The Forgotten Land of Oz – Stay In Dorothy’s House!

Nestled on top of Beech Mountain in North Carolina, you will find a piece of classic Americana. The forgotten Land of Oz, where you can stay in Dorothy’s house, is still there, but only a shadow of its glory. Underneath the leafy foliage, you will find the remnants of a thriving theme park. Today, it’s more of peek into history.

The park opened in 1970, brought to life by Jack Pentes, on behalf of Carolina Caribbean Corp., and headed by Grover Robbins, of Tweetsie RR. Just over 400,000 visitors entered the park during it’s debut summer. Guests walked through the park, set up to tell the story of ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ Houses featuring the characters let people visit with The Tin-Man, The Scarecrow, The Cowardly Lion, and Even the Wicked Witch. And yes, there was a yellow brick road that still lingers, winding around the mountain.

It ran for nearly ten years, but the website that still features the area states that the park closed its doors thanks to “changing times, economics, liabilities, maintenance, and other interests of its owners, along with the lack of change at Oz.” The park closed its doors, but it didn’t stop vandals and thieves from pillaging the remains. Props were stolen, houses damaged, and the park decayed.

In 1990, a project known as ‘Emerald Mountain Development‘ led to a small renovation. Dorothy’s farm was restored and brought back to an operational status. Emerald Mountain Properties adds, “Gazebos were renovated, fountain, pond and waterfall made operational, and the yellow brick road unearthed and patched.”

You won’t see much in the way of houses and props. The have been ravaged by nostalgia seekers, but the property is working hard to restore the grandeur of the gorgeous gardens and park. Every fall, an “Autumn at OZ Party” takes place…

Guest will take a tour of Auntie Em’s and Uncle Henry’s farm and meet Dorothy and friends along the Yellow Brick Road.
The tour takes from 2-3 hours and you may choose your session times when you purchase your ticket. (Please Note: Oz is not wheelchair or large stroller accessible).

Everyone is encouraged to wear something “Ozzie” and bring their photos and treasures to add to the event. There will be a mini-museum to visit and artifacts to share. Dancers, bluegrass bands and a small petting zoo will add more fun at the Farm.

There will also be face painting, food treats, and special Oz concessions in “Kansas”!New and old trivia will be available for purchase, with part of the proceeds going back into upkeep and restoration.

Dorothy’s House is available to rent. The adorable farmhouse has, “An antique kitchen & parlor, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, down comforters, every appliance, great views, lots of adventure.” It sleeps people comfortably.