Located 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Watauga Lake, this cabin is within a 15-minute drive of Fish Springs Marina. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
East Tennessee State University - 44 min drive - 33.9 miles
Bristol Motor Speedway - 49 min drive - 41.0 miles
Beech Mountain Resort - 56 min drive - 34.0 miles
Getting around
Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 65 min drive
Restaurants
Rico's Pizza & Sub's - 49 min drive
Stoney's Pizza and Subs - 35 min drive
Creekside Grill - 44 min drive
Big Red Produce - 43 min drive
Butler Trading Post - 5 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.
TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna
The Brown Bear Lodge is located in the smoky mountains-30 minutes from Boone, NC. This 8,000 square foot lodge can comfortably sleep 22 people and on a youth retreat once slept close to 60 people.
It overlooks Watagua lake, and you will be able to go kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and swimming. You can also hike out your front door to the Appalachian Trail. When you are finished with your hike you can come home and enjoy a hot tub and sauna.
(Boat rentals are available at Cove Ridge and Fish Springs marinas on Watauga lake.)
Get ready for a high quality lodge. Huge stone fire places, bears carved into the wood and real bear rug, and beautiful sights.
*Kitchen: HUGE Island and all the cooking supplies you could need. *Playroom: The playroom has a large fort, ping pong table, drum set, seesaw, TV, swing and much more. *Deck: The deck has four eating areas with tables. Enjoy eating outside. It also has a twin size bed swing and lots of other areas to relax. *Garage: The three car garage is loaded with toys for kids to enjoy- scooters, tricycles, etc. *Living rooms (2): There are two living room spaces. Both have a large fire place. *Bedrooms: Each bedroom has a theme (Dancing Bears, Red Fox, Green Frog, African Safari and more) *Laundry rooms: There are two laundry rooms- both with a washer and dryer
You are renting the entire lodge so you will have access to everything. The only exception is a closet where the owners keep their personal clothes.
The Brown Bear Lodge is a half-way up a mountain and is surrounded on three sides by a national park. Get ready for an amazing view! It's 3/4 of a mile from the community entrance- which is directly across from the lake. When we go to the lake we normally walk or pop in the car.
Here’s some more information:
Top floor: 1) Bedroom #1: King Bed, twin bed (Full attached bathroom with a bathtub/shower) 2) Bedroom #2: King bed, couch that could be used as a twin 3) Playroom- Has a large fort. One side of the fort has a full bed and a twin bed, the other side has a matching full bed and bunk bed. 4) In the playroom is a private corner behind a book shelf. There is a King sized bed there. Super comfortable. Not behind a locked door.
On this top floor there is a second full bathroom that can be shared. It has a shower.
Ground floor:
1) Bedroom #1: Master bedroom- King sized bed, large bathroom, big bathtub, separate shower, laundry room.
This floor also has a half bath for those in the kitchen and living room.
Downstairs:
1) Bedroom #1 King bed, Full bed on the floor (perfect for families with kids). There are also LOTS of comforters that can be used for additional beds for kids. This bedroom has an attached full bathroom (tub/shower combo)
2) Bedroom #2: King bed
3) Bedroom #3: Two twin beds
4) Gym- has a twin bed and privacy curtains.
Another half bath and laundry room is downstairs.
To avoid confusion, and so that you can see an accurate rental price PRIOR to booking, make sure to enter the correct number of overnight guests. When checking out, VRBO will label any number of guests over the first 2 as “Additional Guest(s).
Note: For Security Deposits, VRBO collects these funds and returns them to you if the property is not damaged. As the host we do not receive these funds.
Please remember to declare the total number of guests in your booking, including children aged 2 and up, in accordance with Vrbo policy. This helps us ensure a comfortable stay for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation!
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 5 bathrooms, and a balcony. There's space to spread out with 9 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. The bathroom offers a jetted tub, hair dryers, and bidets. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.
Note from host: No candles or burning of any kind. $200 fee.
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Bicycles
Gym
Kayak
Table tennis
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Swimming nearby
Wildlife walks 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)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Bicycles
Unit size: 8,000 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Excessive mess: If the property is left excessively dirty there will be a $300 fee for extra cleaning.
Late checkouts must be approved. Fees: $50 charge for a 30 min late checkout. If 2 hours or more late they will be charged for a full additional day.
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
No candles or burning of any kind. $200 fee.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 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: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 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.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.
Property is also known as
TN Mountain Lodge Sleeps 22+ Lake Hikes hot Tub Sauna
TN Mountain Lodge: Sleeps 22+ Lake, Hikes, hot Tub, Sauna Cabin
TN Mountain Lodge: Sleeps 22+ Lake, Hikes, hot Tub, Sauna Butler
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do around this cabin?
This cabin is located in Butler within a short 16-minute walk of Watauga Lake. You'll also find Lakeshore Marina and Fish Springs Marina nearby.
Is parking available on site at this cabin?
Yes, there is a garage.
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, this cabin doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.
Is TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna a good place to stay for couples?
Couples will appreciate amenities at this cabin, including a fireplace and a jetted bathtub in each cabin with some featuring lake views.
Are there hot tubs at TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna?
Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this cabin.
Does this cabin include breakfast service?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cabin.
Are there connecting rooms at this cabin?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cabin.
How far is the airport from this cabin?
The closest major airport to this cabin is Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional), which is about 21.4 mi away. Another top airport is Abingdon, VA (VJI-Virginia Highlands), which is around 22.7 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna?
Yes, every cabin at TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna comes with a balcony with some featuring lake or mountain views.
TN Mountain Lodge: sleeps 22+ lake, hikes, hot tub, Sauna Reviews
Reviews
9.6
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. 9 out of 10 reviews
10 - Excellent
9
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 10 reviews
8 - Good
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Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 10 reviews
6 - Okay
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
4 - Poor
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews
2 - Terrible
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10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Larry K.
Sep 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Understated elegance. Stunning views. Just may be heaven on earth!
Larry K.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Christopher S.
Jul 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Even better than the photos
This place is so cool it took us an hour just to explore it and get over the amazement. I've stayed in many cabins of this sort but none nearly as well furnished and equipped. Nothing lacking (towels, TP, kitchen stuff, etc.) and so many awesome extras (ping-pong!). It's easy to drive to for something so secluded with such an amazing view. The host was great about communicating and not imposing too many silly rules. I plan to go back.
Christopher S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer P.
Jul 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Diamond in the rough
Absolutely gorgeous home and view. The house was stocked with all the essentials. Such wonderful hosts and owners made our stay the best trip yet!
Jennifer P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Earle K.
Aug 3, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Reunion
Based on reviews and information provided on the VRBO listing, Brown Bear Lodge was everything we expected. Our first impression as we gathered on the deck overlooking the lake was "WOW". The view was great and you could see halfway to forever. The lodge was beautiful and equipped with everything we needed. It was very roomy and gave us the opportunity to get together in one place or if someone needed a quiet place for privacy, you could find one inside or outside. The weather was perfect so most of our time was spent on the decks. There was an abundance of games, videos available. Both game rooms were enjoyed by everyone. The "nook" between the bedrooms off the upstairs game room was a favorite of the younger children. The hike up Brad"s trail to the Applalachian Trail was a little tough for us Flat Landers but, those who made the clinb came away with an appreciation of hiking in the hills. Brad was a great host and very responsive to our needs and questions.. Given the opportunity, we would definitely visit Brown Bear lodge again.
King family
Earle K.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Susan R.
Sep 28, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Breathtaking
The place is spectacular with the views. The house is a treasure. You just so not want to leave!
Susan R.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
10/10 Excellent
Michele K.
Aug 17, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!
Absolutely beautiful log home nestled in the mountain. Highly recommend if your looking to get away from your busy life. The pictures do not do the home or the view justice. Also, more for the kids to do at the house than we expected. Lots of games, bikes, scooters, kayaks, paddle boat, plus the kids room is wonderful. The porch swing & deck was my favorite spot!
We rented a boat from Fish Springs marina for 2 days, which I recommend. The lake is very clean, and relatively quiet.
I suggest you do your grocery shopping before coming into Butler or plan on going for a drive.
Brad was great to deal with. He got right back to us with any questions we had. Appreciate the Brown family opening their home to us! Highly recommend.
Michele K.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Danielle B., Saint Augustine, Florida
Jul 18, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Vacation Spot for Mountains and Lake Adventures
Beautiful clean multi-level lodge with plenty of space for everyone. Amazing views of the mountains and Watauga Lake. Best views we have ever seen while staying in the mountains. Plenty of activities to occupy our teenagers including ping pong, pool table, table with chess, table with Chinese checkers, drums (2 of our sons play the drums), movies, hot tub, bikes and more. Trailer with kayaks, paddle boards and other toys to take to the lake. The lake is a must do and is one of the cleanest lakes in the US. Water is perfect for swimming, skiing, etc. Rent a boat from a nearby marina in advance or you will have to hope for a cancellation. We got lucky. Grandfather Mountain is a must see. Boone and Blowing Rock, NC have good restaurants and shopping as well as Johnson City, TN. Nights were cool which was refreshing coming from Florida. Had such a great time that we could have stayed another week. Host was friendly and responsive. Beds were super comfortable and we slept great. Check with the host before taking a trip to the grocery store. Kitchen was huge and has everything you can think of for cooking. You may not need some items on your list.
Danielle B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Ben P.
Jun 27, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
The Brown Bear Lodge
The online list and pictures for this lodge do not begin to give this property its do! The place is absolutely wonderful. Its big enough for more than the 20 family members of us. It has a great view from both balconies and is located within a quick hop of many attraction. All members from the 17 year olds to thr 78 year olds enjoyed the lodge. Best vaction week in a long time.
Ben P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
6/10 Okay
Penny W.
Jun 20, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
A little misleading....
The home does not serve an all adult situation very well - the bedrooms join into each other and have to pass thru to get from one to another - there are not as many full baths as we expected - some are only 1/2 baths so our friends all had to share bathrooms - would serve a large family with lots of kids well - if is decorated beautifully - but I felt uncomfortable with all the many family photos around and many closets and drawers marked private that we were not to open - did not feel like a private place to stay at all
Penny W.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Cameron M.
Oct 23, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular
Everything from the location, to the cabin, to the cleanliness, communication with the owners, was absolutely spectacular. I cannot imagine that there is ANY better place for a group or large family to stay when visiting TN! No need to leave the cabin. Everything you need is there. There’s even a hiking trail you can access. On a 1 to 10 it was a 20!!! Can’t wait to visit again!!!!