Entire home
1850 Cabin Home, Waterfall, Family Getaway, Corporate Party, Weddings
Lakefront holiday home with kitchen and fireplace
Photo gallery for 1850 Cabin Home, Waterfall, Family Getaway, Corporate Party, Weddings





Reviews
9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8139.4 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
- Place, National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
- Place, Diamond Jo Casino
- Place, Q Casino
- Airport, Dubuque, IA (DBQ-Dubuque Regional)
Rooms & beds
5 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1 (2nd floor - 1 Queen bed)
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2 (1 - King Bed)
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3 (living room)
1 Queen Sofa Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Queen Futon
Bedroom 5
1 Single Futon
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Outdoor play area
Dining area
About this property
1850 Cabin Home, Waterfall, Family Getaway, Corporate Party, Weddings
Updated 8-16 -2025
Please read ALL info below, Thank you.
This home is a rustic cabin built in 1850. It sits on a wooded 1 acre lot.
Bedroom 1: located on the first floor (master bedroom) has a high quality hotel King Bed, it has a window AC, a 44" TV and dvd player.
Bedroom 2: is located on second floor, it has a high end Queen bed and has a beautiful view of the Mississippi River valley and historic downtown East Dubuque. The room has new carpet, a small closet, 50" TV with dvd player., microwave and mini-fridge with freezer and a window unit AC.
Bedroom 3: is the converted living room and is located on first floor. It has a steel door and deadbolt lock. It has a pull out sofa bed which is in excellent condition and has a good mattress. A blow up mattress can be used in this room since there is enough room in front of the TV. It sports a 55" flat screen Smart TV and dvd player.
Bedroom 4: Is the converted dining room, which sports a 40" flat Screen and dvd player, it's a small room but cozy. There is a high end futon for sleeping or guests may use a blow up.
Bedroom 5: There's a nice wooden porch which can be used as bedroom 5 if needed. It's large enough for a blow up mattress, but it also has a low end futon. It has a 55" flat screen TV and dvd player.
We do have one high top queen blow up mattress available.
Note: the King and Queen beds are made, when the guests checkout we will wash the bedding and remake them, if guests use the futons and/or the blow up mattress they can use the extra bedding in the King Bedroom closet and bathroom closet. Sometimes guests bring their own bedding, for instance when booking the home for more than 6 guests.
There is a large rustic wood kitchen with plenty of dishes and pans for cooking, electric stove and refrigerator.
The backyard has a large 22 foot outdoor movie screen which can be used for showing movies, , movie hours are dark to 12am. You must bring your own projector, DVD player and Bluetooth speaker. There is a stand for mounting your projector and Bluetooth speaker in the yard and a power strip.
The backyard also sports a large incredible waterfall feature with a 12'x12'x4' swimming pool (4.5' deep). The waterfall operation instructions will be shown upon booking. The waterfall is usually operational from May through September. The pool is treated with chlorine and tested daily, we swim in it daily and it's great. The waterfall can be used as massage as well, do bring your floaties. Water temp stays at around 82 degrees all summer, due to the rock keeping the water cool and refreshing!
The backyard also has a 35' stage which can be used for events there is seating for 50 people with professional wedding event chairs on location (up charge for weddings and use of wedding chairs, ask for details).
Yes we allow dogs and cats 15.00 per pet The VRBO invoice booking form has a box to check how many pets you have, add the amount there. Please brush your dog before you stay if it sheds a lot, thank you. No dog pooping or peeing in the backyard, dogs should use the side lot (pass the pontoon by the drainage ditch), we understand this isn't always possible, but do try using the side lot (by the drainage ditch). No un-attended dogs in the house unless they are trained, please bring a kennel if not. There is also a wooded lot above that's great for dogs, so keep that in mind for letting the dogs run loose and also has a great view. You may hike up to that lot via the north trail if you so choose. Coming soon: a gate and fence will be added between the home and garage so the backyard will be completely enclosed.
You may access Gramercy Park from the above lot as well. This park also has a great view of the river valley with Dubuque Iowa in the background. There are nice pavilions, restrooms, river overlooks, hiking trails, and new playground equipment free to the public. Park closes at 10pm.
Pitching a tent in the yard is permitted but it must be set up after 6 pm and taken down by 9 am each day so it doesn't harm the grass.
All areas are clean and well kept as shown in photos! And bug free!
Smoking is allowed outside.
UP-CHARGES FOR THE FOLLOWING:
* Birthday parties, weddings or corporate events: ASK. private events will be between the hours of 12pm and 8pm.
Guests may park in the driveway or in front of the home (not on yellow).
VRBO guests are responsible for cleaning up the yard after using it, and putting the chairs and tables back in place if moved. Cleaning by host only includes the basic duties in the home such as washing bedding and towels, sweeping floors etc. If the guests use dishes they should wash them, there is a dish washer, or dish rack under the sink.
Note (3) outdoor security cameras are in use. Street camera in front of home, driveway, and entrance door.
Note: Do not book for 2 people then show up with extra guests. Extra guests cost 30.00 per night (adults or children). The base price includes the person booking plus one guest, any extra guests must pay the additional 30.00 fee. If you are unsure of how many people until the day of, that's ok, we can add more guests and add the fee to the invoice (or the person booking can as well).
As noted 8 guests are usually the max but if you have tents or extra blow up mattresses more guests are possible.
Note: The hosts/caretaker stay in a travel trailer home located on the adjoining lot, this area is secluded by a 6 foot privacy fence, as shown in the property photos.
Note: the upper walkway and upper deck above garage are not included in the listing. These areas are off limits as they are not completed.
Note: the property managers office is located stage right (right side of stage in backyard). Hours are 11am-4pm Monday through Thursday, the office is not included in the listing.
Note: The waterfall pond is not to be used for swimming after September 30th each season due to the upkeep needed from falling leaves. There is no cover for it, possibly someday.
Thank you, any questions please feel free to ask!
Your host,
Cal and Mel
Please read ALL info below, Thank you.
This home is a rustic cabin built in 1850. It sits on a wooded 1 acre lot.
Bedroom 1: located on the first floor (master bedroom) has a high quality hotel King Bed, it has a window AC, a 44" TV and dvd player.
Bedroom 2: is located on second floor, it has a high end Queen bed and has a beautiful view of the Mississippi River valley and historic downtown East Dubuque. The room has new carpet, a small closet, 50" TV with dvd player., microwave and mini-fridge with freezer and a window unit AC.
Bedroom 3: is the converted living room and is located on first floor. It has a steel door and deadbolt lock. It has a pull out sofa bed which is in excellent condition and has a good mattress. A blow up mattress can be used in this room since there is enough room in front of the TV. It sports a 55" flat screen Smart TV and dvd player.
Bedroom 4: Is the converted dining room, which sports a 40" flat Screen and dvd player, it's a small room but cozy. There is a high end futon for sleeping or guests may use a blow up.
Bedroom 5: There's a nice wooden porch which can be used as bedroom 5 if needed. It's large enough for a blow up mattress, but it also has a low end futon. It has a 55" flat screen TV and dvd player.
We do have one high top queen blow up mattress available.
Note: the King and Queen beds are made, when the guests checkout we will wash the bedding and remake them, if guests use the futons and/or the blow up mattress they can use the extra bedding in the King Bedroom closet and bathroom closet. Sometimes guests bring their own bedding, for instance when booking the home for more than 6 guests.
There is a large rustic wood kitchen with plenty of dishes and pans for cooking, electric stove and refrigerator.
The backyard has a large 22 foot outdoor movie screen which can be used for showing movies, , movie hours are dark to 12am. You must bring your own projector, DVD player and Bluetooth speaker. There is a stand for mounting your projector and Bluetooth speaker in the yard and a power strip.
The backyard also sports a large incredible waterfall feature with a 12'x12'x4' swimming pool (4.5' deep). The waterfall operation instructions will be shown upon booking. The waterfall is usually operational from May through September. The pool is treated with chlorine and tested daily, we swim in it daily and it's great. The waterfall can be used as massage as well, do bring your floaties. Water temp stays at around 82 degrees all summer, due to the rock keeping the water cool and refreshing!
The backyard also has a 35' stage which can be used for events there is seating for 50 people with professional wedding event chairs on location (up charge for weddings and use of wedding chairs, ask for details).
Yes we allow dogs and cats 15.00 per pet The VRBO invoice booking form has a box to check how many pets you have, add the amount there. Please brush your dog before you stay if it sheds a lot, thank you. No dog pooping or peeing in the backyard, dogs should use the side lot (pass the pontoon by the drainage ditch), we understand this isn't always possible, but do try using the side lot (by the drainage ditch). No un-attended dogs in the house unless they are trained, please bring a kennel if not. There is also a wooded lot above that's great for dogs, so keep that in mind for letting the dogs run loose and also has a great view. You may hike up to that lot via the north trail if you so choose. Coming soon: a gate and fence will be added between the home and garage so the backyard will be completely enclosed.
You may access Gramercy Park from the above lot as well. This park also has a great view of the river valley with Dubuque Iowa in the background. There are nice pavilions, restrooms, river overlooks, hiking trails, and new playground equipment free to the public. Park closes at 10pm.
Pitching a tent in the yard is permitted but it must be set up after 6 pm and taken down by 9 am each day so it doesn't harm the grass.
All areas are clean and well kept as shown in photos! And bug free!
Smoking is allowed outside.
UP-CHARGES FOR THE FOLLOWING:
* Birthday parties, weddings or corporate events: ASK. private events will be between the hours of 12pm and 8pm.
Guests may park in the driveway or in front of the home (not on yellow).
VRBO guests are responsible for cleaning up the yard after using it, and putting the chairs and tables back in place if moved. Cleaning by host only includes the basic duties in the home such as washing bedding and towels, sweeping floors etc. If the guests use dishes they should wash them, there is a dish washer, or dish rack under the sink.
Note (3) outdoor security cameras are in use. Street camera in front of home, driveway, and entrance door.
Note: Do not book for 2 people then show up with extra guests. Extra guests cost 30.00 per night (adults or children). The base price includes the person booking plus one guest, any extra guests must pay the additional 30.00 fee. If you are unsure of how many people until the day of, that's ok, we can add more guests and add the fee to the invoice (or the person booking can as well).
As noted 8 guests are usually the max but if you have tents or extra blow up mattresses more guests are possible.
Note: The hosts/caretaker stay in a travel trailer home located on the adjoining lot, this area is secluded by a 6 foot privacy fence, as shown in the property photos.
Note: the upper walkway and upper deck above garage are not included in the listing. These areas are off limits as they are not completed.
Note: the property managers office is located stage right (right side of stage in backyard). Hours are 11am-4pm Monday through Thursday, the office is not included in the listing.
Note: The waterfall pond is not to be used for swimming after September 30th each season due to the upkeep needed from falling leaves. There is no cover for it, possibly someday.
Thank you, any questions please feel free to ask!
Your host,
Cal and Mel
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
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House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
3 dogs allowed. NO peeing in yard, use side lot
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Strip any used beds, gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please clean up any messes and do your dishes or load dish washer.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
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 and a deadlock
About the area
East Dubuque
Located in East Dubuque, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Julien Dubuque Bridge and Five Flags Center are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mississippi River and Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
East Dubuque, IL
What's nearby
- National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
- Five Flags Center - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
- Diamond Jo Casino - 3 min drive - 3.2 km
- Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark - 3 min drive - 3.2 km
- Q Casino - 6 min drive - 6.4 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Arby's - 3 min drive
- Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark - 4 min drive
- The Filament - 5 min drive
- Hotel Julien Dubuque - 3 min drive
- Dimensional Brewing Company - 3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
9.6/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Amenities
8.0/10
Property conditions & facilities
8.0/10
Eco-friendliness
10/10
Check-in
9.8/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
9.6/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
6 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brook H.
29 April 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location
Brook H.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
6/10 Okay
Jeremy Lynn
4 July 2025
Jeremy Lynn
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Noelle H.
23 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
nice property
Noelle H.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
BEAU H.
30 November 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was as advertised
BEAU H.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kennan C.
20 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overnight getaway
Kennan C.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Julie G.
15 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cabin!!
Julie G.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Renee G.
29 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was Amazing. What a Perfect Party Venue!
Renee G.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kimberly K.
19 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Kimberly K.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
8/10 Good
Kelly R.
31 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Kelly R.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie A.
1 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stephanie A.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kailynn G.
17 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful!
Kailynn G.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Henry N.
26 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent
Henry N.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Toby W.
3 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Vintage Torque Fest
Toby W.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
8/10 Good
Tammi M.
3 November 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint Getaway
Tammi M.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Daniel
17 September 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Daniel
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Andrew B.
3 September 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay
Andrew B.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Rachel H.
1 August 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Girls Trip!
Rachel H.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Walter B.
24 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Short Stay For Golf Outing
Walter B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
8/10 Good
Stacey S.
13 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stay
Stacey S.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Patrick W.
9 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
Patrick W.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Janice D.
23 October 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our Dubuque stay
Janice D.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
8/10 Good
Leann H.
21 September 2023
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fall asleep to the lull of trains
Leann H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sarah J.
13 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quick Stop
Sarah J.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Brooke B.
20 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
Brooke B.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
About the host
Hosted by Cal Coohey
The stonework, waterfall, stage and cave were built by the host whom is a mason, carpenter, classical and 70's - 80's rock guitarist who performs shows locally and abroad.
More details about the 1850 cabin home:
2009: home purchased
2010: hillside excavation started and garage built
2012: excavation of basement
2013: basement recording studio completed
2015-2018: excavation completed on hillside
2019-21: cave, stage and waterfall/pond built
2021-22: VIP Backyard renovated with stage upgraded
2024: 22' movie screen installed with 3200 lumen projector
The stonework has been done by hand using ancient castle building methods. The stone to do so was quarried from the hillside.
More details about the 1850 cabin home:
2009: home purchased
2010: hillside excavation started and garage built
2012: excavation of basement
2013: basement recording studio completed
2015-2018: excavation completed on hillside
2019-21: cave, stage and waterfall/pond built
2021-22: VIP Backyard renovated with stage upgraded
2024: 22' movie screen installed with 3200 lumen projector
The stonework has been done by hand using ancient castle building methods. The stone to do so was quarried from the hillside.
Why they chose this property
Most unique local property on VRBO with many amenities you won't find at a hotel!
What makes this property unique
Huge waterfall with small pond (operational June 15th-Sept 15th) , campsites in woods, hiking, city park nearby, view of river, large yard, professional 35' stage, surreal castle-like stonework.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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