Entire home

Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey!

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

June 2025

July 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5

Popular amenities

Dryer
Parking available
Washer
Fireplace
Kitchen

Explore the area

Double Springs, AL

Smith Lake Park
Lewis Smith Lake
‪33 min drive‬
Houston Historic Jail
‪48 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Double Springs

This cottage places you 10.7 mi (17.3 km) from Lewis Smith Lake. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.

View more Cottages in Double Springs

What's nearby

Lewis Smith Lake - 33 min drive - 13.4 miles
Houston Historic Jail - 48 min drive - 24.6 miles
Natural Bridge Park - 53 min drive - 31.7 miles
Jasper City Hall - 59 min drive - 30.8 miles
The Lily Pond an Art Gallery & Tea Room - 59 min drive - 30.8 miles

Restaurants

‪Wal-Win - ‬24 min drive
‪Walton's Family Restaurant - ‬19 min drive
‪Obryan's Family Steakhouse - ‬19 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey!

Need a quiet place to unwind and relax? No other houses are in sight of the River Art cabin. You can take a relaxing few days away from the crowds and worries of our current world situations.

This farm is 600 acres of oaks, dogwoods, pines and wildflowers surrounded by the Bankhead National Forest, with no neighbors in sight! You can truly disconnect for a few days… No Internet, and no cable TV. We have a TV and DVD player for entertainment, but the true entertainment is going for a walk! Or sitting on the gazebo with a glass of wine!

Why do we call it the River Art Cabin? It sits on a bluff overlooking Clear Creek, the 'River' part. It was constructed by an artist named Art Fowler, whose original art still hangs throughout the cabin. Amazing!

You may want to spend your days fishing or tubing the creek or exploring the incredible canyons of the Sipsey Wilderness. Perhaps you would enjoy mountain biking the miles of Bankhead National Forest roads near by. Love hiking and backpacking, the Sipsey has many miles of hiking trails.

Love to hunt? Check out the Bankhead National Forest! You can drive just a few miles and hunt on National Forest land.

Enjoy birdwatching? What about a night with no street lights for perfect stargazing? This is the place for you!

There is a charcoal grill for the grill master in the family. BYOC… bring your own charcoal!

If the two bedroom River Art Cabin is not quite enough space, we have a smaller Bungalow cabin a couple hundred yards behind the larger cabin. It has a full kitchen, living room, one bedroom and bath. Ask me about the bungalow if interested... it is an additional rental, of course.

There is a full kitchen in both cabins, but if you'd rather not cook, hop in the car and run to Double Springs for a homecooked Italian meal at the Sapore Grill!

There are two bedrooms in the River Art Cabin, the Master bedroom has a king size bed and a private upstairs deck with a sliding glass door. There is a private Master bath also. The second bedroom has twin beds.

One of my favorite parts of the place is the Gazebo, a beautiful structure set atop a sandstone bluff overlooking a shoals of Clear Creek about 70 feet below. You can enjoy a sunset with a glass of wine sitting on the gazebo listening to the rippling creek below. Or wake up early and walk down the path to the gazebo with a hot cup of coffee.

You can stroll for miles on our dirt roads or walk down the path to Clear Creek and take a dip in the cool waters that are a tributary to Smith Lake.

Truly remote. This cottage is at the end of the road... literally! You will drive down a small country road for about 4 miles and when the road ends... you are home!

Keywords: Cottage, cabin, gazebo, creek side, tubing, Bankhead National Forest, Sipsey Wilderness Area, birding, Smith Lake, Camp McDowell, hunting, fishing

The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. There's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

Property manager

Maggie Johnston

Languages

English

Similar properties

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning

Property amenities

Parking and transportation

Car required
Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

2 bathrooms
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area

Entertainment

DVD player
Games
Smart TV
Video library

Outdoor areas

Balcony
Charcoal grill
Outdoor furniture

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

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
Stair-free path to entrance
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Smoke-free property

Location highlights

On the waterfront

Things to do

Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Sledding nearby
Swimming nearby
Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

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

Pets

This property welcomes pets
Restrictions apply
For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: We require an additional $50 pet fee.

Children and extra beds

Note from host: Please note the amazing remote location.

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

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.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails House

Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails

On a Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails!

Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails House

Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails

On a Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails!

Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails

On a Bluff Overlooking Clear Creek Sipsey Wilderness Trails!

Frequently asked questions

Will I be able to park at this cottage?

Yes, there is a garage.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey!?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this waterfront cottage include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.

Are there hot tubs at Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey!?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does this cottage have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cottage.

Are there rooms with balconies at Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey!?

Yes, every accommodation at Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey! comes with a balcony.

Looking for a remote location? No other people? Forests, Creeks, and Sipsey! Reviews

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

Stephen S.

Jun 6, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Come Unplug

If you are looking for a beautiful, wooded getaway with no other humans, this is it! A comfortable home with everything you need to cook, rest, and enjoy a break from your phone. Easy 1.5 hour drive from Birmingham Alabama. My family had a great time at the "secret beach"! I loved it as an adult, but my 7-year-old was absolutely enamored. I loved waking up to the view of the treetops from the master bedroom looking out on to the private balcony. Going to stay longer next time!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah M.

Feb 5, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Great secluded getaway

A great place in the woods with everything you need to relax and enjoy nature.

Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa M.

Jan 8, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Quaint, secluded property

This property is just what we needed for our trip to Bankhead/Sipsey area. It gave us the privacy/seclusion we are always looking for but wasn't too far from a town with a grocery store. The flannel sheets on our bed kept us toasty at night & we enjoyed the wood burning fireplace. The directions to the house were perfect & our host was both proactive & responsive to our questions. Our check in process was both simple AND sweet as she left us some homemade goodies. YUM!!!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

John L., Birmingham, AL

Dec 28, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Getaway

This is the third year that my wife and I have stayed at this property and we hope to keep coming back! The remoteness of the house, the accommodations within the house, great communication with the hosts, and the beautiful surroundings all combine together to make the perfect vacation spot for us and anyone looking to truly get away for a while.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie M.

Dec 4, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie B.

Dec 3, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect place to totally disconnect and relax !

We enjoyed our stay and reconnection together, esp with our son on break from school with good ole uninterrupted conversation, fresh air from the hemlocks/pines/laurels, exercise with hiking/fishing and a margarita at night on the porch swing. Our dogs loved it too. Thank you for the lovely accommodation!!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Nov 17, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful and Scenic Getaway

We recently stayed at a charming rental house in Double Springs, Alabama, for four nights. Nestled in a rural and secluded area, the house offered the perfect escape into nature, with excellent hiking trails and stunning natural surroundings just a short distance away. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by how cute the house was. It matched the description in the listing perfectly and was clean and well-maintained. The amenities were just as advertised, and we especially appreciated having a washer and dryer available during our stay. The standout feature of this property was the gazebo near a clear, babbling stream. We loved sipping our morning coffee and tea while listening to the soothing sounds of the water. Another highlight was the secret beach hidden through the woods, where we spent peaceful moments enjoying the scenery. Even our dog, Duff, had a blast cooling off in the stream! The location was more scenic than convenient, which is exactly what we were looking for in a getaway. While there weren’t any stores, restaurants, or shops nearby, it didn’t detract from the experience for us. Our hosts Maggie and Mark provided clear guidance and helpful tips that enhanced our stay. Overall, this rental is perfect for nature lovers and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat. The beautiful surroundings and thoughtful details of the property made this a memorable vacation. We highly recommend it to friends, family, and fellow adventurers!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle H B.

Oct 17, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

River Art Cabin

This is my fourth stay at the cabin, and I absolutely love it. It is such a wonderful place to disconnect and just enjoy nature and solitude. I try to go twice a year and would highly recommend it to anyone needing a good getaway.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie M.

Sep 24, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Best Rural Getaway in Bama!

This was our second stay at Clear Creek and the first time with the dogs! We all had a wonderful time. Great kitchen, we made chili and tacos. Don’t miss the pond, the pier is a great place for journaling and just being in the peaceful forest. See you again in November!

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kenny B.

May 30, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

A great place for an escape

We had a great visit! The house is very remote, no cell service, which was what I was looking for. The back deck is awesome. The house is surrounded by trees and the deck stayed cool all day so that is where we spend most of our time unwinding. We spent hours on the deck and saw just one mosquito during our three days stay. The hike to the beach was enjoyable. When we did go inside the AC kept the temperature quite comfortable. The beds were comfortable and at night it was very quiet which led to great nights’ rest. The host was great, pointing out local places to eat that were not chain or franchise restaurants. Sapore was our favorite. When we go back, we will leave the kayaks home and take lawn chairs for the beach instead.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tammie W.

May 25, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Hideaway!

We had a wonderful time! What a wonderful tucked away Place away from "life". The secret Beach was wonderful and my dogs enjoyed it immensely

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chad H.

May 19, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful and private ☺️

If you love nature this place is perfect! Quiet little oasis in a very secluded area perfect for family gatherings or just couples. This was actually our second visit! We loved the seclusion, private beach and surrounding National Forest area. So many beautiful trails and sites to see in this area of Alabama and not enough time to get them all in. We’ll definitely be back again and would suggest friends and family to visit as well 😊❤️

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie M.

Apr 25, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Magical!

If you like nature and seclusion, this rental is one you can’t miss! The property is huge and so fun to explore, the house is comfortable and lovely, and Clear Creek is so beautiful. Saw some big deer outside the kitchen window in the morning and had a good time identifying the wildflowers on the property. Definitely will be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Samuel H.

Apr 14, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Dad’s 70th Bday

We loved it! Great private location next to clear creek. My parents loved being able to sit at the pavilion overlooking the creek. Charcoal grill was a great addition. We grilled burgers and steaks. Highly recommend if you want to be in private near the water. We will definitely be back.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle K.

Apr 12, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Marvelous and Magical

The River Art Cabin was the perfect spot for a weekend getaway with friends, three moms who needed a little escape from the real world. The house was a comfortable spot to curl up on the huge couch, cook delicious food in the kitchen, and sleep soundly in the cozy beds at night. But the true star is the magical location, acres and acres of beautiful trees, located right on Clear Creek. We loved hiking the trail to the secret beach and spent hours sitting by creek, reading, painting, and writing. We even saw a deer swimming across the creek and deer by the driveway! I already want to return.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Malinda G.

Mar 26, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Unplug and Relax

Love this property! The kids enjoyed playing at the creek and such a peaceful place. Away from it all. Mark and Maggie are amazing hosts. Thanks for everything!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

John L., Birmingham, AL

Jan 1, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Getaway

This was our second trip here - PERFECT house away from it all. Hosts were outstanding (as always), house has everything one might need for a few days. We plan on staying again!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

6/10 Okay

Laurie A.

Oct 31, 2023

Disliked: Cleanliness

Clear Creek Cabin

Beautiful location and secluded. ❤️ We enjoyed exploring down to the creek and around the dirt road/paths. Sitting on the porch taking it all in. Leaves were peak. Air conditioner didn’t work in upstairs 2nd bedroom. Needs updating, new refrigerator. Disappointed in cleanliness inside entire property. 🙁

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Harriet I., FAIRHOPE

Oct 27, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

River Art tranquility

the house is very accommodating and one of the most peaceful and quiet places I've ever enjoyed. To be totally disconnected from the business of the outside world is indeed a treat - honestly making it a shock to re-enter our fast paced world of noise and technology, but a shock well worth. Only the sound of birds, creek water flowing over the shoals, leaves falling and the wind blowing through the trees, and the morning crowing of the roosters that must be a mile away is pure magic. To walk the grounds, the piney woods forest (where you are enveloped in the smell of pine), of course the secret beach or the gazebo truly takes away all your cares to just 'the moment'. Deer and Turkey were sighted during our stay there. I add, the upper deck is perfect for watching the moon and locating stars. The location to the hiking trails of the Sipsey and Bandhead is ideal for daily hikes through another magical land. Our second visit to River Art and we plan to be back.

Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Oct 17, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Peace and quiet!

It is a little intimidating upon driving in just due to the remote location, but it is EXACTLY what you'd hope for once you get there. We did not hear another voice the entire time and the creek was beautiful. Maggie was completely available and in touch with us prior to arrival to make sure we had all information needed. She offered to stop by and show us more of the area and trails. Do yourself a favor and book it. Be aware though it is in the wilderness so don't be surprised to see some bugs or snakes. We saw several deer also right off the front porch.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary A.

Aug 27, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Cabin Get Away

We love the location, property and (don’t tell anyone) the secret beach. We will definitely be back.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tammie W.

Aug 14, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Get away!

This property was very remotely located, we saw many deer and had complete peace and quiet, just what we needed after working in the hustle and bustle of Pensacola every day! Mark and Maggie were wonderful and answered our many questions and were very helpful. We had a wonderful time! There is a secret beach with a sandbar and Clear Creek runs beside it. it was very beautiful. I highly recommend this place and we will be back! ❤️

Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Aug 1, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful Getaway

Family of 4 plus our large dog stayed here during the hottest time of year and couldn’t have been more happy with our stay. Driving to our next destination and already want to turn back!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane F.

Jul 31, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing

Had a wonderful time visiting with friends, sharing the beauty of the woods in the house, and the private beach was a definite bonus

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol M.

Jul 27, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Personal Sanctuary

Beautiful and quiet space in the outdoors. A step back in time to a slower pace without the constant noise of phones and interruptions. The creek area is the perfect sanctuary to personal reflection. If you listen, the babbling waterways will lull you into peaceful bliss. And don't forget to say goodbye to each day while being thankful for all you have, by watching the sun drop lazily down below the treeline at the gazebo. Beautiful, peaceful, and personally yours for a time.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023