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

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Property grounds
Aerial view
Property grounds
Fitness facility
Lobby

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 684 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space

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

The 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 40+ miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, or float the nearby river. Then, return to relax by a campfire and stargaze under some of Iowa's darkest skies.

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 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 home is also on the acreage, along with 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

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking available
  • Onsite parking
  • Car required

Kitchenette

  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Kitchen island
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Paper towels

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

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

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Charcoal grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 3 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • No elevator (single level property)
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Golfing on site
  • Kayak on site
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Basketball nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Cycling nearby

Safety features

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

General

  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community & sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Recycling
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Unit size: 900 sq ft (84 sq m)

Similar properties

Exterior detail

Whiterock Conservancy - Woodland Carriage House

Kitchen
Pet friendly
Air conditioning
Barbecue grill
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4)
The price is SAR 475
SAR 775 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jan - 2 January 2025
Whiterock Conservancy - Woodland Carriage House

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 allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
3 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at 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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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

This property does not have elevators
A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Map
Coon Rapids, IA

What's nearby

  • Lake Panorama - 23 min drive
  • Springbrook State Park - 24 min drive
  • Jefferson Community Golf Course - 37 min drive
  • Northwest Park - 38 min drive
  • Danish Windmill - 66 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coon Bowl III - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Las Margaritas - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Shack's Lounge - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Sperry's One Stop Shop - ‬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?

Check-out 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 mi (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 mi (40 km).

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 65 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 65 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 65 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 65 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 65 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect little getaway!
The Rookery was great! The hosts have thought of everything. We didn’t go without a single thing, they had all dishes and appliances you need, board and card games, movies, easy WiFi access and use on the TVs, blankets, chairs, and much more. We arrived on a Friday evening and left Sunday morning. We came prepared with food so we never even had to get back in the car until we left. Perfect stay 10/10 !
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kyle D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Little Cabin
Great property and location. We had a wonderful time!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

rebecca c.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charm, comfort and convenience
The Rookery Cottage is delightful. It is the perfect place for a quiet get away and for exploring the Whiterock Conservancy. We plan to return!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hanna G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wow!
What a beautiful property! We had a wonderful time and enjoyed every part of our stay. Our hosts included so many thoughtful touches (coffee and tea, guest access on Roku, travel toiletries and first aid, toddler booster seat, and the list goes on and on). The property is amazing and we loved stepping out the door to walk the prairie trails and greet the chickens. We spent lots of time exploring the conservancy, also, and were so impressed with everything! Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

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