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Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River!

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Smart TV, fireplace
Terrace/patio
Aerial view
Exterior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 72016 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Gibbon, NE
  • Audubon Rowe Sanctuary
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Younes Conference Center South
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Classic Car Collection
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Kearney, NE (EAR-Kearney Regional)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Shelton

This cabin is located 5.6 mi (8.9 km) from War Axe State Recreation Area and 6.9 mi (11.1 km) from Platte River. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
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What's nearby

  • Audubon Rowe Sanctuary - 17 min drive - 5.5 miles
  • Great Platte River Road Archway - 23 min drive - 16.0 miles
  • Younes Conference Center South - 25 min drive - 18.6 miles
  • Classic Car Collection - 27 min drive - 19.2 miles
  • University of Nebraska Kearney - 29 min drive - 20.9 miles

Getting around

  • Kearney, NE (EAR-Kearney Regional) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rise & Grind - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Sportsman Bar - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Grammie's Kitchen - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪George Spencer Tasting Room - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Dona Mary Grocery - ‬17 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.

Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River!

A cozy cabin sitting on 3/4 of a mile of Platte River ground & directly on the sandhill cranes’ main migration path. These birds will put you to bed at night and wake you up early as they decide to leave the roost and head out to the feeding areas for the day. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom cabin with a large loft & sleeping area will comfortably sleep 7 adults.
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 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.

Property manager

Marc Willis

Languages

English

Similar properties

Exterior

Crane and Nature Lovers Dream - Perfect for Crane Viewing!

  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 110 reviews
The price is $144
includes taxes & fees
$130 per night
May 3 - May 4
Crane and Nature Lovers Dream - Perfect for Crane Viewing!

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Birdwatching 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)

General

  • Unit size: 2,016 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

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: 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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

What can I see around this cabin?

This cabin is located in Shelton, close to Windmill State Recreation Area and War Axe State Recreation Area.

Is parking available on site at this cabin?

No, this cabin doesn't offer parking.

Is this cabin next 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.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River!?

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

Does Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River! have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this cabin.

Does this cabin include breakfast service?

No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cabin allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this cabin.

Does this cabin have connecting rooms?

No, this cabin doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this cabin?

The closest major airport to this cabin is Kearney, NE (EAR-Kearney Regional), which is 19.7 mi away (25 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River!?

Yes, every cabin at Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River! comes with a deck.

Sandhill Crane viewing experience of a lifetime in Nebraska on the Platte River! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sydney H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Incredible

Worth it 110%. The crane viewing is phenomenal -- from the house you can see them on the river, wake up to them lifting off, watch them in the cornfields all day, watch then come back at sunset, and sleep to their sounds all night (if you want! windows are well sealed if you don't ;). we booked several sunrise/sunset tours at local places but honestly our favorite crane moments were from this house. aside from the cranes, the house itself is amazing--comfortable, clean, cozy fireplace, has everything you need, and the host is great. one of our favorite trips, ever. Thank you Marc!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Regina D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Sand hill crane adventure

Delightful accommodations for viewing the spectacular sandhill migration.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Crane heaven!

We have traveled through Nebraska hundreds of times, but never in March during the crane migration. We loved it and this house was amazing too! Everything in the house was wonderful and the setting on the river was beautiful. Communication with the owners was great. They were so quick to reply to everything we asked about. We endured a really bad blizzard while we were there, but the house stayed warm and comfortable. Secluded setting which we loved too. Kitchen was great and the beds were all extremely comfortable. Would we return! Absolutely! Thank you Marc and Melissa for sharing your amazing home!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Louis B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Crane watch

Wonderful in all aspects. This place is great, and the host is very professional and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kay N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Bird watching in Nebraska

What a great place to stay to watch the crane migration. The first evening we sat on the beautiful patio and had sandhill cranes all around us. Close to the best bird viewing spots. Clean and cozy. Fully equipped kitchen. And enjoyed the fireplace. We loved this place. And would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Larry D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great

We arrived in a blizzard and the host called us to tell us we could stay another day because of the weather, unfortunately we could not. We went to see cranes, and we saw cranes in the thousands, some with in a 100 yards of the house. The house is pricey but worth it. Every thing about the place is top of the line. I would and will rent it again. Larry Determann
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beth O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Breathtakingly beautiful crane experience

The property was gorgeous, everything as advertised and much more. So bright, clean, spacious, comfortable, well stocked and appointed. Perfect for enjoying the amazing crane migration and spectacular prairie chickens displays at the fabulous nearby Rowe Sanctuary and Prairie Wind Birding Tours. Would HIGHLY recommend this lovely place and our very kind, helpful hosts. Five star plus!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Absolutely fabulous.

Everything is just as described. Very comfortable and good location. Quiet, lots of wildlife. Close proximity to Rowe Sanctuary. Loved staying here.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

kathryn q., Louisville

Liked: Cleanliness

Your own private sand hill crane refuge!

This is a spectacular cabin that is right next to the Platte River with huge window views of the river flowing by. Thousands of cranes fly by and overhead in the evening seeking their spot for the night and they erupt in the morning from a nearby, more shallow waterway to head back to the corn fields to feed. It really is an incredible sight, and the warbling and trumpeting of the birds is a chorus of nature. The cabin is close to perfect, very well-equipped and comfortable. So well constructed that a day and night of heavy winds felt cozy, not drafty. Looking out over the river in either direction, you cannot see any other houses or structures. You’ve got this beautiful setting to yourself, along with the deer, eagles (saw two), wading birds and Canadian geese, and wild turkeys (saw many, including a LARGE tom turkey with about 25 hens). If you want to witness the Sandhill crane migration from a well appointed cabin/lodge, this really is the place. And viewing platforms at the Audubon refuge and roadside stops abound. 5 stars for sure! Also recommend Adam’s Corner Market in Gibbon for provisions and Rowe Sanctuary for “crane lessons” and a nice, affordable gift store.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol S.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Wonderful Base for our Crane adventure!

This cabin is perfectly situated for anyone coming to see the crane migration! It’s a beautiful home with a stunning view of the river. The last night we were there 18 wild turkeys strolled by the window! The Rowe Center is only minutes away and we saw lots of cranes in the surrounding fields and river. The owner is a great communicator and we had everything we needed for a great visit! I absolutely recommend this property!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Logan C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family Getaway

We had a wonderful weekend in this cabin. It was a time for our family to come together, rest, relax, catch up, and get to experience the majesty of the sandhill crane migration. The cabin was clean, warm, and cozy. Since the weather was cold and windy for most of our visit, all of the large windows were perfect and allowed us to take in the beauty of the surrounding river and fields while staying warm.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

David H., Heber City, UT

Liked: Cleanliness

The perfect place to witness the Sandhill Crane migration.

Our purpose in going to Kearney was to witness the Sandhill Crane migration. With this cabin/hunting lodge being right on the North Platte river, it was ideal. I communicated with the host on multiple occasions before our arrival, while there and after. He was very responsive, helpful and accommodating. There was even a very nice welcome basket for us. The beds were comfortable, everything was clean and kept up. The kitchen was fully stocked with everything we needed for a pleasant stay. We couldn't have asked for more from our lodging or the host. But again, we were there for the cranes and they were everywhere. The fields surrounding the place, flying up and down the river and its location was close to multiple viewing platforms and the Rowe Audubon Sanctuary where we reserved a spot in a blind one morning. The whole experience from lodging to birding was epic. The experience was so good, that we are already talking about next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

David C., Shreveport

Liked: Cleanliness

Solitude Meets Modern Chic Comfort

Solitude and modern comfort can be found in this property that my wife and in-laws fell in love with almost immediately. Extremely well constructed and feels brand new. Lots of upscale touches and amenities without feeling like a hotel. My wife loved the "crunchy" duvet on the king bed. Heating/air were very well done. Kitchen is well stocked and appointed. A branch of the braided river is truly just outside the door. The fireplace was one of the best I've utilized in over 20+ years of vacation home renting. This home has no other structure for at least a half mile around it. I'm sure when the corn is matured, it feels like a private world. I would comment that the bedrooms are rather small as are the bathrooms. The a/c-heating unit worked great and was very efficient. We were certainly close enough to visit North Platte, some of the Sandhills biway, Kearney, The Rowe Sanctuary, etc. Okay..need to discuss the nightly rate. Relative to other locations the price seems high, BUT there is an underlying sense of quality and peace that are hard to find at lower price ranges across the country. Much like the Nebraska motto says, it is not for everyone. But if you are tired of the half-promised, re-run worn out furniture, scarred pans, hand-me-down towels, scuffed floors, dirty windows, etc. of so many rentals these days, this location will be well worth every penny you spend. We plan on returning for sure.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gary B., Greeley, CO USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Cranes, river,deer

We are interested in the Cranes passing through Nebraska. This hunting cabin was in the perfect location.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Colleen F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful experience!!!

We loved our stay at this beautiful home! Our family felt like we were staying at a friend's cabin home, rather than a rental property. The home was the best stocked property we have ever stayed at--from kitchen wares and stocked pantry to bedding needs, you name it! The expansive windows allow breathtaking views of the water and tons of wildlife. This property had everything we hoped for and more. The owners were very helpful with great directions and responsiveness, and thoughtful with notes and a welcome gift at our arrival. We loved our stay! This home is great for all ages and will not disappoint.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022