Introducing the Largest Tree House Resort Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1. Overview

The finished resort will have 130 treehouses on 40 acres in East Tennessee.

2. Ambitious Vision

When Amanda Jensen’s four kids were younger, her husband Brian built them a tree house equipped with bunk beds, a trap door, a swing, and a zip line. Amanda remarked, “After the kids decided they were on to more important things than playing in it, we joked about renting it out because tree houses were becoming ‘a thing.'” However, after experiencing an impressive treehouse in South Carolina themselves, their casual thoughts morphed into a grand vision. Thus, they set out to establish what they aspire to be the world’s largest tree house resort, named Sanctuary Treehouse Resort, located in the picturesque Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Upon completion, this resort will feature 130 treehouses spread across 40 acres, with most arranged in rows and a select few in a circular pod formation.

3. Design and Features

The couple collaborates with the Mountain Modern architectural firm MossCreek to realize their vision. The resort will feature three types of accommodations:

• The Tree Fort: Accommodates two to six guests, includes a king-size bed, a queen-size trundle bed, a bunk bed, an LED fireplace, a kitchenette, a whiskey barrel sink, and a shower. Additionally, it comes with a deck equipped with Adirondack chairs, a grill, and a wood-burning fireplace. Playful features include a spiral slide, climbing rope, bucket pulley, net swing, secret ladder, trapdoor, telescope, and a custom drink shoot connecting the kitchen to the lower porch.
• The Tree Fort Double: Features two interconnected tree houses with a movable drawbridge for larger groups.
• The Luxe Accommodation: Enhances the experience with a king-size gel cooling bed, a copper clawfoot bathtub, a bamboo jet shower, and an outdoor tub.

4. An Interactive Experience

“It will not be just a place to stay with astounding views; you will be able to interact and play in your tree house, just as you would a ‘real’ tree house,” Jensen remarked about the playful attributes.

Starting this summer, guests will be able to stay in six to ten treehouses, with the remaining units from the first phase rolling out throughout the year. By the end of 2023, around 30 units, along with a check-in area, are expected to be in operation. Aiming for sustainability, the plan includes building an additional 20 to 25 units each year until the resort is fully realized.

5. Community and Environment

The Jensens, who also operate the Gaitlinburg SkyCenter at the peak of the Gatlinburg SkyLift, initially aimed to construct a handful of treehouses on their property. However, upon discovering that the 40-acre site was available, they felt inspired to broaden their plans, especially since other interested parties intended to develop the land for apartments and buildings. “We want to preserve the property as it is and build around the trees and into the existing landscape to respect its beauty and the nature that thrives there,” Amanda described their intentions for the land currently under construction.

6. Future Developments

The resort will also include walking trails, communal areas, a central hot tub, and a magical forest area for events and gatherings. Moreover, the location in East Tennessee is conveniently near two 18-hole golf courses and the breathtaking Great Smoky National Park.

“We are cultivating a unique resort unlike any other for guests to stay, play, and retreat for a one-of-a-kind experience,” the couple expressed. “We hope to provide our guests with lasting memories, breathtaking views, and customizable options that will leave them eager to return year after year.”