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Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake

Photo gallery for Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake

A hot tub with a stone wall and a wooden deck, overlooking a lake and forested area.
A dining area with a round table, wooden chairs, and a chandelier.
A hallway with a stone fireplace, a bookshelf, a door leading to a bathroom, and a kitchen area with a countertop and cabinets.
A two-story building with a patio area, a stone wall, and a small train track.
A modern kitchen with dark cabinetry, a stone fireplace, and a dining area with a round table and chairs.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade/game room.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Watauga Lake
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Massages in spa
  • Spa pool on site
  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator

Explore the area

View map
Butler, TN
  • Place, Watauga Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Beech Mountain Resort
    ‪44 min drive‬
  • Place, Sugar Mountain Resort
    ‪53 min drive‬
  • Airport, Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional)
    ‪61 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

1st Floor Family Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

2nd Floor Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

Back Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Front Bedroom

1 Double Bed

Primary Bedroom

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms

1st Floor Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

2nd Floor Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Primary Bathroom

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall at this Watauga Lake waterfront retreat, hosted by Watauga Lake Vacations. Nestled in a secluded cove, the property offers a private dock, hot tub, and fire pit surrounded by a tapestry of changing leaves. Enjoy the crisp autumn air from the wraparound porches, with breathtaking views of the lake and forest, Skipping Stones Getaway is perfect for relaxing in a swing or rocker as you take in the fall foliage.

Book with confidence by requesting our Virtual Tour, and know exactly what to expect when you arrive.

Rest, relax and play on Watuaga Lake! Enjoy the outdoor living spaces, take in the lake views, and watch the kids play in the quiet cove from the comfort of the wraparound porches. At the water, you will find room to fish, sunbathe, swim, or just unwind. Just outside the secluded cove is a large bay away from the main channel, perfect for water activities. Bring your boat and launch at the nearby Little Milligan boat ramp or rent a boat from a local marina and keep it docked in the boat slip during your stay. At the fire pit, kick back in the Adirondack chairs and roast s'mores, enjoy a picnic, or play some corn hole. Continue the fun after sunset when the string lights illuminate the backyard and dock into the evening hours.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 35
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Dock, stairways, areas without fall protection
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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
Guests are required to provide ID and sign a rental agreement within 48 hours of booking or within 4 hours if arrival is within 48 hours.
A security deposit HOLD is required and will be processed by the host on the Guest's Credit Card.
Check-in Instructions will not be provided until the photo ID, rental agreement, and security deposit are completed.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2935134vb
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 first aid kit
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

About the area

Butler

Located in Butler, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Watauga Lake and Watauga River reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
Map
Butler, TN

What's nearby

  • Watauga Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Beech Mountain Resort - 44 min drive - 45.4 km
  • Bristol Motor Speedway - 47 min drive - 64.5 km
  • Appalachian State University - 47 min drive - 56.4 km
  • Sugar Mountain Resort - 53 min drive - 66.6 km

Getting around

  • Tri-Cities, TN (TRI-Tri-Cities Regional) - 63 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Butler Trading Post - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪doe creek beverage - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Ha & Jj's Store Deli & Produce - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Maddy Moes Pizza - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Shirley's - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake?

As of 23 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake on 27 September 2026 start from NZ$2,707, 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 Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Skipping Stones Getaway - Hot Tub, Private Dock, & Fall Foliage at Watauga Lake located?

This family-friendly Butler holiday home is located on the waterfront, within a 10-minute walk of Watauga Lake and Watauga River. Fish Springs Marina and Lakeshore Marina are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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. 38 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Another Great Experience

My family and I stayed here for the third year in a row and we continue to have an amazing and relaxing experience. We would highly recommend!
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Wonderful!

First time renting through Watauga Lake Vacations. The rental process was a breeze and they were excellent at communication. The house was immaculate and well stocked. They have definitely put a lot of thought and effort into everything that is on site. We had a wonderful time enjoying our favorite lake and definitely hope to rent it again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful setting!
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home with everything you could want for a lake trip! Most of us did not leave the property the entire trip as there was so much to do. The weather was beautiful as well. Communication with the hosts was excellent and very prompt. A benefit that may not be obvious, or come to mind, is that the steps off the dock into the water was actually a staircase, rather than a ladder. This was so much easier for those of us who are not as young as we used to be! Thank you and we hope to return in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Amazing location and home

Such a beautiful place on Lake Watauga. Everything you need and more provided ! Thank you Watauga Lake Vacations for a great week
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Amazing location and home

Such a beautiful place on Lake Watauga. Everything you need and more provided ! Thank you Watauga Lake Vacations for a great werk
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean and well maintained. The outdoor area was excellent. The hot tub, corn hole, fire and dock made a fun and relaxing weekend!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Amazing Treasure!!!!

This was by far one of the best vacations that our family has ever taken!!! The lake house was clean, beautifully decorated, and stocked with everything we needed. The canoe and kayak were so fun to get out on the lake and enjoy, and the best part was that million dollar view of the lake; absolutely breathtaking!!! The owners and property managers were so welcoming and easy to contact. They checked in on us and even left supplies to make S'mores at the firepit. Everyone should experience this fantastic retreat. We will definitely be coming back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My husband and I had a wonderful time!! Very relaxing! The home was perfect and stocked with everything you need. Very clean inside and out. Would definitely go back again. We brought our boat to fish. The boat ramp was just down the road, very convenient. 10/10 property and communication with owners.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Our stay was perfect in every way.

Beautiful location and home. Lots of fun activities, equipment, and amenities. Hosts that are attentive and available.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Peaceful Perfection

We have stayed here more than once and will return. It is the best short-term rental we have found on Watauga Lake. Everything is provided and more. Clean, modern, comfortable, well-decorated, well-maintained, and well-equipped. The entire property is lovely. We always have a wonderful and relaxing stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely had the best time staying here. Everything you can want is here, the owners have thought of it all. The lake was incredible, with all the water toys provided. We played corn hole, enjoyed family nights by the fire. We celebrated our mom’s 80th birthday this week, what an excellent vacation rental, that had plenty of room for us all and made us feel at home. Thank you
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Great time bueatiful home.will make it a routine tri every year

Will recommend to family and friends
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best Watauga Visit to Date

We have visited this area many times after falling in love with Watauga Lake over 10 years ago. This was by far our best stay!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your amazing review! It means so much to hear that this was your best stay in over 10 years of visiting Watauga Lake. We’re thrilled we could make your trip so special and look forward to hosting you again for more unforgettable stays! Best, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Amazing place to relax and vacation!

Our entire family spent 5 days at Skipping Stones Getaway, and it couldn’t have been any better! Donovan and Christy have definitely gone that extra mile and thought of every possible thing that their guests may need during their stay! Highly recommend!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing Home

No detail went unnoticed! They thought of everything! From shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the showers to laundry detergent pods, to beach towels, to games for the kiddos! So many options for individuals or families to keep everyone engaged and having fun. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing trip!

What a wonderful family vacation. The property was immaculate and full of activities. Swimming, kayaking, fishing(caught a couple too), hiking, s’mores over the fire pit, home made pizzas, and more! We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your amazing review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a wonderful family vacation and enjoyed all the activities our property offers. From kayaking and fishing to s’mores by the fire pit and homemade pizzas, it sounds like you made the most of your stay! We can’t wait to welcome you back for more adventures and memories. Best, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

What an amazing place

Love this property, nice to be in mountains but always better on the lake . Property was well maintained and every little detail has been thought of . Would love to rent again, and maybe next time I’ll rent a boat to explore the lake . Last thing , top balcony off master bed is amazing, so many birds to listen to in the morning and views are just great .
Response from VrboOwner on 2 July 2024
We are so glad you had a great time! We love the balcony too. It is special to us. The slip at the dock is ready and awaiting your boat rental for next time. 😊
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

What an amazing place

Love this property, nice to be in mountains but always better on the lake . Property was well maintained and every little detail has been thought of . Would love to rent again, and maybe next time I’ll rent a boat to explore the lake . Last thing , top balcony off master bed is amazing, so many birds to listen to in the morning and views are just great .
Response from VrboOwner on 2 July 2024
We are so glad you had a great time! We love the balcony too. It is special to us. The slip at the dock is ready and awaiting your boat rental for next time. 😊
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Quiet

We had a very nice stay- house was well appointed and clean. They thought of every detail. Thank you
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your kind review, Dan! We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay and found the house clean, well-appointed, and thoughtfully prepared. It was our pleasure to host you, and we’d love to welcome you back in the future! Best wishes, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Relaxing and enjoyable vacation.

We loved staying at Skipping Stones. The views are amazing, and the home is beautiful. It was just the two of us, but it would be perfect for a whole family. We spent every morning on the lake with the paddle boats that are provided. Everything you need is at the house so once your there just sit back and relax and enjoy the beauty around you. We look forward to returning again...
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Excellent Stay - Was More than Advertised.

Everything was as described and even better than expected. Very clean; everything we needed was included. Felt like OUR vacation home. Quiet and nice neighbors. At the least the two we got to meet and talk to. The lake was excellent and very few boats even on the lake this time of year. No complaints at all.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear the property exceeded your expectations and felt like your very own vacation home. It’s great that you enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, friendly neighbors, and the tranquility of the lake. We’re thrilled everything you needed was provided, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another excellent stay! Best, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely Outstanding!!

I can not express enough how wonderful our short weekend stay at Skipping Stones Getaway was. The owners have thought of everything and made the check-in and check-out so simple. The amenities made the trip with our children even better. Watauga Lake was beautiful as always and God provided perfect weather for us. This home will not disappoint you if you are looking for a quiet, relaxing stay in the mountains!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your glowing review! We’re thrilled to hear your stay at Skipping Stones Getaway was absolutely outstanding. It’s wonderful to know the amenities made your trip with your children even better and that the check-in and check-out process was seamless for you. Watauga Lake is truly stunning, and we’re so glad you enjoyed perfect weather during your visit. We hope to welcome you back soon for another relaxing stay in the mountains! Best, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful home!

We were only in town for a few days so we did not get to utilize the outdoor space. It’s very clean has beautiful views. The master bathroom shower is awesome! I highly recommend renting a pontoon boat to explore Watauga Lake! You do not need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get to this home. It does have a gravel driveway. About 1 mile before you get to the home, the road narrows, use caution.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Post wedding family get together

Skipping Stones Getaway was a great spot to unwind. The house was ideal and had all of the amenities we could need. The thoughtful details layout and dock with all the toys made the week enjoyable. The cove was perfect for just tootling around on the kayaks, paddle board or canoe. And the size of the dock was great to catch rays or roam around. The home has just about everything you could ask for and then some. Overall a perfect spot to getaway and unwind.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 November 2024
Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re so glad Skipping Stones Getaway provided the perfect spot for your post-wedding family gathering. It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed the thoughtful details, well-equipped dock, and fun water toys for exploring the cove. We’re thrilled the house had everything you needed to unwind and make lasting memories. We’d love to welcome you back for another relaxing getaway! Best, Christie & Donaven Watauga Lake Vacations

About the host

Hosted by Christie & Donaven

Host profile image
Skipping Stones Getaway is proudly hosted by Watauga Lake Vacations, run by a three-member team: Christie and Donaven Braun, and John Malo. We’re all local residents who love calling the Watauga Lake area home, and we’re excited to share it with you. Christie and Donaven are both Realtors who know the region inside and out—and when we’re not working, you’ll often find us on the lake, hiking trails, riding bikes, or relaxing by a campfire. John, a 26-year U.S. Army combat veteran, brings unmatched reliability, hands-on skills, and a deep love for the outdoors. In his free time, he’s usually out fishing, tackling projects, or exploring Jeep trails. From the moment you book, we take a hands-on, personalized approach to ensure your stay is smooth, welcoming, and unforgettable—so you can relax, unplug, and fully enjoy your time at the lake.

Why they chose this property

Skipping Stones Getaway is a lakefront home that boasts an easily accessed private dock directly in front of the home, a flat back yard overlooking the lake and easy drive to the home. Unlike many vacation homes on Watauga Lake, this isn't a community access area, it is an exclusive private oasis in a quiet neighborhood of homeowners. Another great benefit of this property is that it is just a 3-minute drive down a paved road to your driveway. There are no steep drop offs or narrow gravel roads to navigate, and guests won't need a 4-wheel drive or SUV regardless of the weather. Any vehicle can easily access the property, helping to make this a prime, low stress destination. The best way to get around the lake is with a pontoon. If you're in a hurry, we recommend jet skis. If you're driving instead, leave some extra time as the roads follow the lake making for a scenic ride. Bear in mind, the locals are not in a hurry. Boone, NC is 39 minutes away; Johnson City, TN is just 38 minutes, and both are abundant with activities. Elizabethton is just a short 23 minute drive for quick dining, shopping, ice cream etc. In addition to all of the lake activities, guests can also enjoy the Appalachian Trail, Roan Mountain State Park, Sugar Hollow Retreat, a winery, and lots of snow skiing, tubing, and snowboarding options nearby. We provide guests with many local recommendations for activities, food and drink.

Skipping Stones Getaway is located off a well maintained 2-lane state highway. From there, you'll continue 3 minutes (0.9 miles) down an easily navigated 1-lane paved road. In the unlikely event you encounter another vehicle on this dead end road, there are plenty of places to pull off for passage. The home sits just 100 yards down a well maintained gravel driveway where you will find a large parking area with ample room to turn around. There is plenty of lighting for the parking area if arriving at the property after dark.

What makes this property unique

Watauga Lake waterfront getaway in secluded cove with private dock, hot tub, kayaks, canoe, paddleboard, paddle boat, fire pit, and private suite with garden tub & balcony. Enjoy the water view from the wraparound porches while you rock your worries away. Watch the sun set over the forest, float your way around the quiet cove, or venture out to explore over 180 miles of shoreline.

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