Gwen's Cottage at Water's Edge

Gwen’s Cottage is located on the privately owned and operated estate, Water’s Edge, which was recently re-established in January 2022 by Western Pennsylvania native, Gwendolyn Reno. This cottage is a newly renovated, 490sqft, studio-style accommodation, perched along side the Slippery Rock Creek adjacent to McConnells Mill State Park. This charming cottage has a wrap around deck that quite literally over-looks the creek and faces the state park land located just across the water.

Gwen’s Cottage is a studio accommodation and includes one full bathroom, a generous full kitchen and french doors leading out of the bedroom onto a wrap around deck. While this space is under 500sqft, we’ve furnished it very intentionally with everything you need and nothing you don’t. We think it’s perfect, but if there’s something you need, just reach out to your hosts and they can provide anything from extra cookware to a mid-week linen refresh.

Your cottage is all your own. Your deck is your private space as well. The Lodge is located just below your accommodations and you’re welcome to come inside for a tour and visit! Our office is located in The South Wing of The Lodge and that’s where you’ll usually find us!

There are 6 full-time residents at Water’s Edge. Our director Gwen, her dog Katie, and 4 adorable kitty brothers that stay outside unless they’re resting in their kitty condo in the basement! Gwen and Katie currently live in the North Wing of The Lodge. You’re sure to meet Katie and the kitties when you’re out and about but they are not allowed inside any of the accommodations. If you love on them, they’ll spend lots of time with you outdoors! (If pets are not your fav, no worries, they’ll be able to tell. They’ll leave you alone if you leave them alone.)

Guests of Gwen’s Cottage have 2 dedicated parking spaces. You should be aware that there is a considerable climb of two full staircases up to the cottage doorway at this time. We will always offer to help you with your bags.

We have been working on restoring this estate since the acquisition in January 2022 and we have a good bit left to do. During your stay you may see some construction or grounds work being done. You may also hear some tools or machines at work!! We are extremely mindful about our guests experience and do our best to avoid making noise while you’re here. We thank you for understanding that we are a work in progress!!

We host small events in The Lodge and at times your stay at Water’s Edge may overlap with other guests stays, workshops, dinners, celebrations etc. We take boundaries very seriously here, and we always share the details of which spaces and times are private or occupied throughout each event or stay we’re hosting. The property is a total of 78 acres. While there may be other guests on property, there’s plenty of room to spread out! Outside of your private space, you may see other guests or residents enjoying the Slippery Rock Creek or the hiking trails. We can’t wait to share Water’s Edge with you!!!

We will check you in and review the accommodations with you when you arrive. All guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and all guests 18 and over are required to sign a waiver upon arrival. This waiver is due to our wilderness setting and is necessary to acknowledge the many natural dangers present throughout the property.

We love to give recommendations for local shops, activities, or restaurants. If it’s solitude you’re looking for, we’ve got plenty of that too! We will do our absolute best to deliver a stay that is what YOU want it to be.

Please be aware that there are three other rental accommodations available on property and also a small venue space. We will always let you know if anyone else is present on the grounds. We make sure that everyone’s private spaces and accommodations are respected at all times.

If you have ANY questions about lights, or water temp, or extra pillows or extra blankets or ANYTHING please reach out so we can help!

The Lodge at Water’s Edge is a 78 acre property adjacent to McConnells Mill State Park and bordered by the Slippery Rock Creek, or “Slip-prie Rock Crick” as the locals call it. The property was originally established in 1939 and has a rich history that brought it through the decades and into the hands of its new owner, Gwendolyn Reno, in January of 2022.

Although the property feels very remote and secluded given its size, location, and proximity to McConnells Mill, it is only a 10 minute drive to grocery stores and major highways.

The Pittsburgh Airport is an easy 40 minutes up I-79. Moraine State Park is a quick 20 minute drive. The beautiful small town of Zelienople Pennsylvania is only 20 minutes away as well. There are numerous parks, shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities to partake in throughout your stay and your hosts Gwen and Maci love to share recommendations if you're looking for the inside scoop!

Each accommodation at Water’s Edge has designated parking spaces. You will need a car as we are not able to access Ubers out here yet!

There are MANY staircases at Water’s Edge. If you’re interested in walking around the property, you will be navigating inclined trails and outdoor staircases. If you are unable to, or do not want to embrace the climb, the creek is accessible by truck or suv.

We incorporate as much accessibility as we possibly can at this time however, Gwen’s Cottage is not an accommodation that we recommend if you have any limitations when navigating a staircase. We have more accessible options in The West Wing of The Lodge or Nate’s Cabin. Those accommodations are accessible with only a few steps to enter those spaces.

Due to the nature of the terrain and proximity to the Slippery Rock Creek, it is of the utmost importance that you are aware of the natural dangers present on this property. All guests must be accompanied by a legal guardian and guests age 18 and over are required to sign a waiver upon arrival acknowledging the natural dangers and recommended safety guidelines.
- Privacy, Safety & Guest Policies -

Welcome to The Lodge at Water’s Edge and Gwen's Cottage. To ensure a peaceful, safe, and respectful environment for all guests and residents on the property, please review the following important policies and procedures:

- Guest Requirements -

No Third-Party Bookings: The individual who makes the reservation must be one of the guests staying at the property. Bookings on behalf of others are not permitted. This policy is non-negotiable and strictly enforced—not only by us, but also in accordance with Airbnb’s rules.

Waiver Required: All guests aged 18 and over are required to sign a waiver upon arrival.

Minors: Guests under 18 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian at all times while on the property.

- Visitors, Gatherings & Events -

Additional Guests: No unregistered or additional guests are permitted without prior written approval.

Gatherings: Group events, celebrations, or social gatherings of any kind require advance request and express permission. Unauthorized group activity is strictly prohibited.

- Property Environment & Behavior -

Gwen's Cottage is located on private land shared with residents and other overnight guests. We ask all visitors to respect the quiet, eco-therapeutic atmosphere we strive to maintain.

The proximity to Slippery Rock Creek and the surrounding natural terrain brings inherent risks. Please be cautious on uneven ground, near water, and on trails.

Loud, harmful, or dangerous behavior will result in immediate removal from the property without refund.

- Pet Policy -

Dogs Welcome (With Approval): We love animals and understand they’re part of the family. However, due to the shared nature of this property and our commitment to maintaining a safe, allergy-conscious environment. Dogs are only allowed with prior approval. Permission is extended to guests who are responsive, communicative, and respectful of the guidelines.

We reserve the right to revoke dog privileges at any time for any reason.

Approved dogs must: Be accompanied by their owner at all times. Be leashed when outdoors. Never be left unattended.

A non-refundable $125 pet fee per dog will apply. This covers the deep cleaning necessary after each pup’s visit.

Cats are not permitted inside any buildings under any circumstances. This is a strictly enforced rule due to severe cat allergies that pose a serious health risk to others. Guests who bring cats will be asked to leave the property and may be banned from future stays.

Please note: There are two free-roaming outdoor cats on the property—friendly brothers who may wander by during your stay—and the owner's sweet dog, Katie, a border collie/blue heeler mix, is often nearby.

- Smoking Policy -

The Lodge at Water’s Edge is a 100% smoke-free property. This includes cigarettes, cigars, vaping devices, and all smoking materials.

This rule is strictly enforced due to the high fire risk in our forested environment and out of respect for the health and comfort of all guests and staff.

Please help us maintain a clean, healthy, and safe retreat space by observing this policy at all times.