About Little Bear Farm Vacation Rentals in Banner Elk NC.

Little Bear Farm is a working family farm.  The farm was established in 1964 by Jay and Doris Bliss.   Over time, the farm which once raised blueberries, strawberries and hosted chickens, cattle, and horses has fallen into disrepair.  As we rebuild the farm, we are renovating and repairing the buildings. We currently offer a variety of  vacation rental possibilities which are dog friendly.  Our rental properties are co hosted by Liz (jay and Doris' oldest daughter, and their grandson, Jason.  Jason and his family live on the property and are always available during guest stays.

Several things set Little Bear Farm apart from other vacation rentals in the High Country.  The farm itself is located in an established community that is slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of Boone, Banner Elk, or the local resorts.  We are part of an old and established community known as Matney or Shawneehaw Townshiup.  Our family moved into this area in the late 1800's.  Hester and Bill Smith moved their large family  from the Valle Crucis community referred to as Hoot Owl Hollar shortly after the 1940 flood to the farm directly across the road.  There, they raised their own food as well as crops including potatoes, cabbage, and tobacco until the late 1960's.  The Smith's never owned an automobile and walked or used a wagon to haul their crops to market.

Their youngest daughter, Doris, married Jay Bliss, a rancher from Wyoming in 1958.  In 1963 They bought 2 acres of land across from Bill and Hester's farm and built their house and business there.  Later, about 1970 they purchased the adjacent farm belonging to C O Matney.  Doris wrote two books recording short stories of growing up in Hoot Hollar which are available on site or can be ordered and shipped.

Jason and Liz began renovations and repairs to the buildings on the property in 2018.  As repairs and renovations are made listings are completed, be sure to watch for new listings.