Top rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
Balcony
A rare find - enjoy views from the balcony.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8
Popular amenities
Balcony
Barbecue grill
Air-conditioning
Free Wi-Fi
Pet-friendly
Kitchen
Explore the area
Butler, TN
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.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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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
Property # 3228622vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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. Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda. Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with snowboarding and skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 72 min drive
Restaurants
Smoky Mountain Bakers - 43 min drive
Highlander BBQ - 43 min drive
Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood - 44 min drive
Americano Steak House - 43 min drive
Bob's Dairyland - 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 11 Jun 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at River cabin on 45 acres of private mountain land pet friendly. on 10 Oct 2026 start from £336, 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.
What an amazing getaway. Extremely private and relaxing. In the few days were were there, we saw so much wild life and enjoyed listening to the river. Cooking was easy with a very nice grill and all the kitchen gadgets you would need. Comfy beds and lots of cozy blankets. Very clean and well-thought out!! The back porch views of the river are million dollar views!!! We would love to come back to this place again, soon. Thank you for such a great spot Chris!!
This was our second time and could not speak more highly of the property or host! It's beautiful there and one of the most peaceful vacations our family looks forward to. It's a chance to totally unplug and enjoy the beauty of nature. Our kids (11 and 13 love it). They play in the river, hike, sunbath, play darts, find treasures, build bonfires and whatever else they find to do! They are off the electronics and out being kids free and wild.The cabin is perfectly sized for our family of 4 with the kids choosing sleeping in the loft (their hide out). Any and all provisions provided by the host and kitchen well stocked. Books, games, you name it.I adore this property and would stay forever if we could! We will 100% be back - summer or winter this is our family vibe!PS: We tried Crabby Cafe and it was delicious and also the boys took the kayak on Watagua - it was freezing and windy but that was on them. It will be amazing in the summer to be that close to the lake and rent a boat or jet ski's.
We had such a wonderful stay here. From the moment we arrived, the whole property felt peaceful and grounding. It was the kind of place that made it easy to slow down, be present, and enjoy simple time together as a family.If we were not down at the river pavilion, we were up on the deck taking in the view of the river winding through the rock and trees. Both spaces were a huge part of what made this trip so special. We spent our days kayaking, fishing, looking for cool rocks, playing in the water, relaxing in the hammocks, and sitting by the fire. It all felt simple in the best possible way.What stood out most was how much care had clearly gone into the place. Nothing felt overlooked, and everything about the property made it easy to settle in and just enjoy being there.Inside, the cabin had so much warmth and character. My son especially loved the decorations and antiques, and some of those pieces completely blew his mind. Even our 15 year old dog had the best time swimming, exploring, and soaking up the sunshine.More than anything, this place gave our family something we really needed. Time outside, time together, and memories we will keep for a long time. Our kids were genuinely sad to leave. We will certainly be would back.
Chris N.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Hi Chris! Sorry I did not take time to respond immeditly to your wonderful review. Buit thank you very much and I really love to hear that folks enjoy the Elk River and the surrounding mountains and forest. Super happy you andd your family had a great vacation.
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.
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!
Kris P.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Hi Kris! Sorry I did not take time to respond to your wonderful just after you made the nice commenmts. Buit thank you very much and I really love to hear that folks enjoy the Elk River and the surrounding mountains and forest.
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!
This cabin is in a remote but accessible location on a rise right above the Elk River. There is a large covered porch looking down on the river. The porch
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.
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!
Ashley S. M.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Dec 2023
Thank you Ashley. You were a true professional and a wonderful guest. You will alone welcomed back.
Cozy and secluded cabin in Tennessee mountains. Everything one would want once you arrive. Quiet and peaceful. Would definitely book again. Thanks Chris!!
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2024
Sorry to get to respond to you late Loannis, but Thank you and you guys were the best.
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!
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)
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!!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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
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.
Beth J.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
About the host
Hosted by Chris Griffin
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.
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests