A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
Overlooking the river
Guests like the scenic riverfront location.
Discover nearby landmarks
Walk to Dark Island Swinging Bridge
Sleeps 4•1 bedroom•2 beds
Popular amenities
Spa pool on site
Onsite parking available
Kitchen
Air-conditioning
Barbecue
Balcony
Explore the area
Townsend, TN
Dark Island Swinging Bridge
Place, Dark Island Swinging Bridge
2 min walk
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
Place, The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
9 min walk
Townsend Visitor Center
Place, Townsend Visitor Center
11 min walk
Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
Airport, Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
32 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 4)
Living Room
1 Double Sofa Bed
Loft Bedroom
1 King Bed
1 bathroom
Full Bathroom
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft
Tucked behind its sister cabin where the road cannot see it, River Rock is the hideaway guests describe as the most peaceful spot on the Little River. Watch the sunrise from the private hot tub while geese, otters, and ducks work the water below, then spend the day fly fishing off the rocks or simply sitting on them. Honeymooners and anniversary couples come here to disappear for a while.
At approximately 700 square feet, River Rock trades floor plan for setting, and guests say the trade is the whole point. Mornings pass with coffee beside the river, afternoons with wading or a national park drive, and evenings in the hot tub or around the wood-burning fire pit. In warmer months, tubers drift past midday, while sunrise and dusk belong almost entirely to you.
THE LAYOUT • Open loft: California king reached by interior stairs • Main level: living room with pull-out sofa (sleeps up to 4 total) • 1 full bathroom on the main level with a tub-and-shower combination • Full kitchen and dining area • Separate enclosed workspace with a door, 250+ Mbps Wi-Fi, and wired Ethernet, the rare cabin office where calls actually stay private
AT THE CABIN • Private hot tub on the deck above the river, pointed at the sunrise • Fishing from the designated riverfront area (Tennessee license required) • Wood-burning outdoor fire pit and charcoal grill • Outdoor seating and dining beside the water • Private Level 2 EV charger
EXPLORE TOWNSEND AND THE SMOKIES You will be staying in Townsend, known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, giving you the best of both worlds. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right at your doorstep, with an entrance approximately 2 miles from the cabin and Cades Cove about 12 miles away, while the attractions and entertainment of Pigeon Forge are within an easy scenic drive. The area offers a quieter home base for river recreation, hiking, wildlife viewing, cycling, fishing, and Appalachian history, with big-day-out adventures never far away. Actual travel times vary with weather, road conditions, park traffic, and seasonal tourism.
Nearby activities include: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Cades Cove Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg day trips, including Dollywood Hiking and waterfall trails Little River fishing and seasonal tubing Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing Foothills Parkway Tuckaleechee Caverns Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center Horseback riding Cycling and scenic drives Local restaurants, cafés, galleries, shops, and craft beverages
THE RETREAT River Rock sits on our family's riverside retreat: hidden, but never lonely. The stretch of riverfront in front of the cabin is set up for this cabin's guests, the broader grounds and roadways are shared, and the retreat's goats sometimes make an appearance near the swinging bridge.
RECENT GUEST FEEDBACK
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ July 2026 | Stayed a few nights The location is perfect for those looking for a getaway off the beaten path but close enough to town for food/drinks/shopping. The little pigeon river, arguably Townsend's best local attraction, is right outside the cabin, making it very convenient to enjoy. The spot is also 30 minutes to other popular spots like Cades Cove in GSMNP, and Pigeon Forge. Will definitely try to stay at this spot again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ June 2026 | Stayed a few nights By far some of the best people to work with. We spent our honeymoon here and the host made it seem less to get anything needed taken care of within 30 minutes. World-class if I ever saw it. Thank you again for being so attentive and willing to go above and beyond to make our stay wonderful! Save them as a favorite host you won't regret it!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ May 2026 | Stayed a few nights Loved our stay - everything about it was perfect! Been to the area many times, this was one of the best cabins, location and setting. Truly outstanding!! It exceeded our expectations. Clean and everything you did for a peaceful stay in the Smokies! We’ll be back. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality!
A FEW PRACTICAL NOTES The cabin is reached by a short path behind its sister cabin from the parking area (1 to 2 vehicles, no overflow), with about 4 steps up to the entry. There is no washer or dryer (a laundromat is in Townsend) and no indoor fireplace; the fire pit carries the flame duties outside. The river is a natural, unsupervised waterway, enjoyed at your own risk. Quiet hours run 10 PM to 8 AM. Cancellation terms follow the policy attached to your reservation, and we recommend travel insurance for every trip.
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS River Rock is part of Peacock Paradise Vacations, a family-run collection of homes my husband, Oz, and I personally love and care for. We want each stay to feel easy, comfortable, and thoughtfully prepared, so you can spend less time managing logistics and more time watching the river from the rocks that named the place.
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No smoking (inside or within 100 ft) — $1,000 fee if violated. No pets unless registered service animals — $500 fee if violated. Late check-out with
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2164032vb
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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Townsend
Located in Townsend, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Ober Mountain.
River Rage Go-Kart Track and Hedgewood Gardens are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating.
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
Townsend Visitor Center - 11 min walk - 0.9 km
Shadows of the Past Hiking/Biking Trail - 11 min walk - 0.9 km
Cades Cove - 22 min drive - 20.8 km
Getting around
Alcoa - Knoxville Airport (TYS) - 37 min drive
Restaurants
Walland Shop Groceries And Gas - 16 min drive
Peaceful Side Social - 13 min walk
The Townsend Abbey - 3 min walk
The Heavenly Roast - 14 min drive
Burgermaster Drive-in - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft?
As of 3 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft on 1 December 2026 start from NZ$1,418, 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 Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Townsend Hidden River Cabin | Hot Tub + King Loft located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps from Dark Island Swinging Bridge and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. River Rage Go-Kart Track and Shadows of the Past Hiking/Biking Trail are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Clean. Everything you need to live there. Next to the river was so nice. Watching the Geese, Otter, and Ducks. Hot Tub was perfect.. everything about this cabin was perfect
mike c.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 March 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We’re so glad you enjoyed the cabin and the peaceful river setting, it really is special getting to watch the wildlife right from the property. Happy to hear the hot tub was a highlight too! We’d love to host you again anytime.
The cabin was perfect! Everything we needed was provided. The hot tub was a definite bonus! Thanks again!
Robin M.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 March 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad the cabin had everything you needed and that you enjoyed the hot tub. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Highly recommend. Nice relaxing cabin on the River. Had a little issue with hot tub but owner went above and beyond to make it right. When you see the peacocks go left. Don’t go up hill like we did. lol. Hope to come back one day. Thanks for sharing your cabin with us.
Sandra N.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 20 April 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review. We loved hosting you. We hope you can come back as well.
If you are looking for a cute summer getaway that gives you access to town and the river this is it! The swinging bridge is unavailable so you cannot walk to town but it's a short drive with no steep mountain roads. It is river front with great rocks to soak in the sun or take a dip. The pictures need some updating - furniture is different and we talked with the host as laundry was listed but not available. The host was responsive and worked quickly to resolve or address any issues or questions. They did ask if we return to book directly through their webpage so make sure to take a look at their Peacock Paradise Vacations page.
We had a wonderful stay. The river was amazing with easy access. The owners goats came to visit one evening and it was amazing to watch and interact with them. The owner was very friendly and welcoming. We hope to be able to stay there again.
The cabin was clean and had everything we needed. We had hoped to walk across the swing bridge to get to the restaurants on the opposite side of the river however it’s closed off for repairs and appears that it will not be fixed anytime soon. Was a little annoying to drive all the way around to get to places that where less than 100 yards walk. Otherwise the cabin was great, we enjoyed the views of the river, visiting the goats and peacocks. Location is super convenient for getting to the Smoky Mountain National Park trails for hiking and fishing. Parker and Oz made the entire process easy with great communication.
Cabin was exactly as listed and shown. Enjoyed the quaintness and privacy. The access to the river was perfect for fishing and pictures. The cabin was clean and well stocked with toiletry needs, cooking utilities, and even games. The hot tub was heated and clean. The owners were very helpful with directions to the property and help recommending a place for dinner. We would definitely stay again
The cabin was the perfect getaway for our long fishing weekend. Though cozy and basic, it was just the right size for two. The shower had plentiful hot water and great pressure, and the mattress was extremely comfortable. We loved the view on the Little River and my son spent a bit of time fishing it as well (though we spent most of our fishing efforts in the national park). We adored Townsend in general - quaint, quiet, and has everything one needs. The location to the National Park entrance cannot be beat. We will definitely return!
The cabin was a perfect place to stay to enjoy all the beauty of the Smokey Mountains. The hosts of the property were so accommodating and made you feel so welcome. Thank you Oz and Parker.
My husband and I were very happy with our stay! The cabin is private and right on the river. We loved the fact that you could park your car and walk or ride our bikes to the restaurants and stores on the Townsend strip. The cabin is updated and just the right size for a couple wanting a romantic getaway. We will definitely stay here again!
Our stay was perfect. The cabin is super clean and has everything you need, but also has an authentic cabin feel. The location was amazing, right on the river and secluded but also easy to get to everything. There’s a swinging bridge you can walk across to get to some great restaurants, too. Would definitely come back.
Fiancé and I went to East Tennessee for a quick getaway. Very cozy little cabin right on the river. Cabin had everything we needed. After years and years of cabins in pigeon forge and gatlinburg, I think getting one like this a little away from everything is a lot nicer. Would definitely stay here again.
Chris C.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
About the host
Hosted by Parker Borofsky
We are a family of 4 who love adventure and enjoy sharing some of our favorite places with you! From the ancient Smoky Mountains (did you know this mountain range is the 8th oldest in the WORLD?!), to the gorgeous white sands and glassy waters of the Florida Panhandle/Emerald Coast. Parker is an award-winning mortgage loan originator specializing in helping families start their short-term rental portfolios, while Oz is a "retired" Electronic Engineer, who now spends his days tirelessly working on each of our properties to keep them in great condition! Our daughter Taliesin who is headed to college has been involved in design and decor and our son Zolin who is still in high school just might be the one to answer your message or inquiry. We are emotionally attached to each of our properties (even though we aren't supposed to be lol) and we truly hope you enjoy them as much as we do!
Why they chose this property
Choose River Rock for privacy that is literal. The cabin hides behind its sister cabin, invisible from the road and reached by a short walking path, and guests agree it delivers the quietest riverfront in Townsend. Couples celebrating honeymoons and anniversaries describe sunrise soaks in the private hot tub while otters, geese, and ducks trace the Little River below.
Inside, approximately 700 square feet hold a California king loft reached by stairs, a pull-out sofa for up to 4 guests total, and one full bathroom. The deck carries the hot tub, the wood-burning fire pit waits outside for evening flames (there is no indoor fireplace), and the charcoal grill handles dinner beside the water. The separate enclosed workspace with a door, 250+ Mbps Wi-Fi, and wired Ethernet makes this the rare hideaway where a work call stays private, and the private Level 2 EV charger means the quiet extends to your commute home.
What makes this property unique
Private to your reservation: • The entire River Rock cabin: California king loft, main-level living room with pull-out sofa, full kitchen and dining • Separate enclosed workspace with a door • Private deck hot tub over the river • Outdoor wood-burning fire pit and charcoal grill • Outdoor seating and dining beside the water • Private Level 2 EV charger • Parking for 1 to 2 vehicles
Shared with the retreat's other guests: designated retreat grounds, river access areas beyond the cabin's own frontage, roadways, and the dumpster area. River Rock sits behind its sister cabin and is reached by the short path from the shared parking area. Self check-in is by keypad smart lock; your unique code and instructions arrive before check-in.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests