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Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin

Photo gallery for Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin

Squirrel's Nest with the new covered entry
Front of 'The Nest'
Back deck and side entry.
Squirrel's Nest - Cabin with a dusting of snow (old picture - remember this?)
Looking East - Donner Lake across the street. Downstairs bedroom to the right.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 892.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Outdoor barbecue
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Truckee, CA
  • Place, Donner Lake
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, West End Beach
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Donner Memorial State Park
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)
    ‪57 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

Downstairs Bedroom

1 Double Bed

Upstairs Loft Bedroom

2 Single Beds and 1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin

Squirrel's Nest is the quintessential lake cabin with granite stonework, wood-burning stove, high-end linens and beds, and tree-shaded decks. Set on a corner across the street from the lake, the cabin is two blocks from the West End Beach.

It is comfortably, completely equipped for cooking, entertaining, and relaxing. The loft “master bedroom” has a queen bed, a day bed with trundle, and a private balcony. The second bedroom has a double (full size) bed. The living room sofa is a hide-a-bed.

The cabin is stocked with firewood, winter sleds and snow shovels, as well as summer hammocks and deck and beach furniture. Gas furnace and stove, washer and dryer, and Smart TV/DVD & Internet. Enjoy an extended retreat in this charming forest home that sleeps a maximum of 6 adults + 2 children.

Keywords:

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Two smaller dogs may be approved. Ask me.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Wash all dishes - they can be drying in the rack.
Turn the thermostat down to 55 when you leave.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number RCN 001506

About the area

Truckee

Located in Donner Lake Woods, a neighbourhood in Truckee, this cabin is in the mountains and on a lake. Palisades Tahoe and Northstar California Resort are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Donner Lake. Travelling with kids? Consider KidZone Museum and Olympic Valley Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Truckee, CA

What's nearby

  • Donner Lake - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • West End Beach - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Donner Memorial State Park - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Sugar Bowl - 9 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Northstar California Resort - 22 min drive - 20.2 km

Getting around

  • Truckee Station - 10 min drive
  • Truckee, CA (TKF-Truckee Tahoe) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Coffeebar Bakery - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Tahoe Donner - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Upper Deck Bar (at Boreal) - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin?

As of 9 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin on 25 May 2026 start from NZ$383, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Donner Lake Charmer - West End Stone Cabin located?

This family-friendly Truckee cabin is located on a lake, within 1 mi (2 km) of Tahoe National Forest and Donner Lake. West End Beach and Donner Memorial State Park are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 191 out of 209 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 209 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 209 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 209 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 209 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean establishment, cozy, welcoming and excellent location.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Mary was a phenomenal host, always in touch for any questions and the property was outstanding. Very lovely place that was perfectly situated and near everything. I can't wait to come back and stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice location across from Donner Lake - comfortable furnishings and it has everything you need. The decor is dated and the furnishings and carpets have clearly been well-loved over the years, but that adds to the cozy and very home-like vibe. Mary was also a great and responsive communicator.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tony S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Convenient location
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cabin in a beautiful location. Host was very informative and quick to respond to anything. Cabin was cozy and everything you need for a great vacation. Will be coming back to this cabin in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic communication, very thorough and helpful with information. We had a lovely stay and would absolutely book here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Casey W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host very informative.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Howard C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was great in reaching out and making sure the amenities matched my needs, even before confirming. That way we both new the cabin would be a good fit for my family. And she provided great detailed information about the location and what to expect, always being gracious and accommodating. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very comfortable cabin, super convenient to Sugar Bowl, and exactly as advertised. Mary was great host who truly went above and beyond for us on several dimensions. We delayed our arrival for a day due to the massive blizzard, and Mary let us extend our checkout by a few hours so we could fit in a quick ski the morning we left with our dog comfortably relaxing at the cabin. And when my son left his iPad under his pillow (sigh…), Mary let us know immediately and even arranged for her next guest, who lives relatively close to us, to bring it down the mountain so we could it up from him (also an amazing guy)!We truly enjoyed our first trip to Sugar Bowl and would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patricia C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Good location, lake within walking distance. Cabin was cozy and comfortable. Enjoyed my visit!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelley S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were welcomed in with a fire already burning in the wood stove. Very cozy and cute in an old vintage sort of way. It was clean and had plenty of towels and blankets. The kitchen was well stocked with everything you could need. We enjoyed cooking, watched an old movie on DVD and played cards. The beds were comfy and warm. The upstairs loft is magical and has a balcony overlooking the lake in the distance. I definitely recommend staying here at “Squirrels Nest”
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Toni V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice location. Beautiful setting. Very comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darryl O.

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

Great property for a summer vacation!

Cool lakeside cottage right by Donner Lake; well maintained, and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marla B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check in was a breeze! The kitchen is great...fully stocked with quality items to cook with.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay W.

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

Great location and cozy home!

Amazing location - short walk to beach and quick drive to hikes. Property was very cozy and host was great at communication. Will definitely be back with our family again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it. Perfect size for us. Location is awesome.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at Squirrel’s Nest. Check in and check out were seamless and our host was very responsive throughout the process from booking to check out. The location was fabulous - moments from Donner Lake and a short walk, bike ride or drive to dining and shopping. Our cabin was cozy but spacious and had all the amenities needed. Quiet evenings with beautiful views of the starry sky. We loved staying here and would visit again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sarah f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was clean and perfect! We had all we needed to make meals and loved the coziness of the fireplace and the layout. The views were great of the lake peeking through the trees as well as all of the natural light that came through the large upper windows. We also enjoyed all of games and only wished I had more time to enjoy puzzles and reading material! Host was great a communication was perfect. Looking forward to our next stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steven W.

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

Very nice place, good time in area

Very nice, close to lake
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deanna C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Welcoming cozy cabin. Very clean. Walking distance from the west end beach. The kitchen had everything we needed. Mary (host) was quick to respond to any questions. Great little get away, good central location.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue B.

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

Cozy cabin .Comfy beds

Wonderful cabin with loft. Big windows and beautiful setting. Mary has made this cabin so accessible and included many extras: board games, books about Donner, soft linens and beach towels are just a few.We loved our week here and hope to come back again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andre R.

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

Cozy Little Cabin

Close to Sugar Bowl and Donner Lake.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jack L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin in great shape and well stocked. Furniture is very comfortable. 2 decks for outdoor seating. Loved the high ceiling and loft. The bed was very comfortable.We would return.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claire S.

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

Cozy and comfortable cabin!

We had a great time. The location is ideal for both Sugar Bowl and Truckee.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Great location for a weekend on the slopes

Great hideaway in the mountains.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

About the host

Hosted by Mary Serrano

Host profile image
We are the former owners of the Donner Lake Inn (2004-2012). We cherished our time living in Truckee, especially at Donner Lake. Now living in the Bay Area and Portland, Oregon, we share our cabin with you. While living at the Inn, we started renting Squirrel's Nest out and now have many guests who return year after year. Squirrel's Nest is our home as well as yours.

Why they chose this property

The "Nest" is directly across the street from Donner Lake, with only trees filtering your view. In the Summer it is a short walk to the beach. In the Winter our roads are some of the first to be cleared. Once inside, you will feel like you are home.

What makes this property unique

The most asked about feature of our cabin - the wooden floor. What is it? An old bowling alley? No it is a "reused" solid maple gym floor complete with stripes. The planks were installed in random order. The wood burning stove adds warmth and creates a cozy atmosphere. You can sit by the fire and gaze up into the trees through the large, west facing, dual glazed windows. Heaven on earth.

Languages:

English

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