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Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories!

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Escape to a secluded cabin surrounded by mature trees and a serene pond.
Property video
Enjoy al fresco dining and take in the views of the surrounding landscape from this outdoor deck.
Enjoy cooking in this well-equipped kitchen with a gas stove, ample counter space, and dining area.
Cozy retreat with a fireplace, dining area, and staircase leading to an upper level.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 133800 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Park Hill, OK
  • Cherokee Casino Tahlequah
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Cherokee National Capitol
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Northeastern State University
    ‪21 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Tahlequah

On river.A stay at this vacation home places you within half a mile (1 km) of Tenkiller Ferry Lake and 6 miles (10 km) of John Ross Museum. George M. Murrell Home and Cherokee Heritage Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).
View more Vacation Homes in TahlequahOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Cherokee Casino Tahlequah - 15 min drive - 7.9 miles
  • Cherokee National Capitol - 20 min drive - 10.4 miles
  • Tahlequah City Hospital - 21 min drive - 11.2 miles
  • Northeastern State University - 21 min drive - 11.7 miles
  • Tsa La Gi Ancient Village - Cherokee Heritage Center - 21 min drive - 10.4 miles

Getting around

  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL) - 79 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Subway - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪White Wolf Steakhouse - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Casey's - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Arby's - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Entire place

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

Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories!

Discover Bending Waters

Nestled on five private wooded acres at the threshold of Lake Tenkiller, Bending Waters is a serene escape just steps from the beautiful Illinois River. This modern, 3,800-square-foot home blends nature with contemporary elegance, comfortably accommodating up to 13 guests.

Luxurious Living Spaces

Bending Waters boasts four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and two family rooms with wood-burning fireplaces that open onto a deck with breathtaking river views. The primary suite features a private two-person Jacuzzi, a spacious walk-in shower with body sprays and a rain-head, and a gas fireplace. It also offers direct access to the upper deck, where you can enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of the river below.

Gourmet Kitchen and Dining

The fully equipped kitchen features a cozy eating area with stunning river views, a hearth room with a fireplace and television, and access to an upper deck with a gas grill for perfect outdoor dining. Adjacent to the kitchen is a formal dining room, ideal for special gatherings.

Nature at Your Doorstep

Large windows throughout the home provide stunning views of the river and wooded acreage. The property is equipped with a security system for your peace of mind. Wildlife abounds here; you’ll spot hummingbirds, eagles, deer, turkeys, and more. The Illinois River offers exceptional fishing right in your backyard, with species like crappie, trout, bass, and catfish.

A True Escape

Bending Waters is surrounded by thousands of acres of Corps of Engineers land, accessible via a paved road and a solid rock drive. A pond with a waterfall and lilies welcomes you to this tranquil retreat, nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by dogwood forests and beautiful foliage.

Endless Adventures

Illinois River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or rafting on 70 miles of scenic waters with outfitters providing rental equipment and shuttle services.
Fishing: Year-round fishing for black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Fly-fishing classes and guided trips are available.
Lake Tenkiller: Just 0.5 miles away, offering clear waters for boating, sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and more. Marinas provide rentals, supplies, and floating restaurants.
Scuba Diving: Explore sunken vehicles, planes, boats, and historical artifacts in waters up to 165 feet deep.
Hunting and Wildlife: Enjoy state game management areas and wildlife observation opportunities, including migratory geese, ducks, bald eagles, and more.
Golfing: Scenic championship courses are nearby for a relaxing round of golf.
Nature and Hiking: Explore trails and parks, observing diverse wildlife and stunning rock formations.
Whether you're seeking tranquility on the back deck, adventure on the river, or fun on Lake Tenkiller, Bending Waters offers an unforgettable retreat in nature. Come and create lasting memories at this beautiful home!

Property manager

Ken Lightcap

Languages

English

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Illinois River House!

  • Hot Tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
5.0 out of 5, Exceptional, 19 reviews
Illinois River House!

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Bicycles
  • Boat
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Optional golf privileges
  • Water park
  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing 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

  • Bicycles
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 3,800 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

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: Fee covers 3 dogs, extra dogs per request + fee

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 40
Note from host: Events Fee $1500.00 ($500.00 Refundable) 40 Guest
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. Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 40. Note from host: Events Fee $1500.00 ($500.00 Refundable) 40 Guest 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

How close is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! to the airport?

This vacation home is 74 mi (79-min drive) away from the Tulsa International Airport (TUL) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories!?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home, but Cherokee Casino Tahlequah (14-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories!?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! to downtown Tahlequah?

This vacation home is 6.7 mi away from Tahlequah.

Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Making Memories! Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 124 out of 146 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 146 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 146 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 146 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 146 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Stephanie S.

Family Trip

It was very nice and spacious! Communication was so easy and accommodating. The kids loved fishing off the river and the journey down and up the pathway. Was a bit of a hike but still manageable. The rooms do not have curtains or blinds so the sunrise gets you moving!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Graduation Stay

This house was gorgeous and the perfect place for our family to gather during my kids 3 graduation ceremonies from NSU! The hosts were wonderful, super supportive, and very accommodating after another property had cancelled on us last minute. We will definitely be staying again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful retreat

The peace we needed. Amazing views.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Bird watching paradise

Great space on a nice property
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice Spot Near Tahlequah

Nice property. Lots of space and beds. Close to the access for the river (2 minute drive/15 minute walk). Communicative host. And great location. I think the only thing I'd say I wish was out of their control. The river was pretty low. Where you walk down to get to the river from the property was really just stagnant water followed by super high weeds/grass area so you couldn't really get to water whereas I thought I'd be able to sit and fish or something. I'm sure it's better when the river is higher but that was the only thing that bummed me out. It was still sweet because we just hopped over to the access area which has a ton of space to park and fish. Again, out of their control and still an extremely great place and I wouldn't drop any stars.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Genevieve F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Long weekend!

House is nice. The trail down to the water is steep, but views from the house are terrific!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing River Views

Great home for our family stay! Enjoyed the views of the river, wildlife, and birds! We even caught a glimpse of a Bald Eagle soaring over the river!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Trina H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely home!

The property is beautiful and the deer come right up in the yard! The house is very spacious and cleverly built plenty of places to relax, will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nate P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice getaway

Beautiful views, very quiet, pet friendly.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Courtney S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Right on the River

The House ia very spacious and just a short hike to the river. Very secluded and wildlife everywhere including snakes and a Bald Eagle!! View is great! The manager Debbie is very helpful!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie W., Tulsa, OK

Liked: Cleanliness

Summer vacay

We had a very relaxing time. The house was very comfy! Thanks
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Graduation

Excellent property! Fit our needs perfectly and was a bird watchers dream!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jerry M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very nice views of the river and wild life

Im going to stay again when i go back to oklahoma too see family.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eileen K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing House w Amazing Views

Our host, Ken, was incredible. Very communicative and helpful. The house is beautiful and well stocked, The walk to the river from the house was difficult with all the leaves covering the steps so w drove to the river, less than 5 minutes. Packed a lunch and the dog. We have a wonderful time. We will come back again
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angel W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Place

We had a great time! Home was beautiful! Didn’t want to leave!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family stay for Powwow

Beautiful property. A little drive to anything but that made it better. It was very secluded, like walking into a nature wonderland..
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara K., Winter Park

Liked: Cleanliness

Respite at Lake Tenkiller

My sister, niece, and I stayed here for 4 nights. We had the best time. The set up of the home was perfect for our needs and had all the necessary amenities. I loved the setting of the house in the woods. It was beautiful and peaceful. We tried tubing one day on the Illinois River but the water was so low that it was not great tubing. One day we went to the Cherokee State Park and swam with tubes off the rocky beach. It was so much fun! Lunch at Nancy's Homemade Pies and Cafe provided us with delicious homemade pies for lunch. Ken was a super good host. The property manager was great, too, keeping up with our needs.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debbie A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Birthday Paradise

The stay at Bending Waters for a birthday celebration was wonderful. The views were amazing. Sitting on the back deck and seeing the river and watching the birds was a treat. The kitchen was a dream-literally everything was provided to prepare meals. The additional fridge in the garage was a blessing! The open spaces made it very comfortable for ten people. The drive to the lake was very easy and convenient. All we needed was another day or two...or more. It's a trip we will all with hold dear to our hearts.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim Q.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful location

We loved our stay here. The river was a treat that we all enjoyed even though it's not the easiest to get down to. The home was large enough to accommodate our group of 11 very comfortably. It was well stocked and the owners/property manager were very attentive.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Family Trip

We really enjoyed our stay here. It is a beautiful property - very quiet and comfortable. The owner and property manager were very responsive and helpful with any questions we had. A windstorm came through the first night, and the owner called the next morning to ensure everything was ok. There is a very nice area with easy access to the river just few minutes down the road for those that don't want to go down the steps at the house.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ward S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Overall a good experience

Met family there for a three night getaway right before the Fourth of July. That portion of the Illinois river at horseshoe bend has really low traffic compared to the northern portions of the river. House is well set up and comfortable sleeping many guests. Your own private gravel bar on the river awaits you below the house. Only disadvantage I can mention is that the walk to the river is pretty steep and hard to get the kids under 8 up and down safely carrying any gear. Overall quite satisfied and would recommend this location to anyone wanting a spot on the river that is not completely packed with partying floaters.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adelle B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful place for a family vacation

Bending Waters was an immaculate home to stay in for our family vacation. The lower level was perfect for our adult children and their significant others. The main floor made me feel at home. With 6 adults and one child, I never felt cramped, and I didn't have to wait in line to use the bathroom. The little one wanted to spend all the time down at the river, and though the hike was a little tricky, we were able to get down & back up again pretty well. The location feels very secluded, & that is what we were looking for. We were able to tow our boat & jet ski onto the property using a little caution on the one switchback like turn. A boat larger than 20ft, may be more difficult if you're not experienced. There's a gas station & Dollar General right down the road, and Lake Tenkiller was a relatively quick drive away. I don't have anything negative to say about this property, managers, or communication. The managers were very proactive with letting us know they were available if we had any questions or problems.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

6/10 Okay

Carla B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Access to river

The house was nice but getting down to the river with small children was not easy at all. You are basically walking down a cliff. The water is very nice once you get to it. The kayaks were great and the accessibility of the boat ramp was convienent.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

6/10 Okay

Nolan B.

River stay

House was as advertised. Very communicative owner and the property manager was very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eva T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay!!!

We stayed here for our daughter's graduation from NSU. We had a great stay! We hope to come back in the future to enjoy the river!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023