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Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats

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Off Grid Cottage
View of the front showing the fire pit
Exterior
Entry
Interior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Spearfish, SD
  • Place, Black Hills State University
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Jorgensen Park
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Spearfish Regional Hospital
    ‪19 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Common Spaces

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats

Welcome! Cappie, Star of Building Outside the Lines on Magnolia Network, built this adorable off-grid cottage as his own, but now you have the opportunity to stay!
This beautiful 3-acre property, once the Swisher Farm, is today a working homestead, dozens of chickens, and a large garden.
This cottage is handmade, from the bespoke front door to the custom 2-headed shower. We know you`ll appreciate the details!

You are invited to roam the property, but have exclusive access to the half-acre around the house, where you have ample room to turn and park large vehicles or trailers. There is also covered parking for a car or motorcycles.

Granny Flats is a completely off-grid load-bearing strawbale home, with modern amenities, such as wifi, large kitchen, king-size bed, and large 2-headed walk-in shower. Off-grid means that the home is completely independent & self-reliant - there are no connections to the power grid (it`s run on solar) or city water and sewer. It was the first off-grid home in the state of South Dakota! Part of being off-grid means that there is a composting toilet in the bathroom, which may be unusual for you. As you can see from the review, though, we`ve never had a complaint!

There is an old farmhouse and barn on the property, which adds to the quaint feel of the place (both of which are off-limits to guests).

A delightful place to relax, surrounded by natural materials and a lovely property with shady decks and a hammock next to the creek. A firepit and wood-fired sauna are also available for your use. See how gracious off-grid living can be!

609 Nellie Lane, Spearfish.
You will have full access to the house and outdoor spaces, with private and exclusive access to the half-acre around the house.

At Black Hills Experience, the Granny Flats properties are part of a working homestead, so you may see people around during work hours. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help! You can find us on-site or message us through the app, and we’ll respond as soon as possible.

Please take a moment to review the house manual, as this home is completely off-grid and may operate a bit differently than what you`re used to.

Granny Flats is located in the old small-farm area of Spearfish, which used to be known for it`s fruit and vegetable production. Today, much of it has been converted into large lots for homes, but the small-farm feel still pervades through a few small greenhouses and farm stands.

We`re located right on two bike paths, one will lead you directly to a Crow Peak Brewery, a local food market, and two restaurants down the road, and the other one will provide access to the commercial centers of town, where there are several exceptional locally-owned restaurants and breweries.

You also have quick access to the gorgeous northern Black Hills, which are popular with hikers, bikers (both kinds!), and nature lovers. We are essentially equidistant from the Badlands (1.5 hrs), the Southern Hills (Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave NP, Jewel Cave NP, Custer State Park; 1.5 hrs), and Devil`s Tower NM (1 hr).

There is a ton of room to park and turn around on the property, even if you have a trailer.

In cooler weather, there is a wood stove for heat. There is also an air conditioner, which can be operated from 10a-3p each day.

The home is built for one or two people (one king-size bed). A child can be accommodated upon request.

This is a pet free property!
There is one king-sized bed, and the property is intended for single or couple use. An additional child may be accommodated on an inflatable mattress on the floor upon request.

The property is a working farm, and there are a few dozen chickens on the property. There is also a large garden. Although you are welcome to roam the property, please do not enter or disturb these areas.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
1-2 children may be obliged on an inflatable bed.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
There is one king-sized bed, and the property is intended for single or couple use.

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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Spearfish

Spearfish is home to this cottage. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Black Hills National Forest and Evans Park, while Matthews Opera House & Arts Center and High Plains Heritage Center Museum are cultural highlights. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, and don't miss out on the snowmobiling.
Map
Spearfish, SD

What's nearby

  • Evans Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Black Hills State University - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Jorgensen Park - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Salem Park - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Spearfish Regional Hospital - 19 min walk - 1.6 km

Getting around

  • Rapid City, SD (RAP-Rapid City Regional) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Qdoba Mexican Eats - ‬19 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats?

As of 5 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats on 19 August 2026 start from NZ$310, 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 Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Off-Grid Cottage at Granny Flats located?

Situated in Spearfish, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Black Hills State University, Lookout Park and Creekside Nature Area. Lyle Hare Stadium and Evans Park are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

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. 49 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tammy K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay in this cute little hideway! It was cozy and comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

TRAVIS P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was fantastic, will stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pump J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was perfect and exactly as advertised or better.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bruce D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very private, excellent value and fabulous property with amazing views and ambiance.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Neat place! Very clean and welcoming :)
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon E.

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

Nice getaway

It was the perfect combination of City and Country!We look forward to staying there again!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kasey M.

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

What a great experience

We had a wonderful stay. The cabin had a great relaxing feel and the surroundings made our stay so peaceful. This is a much at stay location when in Spearfish.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

diane h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Almost off the grid, but good
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy D.

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

Unique Stay

What a unique stay! Close to town for dinner. Nice setting for the cold plunge pool, and the bed was comfortable. Enjoyed watching the deer while sitting by the fire.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Janel E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a beautiful setting, and the limitations are what you would expect from an off the grid property. The property was stocked well with the usual amenities.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Krista K.

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

Very Cozy

Stayed for a night. Enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and neighborhood.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon E.

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

Super Fun!

Everything we hoped for. Close to everything with enough space to relax!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon C.

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

Great place to stay in the Black Hills

My wife and I stayed for four nights. The location is right in Spearfish but the acerage around the house makes it feel like you are out in the countryside. The house and prperty sre a lot of fun.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Seth L.

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

AWESOME LITTLE HOUSE

Cozy and fun
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine F.

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

Perfect For Us

We couldn't have chosen a better place for our honeymoon! The house is charming and cozy, and the property is absolutely beautiful!! Located near the walking path and river, it was perfect for our morning walks. We will definitely be staying again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nick M.

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

Fantastic!

A very unique property, it was a real treat, staying there. It was also a pleasure meeting the owner and visiting with him. Hopefully sometime in the future, I’ll be able to stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Molly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Climate was comfortable. We used the wood burning fireplace. We did not have anything for kindling but picked up some newspapers to assist. The compost toilet seemed pretty full. There wasn’t any odor but it was just piled pretty high.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

TIM L.

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

Quiet in town

Very quiet property located in a neighborhood.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mike s.

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

Perfect location

This is a great quiet spot…..perfect location secluded and private. Candace had great prompt communication. Definitely would book this again in a heartbeat.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Conner S.

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

A Great Place To Stay In Spearfish

Property was clean and well kept. The decorations were nice and the outdoor area was fun to walk around. The AC worked OK, just dont run it for too long. It's a very unique place to stay at, and well worth the price.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Robyn R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property and great location. Being solar powered we understood not being able to run air during peak hours but even during non-peak times the air conditioning was ineffective and it was near 100 degrees, very few windows opened so there was little way to get any airflow. I recommend this property just not in extreme temps. Easy to reach owner when we had a problem, overall a great experience.Bed was comfortable and fantastic location.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Danielle G.

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

I wish we stayed longer!

My husband & I had a short stay as we were splitting our drive to a week long vacation in Montana. This home/property is so cute & the beautiful scenery is to die for. We saw many deer & other wildlife wondering the property. It was a great stay & I highly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara F.

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

Amazing

This off-grid property was perfect for a weekend visit with my daughter. The off-grid set up of straw bale house, solar panels, well, wood stove was fascinating. The cabin was clean and cozy and Jared was quick to respond when we had a little battery trouble. I will definitely rent again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy C.

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

Definitely off-grid living

My husband found this place and sent me the link and I just booked it without really looking at the pictures. It was different than any other place we have stayed before. It was an experience to stay in a house that is pretty much self-sustaining. The house had plenty of room.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kiesha H.

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

Fantastic!

We loved everything about this home, from its serene surroundings, sustainability and cool factor. One night wasn’t enough but we were so happy we got to experience it. We saw a huge buck right outside the bedroom window and loved the thrill of jumping into the cold plunge pool. When in town, be sure to eat ice cream at Leone’s!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Candace Gustafson

Host profile image
My name is Candace and I manage the properties for Cappie and Rachel including the Off-grid Cottage and the Farmhouse. If you have any questions about the property or the area please let me know!

Why they chose this property

We're located right on two bike paths, one will lead you directly to a Crow Peak Brewery, a local food market, and two restaurants down the road, and the other one will provide access to the commercial centers of town, where there are several exceptional locally-owned restaurants and breweries.

You also have quick access to the gorgeous northern Black Hills, which are popular with hikers, bikers (both kinds!), and nature lovers. We are essentially equidistant from the Badlands (1.5 hrs), the Southern Hills (Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave NP, Jewel Cave NP, Custer State Park; 1.5 hrs), and Devil's Tower NM (1 hr).

What makes this property unique

Granny Flats is located in the old small-farm area of Spearfish, which used to be known for it's fruit and vegetable production. Today, much of it has been converted into large lots for homes, but the small-farm feel still pervades through a few small greenhouses and farm stands.

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