The Preserve Resort — Local services in Pigeon Forge

The view is beautiful, but the place was a death trap. We were trapped inside the cabin for hours. The front door knob stopped working and turns out it's the only way out of the cabin because the windows are all screwed shut, which has to be a fire code violation. All other doors are to the back deck on a steep cliff and it was raining. Half of our party had just driven 5 hours and were stuck outside in the rain and couldn't get in. The other half of locals were stuck inside.

We called the office helpline and they ended up hanging up on us. It was Saturday night and maybe they thought we were idiots who couldn't remember the door code? I called back and they kept saying things like just use another door. I explained there was no way to get out and we were trapped with the windows screwed shut couldn't they send someone? I should have called the fire department I realize now.

An hour later someone shows up. He was very sweet, but admitted he was in no shape to work on anything it being a Saturday night. He verified the code and electronic lock worked, like we told the helpline and they didn't believe us. The door knob itself was malfunctioning after working the fine the first night we were there.

I think the only reason we made it out without breaking a window was because I finally realized I had a screwdriver on my keychain and we were able to unscrew the lowest window. It was still high up, so we had to put a coffee table out into the street and the maintenance guy could climb in (and our friend who really had to use the bathroom). He needed access to the inside to fix the door, but was trapped outside. It took a while and eventually he had to kick the door in to get it open, which dented the fridge when it slammed into it, but no one was hurt since he wisely asked us all to get out of the way.

He put a new door knob in and after that things went pretty smoothly considering. There was a drunken huge party in the cabin next door to us though during all of this, but luckily they quieted down by the very late hour we were able to get everyone inside out of the rain and go to bed. They were extra wild and way beyond the 14 people limit, so my friends stuck outside were too nervous to ask them for shelter or the bathroom and the office was long closed.

We ended up still paying full price and Management didn't apologize or offer any discount and we just wanted out so left it alone. It kind of hit me later that if there was a fire we could have easily died. The cabin was nice on the inside otherwise, but it was super close to other huge cabins all on pavement and it was loud, so even if there were no safety issues we wouldn't go back. It was a memorable birthday though.

This was 15 years ago, so I'm hoping they've made improvements. Still check if the windows are still screwed shut before you check in and make sure there is more than one way to escape. Or just rent at the many other beautiful cabins around here that aren't...

We just got back from staying in a cabin called Valley Veiw in The Preserve. The views were breathtaking; you're at level with clouds sometimes. The Preserve is about 8 miles outside of Pigeon Forge situated on top on the mountain. The roads leading to the cabin were recently paved, and while there are many sharp turns, the roads are nice and wide. The cabins are fairly close together, but far enough apart that you still maintain your privacy. I had read many reviews prior to booking and felt confident in making my reservation, however at check-in in downtown Pigeon Forge, there was another family that was complaining and requesting their money back. So after I cautiously checked in, I went back on Google to double check the reviews. Now I was seeing terrible reviews; however, I soon realized the rental agency represented multiple cabin rentals in many different neighborhoods and the guest that were complaining, were complaining about a cabin rental community in a total different direction.

I would recommend this cabin rental to anyone. The place was very clean, the mattress on the bed was wrapped in a zip up vinyl liner, plenty of kitchen utensils and cookware, comfortable chairs and sofa, the pool table, air hokey, and video game all in good working order. The bathrooms had one piece showers, so no mold or mildew build up. Hardwood on the top floor (kitchen and family room) and "like new" carpet in the game room and bedroom. The front door had a keypad entry and the cabin was equipped with an alarm system that we were able to utilize during our stay. The cabin was well stocked with towels, sheets, blankets, and wash cloths, plus there was a washer and dryer.

The only negative experience that I had, was at check-in. The rude, complaining guest in front of me were cussing in front of my two young boys. The attendant could have used more help; he could not handle the 2 other families that were waiting to check in and the guest that were complaining. The attendant was apparently getting over a cold; in the middle of his presentation he would start hacking and walk to the trash can and spit into it without even excusing himself. The complaining guest also complained about that, as it was...

The Preserve is a beautiful area! This is the second time we’ve stayed in the resort in a cabin managed by HearthSide. We had concerns over the cabin, which I’ve addressed in their review. Our major disappointment came from the amenities: the preserve pool. Which is AMAZING! Views upon views, literally the coolest location! THIS is why we reserved this location. For the pool. We so enjoyed it last time! Plus, cabin and entertainment for one price, amazing vacay. However, upon our arrival to swim, it was closed and they were cleaning the pool. Ok, no big deal. We thought it was a routine cleaning (which our renters info mentioned may happen) so we waited. Almost 2 hours goes by and we were then told by the pool guy, the pool had been closed for two days already, this being the third, and he had no idea when it would reopen due to “algae bloom”. We left with our kiddos, very disappointed. So, I reached out to Hearthside and was told through several emails that this was not their problem since they do not manage the pool. I expressed that I understood that, however, it is an amenity they list on their website with NO disclaimer that they aren’t in the know about the pool status. They informed me they had no idea the pool was closed till I emailed. Poor management on both sides. They didn’t notify us and said since they didn’t manage they wouldn’t compensate. I don’t understand how there isn’t a system in place for the preserve to notify cabin management so they can notify their guests. Very disappointing. I tried to call The Preserve when I got no help from HearthSide, however, their toll free number goes to Vacasa customer service and their local number disconnects after one ring. So, here we are. So this stands as a warning for anyone booking through HearthSide OR another management in the preserve in general. The pool MIGHT be available. If it isn’t, they won’t know so they won’t inform you so you can plan accordingly. Selecting one of these cabins + amenities, win! These cabins without the amenities, just like any other cabin in the area except more expensive. Very...