ENJOY!!! New electric FINNISH Sauna!! Fish of our deep water dock!! Frisbee Golfing on site, a firepit, and magical gardens are just a few of the amenities provided at LAKEFRONT Cabin: Hot Tub, Finnish Sauna, Kayaks, Paddleboards, Private Dock & Gardens -OWLS NEST Deep Creek. Active travelers can enjoy bicycling, kayaking, and boating at this cabin. For some rest and relaxation, visit the Hot Tub and electric Finnish Sauna. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, and guests can find other amenities such as a private playground and laundry facilities.
WELCOME TO THE OWLS NEST: A UNIQUE DEEP CREEK LAKE MOUNTAIN GETAWAY - GREAT FOR COUPLES
Wellness at its Best! Outdoor Adventure, Relaxation, and Unique Amenities for All Ages. Hot Tub, electric Finnish Sauna, Kayaks, Paddleboards, Whimsical Trails & Reading Retreats, and Family-Friendly Comfort.
Experience an idyllic romantic retreat at the Owls Nest, a charming lakefront cabin nestled among towering oaks and maples on the serene shores of Deep Creek Lake, Maryland. This cozy, artsy home offers the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and relaxation for families, couples, and seniors seeking a memorable mountain escape. PETS ARE NOT PERMITTED.
UNMATCHED LAKEFRONT EXPERIENCE Step onto your private deep water dock with your morning coffee, cast a line to fish, or simply soak in the tranquil beauty of the lake. The property offers deep water access all year round, perfect for swimming and boating. Six kayaks, two canoes, and two stand-up paddleboards are provided free of charge for your enjoyment. Life jackets in various sizes are available for guests’ use, though bringing your own is recommended, especially for children. Enjoy stunning sunsets directly from the hot tub or while relaxing by the dock.
WHIMISICAL OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Embark on unique, family-friendly adventures along the Owls Nest whimsical garden trails, including the enchanting "Alice in Wonderland" Storybook woodland path, the "Hidden Garden" Frog Path, and the Beatles-themed Maze Trail. Visit the “Hidden Corner,” a stone hamlet with creative stone cottages and charming elf guardians. Children will love the private outdoor play structure with a slide, swing, and basketball hoop, along with a variety of lawn games like frisbee golf, ladder golf, corn hole, Axe Throwing, croquet, and chess, checkers. Some of these adventures are not completely available during winter (December-March).
WINTER FUN: We provide sleds for fun in the snow. Local parks have cross country skis and snowshoes available to rent. Tubing and downhill skiing is availble five miles away at the Wisp Ski Resort.
READING RETREATS: READAWAYS & READING NOOKS Discover the pleasure of a true Reading Retreat at the Owls Nest. Throughout the cabin and grounds, you'll find inviting reading nooks and cozy spaces designed for book lovers of all ages: * Outoor Reading Nooks: Curl up with a favorite book on the porch swing overlooking the lake, walk the MAZE and meditate on its tree swing, unwind on an Adirondack chair in the shade, relax in our hammock nestled among the trees or take a break on the garden benches on the trails. * Indoor Readaways: Enjoy plush seating by the warm glow and convenience of a propane stove where you can watch the flames dance without the hassle of gathering wood. Settle into a quiet corner with with a good book or a warm beverage and natural light streaming in. Enjoy the free hot chocolate, cider, and candy and popcorn provided as ammenities at the Owls Nest. Each space is thoughtfully arranged to inspire relaxation and reflection. * Reading Retreat Amenities: A selection of books for all ages is provided, including local history, mysteries and kid's stories and a large library of Alice in Wonderland books and DVD's. Whether you prefer reading under the stars or by a warm glow indoors, the Owls Nest offers the perfect sanctuary to lose yourself in a good book
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE FOR ALL AGES The Owls Nest is thoughtfully designed to accommodate guests of all ages. Seniors will appreciate the level lawn and flat, paved driveway, while the playground and indoor/outdoor games make it truly kid-friendly and bicycle friendly. The home is not rated wheelchair accessible due to door widths but does offer a ramp for entry; accessibility details and pictures are available upon request.
COZY, ARTSY AMBIANCE Immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the Owls Nest. Handcrafted wood carvings by the owner’s family add a unique, artsy flair throughout the cabin and grounds. Dine under the covered deck, unwind in comfortable Adirondack chairs, relax in our hammock, read a book on the swing, or gather around the firepit for s’mores with complimentary ingredients and dry firewood provided.
MODERN AMENITIES AND THOUGHTFUL EXTRAS * Keyless entry with a code to the cabin * Electric Finnish Sauna - 4 person, and Hot Tub-6 person • Free high-speed Wi-Fi, PC, and extended cable TV • Smart TVs and streaming devices in every room, • Fully equipped kitchen with All-Clad cookware, stainless steel appliances, regular and K-Cup coffee makers, icemaker fridge • Propane gas grill on the deck, Excellent drinking water • Modern bathroom, washer/dryer, and new water/sewer hookups • Heating, air conditioning, fans, and a propane gas stove for year-round comfort • Complimentary coffee basket, complimentary cocoa bar, and a selection of wood puzzles, games, DVDs, and a SNES Classic Edition gaming system for rainy weather enertainment. * PRE-ARRIVAL - Owls Nest Guides: Maps, Hiking Trail Directions, Restaurants, Local Information, Events - to help with planning your trip.
IMPECCABLE CLEANLINESS AND CARE The Owls Nest is renowned for its exceptional cleanliness, with all Lands End linens—including bed covers, blankets, and quilts—washed between every rental. The hot tub water is changed for each new guest, and both the home and hot tub are meticulously maintained by the owner, who is licensed in Maryland for commercial hot tub operation. Cleaning fees are included in your nightly rate. Before guests arrive, after cleaning, rooms are misted with 4% hydrogen peroxite sanitizer.
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND SAVINGS • Free access for up to six guests to the Community Aquatic Recreation Center, featuring a modern gym and full-size indoor pools. Closes for 5 days during March for yearly cleaning and on actual day of some holidays. • Basic toiletries, soaps, paper products, trash bags, and three starter bundles of firewood provided • All outdoor recreation equipment included in your stay—no need to rent or bring your own Kayaks, Canoes, Paddleboards.
PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND FAMILIES Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a romantic getaway, or bringing the whole family for a lakeside adventure, the Owls Nest offers the comfort and amenities you need for a carefree vacation. The cabin sleeps up to four guests and is located on a quiet peninsula with no through traffic, ensuring privacy and peace. The cabin has empty lot on one side and trees on the other for privacy.
AREA ATTRACTIONS AND SEASONAL ACTIVITIES Located in the desirable Penel Acres neighborhood, you’re just minutes from Swallow Falls State Park, Fork Run Recreation Area, Wisp Ski Resort, and all the shops and restaurants along Garrett Highway. In winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at nearby Wisp Resort—just seven miles away. The level driveway and level access road are plowed in winter, but four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles or snow tires are recommended during snowy months in Garrett County.
IMPORTANT NOTES • PETS ARE NOT PERMITTED. • Guests are limited to four due to cabin size. • Clothing and food are all you need to bring—everything else is provided! • Dock is available from March 15, 2026 to estimated November 15-December 1, 2026 - subject to weather; a kayak launcher adjoins the dock. * Some onsite Trail decor removed during winter (Late November-March) * Kayaks and canoes can be launched year-round. • 14% tax (6% Maryland + 8% Garrett County) is collected by VRBO.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE OWLS NEST Come create lasting memories at this five-star reviewed, rare-find cabin at Deep Creek Lake. Enjoy comfort, creativity, and adventure—your perfect mountain/lake vacation awaits!
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Important information
You need to know
Property # 603401vb
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
About the area
McHenry
Located on the waterfront, this cabin is in Penelacres, a neighbourhood in McHenry. While the natural beauty of Deep Creek Lake and Deep Creek Lake State Park can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Wisp Resort.
Travelling with kids? Consider Funland, or check out an event or a game at Adventure Sports Center International. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the ice skating and sledging.
Deep Creek Lake State Park - 30 min drive - 24.6 km
Coopers Rock State Forest - 58 min drive - 74.7 km
Getting around
Morgantown, WV (MGW-Morgantown Municipal) - 63 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 20 min drive
Burger King - 19 min drive
Wispers Mountainside Bar - 18 min drive
Casselman Bakery and Café - 20 min drive
UNO Pizzeria & Grill - 20 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Lakefront Cabin, Finnish Sauna, Kayaks, Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL?
As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lakefront Cabin, Finnish Sauna, Kayaks, Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL on 4 July 2026 start from NZ$812, 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.
Is Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Lakefront Cabin, Kayaks, Sauna, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Gardens - OWLS NEST, DCL located?
This family-friendly McHenry cabin is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Deep Creek Lake and Youghiogheny Wild River Natural Environmental Area. Lower Deep Creek Heritage Conservation Fund Site and Youghiogheny River are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very clean, comfortable bed, cozy interior. We fully enjoyed our stay and all the fun anemities. Dave and Pearle set us up with everything we needed including guides to area sites to see! The grounds are so charming and takes you back to your childhood! Absolutely will visit Owls Nest again!
This was our 3rd time staying in the Owls Nest Cabin and once again it was a wonderful experience. The cabin is so cozy and the perfect size for our family of 4. We spent a good amount of time relaxing on the dock and enjoying the many outdoor activities. The hosts are so kind and answer questions almost immediately. I would recommend this cabin to anyone and we hope to come again!
The hosts are great; helpful and accommodating. We've stayed in this cabin several times over the years and have always loved the location and cabin. We highly recommend it!
I had a pleasant stay for four nights in Owl's Nest. I was up in the area to ski at Wisp. The "back way" to and from the resort made the drive only about 10 minutes or so. The cabin is stocked with everything that one could possibly need. The hot tub was great!
The hosts were very welcoming and provided a lot on their property to do for our weekend. The amenities were top notch and I could have brought my kids and they would have had a blast. Absolutely would stay here again, and plan to in the future.
Everything about this home is great! The location, scenery, amenities, the host checked in on us to make sure everything was good! It felt like home away from home! Very comfortable. We even used the hot tub on the chilly evenings! I would highly recommend this home for anyone or any family.
We loved our stay at Owl’s Nest! The cabin had everything we needed and more. It was clean, comfy and had great views. The owners provided all the comforts of home and lots of information about things to do in the area. We plan to go back.
A trully majical experience. The cabin was clean, well stocked for all of our everyday household needs, and felt like a home away from home. We wish we could have stayed longer and hope to visit again soon!!
The host was welcoming and quick to respond by text to any questions. The amenities were outstanding including a s'mores packet and coffee bar. The location on the lake can't be beat. The quality of the cookware and utensils is remarkable, heads and shoulders above other vacation rentals. The beds were so comfortable we drifted off to sleep in no time. Its an older cabin with plenty of supplemental heat sources to ward off any chills.
I can't sing enough praise for Pearl and Dave. I felt so welcome from the first time booking my stay, up until the time we left. I most definitely will book again. They have everything you need on the property.
Hosts were very helpful and responsive. They sent copious information regarding the Owl's Nest and the area ahead of our arrival. The cabin was very comfortable (comfortable bed and fluffy towels), very clean and even dcorated for Christmas. I cooked Christmas day and found everything I needed in the well-stocked kitchen. Thank you, Dave & Pearle, for helping us have a memorable visit.
We loved our stay at the Owl’s Nest. Our teens particularly enjoyed the hot tub, which was clean and ready for us when we arrived. Enjoyed a gorgeous sunset while kayaking on the lake — everything we needed was right there and easy to access. Thanks to Pearl & Dave for leaving the gift of s’mores supplies! Took no time to get the fire pit going. It was a wonderful and very relaxed family time for us this winter. Can imagine it’d be even better in the summer. Highly recommend.
Jennifer N.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lisa
20 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
The rooms were very clean and provided everything we could possibly need. The hot tub was wonderful and very clean. The cabin was very cozy and comfortable. I felt like I was home. ❤️
Lisa
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
About the host
Hosted by David and Pearle Howell
Come kayak with us. We leave 4 kayaks, 2 canoes, and 2 paddle boards for your use. We have had many happy travelers visit the Owls Nest and enjoy our quiet cove. My Canadian wife gets her skiing 'fix' at nearby Wisp. Our Canadian hobbies of wood carving and playing bagpipes show up in our decor of family made wood carvings, and bagpiper Christmas trees. We personally maintain and clean the home before and after each booking. We have many years of experience renting the Owls Nest. We try to be flexible with move-in and move-out times.
Why they chose this property
We bought this property because of the western exposure of the lakefront, location at the end of a peninsula with no drive-thru traffic, and clean, deep lake water on a quiet cove. The property is four miles from Lodestone and 6 miles from Wisp Ski Resort and offers year-round enjoyment. The lakefront location is perfect for all water sports. Our cove is out of the lake boat traffic. We provide canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and life jackets to use at your own risk. Deepwater off our own dock is suitable for swimming and diving. Renters can dock boat(s), trailer parking on site.
What makes this property unique
Our intent is “safer than home”. • Our property is our own separate lot, yard, decks, docks and hot tub • Our dock is not shared with anybody. Use of our four kayaks, two canoes, two paddle boards is year round. Dock must be out of water December 1 - April 1. • Our outdoor fire pit has starter bundle of firewood for your use. • The Owls Nest has a private play structure, which is pressure washed often. • Our hot tub water is fully (usually), or partially, changed with every rental. Owners have MD Commercial Pool/Hot Tub license. Instead of continually adding chemicals, we change water. We have changed to a more positive sanitizing schedule, based on bromine and dichlor based shock. Safe lane for young bikers.
Between renters…… The cabin is completely misted inside with 4% Hydrogen Peroxide as renter leaves.. • All bedding is washed, between renters, not just sheets. • CDC cleaning guidance is being followed. We sanitize All surfaces, including leather sofas, chairs, dressers, tables with Lysol. • Bathroom and kitchen appliances, All remotes, TV, DVD, fans, heaters/ AC, phone, computer monitor, keyboard and mouse are wiped with Lysol • We have our own dry foam carpet cleaner, at the cabin. The hour before the new renter comes in, the cabin, is misted again with 4 % hydrogen peroxide. All surfaces are re-fogged, with 4% hydrogen peroxide.
Local Restaurants now offer eat in, take- out and delivery. Outdoor eating is now common. Grocery stores in McHenry and Oakland (Walmart) have abundant food. Deep Creek Beveridge liquor store has a drive through and inside sales.. State parks are accessible for hiking. The Owls Nest allows you a safe, space and satisfying recreational activity, without having to having to engage in risky interpersonal contact.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests