Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits
Escape to a Watauga Lake waterfront retreat in a secluded cove, hosted by WataugaLakeVacations. Enjoy a private dock, hot tub, kayaks, canoe, paddleboard, and paddle boat. Unwind on the wraparound porches with stunning water views, relax in your private suite with a garden tub and balcony, or gather around the fire pit as the sun sets over the tranquil forest. Perfect for those looking to explore over 180 miles of pristine shoreline.
Book with confidence by requesting our Virtual Tour, and know exactly what to expect when you arrive.
Rest, relax and play on Watuaga Lake! Enjoy the outdoor living spaces, take in the lake views, and watch the kids play in the quiet cove from the comfort of the wraparound porches. At the water, you will find room to fish, sunbathe, swim, or just unwind. Just outside the secluded cove is a large bay away from the main channel, perfect for water activities. Bring your boat and launch at the nearby Little Milligan boat ramp or rent a boat from a local marina and keep it docked in the boat slip during your stay. At the fire pit, kick back in the Adirondack chairs and roast s'mores, enjoy a picnic, or play some corn hole. Continue the fun after sunset when the string lights illuminate the backyard and dock into the evening hours.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Guests are required to provide ID and sign a rental agreement within 48 hours of booking or within 4 hours if arrival is within 48 hours.
A security deposit HOLD is required and will be processed by the host on the Guest's Credit Card.
Check-in Instructions will not be provided until the photo ID, rental agreement, and security deposit are completed.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2935134
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 indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
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
About the neighborhood
Butler
Located in Butler, this vacation home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Watauga Lake and Watauga River reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with rock climbing and hunting nearby.
Appalachian State University - 48 min drive - 56.4 km
Getting around
Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 63 min drive
Restaurants
Butler Trading Post - 10 min drive
Pleasent's Country Store - 15 min drive
JJ's Cafe - 9 min drive
Cricket's Corner - 10 min drive
Chat's - 10 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits?
As of May 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits on May 13, 2026 start from $501, 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?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Skipping Stones Getaway - Watauga Lake Dock & Hot Tub, Summer Fun Awaits located?
This family-friendly Butler vacation home is located on the waterfront, within a 10-minute walk of Watauga Lake and Watauga River. Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina are also within 9 mi (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
My husband and I had a wonderful time!! Very relaxing! The home was perfect and stocked with everything you need. Very clean inside and out. Would definitely go back again. We brought our boat to fish. The boat ramp was just down the road, very convenient. 10/10 property and communication with owners.
Michelle R.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Karyn B.
Sep 20, 2025
Peaceful Perfection
We have stayed here more than once and will return. It is the best short-term rental we have found on Watauga Lake. Everything is provided and more. Clean, modern, comfortable, well-decorated, well-maintained, and well-equipped. The entire property is lovely. We always have a wonderful and relaxing stay!
Karyn B.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Jan A.
Jul 29, 2025
Our stay was perfect in every way.
Beautiful location and home. Lots of fun activities, equipment, and amenities. Hosts that are attentive and available.
We absolutely had the best time staying here. Everything you can want is here, the owners have thought of it all. The lake was incredible, with all the water toys provided. We played corn hole, enjoyed family nights by the fire. We celebrated our mom’s 80th birthday this week, what an excellent vacation rental, that had plenty of room for us all and made us feel at home. Thank you
No detail went unnoticed! They thought of everything! From shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the showers to laundry detergent pods, to beach towels, to games for the kiddos! So many options for individuals or families to keep everyone engaged and having fun. Would highly recommend!
Pamela P.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
David W.
Apr 17, 2024
Great time bueatiful home.will make it a routine tri every year
We have visited this area many times after falling in love with Watauga Lake over 10 years ago. This was by far our best stay!!!
Krista D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your amazing review! It means so much to hear that this was your best stay in over 10 years of visiting Watauga Lake. We’re thrilled we could make your trip so special and look forward to hosting you again for more unforgettable stays!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Angie T.
Jul 17, 2023
Amazing place to relax and vacation!
Our entire family spent 5 days at Skipping Stones Getaway, and it couldn’t have been any better! Donovan and Christy have definitely gone that extra mile and thought of every possible thing that their guests may need during their stay! Highly recommend!!
We were only in town for a few days so we did not get to utilize the outdoor space. It’s very clean has beautiful views. The master bathroom shower is awesome! I highly recommend renting a pontoon boat to explore Watauga Lake! You do not need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get to this home. It does have a gravel driveway. About 1 mile before you get to the home, the road narrows, use caution.
What a wonderful family vacation. The property was immaculate and full of activities. Swimming, kayaking, fishing(caught a couple too), hiking, s’mores over the fire pit, home made pizzas, and more!
We will be back!
Brian M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your amazing review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a wonderful family vacation and enjoyed all the activities our property offers. From kayaking and fishing to s’mores by the fire pit and homemade pizzas, it sounds like you made the most of your stay! We can’t wait to welcome you back for more adventures and memories.
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Eric V.
Jul 1, 2024
What an amazing place
Love this property, nice to be in mountains but always better on the lake . Property was well maintained and every little detail has been thought of . Would love to rent again, and maybe next time I’ll rent a boat to explore the lake . Last thing , top balcony off master bed is amazing, so many birds to listen to in the morning and views are just great .
Eric V.
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2024
We are so glad you had a great time! We love the balcony too. It is special to us. The slip at the dock is ready and awaiting your boat rental for next time. 😊
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Eric V.
Jul 1, 2024
What an amazing place
Love this property, nice to be in mountains but always better on the lake . Property was well maintained and every little detail has been thought of . Would love to rent again, and maybe next time I’ll rent a boat to explore the lake . Last thing , top balcony off master bed is amazing, so many birds to listen to in the morning and views are just great .
Eric V.
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2024
We are so glad you had a great time! We love the balcony too. It is special to us. The slip at the dock is ready and awaiting your boat rental for next time. 😊
We had a very nice stay- house was well appointed and clean. They thought of every detail. Thank you
Dan A.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your kind review, Dan! We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay and found the house clean, well-appointed, and thoughtfully prepared. It was our pleasure to host you, and we’d love to welcome you back in the future!
Best wishes,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
David L.
Jun 6, 2024
Excellent Stay - Was More than Advertised.
Everything was as described and even better than expected. Very clean; everything we needed was included. Felt like OUR vacation home. Quiet and nice neighbors. At the least the two we got to meet and talk to. The lake was excellent and very few boats even on the lake this time of year. No complaints at all.
David L.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear the property exceeded your expectations and felt like your very own vacation home. It’s great that you enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, friendly neighbors, and the tranquility of the lake. We’re thrilled everything you needed was provided, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another excellent stay!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Renee G.
Oct 3, 2023
Relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
We loved staying at Skipping Stones. The views are amazing, and the home is beautiful.
It was just the two of us, but it would be perfect for a whole family. We spent every morning on the lake with the paddle boats that are provided. Everything you need is at the house so once your there just sit back and relax and enjoy the beauty around you. We look forward to returning again...
Renee G.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Crystal B.
Aug 29, 2023
Absolutely Outstanding!!
I can not express enough how wonderful our short weekend stay at Skipping Stones Getaway was. The owners have thought of everything and made the check-in and check-out so simple. The amenities made the trip with our children even better. Watauga Lake was beautiful as always and God provided perfect weather for us. This home will not disappoint you if you are looking for a quiet, relaxing stay in the mountains!
Crystal B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your glowing review! We’re thrilled to hear your stay at Skipping Stones Getaway was absolutely outstanding. It’s wonderful to know the amenities made your trip with your children even better and that the check-in and check-out process was seamless for you. Watauga Lake is truly stunning, and we’re so glad you enjoyed perfect weather during your visit. We hope to welcome you back soon for another relaxing stay in the mountains!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
Skipping Stones Getaway was a great spot to unwind. The house was ideal and had all of the amenities we could need. The thoughtful details layout and dock with all the toys made the week enjoyable. The cove was perfect for just tootling around on the kayaks, paddle board or canoe. And the size of the dock was great to catch rays or roam around. The home has just about everything you could ask for and then some. Overall a perfect spot to getaway and unwind.
Kris H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re so glad Skipping Stones Getaway provided the perfect spot for your post-wedding family gathering. It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed the thoughtful details, well-equipped dock, and fun water toys for exploring the cove. We’re thrilled the house had everything you needed to unwind and make lasting memories. We’d love to welcome you back for another relaxing getaway!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
We were so happy with the beautiful, spotless, well appointed home! Every detail had been considered when putting this home together. It had multiple areas where people could talk and visit together or just be alone to relax and read quietly. The kitchen has everything you could ask for! All the beds were very comfortable with luxury linens and towels. The kayaks were great for everyone! We are looking forward to coming back!
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear our home was perfect for your family gathering and that you enjoyed the thoughtfully designed spaces for both group time and quiet relaxation. It’s wonderful to know the kitchen met all your needs and that the comfortable beds and luxury linens added to your experience. We’re so glad the kayaks were a hit with everyone, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another memorable stay!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Sherry L.
Jul 11, 2023
Great escape!
I wish I could give this cozy home more then five stars. I felt right at home, and don’t worry if you forget to pack an item this home is fully stocked, from toothpaste to paper towels. There was also plenty of lake activities to enjoy and a hot tub to relax in at night with a great view of the lake. I would recommend Stepping Stones to anyone of any age And. Donaven and Christie are great hosts.
Sherry L.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Angie B.
Dec 5, 2024
Comfortable, relaxing, hosts thought of everything!
The property was better than we ever could have expected! You see pictures and reviews and never really know what you are getting. Well with this you are getting a luxury retreat! They have gone above and beyond stocking the home with everything you might need and the things you might not know you will need. Aside from leaving to get a boat rental we stayed at the house the entire week and on the lake kayaking, paddle boarding, playing games, cooking and just enjoying being. No complaints at all. I honestly hate to leave a review because I want to keep it a secret.
The house and location on the lake are great. The owner thought of everything when furnishing the house, which appears to be newly updated and was very clean. There is plenty of room for everyone to spread out - inside and out. The house and amenities pictured on the post are exactly what you get. The owner was very responsive to my questions and even texted me during our stay. to make sure we had everything we needed and were comfortable. You will not be disappointed if you rent this house!
Tammy G.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 14, 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review, Tammy! We’re thrilled you enjoyed your stay at Skipping Stones and found the house and lakefront location to be perfect. It’s great to hear that the newly updated home met all your needs and provided plenty of space to relax both indoors and outdoors. We’re so glad our communication helped make your stay even better. We’d love to host you again for another quiet retreat on the lake!
Best,
Christie & Donaven
Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Renier L.
Jul 7, 2025
A great week at Skipping Stones
My family and I have rented multiple homes on Watauga Lake over the years. Since we have a boat and some jetskis at Mallard Cove Marina this location made a lot of sense to us. Booking directly was a huge plus and saved the ridiculous VRBO booking fees. This home was perfect. They thought of every little thing. We will be back! A couple of things that stood out:
- Driving to the location was easy.
- Check in and check out instructions were perfect.
- All cooking equipment was in working condition.
- The WiFi was superb and they even have a Sonos music system with speakers on each level.
- The master suite was amazing and plenty of room for guests with two additional rooms and more first level accommodations.
- Steps to the dock. We have stayed at several houses where there were 100+ steps to get from the house down to the dock, this was significantly better.
- Boat and jetski docks made it easy and also allowed for swimming and hanging out during the day.
- Power provided at the dock to keep boat batteries charged and inflate devices for tubing.
- Firepit and outside chairs.
- Hot tub
Overall, the best vacation house we have ever rented on Watauga by a long way and the cost was comparable and even less than homes we rented in the past. Thank you to Donaven Braun and everyone else involved in making sure we had a great stay.
"Perfection". It is a word often overused, but in this case it is the only correct word. This place is perfection. No detail has been overlooked, no nuance left to chance. The entire place has been carefully thought out and beautifully designed. The house and every inch of the property is stunning, and there are so many amazing places to relax, you might be uncertain which to choose. It is an understatement to say the hosts have thought of EVERYTHING. There's no worry about anything here not meeting expectations. Be prepared instead for everything to exceed them. Christie and Donaven have created a masterpiece, and we cannot wait to return.
Melissa A.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 19, 2022
It was truly our pleasure to host you both and we enjoyed being a part of your journey together!! We can't wait to have you back again.
What an amazing vacation we had at Skipping Stones. Christie and Donaven are so amazing. Super nice and accommodating. This is THE place to stay on Lake Watauga hands down. Everything was top-notch! The beds were super comfy (best night's sleep we have had in months!) Our family fell in love with this place and are looking forward to when we can return and enjoy ourselves there again.
The Community at Lake Watauga is unmatched. There are so many places to eat around town. Our favorites are Big Dan's, Fatz, Butler Trading Post and our favorite Maddie Moes! We did eat in a few times, picking up groceries at Dollar General.
If you are thinking about staying on Lake Watauga and don't give this place a chance, you are doing yourselves, your family, and your guests an injustice.
THANK YOU Donaven and Christie! :)
We hope to see you soon!
Many Blessings, Sean, Jill & Adam...
Sean M.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 10, 2023
Sean, Jill & Adam came as strangers and left as family. We would welcome them them back anytime. They left the home spotless and make great chocolate chip cookies.
About the host
Hosted by Christie & Donaven
Skipping Stones Getaway is proudly hosted by Watauga Lake Vacations, run by a three-member team: Christie and Donaven Braun, and John Malo. We’re all local residents who love calling the Watauga Lake area home, and we’re excited to share it with you. Christie and Donaven are both Realtors who know the region inside and out—and when we’re not working, you’ll often find us on the lake, hiking trails, riding bikes, or relaxing by a campfire. John, a 26-year U.S. Army combat veteran, brings unmatched reliability, hands-on skills, and a deep love for the outdoors. In his free time, he’s usually out fishing, tackling projects, or exploring Jeep trails. From the moment you book, we take a hands-on, personalized approach to ensure your stay is smooth, welcoming, and unforgettable—so you can relax, unplug, and fully enjoy your time at the lake.
Why they chose this property
Skipping Stones Getaway is a lakefront home that boasts an easily accessed private dock directly in front of the home, a flat back yard overlooking the lake and easy drive to the home. Unlike many vacation homes on Watauga Lake, this isn't a community access area, it is an exclusive private oasis in a quiet neighborhood of homeowners. Another great benefit of this property is that it is just a 3-minute drive down a paved road to your driveway. There are no steep drop offs or narrow gravel roads to navigate, and guests won't need a 4-wheel drive or SUV regardless of the weather. Any vehicle can easily access the property, helping to make this a prime, low stress destination. The best way to get around the lake is with a pontoon. If you're in a hurry, we recommend jet skis. If you're driving instead, leave some extra time as the roads follow the lake making for a scenic ride. Bear in mind, the locals are not in a hurry. Boone, NC is 39 minutes away; Johnson City, TN is just 38 minutes, and both are abundant with activities. Elizabethton is just a short 23 minute drive for quick dining, shopping, ice cream etc. In addition to all of the lake activities, guests can also enjoy the Appalachian Trail, Roan Mountain State Park, Sugar Hollow Retreat, a winery, and lots of snow skiing, tubing, and snowboarding options nearby. We provide guests with many local recommendations for activities, food and drink.
Skipping Stones Getaway is located off a well maintained 2-lane state highway. From there, you'll continue 3 minutes (0.9 miles) down an easily navigated 1-lane paved road. In the unlikely event you encounter another vehicle on this dead end road, there are plenty of places to pull off for passage. The home sits just 100 yards down a well maintained gravel driveway where you will find a large parking area with ample room to turn around. There is plenty of lighting for the parking area if arriving at the property after dark.
What makes this property unique
Watauga Lake waterfront getaway in secluded cove with private dock, hot tub, kayaks, canoe, paddleboard, paddle boat, fire pit, and private suite with garden tub & balcony. Enjoy the water view from the wraparound porches while you rock your worries away. Watch the sun set over the forest, float your way around the quiet cove, or venture out to explore over 180 miles of shoreline.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests