This cabin places you within a few miles (5 km) of Nantahala National Forest and Tuckasegee River. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
Summary: "Ocona Lake Escape” – Secluded LakeFront Cabin – Shoreline Deck - Fishing - Mountain View – Private & Quiet Setting - Cathedral Tongue & Groove Ceilings – Stone Fireplace – Sparkling Hot Tub – Outside Firepit – WIFI – Private & Upscale Mountain Home Community – 10 Minute Drive to Bryson City/Cherokee/Casino/Great Smoky Mnt Nat Park – Sleeps 6 (New Listing – Sept. 2022)
The space: Unique Lakefront Smoky Mountain family or couple’s vacation retreat; privately nestled along the shores of quiet Oconaluftee (Ocona) Lake in the beautiful & scenic Bryson City / Cherokee area.
Property has over 400 feet of private waterfront shoreline. Panoramic views of the water both inside the cabin and outside on the decks. No close neighboring cabins/homes on either side of you or across the water; all you see is trees, water and mountain views – very unique given the cabin’s prime location. Only 10 minute drive to all the following top sights: Bryson City, Deep Creek entrance of the Smoky Mnt Nat Park, Cherokee, Harrah’s Casino, and main entrance to the Smoky Mnt Nat Park.
Guests will enjoy the two large covered porches for ample space to gather as a family and enjoy the views, R&R and water fun! First covered porch alongside the cabin has the Hot Tub for that o-so-relaxing soak, gas grill for those master chefs, sectional sofa for casual lounging, and outdoor dining table (seating for 6) for sharing in those home cooked meals and good conversation in the fresh mountain air overlooking the water. Second covered porch is via a staircase (as pictured) down to right along the shoreline of Lake Ocona, perfect for grabbing couple fishing poles. Fisherman’s dream - Fish at the water's edge right from your own private covered porch!
In addition to the two covered porches, there’s also an open air deck that spans the entire length of the cabin. Lounging here affords you a gorgeous view of both the smoky mountains off in the distance AND the water down below. You’ll want to sit and stare at that view for hours (we do!)
Once you step inside the cabin, you’re greeted by the warm tongue & groove pine cathedral ceilings in the main living space, together with a fully equipped & freshly-appointed kitchen. Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace w/ electric insert, along with a large LED TV/DVD mounted above the fireplace mantle is a sure focal point for gathering around. The living and kitchen space flow together for a light, bright and open floor plan. Plenty of seating to gather on the leather sectional sofa, leather recliner chair, dining table (overlooking the lake), and large kitchen island with additional seating for four.
To the left of the living space, down the hallway, is where you’ll find the guest bedroom (with two sets of bunk beds – perfect for the kids and/or an adult couple sleeping on the two lower twin beds), along with a full bathroom. Laundry room (washer/dryer) is also down that same hall. On the other side of the cabin, to the right of the living space, you’ll find the Primary Bedroom with its own private en-suite full bathroom. Primary has its own TV. You’ll never want to leave your rustic King Bed with views out the glass sliders onto the deck that overlook both the waters below and the mountain views above! A view (not worth) getting out of bed for : )
Cabin is located within the Ocona Lake Estates Community in Bryson City, a private upscale mountain home community, easy access off highway 19 which runs between Bryson City and Cherokee. Community borders the Cherokee Tribal Lands, so the location and proximity to everything nearby is truly unmatched. Easy access in and out of the Ocona Lake Estates community w/ well maintained one lane gravel roads w/ pull outs for passing (though traffic is very light, small community); 2WD vehicles are just fine (nothing overly steep). Cabin’s driveway is on the steeper side, but is fully paved. Guests can park at the top or bottom.
Cabin sits where the Oconaluftee (Ocona) River (which flows directly out of the Smoky Mountain Nat Park and through Cherokee) meets Ocona Lake on the upsteam side of Ela Dam; a smaller lake that is fertile for Trout fishing among other kinds of fish. Water flows very slowly here. Motorized boats are not allowed on Ocona Lake, only kayaks and non-motorized small boats, so you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and serenity without the noise. There’s an area you can put in your kayak, paddle board or other water-toys to enjoy a day on the lake!
So many great attractions nearby - local shops, restaurants, breweries/wineries, the casino, boating/fishing the area rivers/lakes, hikes/waterfalls, river rafting/tubing, golfing, horseback riding, ATV trails, zip lining – to name just a few. An outdoor lover’s paradise! The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad runs out of Bryson City and is a wonderful, scenic keepsake experience.
Visit greatsmokies (dot) com for more great information on the local area!
WIFI Internet is also provided and available. Good for simple web browsing/emails. No streaming or other high usage gaming over the WIFI. Cell service is typically strong at the location of the cabin, so most guests shouldn’t have an issue making calls/text/streaming using their own devices, if desired. Or, unplug from it all (we recommend this approach best)! DISH TV service is provided. Two TVs, one in living room and one in master bedroom.
Absolutely NO SMOKING inside the cabin. A $500+ charge will be billed for any evidence or odor of smoking inside the cabin. If you do smoke, please use approved outdoor waste bins, do not toss over railing. We thank our guests for adhering to this policy for the enjoyment of all our guests.
Arrival information along with our stay policies will be sent to each guest approximately one week before their arrival date.
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.
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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 (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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 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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
Minimum check-in age: 25
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.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
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 fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see within easy reach of this cabin?
This cabin is located in Whittier, close to Harrahs Cherokee Casino and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. You'll also find Tuckasegee River and Oconaluftee Islands Park within a short drive.
Is there parking available at this cabin?
No, there isn't parking available at the cabin.
Is this cabin next to a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, this cabin doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at NEW! Lakefront Cabin-Mnt View-Hot Tub-WIFI-Prime Location-Bryson City/Cherokee?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cabin include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.
Does NEW! Lakefront Cabin-Mnt View-Hot Tub-WIFI-Prime Location-Bryson City/Cherokee have a hot tub?
Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this cabin.
Does this cabin offer breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cabin allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs 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.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at NEW! Lakefront Cabin-Mnt View-Hot Tub-WIFI-Prime Location-Bryson City/Cherokee?
Yes, every cabin at NEW! Lakefront Cabin-Mnt View-Hot Tub-WIFI-Prime Location-Bryson City/Cherokee comes with a balcony with some featuring mountain or water views.
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.
10/10
Cleanliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 37 reviews
10 - Excellent
33
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 37 reviews
8 - Good
4
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 37 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 37 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 37 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
preston p.
Oct 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
preston p.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Helen S.
Sep 15, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very clean!
Helen S.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
8/10 Good
Nancy M.
Sep 10, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The location of the house was wonderful. Close to all local sites and restaurants. Getting into and out of this location was extremely difficult. We only have a car that would scrap the blacktop going in or out. After the first day we only used the exit that came out next door. Our stay was different than most because we stayed 4 weeks. More people don't stay that long. Very little storage space in bedrooms but the bed was fine. The livingroom furniture was very uncomfortable. But if you're only staying a few days, it's fine.
Nancy M.
Stayed 28 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brooke L.
Aug 12, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Location Location Location! This was by far the best VRBO we have stayed at in this vicinity. It is central to both Bryson City and Cherokee. We only used the Master bedroom and the bed was very comfortable. The deck with the hot tub overlooking the River is very private and cozy. We were able to launch our inflatable kayak from the shore down by the dock for daily adventures. The house has everything you need and is very clean. This is our new favorite pick and we will definitely be returning next summer.
Brooke L.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
John T.
Jun 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Secluded Property
We have stayed in a lot of cabins the last 10 years but by far this was one of our favorite stays. It's quite and close to a lot of attractions. I loved sitting on the deck and watching the three river otters every night. We have already booked another week.
John T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Denise H., Fort Wayne, Indiana
Jun 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This property is the place for relaxation. Mike was exceptional and always answered every time very quickly. We loved the place so much, we asked for an extra day’s stay. The cabin was available and we were delighted. I am a bird enthusiast and was so tickled to see a bald eagle, cormorants, bufflehead ducks and great blue herons. We also enjoyed a river otter frolicking near the lower deck. The river won when it came to fishing. River 4 bobbers-Fishermen zero fish!!!!! But the lower deck is so peaceful. There are 4 rocking chairs that just make relaxing so easy. There are a good amount of stairs that you have to go down to the river’s lower deck, so take all you need to save from making several trips. And if you are planning to fish, remember your bait. We used worms and that may have been another problem!!!!We went on the Great Smokey Mountain Railroad but it was less than we expected. A lot of people’s back yards and not much else on the “Appalachian” Perhaps one of the other trains has better views. We also would recommend GTR Adventures in Bryson City. It is an ATV rental with many trails to drive around on. Even 60 year olds enjoyed it!!Cabin was very clean, bed was extremely comfortable and shower water pressure was excellent. We would definately recommend this for another stay. You will be very happy and relaxed after visiting this cabin by the river.
Denise H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amy K.
Mar 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Mountain Getaway
Great house! Very clean. Renters are very quick to respond to any questions!Everything was wonderful from the linens, kitchen utensils & cleanliness!Definitely recommended!
Amy K.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kneka N.
Jan 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary Trip
Beautiful property! Make sure you have 4 wheel drive in the winter. House was clean and had all comforts of home. Pet friendly especially for our stafford shire terrier. She had all the areas for a sniffarrey. Beautiful wild life. Especially the river otter! Easy check in and clean! Will be booking this property again
Kneka N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lauren W.
Nov 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Lakeside Mountain Vaca
Really nice cabin surrounded by a peaceful lakeside view
Lauren W.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lisa S.
Nov 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Vacation
The property was just right for our family vacation and our trip to the Polar Express! Lots to do around town, close to Cherokee and Bryson City. The house was clean and the host was great. Thanks for sharing your place. We will add this to our to do list again!
Lisa S.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Glenn H.
Oct 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
NICE MOUNTAIN ESCAPE
We enjoyed our stay,the cabin was very comfortable and clean had all the amenities as advertised. We enjoyed fishing every day loved the large deck with hot tub. It was close to Cherokee and also Bryson city. we were there through hurricane Helene and the host reached out to us to make sure everything was OK and that we didn’t need anything because we lost cell service and Wi-Fi. Luckily they had dish satellite TV so we could still watch news. overall, we really enjoyed our stay and would recommend it to friends and family. Would love to come here again. Host was awesome!
Glenn H.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
8/10 Good
Billiejo D.
Sep 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful and comfortable
The house was beautiful it was very peaceful for the soul. The beds are extremely comfortable and I am a bed snob LOL. Everything was very clean inside and the kitchen was supplied with everything that we needed for cooking . We loved that there were fishing Poles supplied just be sure to stop and get some bait along the way. At night the sounds are so amazing it sounds like you're in a rainforest. We absolutely loved sitting in the hot tub by the fire and spending family time together.The hosts got back to us with any questions are concerned right away and it was greatly appreciated. Just a few things the water is not swimming ball, There were lots of spider webs and we encountered a crazy huge spider but us women could handle. The light switches are a little strange half patient's you'll figure them out. Other than that completely satisfied will definitely stay againwateisn'tswimminable.dinners.and breakfast
Billiejo D.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Mary F.
Aug 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary vacation
Very nice and quiet. Conveniently located between Cherokee and Bryson City. We enjoyed seeing the ducks, geese, and osprey on the river.
Mary F.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Susan B.
Aug 9, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Whittier
Great appointments. Access road not for everyone. Not an accomodation for the infirm. Very peaceful. Very nice locals. Great restaurants close by. First class towels, etc. More items provided than any rental in recent memory.
Susan B.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
8/10 Good
Jeff K.
Jul 31, 2024
Jeff K.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ambre W., Fayetteville, NC
Jul 5, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Hidden paradise
This place was beautiful and the communication from the owners was spot on! Thank you for an amazing time in your beautiful home!
Ambre W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kristina B.
Jun 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family time
We had a great time and really loved the property. The owners have really done a fantastic job, making their home a comfortable space. It was extremely clean and the beds were great. Our family loved the fishing dock. The property is very convenient to town. We look forward to returning.
Kristina B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer B.
May 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
PERFECT!!
We absolutely loved everything about our stay! The cabin was very clean!! The view was spectacular!! The cabin had all the kitchen essentials you could possibly need! My husband enjoyed fishing daily on the lower dock. The location is close to town. We hope to plan a trip back one day!
Jennifer B.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ashley F.
May 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway to celebrate college graduation
My family and I came to stay at this cozy cabin on the river over the weekend to come and watch my daughter/niece graduate from Western Carolina University. We arrived late Thursday evening so we really just got the chance to h load the vehicle and sit out on the deck and look out to the water. The walkway down to the fishing deck was unbelievable and so pretty all lit up. (Yes it was a bunch of steps but well worth it) inside the house it was beautifully decorated, the beds were comfortable and the view from the master bedroom was breathtaking each morning! The next day the family spent the majority of the day fishing and we caught several bass, the river was flowing fast due to all the rain days earlier so it made the fishing a little harder but it was so relaxing. When we needed a break from that we headed up the stairs to the hot tub were we took a dip and just relaxed! This was definitely a very enjoyable and relaxing stay we will definitely book again! Thank you for sharing your home with us!
Ashley F.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Donald M.
Feb 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
What A view
The view was great. The location was very central for what we wanted to do and the host did a good job. Well worth it. Driveway is a bit sketchy and the one lane road coming in but after a day or so, even Florida boys can handle it. We appreciate the dog friendly environment. Thanks for the opportunity.
Donald M.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Matt A.
Feb 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Freedom
This cabin was all we needed to get away from Atlanta for a few days
Matt A.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
RICKY P.
Feb 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
awesome
What a beautiful place!!!
RICKY P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
Brian S., Dandridge
Jan 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain/River View Home
The host was fantastic to work with! The house is located on the side of a mountain overlooking a scenic river where we seen lots of wildlife. I am looking forward to returning to the house.
Brian S.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Mike G.
Oct 12, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Cabin for a getaway
We've stayed in dozens of VRBO properties over the past several years and this one is on par with the best of them.
Cabin was clean and well maintained. Convienient location and would be great for someone that likes to fish. Owners were very good with their communication and we had a wonderful stay.
Mike G.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
8/10 Good
John K.
Sep 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome location, but maybe not the best choice for motorcycles
My wife and I greatly enjoyed ourselves. The place worked very well for us. It was clean and had everything we needed during our stay. My only complaint was the mile long, single lane gravel road to get to the driveway. We were on the Harley so navigation was challenging to say the least. We made it up and down several times but I wouldn’t recommend this location to newer riders. You need to be experienced or have the right bike, and not a big Bagger like we were on.