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Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River

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Join us at the Cowboy Riverfront Retreat a quiet water view studio apartment
Exterior
Miscellaneous
Community deck for entertaining and dining options, offers beautiful views
Take yourself down to the river let the cool mountain water wash your cares away

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • At the centre of it all
    Stay in a top rated central location, steps from the best attractions, dining, and entertainment.
1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View in a map
Joseph, OR

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 3

1 Double Futon

Mountain Man Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Mountain Man Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River

Provides a restful haven to relax your mind and renew your spirit. The facility was once the working bronze studio of local well known artist J. Shirly Bothum. Sleeps 6 studio style w privacy walls including one King Bed room w/ private river deck, one Queen room and a double size futon in main living area. This is a traditional studio space and so the wall dividers are industrial style and do not provide an enclosed room, but do provide plenty of privacy with extremely comfortable beds. We can accommodate pets, as long as they stay off of the furniture and beds, for a small additional $75 per pet. . We have a small kennel and igloo dog house, pets are not to be left unattended in the rooms. Studio includes work space, free wifi and appointed kitchenette with large dining table and an outdoor grill. Our space is two minutes from town but feels a world away. Fall asleep to the soothing sound of the Wallowa River!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
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: dogs (limit 2 total)
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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 and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Pls deposit trash in the dumpster at the end of the driveway, safe travels home!
Pls turn out the lights!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1111845vb
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
On-site 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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Joseph

Located in Joseph, this apartment is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Wallowa Lake and Wallowa Lake State Park. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the ice skating and sledging.
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Map
Joseph, OR

Getting around

  • Pendleton, OR (PDT-Eastern Oregon Regional) - 150 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Subway - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Cloud 9 Bakery & Deli - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Slack Drinks and Dining - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Embers Brew House - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪La Laguna Family Mexican Restaurant - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River pet-friendly?

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

How much is parking at Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, A Studio Style Oasis By The Wallowa River located?

Situated in Joseph, this golf apartment building is within 1 mile (2 km) of Wallowa River, Stein Distillery and Aspen Grove Gallery. Wallowology Natural History Discovery Center and Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 29 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bev M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was very clean and the location was quiet.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2025
Bev was a lovely respectful guest and we would be delighted to have her back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bryce H.

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

Great location

The accommodations were as advertised. The location is very close to downtown making it easy to drive or walk in. My wife, parents, and I loved the decor :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl L A.

Cowboy Riverfront Retreat

Beautiful and relaxing place to stay. The owner is a great hostess. Saw lots of wildlife and loved the sound of the river to fall asleep to. Felt very private, and the deck and multiple seating areas made for a great place to unwind in the evening. Close to town and the Lake too.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Sheryl is a great guest!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So Peaceful and comfortable. Beautiful setting and we had a wonderful experience
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine R.

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

Relaxing Reunion

I don’t make it back to Joseph often but how could I miss my 30th high school reunion. The Cowboy Riverside Retreat was the perfect place to go back and relax after all the crazy of the Fourth of July and the reunion on the 5th. The peace of the woods, the sound of the river and nostalgic decor brought back so many memories! We couldn’t have asked for any better accommodations and plan to return as often as our busy life allows!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane L.

Exploring Joseph and area

We loved the charm & cowboy rustic atmosphere. The studio provided the quiet we enjoy. The sound of the river just steps from the studio was a pleasant addition to our stay. Recommending the studio to friends visiting the Joseph area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Thank you so much! I do enjoy my guests!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brook B.

Peaceful and beautiful

My family and I LOVED staying at this beautiful place. The home was very warm and inviting and very cozy. The decor was very cute and the location was peaceful. We slept with the door facing the creek open both nights and were able to fall asleep to the sound of the creek. My daughter loved getting to see the horses and enjoy cooling off in the creek behind the house as well. Perfect location from town too. Will definitely be staying here again in the future!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Brook and her family were an absolute delight. Sincerely hope to host them again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie R.

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

Bronze Anniversary

Unique stay just outside of town. Check in was a breeze with our names on a chalkboard outside the door and a bottle of bubbly on the table. We enjoyed morning coffee and afternoon cocktails by the river and went to sleep with the windows to take full advantage of our surroundings.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2021
Thank you so much Laurie, wonderful guests!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lnda E.

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

Fabulous Sister Trip

Upon arrival we were impressed with the well kept grounds and spotless room. Loved the quaint homey feel, with the incredible river views and the sounds of it lulling us to sleep at night. Rachel and Kari were truly kindhearted and helpful. Hope to see you soon. Knapp sisters 2022.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2022
We hope to see you delightful guests again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cathy S.

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

Atowiishaamash Judy

We love you & your beautiful cow camp setting. Happy trails, Cathy, Annette, Juniper & Cade
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Hi Cathy... you are such a blessing to whom you ever stay with! Loved our visits and look forward to seeing you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judi R.

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

Joseph Girls Trip 2023

The property and surrounding views were spectacular. Trip wad amazing. Only negatives were ants and a lose deck plank. Extreme tripping hazard as it is right in the walking path to the door. Deck plank end is sticking up. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Ray...&...Fern P.

Like living in a museum of Western Art!

Judy's husband was a cowboy and a sculptor, and this little bungalow is crammed full of his and other artists' beautiful work...both paintings and sculptors. The beds are unbelievable...they are the most comfortable we have ever slept on. Judy arranged for us to go our a tour where they make molds and then finish the sculptors...it was excellent. The quarters are adequate...not 5 star...but homey, quaint, adequate, and very clean. Judy was very helpful with everything we asked of her. Of course, how could you possibly have a more glorious landscape...awesome!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Lovely guests, a delight to host. Hope you will return someday!
Verified

4/10 Poor

joe e.

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

Not what I expected

I was expecting a stand-alone cabin but found that this was a group of apartments converted from pre-fab buildings. There was nothing private about the accommodations. Within the apartment, the walls for the bedrooms did not reach the ceiling, so it was more like they installed room dividers. Across the stream was the municipal airport, so you had the pleasure of listening to the airplanes take off in the morning. The facility was a bit run-down (eg., the water feature in the center had been abandoned with grass growing up through the former pond). This would have been OK if I had only paid $75/night, but considering the price, this was a total disappointment.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joyce H.

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

Peaceful

Restful. Enjoyed the river and deck
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Galen T.

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

Unique western getaway

This property is a great representation of Wallowa County. Very friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia O.

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

Unique accommodations!

You are staying in the former studio of Shirley Bothum and many of his exquisite bronze sculptures and memorabilia are included in the decor. What treat to Bothum's detailed art up close! Very comfy beds, sufficiently stocked kitchen, lots of outdoor seating options to listen to the creek. Trophy animals adorn one wall and no where else will you pat the head a full size bear on the way to your sleeping quarters!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

julie r.

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

Joseph weekend

It was a perfect place to stay while we went on a couple of nice day hikes.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie M.

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

Love the cowboy retreat!

One of the best VRBOs we’ve ever had the pleasure of being guests! The attention to detail and the quality of amenities were very appreciated. From the cowboy decor to the pots and pans! Sit out on the flower filled deck that overlooks the Wallowa River or even take a sit in the river itself on a hot day! Thank you, Shirley, for being such a great host!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler L.

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

Beautiful and Soothing

My family and I had a wonderful time here. The Cowboy River Front Retreat was a beautiful studio with enough space for our family of four and our two pets. The creek is close by and you can hear it at night. The space is full of interesting cowboy themed art work, books and history. We had a blast just looking around at everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca A.

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

Perfect size for our visit

Very relaxing and had everything we needed for our stay. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon M.

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

Very enjoyable stay at Cowboy Riverfront Retreat, Joseph OR

,My wife and I very much enjoyed our stay at the retreat. It is the former studio of sculptor J. Shirly Bothum and includes a number of his beautiful works, a tribute to his life and contributions to the region. A creek flows through the back area, and it was fun to sit a chair in the creek on a hot Labor day weekend. The stars were very visible on the nights from our property, located within walking distance to town. We still drove! The place was decorated western style, comfortable, and included all amenities. We also enjoyed visiting with Judy, the owner and wife of Mr. Bothum. She is gracious, helpful and knowledgeable about ranching, horses and things to do in the area. We expect to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cabe N.

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

Stay in the former studio of a bronze sculptor -- but look out for the bear!

I enthusiastically give Judy's place 5 stars even though it is far from luxurious. Why? Because it is has so much character, it's so much fun, it's right on the river, and Judy is so nice. This is the former studio of a bronze sculptor and two of his amazing sculptures are on display in the living room. The river is literally six feet outside the window and the deck is great plus you can hear it while you sleep. Just know that this is not luxurious. No oven although it has a portable two burner stove, toaster oven, microwave, and hot water heater. Floor is concrete but covered with some awesome Western rugs. You get the idea. I will definitely stay here again and I hope you will choose it but it's not for everyone.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

tammy p.

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

Incredible get away.

The property was amazing. So full of beauty and character. We spent our evenings by the river and exploring t.v he history that papered the walls. Judy was warm and welcoming. We simply couldn't say enough about our stay
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bruce A.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay

we so love this area which we have been coming to for the last 25 years. We usually came with family and extended family staying down by the lake but hadn't been for about 5 years. We usually came during the Chief Joseph Days so this was different but still a very busy area. Loved being next to the Wallowa river and such a cute place loved seeing the bronze sculptures that J.Shirley Bothum. Very cool atomosphere - could use some sound deading between units. Judy was a good host.
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Thank you for your business! Enjoyed having you! Have worked on the sound issue...most people abide by that rule! Hope to see you again!
Verified

6/10 Okay

Tim & Becky W.

Liked: Cleanliness, location

no locks on the doors, filled with "dead animals"

the unit cannot be locked, no locks at all, uncomfortable feeling knowing anyone could just walk in. the owner claimed she did not know we had a dog, it was on the reservation form. and "allows pets" was the reason this unit was booked. we'll not be back
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Sorry for your disenchantment...the CRR was my husbands studio and I want to keep it as much the same as possible. The door was a temporary disfunction that was taken care of and is working properly! So sorry for that. Hope your stay back too the county is great. Thank you again! Judy

About the host

Hosted by Judy Bothum

Host profile image
Our family has been in Wallowa County for generations. My 2 sisters and I maintain 3 bnb's on this 4 acre property remaining true to our parents Western lifestyle and the thriving hub Wallowa County is to so many artists and creatives. Our properties are unique and authentic!

Why they chose this property

We don't have a neighborhood! We do have neighbors we rarely see -unless you count the horses, cattle, deer and donkeys whom we share our dark sky with!

What makes this property unique

Formerly a successful working art studio of J. Shirly Bothum, 2 minutes from town but a serene river property that feels restful and special.

Languages:

English
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