Located 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Watauga Lake, this cabin is within a 15-minute drive of Watauga River. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 72 min drive
Restaurants
Puerto Nuevo Mexican and Seafood Restaurant - 44 min drive
Smoky Mountain Bakers - 43 min drive
Highlander BBQ - 43 min drive
JJ's Cafe - 21 min drive
Bob's Dairyland - 43 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY
We would like to share our mountain cabin located on 45 acres of private mountain land and situated on the beautiful Elk River. This river cabin is located in the Cherokee National Forest and will sleep 7 people. This home is very cozy and relaxing. You will find all the amenities of modern home including a large smart TV and WiFi, and a full kitchen. The cabin porch deck overlooks the large Elk River. And because you are surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest, your nearest neighbors will be the abundant wildlife that live in these scenic mountains. The Elk River is a great fishing location that has bass, rainbow and speckled trout.
During the summer months be sure to bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool river water. Or bring inflatable floats for a river float-down. You can also use our kayak and canoe and take full advantage of this large beautiful river. The riverside deck has a BBQ grill and is a great place to picnic. You can also grill on an open fire at the large fire-ring, or you can just sit by the river and relax to the soothing sound of flowing water. Trout fishing can be productive right at the river deck. This property is open all year and every season has its own special allure. During early Summer the fireflies gather at night in this deep mountains location. Autumn brings the color change and the trees are something to see. Local festivals are an attraction in East Tennessee. June boasts the annual Rhododendron Festival and in September the town of Elizabethton host a Covered Bridge Celebration. October is the “Country Thunder” at Bristol Speedway, and Unicoi County has an Apple Festival as well as the Fall-O-Dendron festival in Roan Mountain. November is the “Pinnacle Speedway in Lights” event located in Bristol - all are fun things to see in the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee. And don’t forget that in Winter the Beech Mountain Snow Ski Resort is only a 45 minute drive. Additionally, giant Watauga Lake is only a short drive and offers scenic views as well as fishing, kayaking, sailing and pontoon boat rentals. The Appalachian Trail is also very close to this cabin and the location where the AT trail crosses the huge Watauga Lake is something to see.
The property also borders the official boundaries of the Cherokee National Forest and offers a private and somewhat isolated retreat that you will not forget. Walking trails are marked and provide a great two-hour hike around the land.
You will have the entire home to yourself and have private use of the 45 acres and the riverside spot, and all along the Elk River that boarders the property.
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a sofa bed. Housekeeping is available on request.
Property manager
Chris Griffin
Similar properties
Watauga Lakeside Cabin - Decks, Ponds, Family & Pet Friendly Privacy
Watauga Lakeside Cabin - Decks, Ponds, Family & Pet Friendly Privacy
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Area rugs in public areas
Front entrance ramp
Gravel flooring in public areas
Hardwood flooring in public areas
Smooth flooring in public areas
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Housekeeping (on request)
Phone
Location highlights
In a rural location
In the mountains
Near the marina
On a lake
On a river
On the waterfront
Things to do
Bicycle parking
Bicycle storage
Kayak
Birdwatching nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Hunting nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Sledding nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
100% renewable energy
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bed sheets changed on request
Bicycle parking
Bicycle storage
Double-glazed windows
Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Living plant wall
Local artist showcase
Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
Recycling
Towels (changed on request)
Unit size: 800 square feet
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the trash
Lock the doors
Please deposit all of your trash bags to the trash bin at the red pipe gate. Thank you very much.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
3 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: $150 pet fee to remove hair from bed-linen-floors.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 10
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do around this cabin?
This cabin is located in Butler, close to Watauga Lake, Buckeye Recreational Center, and Roan Mountain Community Park. You'll also find Watson Island and Laurel Fork Wildlife Management Area nearby.
Is there parking available at this cabin?
Bicycle parking is also available for guests.
Is this cabin adjacent to a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.
Is River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY good for couples?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cabin include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.
Are there hot tubs at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY ?
No, this cabin doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this cabin offer breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cabin.
Does this cabin have connecting rooms?
No, this cabin doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Where is the closest airport to this cabin?
The closest major airport to this cabin is Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional), which is about 27.4 mi away. Another top airport is Abingdon, VA (VJI-Virginia Highlands), which is around 29.3 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY ?
Yes, every cabin at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY comes with a balcony with some featuring mountain or water views.
River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land PET FRIENDLY Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 20 reviews
10 - Excellent
19
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 20 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 20 reviews
6 - Okay
1
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Chris C., Charlotte, NC
Sep 18, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing and relaxing retreat!!
Chris is an amazing host and his communication and hospitality were second to none! The property is absolutely amazing and relaxing! It has every convenience of home but in a tranquil and relaxing location. The river is simply soothing and so relaxing. If you need to get away from it all this is the Place for you. Some of the best trout and smallmouth fishing did I have ever done! We are excited to have found this place and the host so that we can book our next outing as soon as possible! Thank you so much Chris for allowing us to stay and experience our 24th year anniversary together in such a beautiful place!
Chris C.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ryan M.
Jun 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Total seclusion
The property was absolutely beautiful. The photos don’t do it any justice. The cabin was awesome and all the amenities were on point. Our dogs loved the river as did we. We never left the property for the entire week and we never got bored. We enjoyed ax/knife throwing, fishing, exploring the river and the views from the cabin deck or the river dock. Chris was a great owner. He was involved in making sure we had play by play instructions on getting there. He checked in (text) to make sure we didn’t need anything and that everything was perfect. If you stay at this property you will not be disappointed. Definitely will return.
The Murphys
Ryan M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kim C.
Jun 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice serene place
Enjoyed our short weekend!
Kim C.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shawn C.
May 5, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice!
Very clean with everything you need. Isolated and beautiful!
Shawn C.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ashley S. M.
Feb 7, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Always a Joy
Always a joy staying at Chris's place. We love it! Communication is top notch, and you couldnt ask for a nicer host. We are quickly becoming regulars! Can't wait to go back.
Ashley S. M.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
Matthew M.
Jan 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
The Full Winter Experience
My family of 5 decided to take a quick winter trip to help my childhood friend move to Butler. We wanted to find a secluded cabin that was close to my friend’s property with things to do nearby. The cabin was perfect for our family of 5. It is tucked back on the Elk River with nothing but nature around you. We enjoyed exploring the property and all that the river has to offer. We had fires by the serene river, cooked out by the river, skipped rocks, and even did a little fishing.
We stayed in January and experienced a winter storm with lots of snow and other fun variables that came with it. Being from Florida, the snow was a welcomed experience. From snowball fights and snow angles to power outages and blocked roads from fallen trees, we got THE FULL WINTER EXPERIENCE.
The road main road leading to the cabin is paved. The cabin road was a little more rugged, but even with 4-6 inches of fresh snow on the ground we had no problems with my 4x4 truck. I would say the route to the cabin is manageable for most under normal conditions but recommend 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicles. For me, the drive to and from the cabin is a part of the mountain cabin experience.
We arrived with the generator running, moved a small fallen tree from the road, and were not able to get back to the cabin on our last night due to another fallen tree, but this did not take away from our experience. The owner and property manager were prepared, accommodating and helpful. We will definitely be back.
Matthew M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ashley S. M.
Dec 25, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Exceptional Stay on the River!
Beautiful property and perfect getaway exactly as advertised. Everything with this rental was perfect from the directions to check-in, to communication with the host. Exactly what we needed for some time away to decompress. Excellently stocked and very cozy. Thanks Chris, for sharing with us. Can't wait to come back!
Ashley S. M.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Josh G.
Oct 23, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Property
Exactly the getaway we were looking for. Great communication with the host, secluded location, and stocked better than any rental we’ve experienced. 10/10 we’ll be back!
Josh G.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Oct 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway
Cozy and secluded cabin in Tennessee mountains. Everything one would want once you arrive. Quiet and peaceful. Would definitely book again. Thanks Chris!!
Verified traveler
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jon S.
Oct 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Tranquility and Privacy
This was the perfect cabin to take a break from the world.
Jon S.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Fisher J., United States
Sep 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Best View in Butler
This riverside cabin is the coolest thing going. Waking up and being steps away from it was a luxury and the host was super responsive and knowledgeable of the things to do. It is way off the beaten path, but the WI-FI reception was strong and consistent. I would recommend this stay to anyone wanting to escape reality for a while. Truly is a beautiful cabin with everything you could need.
Fisher J.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
john b.
Sep 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
peaceful
very rural and peaceful with a great owner
john b.
Stayed 17 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Janet D.
Aug 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Summer vacation
Our family had a wonderful time including our dogs. The cabin had everything we needed and the kitchen had all the extras. The photos Rita and Chris sent on how to get the cabin were so appreciated since we came after dark we found it with no problem. Our family would definitely recommend this wonderful place for a family getaway!!
Janet D.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Guy S.
Jul 26, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome cabin in the woods
My family and I enjoyed our stay at the cabin very much. It was just what we were looking for. We wanted to get away from the city and all the people and just relax in the woods with mother nature. This cabin delivered on that and then some. We really enjoyed sitting out on the deck reading a book, enjoying a morning coffee or a beverage later in the day and listening to the river down below. It was just so relaxing. We did some fishing on the river, went hiking on the trails and explored the area around the cabin. In the evenings we built bonfires down by the river and enjoyed watching all of the firefly's in the woods. The cabin was well stocked and had everything that we needed to get by on. There was plenty of condiments, spices, coffee, utensils and cookware for our needs. We rented a pontoon boat one day and really enjoyed boating on Lake Watauga for the day. We drove over to Beech mountain on another day and did some sightseeing in that area. The weather was perfect for us most of the time we were there. At night it was in the low 60's and during the day it was in the mid to upper 70's. We had the windows open all the time and it was so relaxing at night when we went to bed listening to the sounds of the river down below. We got to meet Chris at the end of our stay. He was a great host and really enjoyed talking with him and learning more about the area. We definitely would go back here again in the future.
Guy S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Charles S.
Jul 15, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Family fun on the Elk River!
We had a great week! Cabin was great-fully stocked, clean, great porch! River was wonderful! Great for wading, swimming and fishing! Cabin is in a remote area-so plan 45 minutes-1 hour at least each way to go to local areas (Boone, grandfather mountain, Banner Elk, etc)
Charles S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Beth J., Gainesville, GA
May 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
River Cabin
This was an amazing place to stay and the owner was terrific. The house is equipped with everything you could possibly need and Chris responded to our suggestions immediately. This kitchen has all sorts of things in it you wouldn't expect from a rental or weekend retreat. As I prefer to cook our meals I had everything I needed to do that and all equipment was of good quality, unlike most rental properties.
The setting is gorgeous. You'll never want to leave the front porch except to maybe go down and sit beside the river instead of watching it and listening to it from above. It is mesmerizing. My husband was disappointed he didn't bring his fishing gear as he was sure he'd have caught some trout in the river.
The road in is a little bumpy but this is what you get in the mountains when you're off the beaten path. That is precisely what we were looking for. Go enjoy the river and Chris as your host. You won't regret it and you'll never want to leave.
Beth J.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Liz V.
Apr 13, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
A Perfect Retreat for the Soul
We loved the cabin, the river, the fire pit, and the surrounding 50 acres. We felt relaxed the moment we arrived! Our host, Chris, was very helpful in suggesting activities on the property as well as in the area. The cabin was super clean, comfortable, and well equipped. Could stay for months! We will definitely return!
Liz V.
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2023
6/10 Okay
Jill H.
Mar 31, 2023
Beautiful property, but DO NOT use GPS to get there.
The property is absolutely beautiful! It has so much to do that you don't even have to leave. My kids had a blast playing by the creek and exploring the property and it's secluded enough that my dogs were able to run around off a leash and had the time of their lives.
The BIGGEST issue we had was VRBO never sent me instructions with directions on how to get to the property or the codes to get into the gate and cabin. We were only told by the owner that it is "tricky" to find, instead of telling us that GPS doesn't work at all and we later found out that the owner has been told multiple times that he needs to warn renters not to follow GPS. Therefore, we were lead onto a very narrow dirt/rocky road on top of a mountain that took us an extra 3 hours to get back down. There is no cell service when in the area (until you get to the cabin) so I had no way of contacting anyone. Once we did arrive there was a large tree that had fallen on the property blocking us to drive up to the house. The owner was very responsive and helpful and was able to get a neighbor to come and remove the tree the following day. But, a big reason I booked this cabin was the fact that it stated we could pull right up to the cabin with no steps because my mom has Parkinson's and uses a walker. It was very difficult for her to get around the tree and walk up the very steep incline to get inside. So just beware of this when booking and make sure you have all of the instructions before leaving.
Jill H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Michael R.
Mar 19, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Taking it all in.
We immensely enjoyed our stay at this property. The home was located in a semi-remote area, yet close enough to civilization to make 'supply runs' quite convenient. But, the big draw was the closeness to nature. From the natural sounds of the river(which was literally a stones throw away), to the clear, starry might skies, you feel like you are in your own little world! I would like to come back in the summer months, as I feel like each season must have its own experience here.
The home was beautiful, well appointed, and the owners were so helpful and communicative. We highly recommend this property.
Michael R.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lydia W., Fort Mill, SC
Feb 23, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Slice of Heaven - Fantastic property!
I cant' say enough about our time here 2/17-2/20 except that it was too short! My husband and our two kiddos ( 8 & 10) had an amazing time and can't wait to go back and stay longer.
A few things - this property is remotely located - not in close proximity to city fanfare - restaurant's, shopping and all that stuff. Which is exactly why our family adored it. I loved the walk straight in the door (without stairs) so unloading was a breeze. The cabin itself is beautifully decorated and is honestly the most well-equipped/stocked rental we have ever experienced (supplies, cleaning items, trash bags, charcoal - you name it). The kitchen has EVERYTHING you could need/imagine and I cook a lot! The kids were enthralled with the hideout/loft and thought it was the best kid space ever built - we barely saw them inside. TV is huge (although we stayed outside the majority of the time), perfect amount of space for our family of 4.
The outside is where it's at though! The river is breathtaking - the most peaceful and soul re-setting sounds and view. There is axe/knife throwing, amazing fishing deck with tables, grill (fully stocked charcoal - which makes the most amazing steaks ever) and woods/hideouts that the kids could roam freely and safely - if it tells you anything - they were barely on their electronics - win win, They explored, fished, learned to start a campfire and actually cooked their own hot dogs for dinner. Their roaming gave the hubs and I time to actually have a conversation - amazing.
We never left the property - wouldn't suggest forgetting any food items you may need - we forgot eggs but made out just fine without them,. We also did not follow arrival instructions - hubs thinks he knows everything - so there is that. Alas, we took the back way and it was straight-up 4-wheelin', mud on the tires, cut through unpaved road. We thought it was fantastic but some people may not. And for the love - please don't attempt without a proper vehicle that brush on either side, rocks and dirt would bother you - stick to the easy way in.
We loved all of it - trying to talk them in to selling it to me! I can't say enough about it - soul nourishing and super fun place that we will 100% go back to.
Weather was beautiful but water - of course - was cold. Did not deter the tiny humans from going right on in.
Would be amiss if I didn't also mention that our dog Savannah gives it 2 paws up - she slept for 2 days after we got back.
Highly recommend!