Questions Often Asked

Can I bring a pet along to Wildacres?
-- Sorry but no. Pets are not allowed in any buildings (except seeing eye 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 them 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 really 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 almost always 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 no car rental nearer than Asheville. Many groups make arrangements for their guests to get from Asheville. Contact your group leader if you need transportation from an airport.

Do cell phones work at Wildacres? Are there other phones?
-- More and more cell phones are working at Wildacres. You have to find the right spot and not move once you have found it. Incoming calls are tricky because you might not be in that special spot. There are two pay phones for outgoing calls, and these phones require a calling card or may be used for collect calls.

How can I be reached by phone if I’m needed?
-- Someone trying to reach you should call (828) 756-4573 and we will give you the message. Non-emergency calls should be made between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm.

Is there access to the Internet and e-mail at Wildacres?
-- We now offer wireless internet connection via satellite.

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.

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’ll probably 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, however Wildacres is in a “dry county” so it’s a good idea to bring what you want.  There are stores nearby that sell beer and wine, but the variety is somewhat limited.

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 very 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.

Are there washers and dryers at the facility?
-- Wildacres doesn’t have enough water to provide this service, but a new Laundromat has opened in Spruce Pine, which is nearby.