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Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails

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Exterior
Property grounds
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, travel cot, free WiFi
Smart TV, DVD player
Fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker, toaster
Reviews
10

Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 684 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendlyPet-friendly
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioningAir conditioning
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor spaceOutdoor space
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFiFree WiFi

Check-in time

3:00 PM

Check-out time

11:00 AM

Explore the area

Map
Coon Rapids, IA
  • Popular LocationLake Panorama23 min drive
  • Popular LocationSpringbrook State Park24 min drive
  • Popular LocationRaccoon River Valley Trail59 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails

Our newly renovated Rookery Cottage is a quiet retreat in the heart of the Middle Raccoon River Valley. Situated on our private acreage, this rustic cottage overlooks a prairie and vegetable garden. With close proximity to Whiterock Conservancy, guests can easily access over 40 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, or float the nearby river. Then, return to relax by a campfire and enjoy dark skies perfect for stargazing.

A "rookery" is a nesting site for herons, a bird that prefers quiet, undisturbed habitat near water. And so the Rookery Cottage seeks to provide a quiet, natural escape from the daily grind.

This building used to be a flower shop and was built using reclaimed barn board and other re-purposed materials. We converted it to a guesthouse but kept a lot of the rustic charm. It sleeps 6 with two queen beds and a plush queen futon. Heated floors (redone winter 2021) and an air conditioner keep you comfy in every season. Fast and free wifi access makes it convenient to work remotely while surrounded by nature or just watch a movie after a long hike. The kitchen is equipped with sink, mini fridge, microwave, toaster, electric skillet, utensils and coffeemaker. Alternatively, a charcoal grill or fire pit can be used for outdoor cooking. We provide firewood, charcoal and lighter fluid, as well as coffee, creamer/sugar, and a tea assortment.

Our acreage is home to dogs, chickens, cows, honey bees and a goat. We also gladly share our space with wildlife. In the evening, it is not uncommon to hear coyotes, owls, whippoorwills, tree frogs, and occasionally a bobcat.

Property manager

Emily & Matt

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower only
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 1 unit
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 900 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
3 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Disclose dogs at booking, keep on leash. No cats.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Coon Rapids

Located in Coon Rapids, this cabin is in a rural area. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by RVP~1875 Historic Furniture Shop & Museum, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Springbrook State Park and Lake Panorama. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Visit our Coon Rapids travel guideOpens in a new window
View more Cabin rentals in Coon RapidsOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Panorama - 23 min drive
  • Springbrook State Park - 24 min drive
  • Swan Lake State Park - 38 min drive
  • Raccoon River Valley Trail - 59 min drive
  • Danish Windmill - 66 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coon Bowl III - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Sperry's One Stop Shop - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Shack's Lounge - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Las Margaritas - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Main Street Pizza & Subs - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total).

What time is check-in at Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails located?

Situated in a rural location, this cabin is within 20 miles (32 km) of Lake Panorama, Springbrook State Park and Sheeder Prairie State Preserve. Swan Lake State Park and Manning Heritage Park are also within 25 miles (40 km).

Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 59 out of 60 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 60 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 60 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 60 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 60 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Deborah B., Braidwood IL

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
My husband and two dogs had wonderful time!! Very clean, beautiful location, access to trails practically out your back door!! Star gazing so awesome with no light pollution! Hosts are welcoming, wonderful! So quiet!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bart B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Getaway
Quiet, peaceful, and great hosts. Wonderful place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kate F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome getaway!
We had a fabulous time unplugging from the city. Everything we perfect and advertised honestly. Thank you!!!! We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Michelle B.

Bike out
Good
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Serenity R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely love
It was great, we had everything promised. I could have not asked from a better place to run away from the city
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jamie Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway
We loved our stay. It was so relaxing. We loved the proximity of trails & also looking at the stars at night. The house is also great, very comfortable. Definitely want to go back someday.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Randi I.

Liked: Cleanliness
Girls Weekend
Emily & Matt’s place was the perfect place for a quick girls weekend getaway. Everything we needed was there, down to the coffee creamer! Direct access to the great trail system, and a short jaunt into town should you need anything. Super clean, super spacious but with a cozy feel and some friendly chickens to greet you at the patio door in the mornings. We loved the stay and will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Idyllic cottage
Everything was exactly as described on this cottage. It was spotless. The bed was very comfy. The setting was very private. We spotted multiple deer each morning, as well as turkeys and some huge fox squirrels. Loved watching the chickens walk around. Scratched behind the ears of a quite tame charolais cow. All in all - a wonderful stay .
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bart B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place
Quiet peaceful location. Great trails. Hosts easy to work with.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jayme F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing cabin
Loved the stay, Emily was very nice, professional, and hospitable. Will be returning with the family for a vacation.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute, quaint and quiet retreat
We had a lovely weekend and will definitely be back! A quiet little cottage was just right for our family. And extra special that we were allowed to bring our dog with us !
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Luis D., Grimes, Iowa

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful quiet getaway!
Awesome little cottage in a beautiful location. Kids loved the downtime and playing with the animals roaming around. Lots of trails and beautiful parks within walking distance and short drives. Can't wait to be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Samson D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome cottage!
Wonderful place to stay! Matt and Emily are very sweet hosts, and a joy to talk with. A beautiful and restful place to stay at.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jason A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent as always
Every time we stay here we love it.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amanda P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great relaxing weekend getaway!
This rental was the perfect spot for a cozy and comfortable weekend getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kara S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Regular Weekend Getaway
This is our second weekend stay at the Rookery and it was every bit as relaxing and enjoyable as our first stay. Great access to outdoor activities on a beautiful property. Our second weekend was so lovely that we've decided to make it a bi-annual trip to get out of our regular day to day routine and relax with friends. I highly recommend going outside late at night and taking a look at the sky-can't be beat!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Deborah L., Rosemount, MN, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!
Nice spacious cabin and very clean. We especially enjoyed our “neighbors” - very friendly dogs, chickens, a goat and cows. Emily and Matt have thought of everything. There was plenty of firewood, charcoal, lighter fluid, lighter, roasting forks, grill tools, paper towels, etc. There are even food and water bowls for dogs! We loved it and will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Much time off
Very peaceful
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Larry S., Santa Cruz California

Liked: Cleanliness
Great choice
Loved the property, it was a great choice for our first visit to Iowa. Would definitely revisit in the future. Larry & Rebecca
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

melissa p.

Liked: Cleanliness
Pleasant Experience
Rural getaway under the stars. Highly recommend. Gorgeous area, very dog friendly!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jason A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect weekend getaway
We wanted to get away from the "big city" and disconnect for a couple days. This fit the bill perfectly. Friday night was perfect campfire weather and I got in rides at Whiterock Friday and Saturday morning. It rained Saturday afternoon and evening, but getting caught in the rain is no problem when there is a warm cottage with a hot shower waiting for you. It was perfect weather for staying in and playing games. The cottage was larger than expected with plenty of space for four adults and two dogs. We made full use of the kitchen and there really wasn't anything we wanted but didn't have (though Emily says they are hoping to get a gas grill eventually and that would be a great addition.) One thing to note: the door between the two halves of the cottage is a sliding barn door so it does nothing for sound. We are already discussing a return trip.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mindy K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Cozy Cottage
Emily and Matt's cottage was absolutely perfect for our family weekend getaway. As avid outdoors people, we were looking for somewhere to get immersed in nature during this last stretch of winter. This was the perfect spot. We were surrounded by miles of hiking trails in Whiterock Conservancy, some an easy walk to from the cottage, others a mere minute drive down the road near the river to access. Our kids and pups had an amazing time. Emily was a perfect host. She was easy to communicate with and got a hold of us a couple days before our trip to make sure she could have the cottage ready with anything we might need, like food bowls and extra towels for our pups muddy paws. The cottage is stocked with quite literally everything you will need. We will definitely be making a return trip to the cottage when it gets warmer for further exploring. Thanks again Emily and Matt!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Linda P.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was delightful.
Easy and on task.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Consistent Serenity
We love it - Emily & Matt share this space with our family & it never disappoints! Of course we will be back...
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Anthony L.

Liked: Cleanliness
2nd Stay - It was Great!
This was our 2nd time staying amount exactly a year later. It was nice to get away and reconnect. It was also great to see that they did minor updates to the cottage: New doors, new windows, etc. The hosts are amazing people.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020