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River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.

Photo gallery for River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.

Property grounds
View of the cabin and the river deck pavilion from across the Elk River.
Master bedroom
River deck pavilion and fire ring
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 874.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Butler, TN
  • Place, Watauga Lake
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Watauga River
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Watauga Lake Winery
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Airport, Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional)

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2 with bunk beds

2 Single Beds

Sleeping Loft

1 Queen Bed, 1 Single Bed and 1 Single Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.

We would like to share our mountain cabin located on 45 acres of private mountain land and situated on the beautiful Elk River. This river cabin is located in the Cherokee National Forest and will sleep 7 people. This home is very cozy and relaxing. You will find all the amenities of modern home including a large smart TV and WiFi, and a full kitchen. The cabin porch deck overlooks the large Elk River. And because you are surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest, abundant wildlife are present in these scenic mountains. The Elk River is a great fishing location that has rainbow trout, catfish and bass.

During the summer months be sure to bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool river water. Or bring inflatable floats for a river float-down. You can also use our kayak and canoe and take full advantage of this large beautiful river. The riverside deck pavilion has a large BBQ grill and is a great place to picnic. You can also grill on an open fire at the fire ring right next to the pavilion. Or you can just sit by the river and relax to the soothing sound of flowing water. There is a hammock on the pavilion for an afternoon nap. Fishing can be productive close to the river deck. This property is open all year, and every season has its own special allure. During early Summer the fireflies gather at night in this deep mountain location. Autumn brings the color change and the trees are something to see. Local festivals are an attraction in East Tennessee. The month of June boasts the annual Rhododendron Festival in the surrounding mountains. And in September the town of Elizabethton is 35 minutes away and host a Covered Bridge Celebration with live music. October is the “Country Thunder” at Bristol Speedway. Unicoi County has an Apple Festival as well as the Fall-O-Dendron festival in Roan Mountain. November is the “Speedway in Lights” event located in Bristol - all are fun things to see in the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee. And don’t forget Winter! Beech Mountain Ski Resort is only a 45 minute drive. Additionally, giant Watauga Lake is only a short drive and offers scenic views as well as fishing, kayaking, sailing and pontoon boat rentals. The Appalachian Trail is also very close to this cabin. The location where the AT trail crosses Watauga Lake is something to see.

The property also borders the official boundaries of the Cherokee National Forest and offers a private and somewhat isolated retreat that you will not forget. The land also borders the Heaton branch stream, and walking around the land provides a great two-hour hike. Hiking sticks are available at the river pavilion.

You will have the entire home to yourself and have full use of the 45 acres -- and all along the Elk River that boarder the property.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 3 total
$150 pet fee to remove hair from bed-linen-floors.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Lock the doors
Please deposit all of your trash bags to the trash bin at the red pipe gate. Thank you very much.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please strip all bed sheets from all beds that were used.
Place all trash in bags and deposit all trash bags in the larger green trash can below the cabin.
If pets pooped outside, please find and remove poop and dispose.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
Long-term renters welcome
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

About the area

Butler

Located in Butler, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Roan Mountain State Park and Watauga Lake reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Butler, TN

What's nearby

  • Watauga Lake - 8 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Watauga River - 14 min drive - 11.9 km
  • Watauga Lake Winery - 20 min drive - 13.6 km
  • Beech Mountain Resort - 34 min drive - 30.0 km
  • Sugar Mountain Resort - 43 min drive - 45.7 km

Getting around

  • Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 72 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Smoky Mountain Bakers - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Highlander BBQ - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Bob's Dairyland - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood - ‬44 min drive
  • ‪Americano Steak House - ‬43 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total).

How much does it cost to stay at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.?

As of 26 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly. on 22 Apr 2026 start from AU$447, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Watauga Lake and within 6 miles (10 km) of Watauga River and Watson Island. Watauga Lake Winery and Fish Springs Marina are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

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. 23 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Photos don’t do this place justice, and Chris is an awesome host. We hope to be back soon!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Renee M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
We loved our stay. It was very peaceful and we never got tired of listening to the river. The new boat house is fantastic and our dogs absolutely loved playing in the water. Chris is a great host.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kris P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Well what to say! As a Naturalist and Zoologist I was excited from the booking and the VRBO was everything and more! Between an incredible host to a cabin that was spotless and comfortable, I never wanted to leave! We saw Otters every morning come down the rapids and then the highpoint was a Beaver and juvenile right off the cabin! I work with one and it was just perfect. I could go on and on but I know we will back! The area, the beauty and none for miles! It was priceless!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim C.

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

Nice serene place

Enjoyed our short weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ed W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you’re looking to get away and immerse yourself in nature and calmness, this is the place. Pictures can’t capture how wonderful this property is. The cabin itself is upscale in all respects and immaculately clean. While the listed 2 hour hike was not possible due to hurricane Helene, there are plenty of opportunities for improvised treks. Access via Heaton Branch Road may cause some trepidation as while it’s paved, it’s close to single car width with many blind spots. Just exercising reasonable caution gets the job done and is so worth it! The gravel road to the cabin posed no issue for our Honda CRV with AWD. I found Chris to be a kind, caring and communicative host. Also, the new riverside deck complete with a Weber Genesis 3 burner grill is outstanding. The biggest challenge I ran into was convincing Casey, my Border Collie mix that we had to leave. Thank you Chris for making this spirit lifting sanctuary available. See you again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Tranquility and Privacy

This was the perfect cabin to take a break from the world.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shawn C.

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

Nice!

Very clean with everything you need. Isolated and beautiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh G.

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

Beautiful Property

Exactly the getaway we were looking for. Great communication with the host, secluded location, and stocked better than any rental we’ve experienced. 10/10 we’ll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

john b.

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

peaceful

very rural and peaceful with a great owner
Stayed 17 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S. M.

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

Always a Joy

Always a joy staying at Chris's place. We love it! Communication is top notch, and you couldnt ask for a nicer host. We are quickly becoming regulars! Can't wait to go back.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S. M.

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

Exceptional Stay on the River!

Beautiful property and perfect getaway exactly as advertised. Everything with this rental was perfect from the directions to check-in, to communication with the host. Exactly what we needed for some time away to decompress. Excellently stocked and very cozy. Thanks Chris, for sharing with us. Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Great getaway

Cozy and secluded cabin in Tennessee mountains. Everything one would want once you arrive. Quiet and peaceful. Would definitely book again. Thanks Chris!!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liz V.

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

A Perfect Retreat for the Soul

We loved the cabin, the river, the fire pit, and the surrounding 50 acres. We felt relaxed the moment we arrived! Our host, Chris, was very helpful in suggesting activities on the property as well as in the area. The cabin was super clean, comfortable, and well equipped. Could stay for months! We will definitely return!
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles S.

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

Family fun on the Elk River!

We had a great week! Cabin was great-fully stocked, clean, great porch! River was wonderful! Great for wading, swimming and fishing! Cabin is in a remote area-so plan 45 minutes-1 hour at least each way to go to local areas (Boone, grandfather mountain, Banner Elk, etc)
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janet D.

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

Summer vacation

Our family had a wonderful time including our dogs. The cabin had everything we needed and the kitchen had all the extras. The photos Rita and Chris sent on how to get the cabin were so appreciated since we came after dark we found it with no problem. Our family would definitely recommend this wonderful place for a family getaway!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fisher J.

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

Best View in Butler

This riverside cabin is the coolest thing going. Waking up and being steps away from it was a luxury and the host was super responsive and knowledgeable of the things to do. It is way off the beaten path, but the WI-FI reception was strong and consistent. I would recommend this stay to anyone wanting to escape reality for a while. Truly is a beautiful cabin with everything you could need.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

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

Amazing and relaxing retreat!!

Chris is an amazing host and his communication and hospitality were second to none! The property is absolutely amazing and relaxing! It has every convenience of home but in a tranquil and relaxing location. The river is simply soothing and so relaxing. If you need to get away from it all this is the Place for you. Some of the best trout and smallmouth fishing did I have ever done! We are excited to have found this place and the host so that we can book our next outing as soon as possible! Thank you so much Chris for allowing us to stay and experience our 24th year anniversary together in such a beautiful place!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

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

Taking it all in.

We immensely enjoyed our stay at this property. The home was located in a semi-remote area, yet close enough to civilization to make 'supply runs' quite convenient. But, the big draw was the closeness to nature. From the natural sounds of the river(which was literally a stones throw away), to the clear, starry might skies, you feel like you are in your own little world! I would like to come back in the summer months, as I feel like each season must have its own experience here. The home was beautiful, well appointed, and the owners were so helpful and communicative. We highly recommend this property.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ryan M.

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

Total seclusion

The property was absolutely beautiful. The photos don’t do it any justice. The cabin was awesome and all the amenities were on point. Our dogs loved the river as did we. We never left the property for the entire week and we never got bored. We enjoyed ax/knife throwing, fishing, exploring the river and the views from the cabin deck or the river dock. Chris was a great owner. He was involved in making sure we had play by play instructions on getting there. He checked in (text) to make sure we didn’t need anything and that everything was perfect. If you stay at this property you will not be disappointed. Definitely will return. The Murphys
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth J.

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

River Cabin

This was an amazing place to stay and the owner was terrific. The house is equipped with everything you could possibly need and Chris responded to our suggestions immediately. This kitchen has all sorts of things in it you wouldn't expect from a rental or weekend retreat. As I prefer to cook our meals I had everything I needed to do that and all equipment was of good quality, unlike most rental properties. The setting is gorgeous. You'll never want to leave the front porch except to maybe go down and sit beside the river instead of watching it and listening to it from above. It is mesmerizing. My husband was disappointed he didn't bring his fishing gear as he was sure he'd have caught some trout in the river. The road in is a little bumpy but this is what you get in the mountains when you're off the beaten path. That is precisely what we were looking for. Go enjoy the river and Chris as your host. You won't regret it and you'll never want to leave.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Guy S.

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

Awesome cabin in the woods

My family and I enjoyed our stay at the cabin very much. It was just what we were looking for. We wanted to get away from the city and all the people and just relax in the woods with mother nature. This cabin delivered on that and then some. We really enjoyed sitting out on the deck reading a book, enjoying a morning coffee or a beverage later in the day and listening to the river down below. It was just so relaxing. We did some fishing on the river, went hiking on the trails and explored the area around the cabin. In the evenings we built bonfires down by the river and enjoyed watching all of the firefly's in the woods. The cabin was well stocked and had everything that we needed to get by on. There was plenty of condiments, spices, coffee, utensils and cookware for our needs. We rented a pontoon boat one day and really enjoyed boating on Lake Watauga for the day. We drove over to Beech mountain on another day and did some sightseeing in that area. The weather was perfect for us most of the time we were there. At night it was in the low 60's and during the day it was in the mid to upper 70's. We had the windows open all the time and it was so relaxing at night when we went to bed listening to the sounds of the river down below. We got to meet Chris at the end of our stay. He was a great host and really enjoyed talking with him and learning more about the area. We definitely would go back here again in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew M.

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

The Full Winter Experience

My family of 5 decided to take a quick winter trip to help my childhood friend move to Butler. We wanted to find a secluded cabin that was close to my friend’s property with things to do nearby. The cabin was perfect for our family of 5. It is tucked back on the Elk River with nothing but nature around you. We enjoyed exploring the property and all that the river has to offer. We had fires by the serene river, cooked out by the river, skipped rocks, and even did a little fishing. We stayed in January and experienced a winter storm with lots of snow and other fun variables that came with it. Being from Florida, the snow was a welcomed experience. From snowball fights and snow angles to power outages and blocked roads from fallen trees, we got THE FULL WINTER EXPERIENCE. The road main road leading to the cabin is paved. The cabin road was a little more rugged, but even with 4-6 inches of fresh snow on the ground we had no problems with my 4x4 truck. I would say the route to the cabin is manageable for most under normal conditions but recommend 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicles. For me, the drive to and from the cabin is a part of the mountain cabin experience. We arrived with the generator running, moved a small fallen tree from the road, and were not able to get back to the cabin on our last night due to another fallen tree, but this did not take away from our experience. The owner and property manager were prepared, accommodating and helpful. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

Jill H.

Liked: Communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, location

Beautiful property, but DO NOT use GPS to get there.

The property is absolutely beautiful! It has so much to do that you don't even have to leave. My kids had a blast playing by the creek and exploring the property and it's secluded enough that my dogs were able to run around off a leash and had the time of their lives. The BIGGEST issue we had was VRBO never sent me instructions with directions on how to get to the property or the codes to get into the gate and cabin. We were only told by the owner that it is "tricky" to find, instead of telling us that GPS doesn't work at all and we later found out that the owner has been told multiple times that he needs to warn renters not to follow GPS. Therefore, we were lead onto a very narrow dirt/rocky road on top of a mountain that took us an extra 3 hours to get back down. There is no cell service when in the area (until you get to the cabin) so I had no way of contacting anyone. Once we did arrive there was a large tree that had fallen on the property blocking us to drive up to the house. The owner was very responsive and helpful and was able to get a neighbor to come and remove the tree the following day. But, a big reason I booked this cabin was the fact that it stated we could pull right up to the cabin with no steps because my mom has Parkinson's and uses a walker. It was very difficult for her to get around the tree and walk up the very steep incline to get inside. So just beware of this when booking and make sure you have all of the instructions before leaving.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lydia W.

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

Slice of Heaven - Fantastic property!

I cant' say enough about our time here 2/17-2/20 except that it was too short! My husband and our two kiddos ( 8 & 10) had an amazing time and can't wait to go back and stay longer. A few things - this property is remotely located - not in close proximity to city fanfare - restaurant's, shopping and all that stuff. Which is exactly why our family adored it. I loved the walk straight in the door (without stairs) so unloading was a breeze. The cabin itself is beautifully decorated and is honestly the most well-equipped/stocked rental we have ever experienced (supplies, cleaning items, trash bags, charcoal - you name it). The kitchen has EVERYTHING you could need/imagine and I cook a lot! The kids were enthralled with the hideout/loft and thought it was the best kid space ever built - we barely saw them inside. TV is huge (although we stayed outside the majority of the time), perfect amount of space for our family of 4. The outside is where it's at though! The river is breathtaking - the most peaceful and soul re-setting sounds and view. There is axe/knife throwing, amazing fishing deck with tables, grill (fully stocked charcoal - which makes the most amazing steaks ever) and woods/hideouts that the kids could roam freely and safely - if it tells you anything - they were barely on their electronics - win win, They explored, fished, learned to start a campfire and actually cooked their own hot dogs for dinner. Their roaming gave the hubs and I time to actually have a conversation - amazing. We never left the property - wouldn't suggest forgetting any food items you may need - we forgot eggs but made out just fine without them,. We also did not follow arrival instructions - hubs thinks he knows everything - so there is that. Alas, we took the back way and it was straight-up 4-wheelin', mud on the tires, cut through unpaved road. We thought it was fantastic but some people may not. And for the love - please don't attempt without a proper vehicle that brush on either side, rocks and dirt would bother you - stick to the easy way in. We loved all of it - trying to talk them in to selling it to me! I can't say enough about it - soul nourishing and super fun place that we will 100% go back to. Weather was beautiful but water - of course - was cold. Did not deter the tiny humans from going right on in. Would be amiss if I didn't also mention that our dog Savannah gives it 2 paws up - she slept for 2 days after we got back. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

About the host

Hosted by Chris Griffin

Host profile image
Retired now and happy to share this great vacation home in mountains. The river cabin is situated right on the beautiful Elk River and is located deep in the Cherokee National Forest.

Why they chose this property

This spot in the mountains is quite spectacular and is very private and peaceful. You will be in the Appalachian Mountain Range so the change of seasons and the abundant wildlife are a real draw here.

What makes this property unique

The very large Watauga Lake is a 25 minute drive from the cabin and offers swimming, fishing, sailing, and pontoon boat rentals. The famous Appalachian Hiking Trail also crosses Watauga Lake at an earth-and-rock dam and this spot is something to see. Day hikes on the trail offer excellent views of the mountain ridges and valleys that surround Watauga Lake. The large Elk River that runs along the property is very special and is considered an excellent fishing river due to rainbow trout. The cabin overlooks this river and is very private and a great spot to try your fishing skills.

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