Entire home

1850 Cabin Home - Large BYard-Waterfall- 22' Movie Screen-Family-Event Travelers

Photo gallery for 1850 Cabin Home - Large BYard-Waterfall- 22' Movie Screen-Family-Event Travelers

Beautiful ancient castle-like stone work waterfall cave and dipping pond.
Property video
Exterior
Exterior
Nice wood home!

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Ski lift privileges
  • Outdoor pool
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dogs and cats allowed
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1 (2nd floor - 1 Queen bed)

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2 (1 - King Bed)

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3 (living room)

1 Queen Sofa Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Sofa Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

1850 Cabin Home - Large BYard-Waterfall- 22' Movie Screen-Family-Event Travelers

Updated 4-16 -2026

Please read ALL info below.

This home is a rustic cabin type built in 1850. It sits on a wooded 1 acre lot. There are 2 bedrooms and 3 other converted rooms for sleeping quarters as listed below.

Bedroom 1: located on the first floor (master bedroom) has a high quality hotel King Bed, it has a window AC, a 44" TV and DVD player.

Bedroom 2: is located on second floor, it has a high end Queen bed and has a beautiful view of the Mississippi River valley and historic downtown East Dubuque. The room has new carpet, a small closet, 50" TV with dvd player., microwave and mini-fridge with freezer and a window unit AC.

Bedroom 3: is the converted living room and is located on first floor. It has a steel door and deadbolt lock. It has a pull out sofa bed which is in excellent condition and has a good mattress. A blow up mattress can be used in this room since there is enough room in front of the TV. It sports a 55" flat screen Smart TV and dvd player.

Bedroom 4: Is the converted dining room, which sports a 40" flat Screen and dvd player, it's a small room but cozy. There is a high end pull out queen hide-a-bed for sleeping or guests may use a blow up.

Bedroom 5: Nice and cozy wooden porch. It has a nice pull out hide-a-bed. It has a 55" flat screen TV and dvd player.

We do have 1 queen blow up mattress available and 1 single size blow up mattress available.

Note: the King and Queen beds are made, when the guests checkout we will wash the bedding and remake them, if guests use the sofa beds and/or the blow up mattress they may use the extra bedding in the King Bedroom closet and Bathroom closet. Sometimes guests bring their own bedding, for instance when booking the home for more than 6 guests.

There is a large rustic wood kitchen with plenty of dishes and pans for cooking, electric stove, coffee maker, express coffee maker, ice machine, toaster over, 2 microwaves, new 7.5 cubic feet Retro refrigerator and many other small appliances. Note: the large black refrigerator is not for guests and is locked.

All bedrooms have window unit ACs, please turn off when not using for several hours, unless it's a hot day, thank you.

The backyard has a large 22 foot outdoor movie screen which can be used for showing movies, Movie hours are dark to 11pm. You must bring your own projector, DVD player and Bluetooth speaker. There is a stand for mounting your projector, player and Bluetooth speaker in the yard and a power strip. The screen is made of canvass and will be damaged if its windy and ash from the fire is blown into it, therefore if it's a windy day with a SOUTH wind blowing at say 10 mph the screen can not be used if you are having a campfire. That said usually it's not a problem.

Campfires must not be huge, normal size fire that is contained by the fire ring/rock is permitted. You should also bring firewood. We can provide a couple larger logs just ask.

The backyard also sports a large incredible waterfall feature with a 12'x12'x4' swimming pool (4.5' deep). The waterfall operation instructions will be shown upon booking. The waterfall is usually operational from May 15th through September 15th. The pool is treated with chlorine and tested daily, we swim in it daily and it's great. Water temp stays at around 80 degrees all summer, due to the rock keeping the water cool and refreshing!

The backyard also has a 35' stage which can be used for events there is seating for 50 people with professional wedding event chairs on location (up charge for events, weddings and use of wedding chairs, ask for details). Events are only during 9 am - 8pm.

Yes we allow dogs and cats 15.00 per pet The VRBO invoice booking form has a box to check how many pets you have, add the amount there. Please brush your dog before you stay if it sheds a lot, thank you. No dog pooping or peeing in the backyard, dogs should use the side lot (pass the pontoon by the drainage ditch), we understand this isn't always possible, but do try using the side lot (by the drainage ditch). No un-attended dogs in the house unless they are trained, please bring a kennel if not. There is also a wooded lot above that's great for dogs, so keep that in mind for letting the dogs run loose and also has a great view. You may hike up to that lot via the north trail if you so choose. There is gate and fence the home and garage so the backyard is completely enclosed and private.

You may access Gramercy Park from the above lot as well. This park also has a great view of the river valley with Dubuque Iowa in the background. There are nice pavilions, restrooms, river overlooks, hiking trails, and new playground equipment free to the public. Park closes at 10pm.

Pitching a tent in the yard is permitted but it must be set up after 5 pm and taken down by 10 am each day so it doesn't harm the grass.

All areas are clean and well kept as shown in photos! And bug free!

Smoking is allowed outside.

Guests may park in the driveway or in front of the home (not on yellow).

VRBO guests are responsible for cleaning up the yard after using it, and putting the chairs and tables back in place if moved. Cleaning by host only includes the basic duties in the home such as washing bedding and towels, sweeping floors etc. If the guests use dishes they should wash them, there is a dish washer, or dish rack under the sink.

Note (3) outdoor security cameras are in use. Street camera in front of home, driveway, and house rear (skycam).


Note: Do not book for 2 people then show up with extra guests. Extra guests cost 30.00 per night (adults or children over 7yo). The base price includes the person booking plus one guest, any extra guests must pay the additional 30.00 fee. If you are unsure of how many people until the day of, that's ok, we can add more guests and add the fee to the invoice (or the person booking can as well).

Note: 8 guests are usually the max, but if you have tents or extra blow up mattresses more guests are possible.

Note: The hosts/caretaker stay in a travel trailer home located on the adjoining lot or the guest room in rear of outside garage depending on weather, the camper area is secluded by a 6 foot privacy fence, as shown in the property photos. This area is not included in this VRBO listing.

Note: the upper walkway and upper deck above garage are not included in the listing. These areas are off limits as they are not completed.

Note: The waterfall pond is not to be used for swimming after September 1st each season due to the upkeep needed from falling leaves. There is no cover for it.

Note: The backyard and home as described are excursively for paying VRBO guests during the time allotted by the booking, not shared by anyone, such as the owner or caretakers.

Note: if you need a DJ for an event or a live classical guitarist for background music inquire.

Note: The video provided has not yet been updated since the new interior improvements.

UP-CHARGES FOR THE FOLLOWING:

* Birthday parties with more than 8 guests, weddings or other type events such as corporate events: ASK FOR RATES. Events generally will be between the hours of 9am and 8pm.


Thank you, any questions please feel free to ask!

Your host,

Cal and Jessie

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

About the area

East Dubuque

Located in East Dubuque, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Kennedy Mall and Asbury Plaza are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Mississippi River and Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Dubuque Art Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and snowmobiling.
Map
East Dubuque, IL

What's nearby

  • Julien Dubuque Bridge - 1 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Dubuque Art Center - 2 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Diamond Jo Casino - 2 min drive - 3.2 km
  • National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium - 2 min drive - 3.2 km
  • Q Casino - 5 min drive - 6.7 km

Getting around

  • Dubuque, IA (DBQ-Dubuque Regional) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Pepper Sprout - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Arby's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Hotel Julien Dubuque - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Tree Bar at Diamond Jo Casino - ‬5 min drive

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 25 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cody H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property, plenty of room for everyone in our group to stay. A well equipped kitchen and the yard space (weather permitting) were highlights. Good location minutes away from activities across the river as well.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 May 2026
Thank you! Look us up again, should the occasion arise. Each season we add more amenities. We just upgraded the restroom with a new walk in shower.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place, great host!

Great place, great host!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2025
Thank you see you next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

Wonderful place in an area that makes seeing the Dubuque surrounding area easy.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Sept 2024
Thank you see you next year same time!
Verified

8/10 Good

Kelly R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really weren't there very long but it seems like it'd be a great place for a family event.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2025
Thank you hope you can stay longer next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We totally enjoyed our stay! The house is beautiful and the rooms are big, spacious, and extremely clean. We loved the unique decor. We can’t wait to come back again in the future!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Apr 2026
Excellent guests see you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Toby W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vintage Torque Fest

Was quiet, clean and super comfortable bed. Thank you, deff would stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you so much for booking with us hope to see you again! Each season we have more amenities in including an upcoming gated backyard this summer! Cal
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Henry N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

Cool place, great host, and a really nice and unique back yard. Absolutely would stay again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 May 2025
Sounds great see, you next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check in was easy, everything we needed was on site as described. Wish we had more time to enjoy the outdoor of the property.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2025
Thank you always next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Wonderful stay, beautiful property, great for events. Excellent property owner
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 June 2024
Thank you, it was great having you stay and enjoy the home, backyard, stage and campfire.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This place is a really cool spot. Perfect for those who want to chill in privacy.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Walter B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short Stay For Golf Outing

The property was great. Very convenient to the downtown area. Beautiful views and the backyard was truly an oasis. Very thankful to pick this place.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Nov 2024
Thank you! Every year it gets better, this year we added the movie screen, next year will be a cabin added and a fully fenced in yard.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kailynn G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful!

Calvin's communication was 100%. Beautiful pool, the kids loved it! Beautiful views.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2025
Glad you enjoyed the waterfall and pond! See you next season! We now have a gated backyard so more privacy than ever.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brook H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Cal takes great care of his property and was very flexible allowing us to use the property early! The house was clean, as described and has a ton of movies to just relax. We took our family to see caves and this location was great for our trip!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you so much for booking with us hope to see you again! Each season we have more amenities in including an upcoming gated backyard this summer! Cal
Verified

8/10 Good

Leann H.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fall asleep to the lull of trains

Great central location for area site seeing, nice size cabin and yard.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Oct 2023
Thank you hope to see you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Stop

Was a great place to stop over night and not be in a hotel
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Oct 2023
Thank you hope to see you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Noelle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

nice property

The property was dated, but clean and nice. We loved the outdoor space.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2024
Thank you we hope to see you again, the home was built in 1850 and mostly all original and the yard tailored to look rustic like the home. We appreciate you staying again, thank you.
Verified

8/10 Good

Tammi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint Getaway

This property had some very unique and interesting aspects. The house was clean and comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Nov 2024
Thank you glad you enjoyed your stay. Each year we add more, next season there will be a large living room social area as we are combining the dining room and living room during the winter months.
Verified

6/10 Okay

Jeremy Lynn

Decent
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Trip!

Great for a girls trip. The backyard and waterfall were definitely the prize features! Better for entertaining outside than in.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Nov 2024
Thank you!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janice D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our Dubuque stay

We had a great time around the fire and enjoying the beautiful outdoors associated with this home. The house was the perfect size for our family and friends while we were away from home. There was plenty of firewood for the fire as well.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Oct 2023
Thanks for booking with us, hope to see you again next season, we're planning on having the campgrounds open in the woods above by next summer. Cal and Chris
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BEAU H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Property was as advertised

The host here is more than helpful and did go above and beyond for me . We will be coming back to stay in the summer
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you so much for booking with us hope to see you again! Cal
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nate K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend

Great outdoor area, very clean place, great communication with host was very appreciated. We had an awesome time and we would never come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Guests were clean and respected all rules, would book them again, but they said they live too far away to come back. Thank you
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Very clean. Dope dude. Enjoyed my time!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Oct 2023
Thank you hope to see you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kennan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overnight getaway

My wife and I were looking for a place to stay on a bike trip from Madison to Dubuque and we found Cal's VRBO. We could not be happier with the rental. It was private, although we were within walking distance to town. The work Cal has done on the property over time, is extraordinary
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you so much for booking with us hope to see you again! Each season we have more amenities in including an upcoming gated backyard this summer! Cal
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cabin!!

The home was just as advertised. It was very clean and nice. The wood inside the home gives it a cabin feel and smell! They had plenty of amenities for us to use. The waterfall feature is unbelievably awesome. I will definitely stay again when we return.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2022
Thank you glad you were satisfied, we're looking forward to you're return!
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Go further with the Stayz app

  • Easily message your host
  • Access, share and manage your trip
  • Earn OneKeyCash on holiday rentals
Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app
QR code to download the app