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

Coon Rapids cabin with kitchenette

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

Two people sitting on lawn chairs facing a wooden cabin with a fire in front of them.
A cozy living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV stand, and a window with a view of the outdoors.
A spacious kitchen with a bar area, a cozy seating area with a sofa and chairs, and a large sliding glass door leading to a garden.
A rustic wooden cabin with a porch, two chairs, and a small table.
A rustic wooden sign for 'The Rockery Cottage' with Facebook and Airbnb logos.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 6900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Coon Rapids, IA
  • Place, Lake Panorama
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Place, Springbrook State Park
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Place, Manning Heritage Park
    ‪31 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Coon Rapids

In Coon Rapids .Stay at this Coon Rapids cabin and you'll be within 16 miles (25 km) of Lake Panorama and Springbrook State Park. Sheeder Prairie State Preserve is within 20 miles (32 km) and Swan Lake State Park is within 32 miles (40 km).
View more Cabin Rentals in Coon RapidsOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Panorama - 21 min drive - 18.6 miles
  • Springbrook State Park - 21 min drive - 19.0 miles
  • Manning Heritage Park - 31 min drive - 31.2 miles
  • Swan Lake State Park - 33 min drive - 32.8 miles
  • Jefferson Community Golf Course - 33 min drive - 33.4 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Shack's Lounge - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Las Margaritas - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Easy Street Catering - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Chester's Chicken - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Jenna’s Tattooed Confections - ‬10 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

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.

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Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

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

Kitchenette

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

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

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1"on-site accessible parking spaces 1", on-site accessible parking spaces
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Single level property
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Bicycle parking
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Pickleball
  • 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

  • Bicycle parking
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 900 square feet

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

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:

Remove personal items

Turn off the lights

Wash the dishes

Leave the doors unlocked with the key where you found it

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Dogs must be on a leash at all times on our property.

Be mindful of electric fences and beehives. Do not approach cows or chase chickens who roam freely.

No smoking or candles indoors. Please extinguish outdoor fire pit before bed.

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.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

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

Frequently asked questions

Does Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cabin.

Does Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails offer free breakfast?

This cabin does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails?

No, there is no casino at this cabin.

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.

Is there free parking at Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails?

Free parking is not available at this cabin.

Does Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails have a pool?

This cabin does not have a pool.

Does Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cabin.

How close is Rustic cottage in river valley with access to hiking and mountain biking trails to downtown Coon Rapids?

This cabin is 3.7 mi away from Coon Rapids.

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 74 out of 75 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 75 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place to get away and enjoy God's creation.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Serenity R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the 2nd time we came here and stayed. The cabin is so nice and the owners are friendly!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bart B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Getaway

Quiet, peaceful, and great hosts. Wonderful place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Charlie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean and pet friendly
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dustin Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet cabin/property; good hiking trails
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kyle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Little Cabin

Great property and location. We had a wonderful time!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jayme F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bart B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

Quiet peaceful location. Great trails. Hosts easy to work with.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jane C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jamie Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

rebecca c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lori H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property - better than advertised! Our stay was peaceful and quiet, and we loved the owners' access to the hiking trail right though their backyard. The place was spotless, with great water pressure and comfortable bed, and the kitchenette had what we needed so we could stay there and make all our meals. The owners were friendly and very quick to help when we asked a question, but also very much gave us our privacy for our quiet weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stephie

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shelly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This place was wonderful.

I took one star off for accuracy of online listing as this place was much nicer than the listing portrays! It was peaceful and unhooked from the world, but there was plenty to do when we wanted to. Emily and Matt were great! We will come back as often as we can!
Stayed 10 nights in May 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deborah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Serenity R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Randi I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kate F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Billy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We chose this cottage as a neutral meeting place between Wyoming and Wisconsin, and it ended up being exactly what we needed. Our trips in were full of delays and late‑night arrivals, but the moment we walked inside, the space felt calm, quiet, and welcoming.The cottage was clean, peaceful, and thoughtfully maintained — the kind of place that lets you slow down and breathe after a long stretch of travel. We didn’t come to check off activities; we came to reconnect and start something new, and this spot gave us the perfect setting to do that.Even though our time was shorter than planned, it became more meaningful than expected. The privacy, the quiet surroundings, and the comfortable space made our stay feel special in a way we didn’t anticipate.We’re grateful for the experience and would recommend this cottage to anyone looking for a peaceful, grounding place to stay.10/10 we'll be back again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hanna G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Heather P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified review

8/10 Good

Michelle B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Bike out

Good
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Luis D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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