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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
Lobby
Fitness facility

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

Explore the area

Map
Coon Rapids, IA
  • Lake Panorama
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Springbrook State Park
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Swan Lake State Park
    ‪38 min drive‬

Room options

Similar properties

Exterior detail

Whiterock Conservancy - Woodland Carriage House

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
5.0 out of 5, Exceptional, (4)
The price is €211
for 1 home
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Whiterock Conservancy - Woodland Carriage House

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 woodlands. Located next to Whiterock Conservancy, guests can easily access 40+ miles of scenic trails out the back door, 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 peaceful, 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 queen-size futon. Heated floors and A/C keep you comfy in every season. Fast and free wifi access makes it convenient to work remotely while surrounded by nature or just stream a movie after a long hike. The kitchen is equipped with sink, mini fridge, microwave, toaster, electric skillet, crockpot, 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. Our space is also shared with wildlife. In the evening, it is not uncommon to hear coyotes, owls, whippoorwills, tree frogs, and occasionally a bobcat.
  • Air-conditioned cabin with kitchenette, patio, and sofa bed
  • Free WiFi
  • Onsite recreation includes a playground
  • 14.7 mi (23.6 km) from Lake Panorama and 15.1 mi (24.2 km) from Springbrook State Park
This cabin offers its guests barbecue grills and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Coon Rapids cabin is smoke free.

Property manager

Emily & Matt

Property amenities

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking available
  • On-site parking
  • Car required

Kitchenette

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Hairdryer
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Charcoal grills
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 3 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have any 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 lift (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
  • Kayaking on site
  • Golf on site
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Basketball nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby

Safety features

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

General

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

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 welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 3 pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • 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

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
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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 67 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 67 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 67 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Stephie

Liked: Cleanliness
out of the city and into the country
my stay at the cottage is exactly what i needed. the quiet of being in the heart of Whiterock Conservancy was a wonderful place to rest, re-set, and rejuvenate. the trails are so close and my dog and i were able to explore quite a few paths.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather P.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Rookery Re-Charge
Our stay at the Rookery Cottage during our cross country road trip between Colorado and Michigan was the perfect stop over. The kids, pup, and I stretched our legs on the Whiterock Conservancy trails that we got to right from the property. The cottage had the rustic charm and whimsical feel that felt homey and cozy. The kids loved saying hello to all the farm animals. It’s a special place that we plan to return to in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

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