Entire home
Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake
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Reviews
10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 81100 sq ft
Popular amenities
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Bunk Room
1 Single Bunk Bed
Living Room
1 Double Sofa Bed
2 bathrooms
Downstairs Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Main Leval Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
About this property
Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake
Time to Relax! This home away from home right on the Tennessee River/ Pickwick Lake is the perfect place to do just that. Enjoy all the water has to offer from fishing and boating to simply watching wildlife and barges go by from the chairs on the pier or the wrap around deck. The 270' of water frontage will give the view of that beautiful sunrise along with space to pull your boat up on shore and swim. We have kayaks and life vests for guests to use with a signed waiver. Whether watching the family in the water on summer days, leaves drift down in the fall, the beautiful American White Pelicans in the winter, or new blooms in the spring, this gem has year round views with a tree house feel.
Inside, you'll be greeted with comfortable furnishings, live plants, wifi and everything else you could possibly need to make yourself right home. The living room has seating for 7 to watch the large flat screen tv or to gather around to play some of the games provided. The kitchen/dining has large windows that bring the outside in! The kitchen is stocked with all the gadgets you need to make a delicious meal to serve on the huge island. Seating for 4 at the table and 3 at the island. There are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on the main level all with crisp white linens. All bedrooms are equipped with Smart TV's. The staircase that goes under the huge island (bet you've never seen this) leads to a downstairs bunk room and another full bathroom. Both have doors that go right outside.
The upstairs wrap around deck has an area for grilling, large table that seats 6 and additional seating at the ledge. There are seasonal herbs available for guests to enjoy such as fresh basil, parsley, lavender, rosemary and mint. The other deck area is covered and has a wonderful lounging area with a sofa and two chairs (You'll be hoping for rain, just so you can sit out and listen to it on the metal roof:)) It also has a small table with chairs for morning coffee to watch the sunrise. Morning yoga your thing? A couple of mats are in the basket...
The front yard is perfect for watching sunsets! It has a large circle drive, a fire ring lined with chairs, a couple of hammocks, horseshoes, and a large parking pad. The pad would be the perfect place for a boat. It has electricity and water. There is a courtyard area by the front door for guests to enjoy corn hole, we have that too!
This is an old "Fish Camp" as the former owner called it. We have completely renovated it from bottom to top. We tried to stay true to the original character of the house while bringing all the modern amenities. We have even refinished some of the furniture that was left in the old camp. There are some old fishing lures that were found during the renovation displayed in a shadowbox. A lot of love has gone into this place. It is our vacation home as well as yours.
This is quiet neighborhood on a dead-end road out in the country. There are children that play right in the road. Doby, the neighbor's dog, will more than likely stop by. He is used to getting treats (bottom cabinet in the kitchen), he is very sweet and older. Please use caution while driving. There are a couple of bikes on the property, you are welcome to use them, just put them back in place when you are done with them.
The address is Cherokee, but it is an easy drive to the Shoals. There are gas stations, a grocery store, Dollar General, local pizza place, Subway, liquor store, pharmacy, and even a hardware store within 10 minutes' drive. Along the way to the Shoals, there are lots of attractions, Coon Dog Cemetery, Rattlesnake Saloon, Alabama Music Hall of Fame, etc. There are drawers full of brochures and info to choose from. There is a couple different options if you have a boat to put in the water. We do not have a boat launch on the property. Cane Creek boat ramp and Colbert County Natchez Trace boat ramp are about 10 minutes' drive. But we do have two trailers on the shore you can pull up on while you stay there, use at own risk. We take no responsibility for accidents or injuries incurred on our property. All guests should take caution in or near water. The current can get fast, and children should always be accompanied by an adult than knows how to swim well while in or near the water.
Parties are strictly prohibited, 8 guest MAX on the property at all times!
If you are looking for perfection, this is not the place for you. I do not iron sheets. Everything will be clean and in working order. If you are looking for a place to relax and take the simple beauty that lake life has to offer, this IS the place for you!
We hope that you decide to pick our place to become your place.
Jay and Melissa Black
Inside, you'll be greeted with comfortable furnishings, live plants, wifi and everything else you could possibly need to make yourself right home. The living room has seating for 7 to watch the large flat screen tv or to gather around to play some of the games provided. The kitchen/dining has large windows that bring the outside in! The kitchen is stocked with all the gadgets you need to make a delicious meal to serve on the huge island. Seating for 4 at the table and 3 at the island. There are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on the main level all with crisp white linens. All bedrooms are equipped with Smart TV's. The staircase that goes under the huge island (bet you've never seen this) leads to a downstairs bunk room and another full bathroom. Both have doors that go right outside.
The upstairs wrap around deck has an area for grilling, large table that seats 6 and additional seating at the ledge. There are seasonal herbs available for guests to enjoy such as fresh basil, parsley, lavender, rosemary and mint. The other deck area is covered and has a wonderful lounging area with a sofa and two chairs (You'll be hoping for rain, just so you can sit out and listen to it on the metal roof:)) It also has a small table with chairs for morning coffee to watch the sunrise. Morning yoga your thing? A couple of mats are in the basket...
The front yard is perfect for watching sunsets! It has a large circle drive, a fire ring lined with chairs, a couple of hammocks, horseshoes, and a large parking pad. The pad would be the perfect place for a boat. It has electricity and water. There is a courtyard area by the front door for guests to enjoy corn hole, we have that too!
This is an old "Fish Camp" as the former owner called it. We have completely renovated it from bottom to top. We tried to stay true to the original character of the house while bringing all the modern amenities. We have even refinished some of the furniture that was left in the old camp. There are some old fishing lures that were found during the renovation displayed in a shadowbox. A lot of love has gone into this place. It is our vacation home as well as yours.
This is quiet neighborhood on a dead-end road out in the country. There are children that play right in the road. Doby, the neighbor's dog, will more than likely stop by. He is used to getting treats (bottom cabinet in the kitchen), he is very sweet and older. Please use caution while driving. There are a couple of bikes on the property, you are welcome to use them, just put them back in place when you are done with them.
The address is Cherokee, but it is an easy drive to the Shoals. There are gas stations, a grocery store, Dollar General, local pizza place, Subway, liquor store, pharmacy, and even a hardware store within 10 minutes' drive. Along the way to the Shoals, there are lots of attractions, Coon Dog Cemetery, Rattlesnake Saloon, Alabama Music Hall of Fame, etc. There are drawers full of brochures and info to choose from. There is a couple different options if you have a boat to put in the water. We do not have a boat launch on the property. Cane Creek boat ramp and Colbert County Natchez Trace boat ramp are about 10 minutes' drive. But we do have two trailers on the shore you can pull up on while you stay there, use at own risk. We take no responsibility for accidents or injuries incurred on our property. All guests should take caution in or near water. The current can get fast, and children should always be accompanied by an adult than knows how to swim well while in or near the water.
Parties are strictly prohibited, 8 guest MAX on the property at all times!
If you are looking for perfection, this is not the place for you. I do not iron sheets. Everything will be clean and in working order. If you are looking for a place to relax and take the simple beauty that lake life has to offer, this IS the place for you!
We hope that you decide to pick our place to become your place.
Jay and Melissa Black
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9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (47 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
This property is not ideal for small children.
Events
No events allowed
No loud music
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Please keep dogs off all furniture and linens.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
No smoking or vaping in the house or on back porch
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Check Out list is on the refrigerator.
If used the kayaks, put them back upside down and lock up.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No loud music
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Cherokee
Located in Cherokee, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Ivy Green and W.C. Handy Home are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Seven Mile Island Wildlife Management Area and Tennessee River. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and rock climbing.

Cherokee, AL
What's nearby
- Seven Mile Island Wildlife Management Area - 21 min drive - 16.7 km
- Tuscumbia Railway Museum - 30 min drive - 29.5 km
- Alabama Music Hall of Fame - 30 min drive - 28.4 km
- Ivy Green - 30 min drive - 29.8 km
- University of North Alabama - 41 min drive - 39.9 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Subway - 16 min drive
- JJ's Restaurant - 16 min drive
- Smoking Border Grill - 12 min drive
- family diner - 15 min drive
- Ring's Pickwick Playhouse - 32 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
17 Sept, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
NELSON M.
6 Nov, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
NELSON M.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sarah W.
15 Dec, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sarah W.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth H.
8 Dec, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Elizabeth H.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Patricia R.
13 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Patricia R.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sheryl S.
13 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sheryl S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Phillisa J.
3 Feb, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for a quick getaway!
Phillisa J.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ben M.
4 Dec, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome place
Ben M.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Michael B.
8 Jun, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary Celebration
Michael B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Andrew J.
13 Mar, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great weekend getaway
Andrew J.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Dustin P.
1 Apr, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spring Break
Dustin P.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Patricia B.
24 Sept, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Getaway
Patricia B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Tami W.
15 Oct, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful Getaway
Tami W.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Susan Renee W.
23 Dec, 2024
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend Getaway
Susan Renee W.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jessie V.
20 Jun, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great, relaxing stay!
Jessie V.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Stacy S.
16 Jun, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place
Stacy S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth V.
1 Aug, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great lake trip!
Elizabeth V.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Debbie V.
19 Oct, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to just chill!!
Debbie V.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tammy B.
29 Oct, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice waterfront home
Tammy B.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lee K.
27 May, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Spot!
Lee K.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Jodie M.
30 Apr, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Alabama Gem
Jodie M.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Stefanie T.
31 Mar, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing!
Stefanie T.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Justin K.
28 May, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fun & Relaxing Memorial / Weekend
Justin K.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Maples -.
28 Dec, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding Getaway
Maples -.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Annette W.
17 Jul, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Annette W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
About the host
Hosted by Jay and Melissa Black
My name is Melissa Black and my husband of 27 years is Jay Black. We live here in the Shoals. I guess we are transplants. We moved here 19 years ago from out of state. We have 3 boys, 1 is a college graduate, 1 is currently attending UNA and 1 is at Shoals Community College. We fell in love with the Shoals area immediately. There are so many things to do, camping, hiking, boating, great restaurants, and can't forget the live music!
Why they chose this property
We have always loved camping near the water. Anytime we camp, we always request to be waterfront. Years ago, we started talking about where we would like to retire. And anywhere with water came up. I am a Realtor. I have shown some amazing houses in the Shoals, but the ones on the water have me 'Wowing" every time! But, we could not afford a big nice house on the water. A neighbor there at lake house works with Jay and told him about it. It was in really bad shape, like REALLY bad! It was a family's "Fish Camp". They had owned it for 50 years. The appraiser said, "You're going to tear this thing down aren't you? All that's any good is the foundation!". We decided to renovate the whole cabin. The renovation started 3/20. Our family has done every bit of the work. Well, except for a little of the gutters and bulldozer work. We have replaced electrical, plumbing, roofing, refinished old furniture, scrubbed light fixtures, and probably dug up 100 bricks from the yard along with lots and lots of other work. Now, we have this beautiful gem that we want share with the world! :)
What makes this property unique
There are so many unique things about this property! First off, it's right on the water! The wildlife is entertaining on its own. If you're sitting on the pier late in the evening, Beatrice the Beaver (Yes, we named it. Not really sure on gender just liked the name) will swim by. If you hear a loud clap noise, it's her letting you know she's there. There is great fishing, we ate catfish last week that our boys caught from the pier. With the treehouse feel from the deck, the squirrels are everywhere! Careful, I think they aim for your head when throwing nuts. Just playing, they only got me twice. We have bought birdhouses locally made and put them out for the birds, there are a lot of birds. The boating is great! There is an island right across from the house! It is Smithsonian Island. We are pretty much right in the middle of Waterloo and Florence marina on the water on Colbert County side. Mulberry Creek is really close, it's a nice paddle in the kayaks.
Another unique feature of this property is the care and thoughtfulness that we have put into every detail to make it feel like a home away from home. From the time you walk in the front door to the time you're sitting down on the pier. We want everyone that stays here to feel at home.
Another unique feature of this property is the care and thoughtfulness that we have put into every detail to make it feel like a home away from home. From the time you walk in the front door to the time you're sitting down on the pier. We want everyone that stays here to feel at home.
Languages:
English
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