange for van service to and from the Asheville airport. Contact your group leader if you need transportation from an airport.

Do cell phones work at Wildacres? Are there other phones?

The use of cell phones is discouraged at Wildacres so that participants can have a true retreat experience. Most cell phones do work at Wildacres. There are two public phones that require a calling card or may be used for collect calls.

If someone needs to reach you, they should call (828) 756-4573, and the staff will get you a message. Non-emergency calls should be made between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm.

What’s the weather like at Wildacres?

The weather can be cool at night anytime during the season. In the spring and fall it can be cold on a windy day. Be prepared for anything.

Is there access to the Internet and e-mail at Wildacres?

Wireless service is available via satellite. Wildacres is a true retreat, and we discourage the use of computers as much as possible so that our guests can enjoy the quiet and solitude of the mountains and totally get away from everyday pressures.

What should I bring to wear?

Wildacres is not a “dress up place” so bring casual clothes. Include a jacket, sweater, and good walking shoes.

Are there televisions, radios, or alarm clocks in the rooms?

None of the above. And you might love being away from all that. We ring a bell to wake you, but many people like to bring along an alarm clock.

Can I bring alcoholic beverages to Wildacres?

Yes, there are stores nearby that have beer and wine and the closest town, Spruce Pine, just voted to become “wet”.

What are the sleeping rooms like?

All sleeping rooms house two people and each room has its own bathroom. The rooms are comfortable and very clean. Each room has a ceiling fan for cooling in the summer and a heater to be toasty in the spring and fall.

What are the meals like?

Meals are served family style and the food is delicious and plentiful. The kitchen staff provides a vegetarian alternative at each meal and is good at helping others with special dietary needs. If you have dietary concerns you should contact the food service manager at Wildacres. We are not able to fully deal with every diet so you may need to bring some things with you.

Are there facilities for recreation activities?

Wildacres has hiking trails and a ping-pong table at the facility. Nearby are two nice golf courses that are open to the public. There are tennis courts close to Wildacres so bring a racquet. Bring a bathing suit and prove you can stand the very cold water in the South Toe River.

Is there a place to get snacks and other things nearby?

The canteen at Wildacres has some essentials you might need as well as snacks, but it's only 15 minutes to a store (not to be named here) that has about everything.

Is there a laundry facility at the facility?

There are none at Wildacres, but a nice Laundromat has opened in Spruce Pine, which is nearby.