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Historic Riverfront Hideaway

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Property grounds
Exterior
Property grounds
Property grounds
Terrace/patio

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6155.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Jacksonville, FL
  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • EverBank Stadium
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Jacksonville Cruise Terminal
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Jacksonville, FL (JAX-Jacksonville Intl.)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Guest Bedroom

2 Single Beds

Living Room

1 Queen Sofa Bed

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Historic Riverfront Hideaway

Note: If you see this property on Craigslist or any other site, it is a scam. We are currently only listing it on VRBO.

Kick your feet up, sit back and relax at this riverside retreat! This historic log cabin was once owned by the Boy Scouts of America. With its original stone mason chimney and wood burning fireplace, rustic log walls and exposed wood ceiling, it will surely evoke feelings of nostalgia and old time Americana. The historic cabin has since been expanded and updated to include all the modern comforts of home. There is surely something here for everyone! Relax outside in the hammock overlooking the river at sunrise or try your hand at crabbing, fishing, or kayaking*. In the evening, treat yourself to s'mores over the rustic fire pit while star gazing or play some board games snuggled up together or put your feet up with a great movie on the large flatscreen. If you're looking for a change of scenery, you are minutes away from the Jacksonville Zoo or the sites and museums in downtown Jacksonville. Every historic First Coast location is within your grasp. This property comes equipped with crab traps, fishing poles, and beach towels & chairs for your entertainment. If you would like to bring your boat, ask about the use of the 10,000 lb. boat lift to keep your boat high and dry or rent a captained boat for the day and enjoy a day on the majestic rivers of Jacksonville. We invite you to come visit this historic riverfront hideaway!
(*Note: kayak rental is an add'l fee of $75 + tax per stay).

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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Cozy house on the river, enjoy the view or fish right off the river bank

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10.0 out of 10, (89 reviews)
Cozy house on the river, enjoy the view or fish right off the river bank

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Property may not be suitable for young children.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats (limit 2 total)
Requires an additional fee of $75 per pet.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is permitted only on the exterior areas.
Due to limited parking on site and limited facilities, we are not accepting large parties and events.
Boat lift usage fee is $50 + tax. Kayak rental fee is $75 + tax for the duration of your stay.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Jacksonville

Located on the waterfront, this cottage is in Northside, a neighbourhood in Jacksonville. Catherine Street Fire Station #3 and Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum. Museum of Science and History and Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Jacksonville, FL

What's nearby

  • Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens - 6 min drive - 5.3 km
  • VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena - 10 min drive - 9.6 km
  • EverBank Stadium - 12 min drive - 10.3 km
  • Jacksonville Cruise Terminal - 15 min drive - 13.5 km
  • Jacksonville University - 21 min drive - 20.6 km

Getting around

  • Jefferson Station - 8 min drive
  • Jacksonville Station - 10 min drive
  • Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Burger King - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪The Pig BBQ & Seafood - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Golden Egg Roll - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Checkers - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Riverfront Hideaway pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Historic Riverfront Hideaway?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Riverfront Hideaway?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Riverfront Hideaway located?

Located in Northside, this cottage is 1.9 mi (3 km) from Winton Drive Park and 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Gateway Town Center. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and Shands Jacksonville Medical Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.0/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 181 out of 198 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 198 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 198 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 198 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 198 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing house and property would love to stay there again
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Most beautiful house we have ever stayed in-exceeded all our expectations! Clean,cozy, comfortable, complete! Beautiful view of river. Everything you could want and more. Absolutely gorgeous!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dana W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This location was such a treat, and the property and riverfront were beautiful and peaceful. I’ve never experienced a rental that was fully equipped like this one was, it made the our time feel like home. The hosts were lovely, and very accommodating and empathetic to requests.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just the best. Cannot wait to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maggie A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is in a perfect setting and absolutely amazing. We loved the quirkiness and character of the property and they way the history is preserved and celebrated. We have nothing negative to say and will definitely be looking to stay here again when we are in town.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janice R.

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

Perfect spot

Very peaceful, quiet, relaxing. Everything you need is there.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

susan w.

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

Great view

We enjoyed our visit
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Teresia S.

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

Beautiful place

Great view of the river. Comfy and peaceful. Beautiful house. The back porch was my favorite spot. Great place!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jerry H.

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

Great location on river. Ifyou like to fish and crab it is a relaxing location.

Relaxing adventure. Great communication with owners. Will stay again this fall.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Denise S.

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

Relaxing

Beautiful cabin secluded on the River. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amber J.

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

Work & Vacation

We chose this house due its size for our family & location for my husband's work related class. I can't say enough good things about the location, convenience for shopping, eating out, the beaches. The house has everything you could imagine a house needing. There's beach gear, fishing gear, games, dvds, lunch box, kayaks for rent if you contact the hosts, grill, printer/fax machine. They have fans, baby gates, dog kennel, play pen. You really just need to pack comforts & pick up what groceries you'd need. This was the best rental we've ever stayed at!! Definitely use the information binder. It's got some really cool suggestions in it!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

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

Cool place on the river

The property is fantastic, great spot for a relaxing week of fishing.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine M.

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

Getaway on the Ribault River

Our second stay at this lovely house was great. It’s quiet, private and has a wonderful backyard on the river. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a peaceful, secluded spot in the very busy Jacksonville area.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharleen B.

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

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

I said home, because this was truly a home, not just a vacation house. There was truly everything that was needed, especially in the kitchen. Normally I take spices, an ice tea container, etc. as generally there is S&P, no tea container. This kitchen had it all. There were games, books, puzzles and everything that you would need for the beach or to go kayaking. It was lovely to sit on the deck. We tried the crab pots but must of been too early as none were place out in the river and we had not a nibble. Husband did catch a few small fish and returned. All in all a very nice quiet week. Sharleen and Dale Bennett and pup MaggieAnn - Bluffton SC
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

j l.

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

Enjoyed every minute!!

Super relaxing stay, quiet and private. Convenient location if you want to do other activities.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aimee P.

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

A relaxing oasis amidst the city's hustle.

I recently enjoyed a wonderful stay at this charming waterfront property. It offered a peaceful escape with plenty of amenities, yet was still close to downtown. The A/C kept everything cool, the furniture was comfortable, and I loved that it was dog-friendly, complete with a large fenced yard (just keep an eye near the water). Overall, an excellent experience, and I’ll definitely book again when I’m back.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard M.

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

Jacksonville vacation

very nice setup enjoyed the back yard and sitting out will like to stay there again
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justin F.

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

First time on the river

What a wonderful experience. The house was all that it said it was and more. Right on the river and quick shot to the ocean if you have a boat. Conveniently located to almost anything you need Food, Grocery Store, and bait shop.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marnie D.

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

Beautiful Home on the Water

Clean, comfortable place for some peace and quiet and fishing! Our dog loved the ability to be outside and the view was incredible. The building itself is very unique, being an old Scout cabin, and the architectural details preserved really make the place outstanding. Great hosts and a place packed with everything you need.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael P.

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

Relaxed on the River

The historical riverfront log cabin was a delight. Well kept and well manicured around the cabin. Our stay was relaxing, quiet, and serene along the river.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lori P.

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

Relaxing hideaway

We took the boat and used the lift in the back which was amazing. The property was pretty and had a relaxing time sitting on the back porch. Loved the rustic feel of the cabin. Owner was very responsive when messaged. Had a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Charlene S.

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

Beautiful home

It was a beautiful home inside and outside. We enjoyed our visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

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

Relaxing stay

Loved the stay. Easy check in. Backyard was amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karen N.

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

Special Place

Perfect family refuge, with games, puzzles, books in warm setting. Serene, sunset views centrally located to the city beach and highway. Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine M.

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

Relaxing getaway

We loved staying here! It had everything we needed for a peaceful and enjoyable week. Staying on the river allowed us to fish and enjoy the scenery. The yard was lovely and private. We would definitely stay again. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

About the host

Hosted by Beata Engl

Host profile image
Chris & I enjoy traveling and exploring with our 3 children and our sweet dog, Luna. We have previously lived in New York City and San Francisco, CA, but when we arrived in the Jacksonville area in 2014, we fell in love its sandy beaches, mossy oaks, and the Southern hospitality and charm. We have decided that the Jacksonville area is our favorite place to live and we warmly welcome you here! -Beata & Chris

Why they chose this property

The previous owners of this beautiful property, Katie and Everett, have done a great job setting it up as a vacation rental and have been welcoming guests since 2014. When Chris & I came across the log cabin and it's nostalgic charm in early 2020, we knew that we wanted to continue Katie & Everett's legacy and that it would be the perfect place to continue to welcome guests during their stay in the Jacksonville area.

What makes this property unique

This unique property boasts a historic log cabin that was built around a hundred years ago, when there was nothing but fields around it. Historically, it was owned by the American Boy Scouts, as well as a German-American Group. It features a beautiful stone chimney surrounded by rustic log walls and a wooden ceiling. It is situated directly on the river, allowing you to relax and enjoy what nature has to offer. It is the perfect place to get away from everyday life!

Languages:

English, German, Polish
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