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The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG

Photo gallery for The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG

Terrace/patio
Outdoor dining
Game room
Game room
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 14

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Cullman, AL
  • Place, Lewis Smith Lake
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Smith Lake Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Place, WildWater Cullman
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Bedroom 1

+2
6 Twin Beds

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 King Bed

Bedroom 5

1 King Bed

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

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

Bathroom 2

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

Bathroom 3

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

Bathroom 4

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG

Bring the whole family to this great place with lots of room for fun. Relax and enjoy the view of the lake, swim off the boat dock, and even keep your personal boat there. The house is within 10 minutes of Smith Lake Park, so a boat ramp is easily accessible. You will have everything to enjoy a peaceful time on the lake from fully appointed kitchen to fiber internet. Enjoy fishing from the floating dock, sit by the fire pit, or relax and watch the sunset. Tankless water heater for big groups!
There is a nice pool table, air hockey table, and foosball table in the game room. All are full size tournament style tables.


THE SPACE
The house is really big (3900sqft including the finished basement)
Every room has a smart TV and 4 of the bedrooms have king beds with the other one having 6 twin beds. The master bedroom and the basement both have views of the water from the rooms. There are patios on the basement and the main level that overlook the water.
There is also a set of washer / dryers on the main level as well as another set in the basement allowing you to keep up with the laundry on big trips.


GUEST ACCESS:
Guests have access to everything aside from the cleaning / owner closet.
Check in / check out is keyless locks with door codes The guests are able to do everything on their own.
We added 4 kayaks that the guest can rent for the duration of their stay for $100 flat fee for all 4.


OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
As with some lake houses, the driveway is steep. However, we have added a parking lot at street level that is perfectly level and can accommodate multiple trucks and boats as well as other vehicles. The upper parking lot has stairs down to the house that allow easy access. There is also a two car garage that is accessible if needed.

We have installed a Level 2 EV Charger. It is a J1772 connector (non Tesla) and charges at 50A. We also provide the adapter to charge Teslas.

We also have other lake houses on Smith and Guntersville Lakes:
https://www.vrbo.com/2473402
https://www.vrbo.com/1600060

And we have Huntsville houses:
https://www.vrbo.com/3734142
https://www.vrbo.com/3960683
https://www.vrbo.com/4968675
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 23
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: less than 20 lbs per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Max of 14 guests at the property at any time.
Contact us if you have a pet larger than 20lbs or are requesting bringing more than one pet. We make exceptions depending on breed and circumstances.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3094465
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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the neighborhood

Cullman

Located in Cullman, this vacation home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Speegle's Marina and Cullman Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit WildWater Cullman and Funzone. Consider Stone Bridge Farms for a night out or Sportsman Lake Park if you're traveling with kids. Jet skiing, kayaking, and water skiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby.
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Map
Cullman, AL

What's nearby

  • Lewis Smith Lake - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Smith Lake Park - 11 min drive - 7.4 km
  • WildWater Cullman - 21 min drive - 22.1 km
  • Sportsman Lake Park - 24 min drive - 30.6 km
  • Wallace State Community College - 28 min drive - 31.2 km

Getting around

  • Huntsville International Airport (HSV) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Drifters On The Lake - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Jack's - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Prairie Market - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 20 lbs per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG?

As of May 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG on Aug 7, 2026 start from $495, 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 The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Gathering Place: Big Lakehouse/Covered Dock/Fiber/Tankless WH/Game RM/EV CHG located?

This family-friendly Cullman vacation home is located on the waterfront, steps from Lewis Smith Lake, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Smith Lake Park and Speegle's Marina. WildWater Cullman and Funzone are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay. Unfortunately it rained almost the entire time we were there so we didn't get to stay out on the boat as much as we wanted. Thankfully this home is equipped with plenty of entertainment options (pool table, air hockey, plenty of TVs). We had some great family time despite the weather. Beds are comfortable and everything we needed was provided. Love this property!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was spotless. The kitchen was well stocked and there tons of small touches like hand soap and extra throw blankets. The furniture was very comfortable as well as very spacious rooms. A wonderful experience! I would highly recommend A Gathering Place.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a great home for the lake. The furnishings were nice. The kitchen was well stocked and there was an abundance of towels for all guests.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy H.

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

Family Fun

Easy location from 65 and plenty of room to spread out with six adults and six children. The downstairs was a great hang out for the youth. This was by far the best stocked rental we have ever experienced.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

eric f.

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

Fishing trip

Very nice house!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chad M.

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

Great Experience

Amazing place and beautiful location! House was clean and had everything we needed for a great stay. We would come back and highly recommend it!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy N.

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

Beautiful place! Great get away

The house was beautiful and had everything you need. Very clean. Beautiful lake! Very nice host. I definitely would book again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

chip g.

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

Gathering Place

Great property. Excellent for 10 or more.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robin W.

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

Thanksgiving gathering

Was perfect location and setup for our crew. Property owners were a blessing and terrific to interact with.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason J.

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

Great house for a family getaway!

We had a great time at the home. It was very spacious and had all the requirements. We all had a very nice time and would definitely come back to this rental. Owner was very accommodating. We all enjoyed it and will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Great for larger groups

This property was a great lakefront house with good size bedrooms to accommodate a larger group. The kitchen was very well equipment and you can tell the owners placed a lot of attention in the details.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori H.

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

Reunion

Needed a place to stay that was big enough to accommodate cousins for a family reunion. This house was amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lea Ann H.

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

Family Celebration

Comfortable clean cabin! We enjoyed Everything about it. Plenty of room and has everything you need ! Definitely a must book !
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy H.

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

The Gathering Place

The house and location were great. The best stocked rental we have ever stayed in. The owners were great and immediately answered any questions we had. We will go back in the future.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gene P.

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

Fathers Day Weekend

Had a great stay with all of my girls and spouses and grandkids. House was perfect for us. Would love to stay there again. We rented a boat and utilized the dock. Perfect set up.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paige L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
3 levels of open space, room for everyone! The house is beautifully decorated & the kitchen is fully stocked. There’s a huge porch off the back overlooking the lake with two large tables & plenty of seating for 16. Great gas grill with smoker for grilling up dinner while taking in the view. There’s a huge game room / tv room downstairs along with extra beds & a private bathroom. This home is absolutely Beautiful. No detail left untouched - a definite 10 outta 10!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kyle G.

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

Beautiful Lake House

We enjoyed our time at the Gathering Place. It was in the mid 90’s during our stay and the house mantained a cool temperature throughout. The house has been updated and is nicely decorated. They have kayaks available for rent that we used everyday. We would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Phillip W.

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

Bass Nation youth and high school tournament

This house was perfect for 4 to possibly 5 fishing teams . We had 3 boats and had room for more. We left tackle on the boats every night without worry and had less than a ten min drive to Smith Lake Park.The house was perfect for ten of us with 6 beds downstairs for the kids.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle R.

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

Family Christmas

This is a beautiful home. Lots of room. Very clean….as a matter of fact, the home was so clean that we allowed the 9 month old to crawl all over the place! Lake view is gorgeous. Owners are top notch! Highly recommend rental!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

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

Family Vacation

This home was perfect for our large family. Plenty of things to do for the variety of the ages. The kitchen was well equipped with cooking utensils made for a large group. The 2 washer/dryers made it so much easier keeping up with the laundry. The large living room/dining room area made having meals together and playing a murder mystery game great fun since everyone could participate at the same time comfortably. All together this home really helped make our annual family vacation to Smith Lake a real success!!!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh D.

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

Family Lake Trip

We enjoyed our stay! The house was very clean and well organized. Everything was labeled which was a great idea. The host was very nice and reached out to us to make sure our stay was going well, which it was! We rented a pontoon and had a bass boat that we brought and were able to dock them both at the house. We spent almost every minute on the lake as the lake is absolutely beautiful! We had two families stay and it was more than enough room. Loved everything about the trip. I hope that we can go back again soon, thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John F.

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

Great house for a relaxing family lake vacation

Our three families from Texas and Louisiana gathered at The Gathering Place at Smith Lake for a relaxing lake vacation. The house was more than large enough for our six adults and three children with plenty of room to spare. We especially enjoyed the great variety and quality of cookware enabling us to cook meals each night. We also made use of the grill, grilling on the patio several times. The dock was perfect to tie up our boat and swim in the water. Smith Lake Park was nearby where we relaxed at the beach area. The house was very clean. I wouldn’t hesitate staying here again!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Velvet B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay over Thanksgiving with our 3 boys (22, 20, 17) and my mom and dad. Plenty of space for everyone to have time together and separate. Daily games of Scrabble and puzzles were enjoyed by my mom and boys. House was well stocked with everything we needed - even for our Thanksgiving meal. My husband used the smoker for his first time smoking our turkey and it was delicious! My mom was able to navigate the first floor easily with her walker and the main bedroom had a walk-in shower for her use as well. It was about a 90-minute drive for our University of Alabama students and then less than 30 minutes to Cullman for groceries and we went to the movies once.The driveway is crazy steep, but my parents parked right by the front door with no issue. There was no way my mom could have made it to the water but we knew that due to all the steps and it wasn’t a priority for us this time of year. We all enjoyed the water views on the back deck with our morning coffee.Highly recommend this home and location!
Sunset view from deck
Thanksgiving dinner
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 2, 2025
Thank you so much for staying with us! We’re glad you enjoyed your Thanksgiving getaway. Come back during the warm season — the lake and the whole experience feel completely different, and we’d love to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy G.

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

Great choice for our vacation!

Our four families had a great experience at The Gathering Place! It was enough space for everyone (total 13 people) but not so big that we lost each other. The "kids" (who are now all age 18-23) enjoyed the lower level and the dock, lake and kayaks. We rented a boat from Cappy's and had a great day tubing and exploring Smith Lake. We've stayed at many different rentals - this was one of the best organized and well-stocked kitchens! Bedding was great, and bedrooms are good-sized. Having enough seating in the main area for everyone to be at a table for meals was a huge plus. Ben and Lela could not have been more responsive. They welcomed our many questions and always replied very quickly. They were GREAT hosts!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dave K.

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

Fantastic Family Getaway

This home was wonderful. It was one of the cleanest places we have ever stayed, which we appreciated so very much! The kitchen had everything we needed including emergency flashlights that came in handy after a storm took out the power one evening! We also appreciated how each drawer was labeled and everything was easy to find! They even had sippy cups for kids, we were impressed! There was lots of room for us to unpack our food in their large fridge and open cabinet space. The bedrooms were very large and the beds were so comfy! Ben and Lela have thought of everything guests would need and enjoy on a vacation. We loved the games downstairs, and the large seating areas on the back porch and the kitchen! The dock was lovely, and we enjoyed being able to get on the water in kayaks, it was worth the extra fee! Over all, wonderful stay, great communication with the hosts and we appreciated their kindness and understanding! Would book this again and again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Ben and Lela Boggess

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Languages:

English

Premier Host

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