Entire cabin

Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River

Photo gallery for Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River

A two-story wooden house with a covered patio, outdoor seating, and a small deck. - Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin
A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River (Johnson City)
Property video
A covered wooden corridor with a concrete floor, wooden walls, and a view of greenery outside. - Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin
A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River (Johnson City)
A rustic wooden cabin with a covered porch, surrounded by trees. - Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin
A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River (Johnson City)
A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, a ceiling fan, and a door with windows. - Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin
A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River (Johnson City)
Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River provides amenities, such as a firepit and laundry facilities. Adventurous travellers may like the kayaking at this cabin. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

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About this property

Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River

  • The Laurels Cabin

    A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River

    The Laurels Cabin is part of our unique rustic lodge, designed to resemble an old-fashioned horse barn. The lodge consists of three private cabins situated on five beautiful acres with more than 600 feet of frontage along the Watauga River, conveniently located between Johnson City and Elizabethton, Tennessee.

    Located upstairs in the lodge, the Laurels offers more than 600 square feet of comfortable living space and is perfect for couples, small families, fishermen, or anyone looking for a relaxing getaway on the river.

    The cabin comfortably accommodates 2–4 guests and features a queen bed, a comfortable Catnapper sofa, a full bathroom, a cozy living area, and a fully equipped kitchen. The living room also includes a queen-size sleeper sofa that can comfortably sleep two additional guests.

    Everything You Need for a Comfortable Stay

    We want you to arrive, settle in, and start enjoying your time on the river. All linens are provided, so all you need to bring are your personal belongings and your favorite food and drinks.

    The kitchen is fully equipped with dishes, cookware, a coffee maker, toaster, microwave, and other essentials needed to prepare meals during your stay.

    The Laurels also features a gas fireplace, air conditioning, ceiling fans, and a flat-screen TV with Spectrum streaming. Guests have access to our central laundry facility as well as our shared outdoor cookhouse.

    The cookhouse is a favorite gathering spot and features a gas grill, charcoal grill, and gas griddle—perfect for cooking breakfast before heading out for the day or enjoying dinner after an afternoon on the river.

    Some of East Tennessee's Finest Trout Fishing

    One of the things that makes the Laurels truly special is its location right on the banks of the beautiful Watauga River.

    This section of the Watauga is well known for its exceptional trout fishing and is part of Tennessee's Quality Trout Zone. The river is home to rainbow, brown, and brook trout, along with several species of bass and other fish.

    Whether you're an experienced fly fisherman, trying trout fishing for the first time, or simply want to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the river, you'll have one of East Tennessee's most beautiful waterways just outside your door.

    Close to Everything, Yet Away From It All

    The Laurels offers a peaceful riverside setting while still being conveniently located approximately 10 minutes from both Johnson City and Elizabethton.

    We're also within easy driving distance of Roan Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, and Hawksnest, making the Laurels a wonderful home base for exploring the mountains, hiking, skiing, sightseeing, and enjoying all that Northeast Tennessee and the surrounding area have to offer.

    After a day of fishing or exploring, come back to the cabin, prepare dinner at the cookhouse, and unwind beside the Watauga.

    Whether you're planning a fishing trip, romantic getaway, mountain adventure, or simply a peaceful escape, the Laurels Cabin offers a comfortable and inviting place to experience the beauty of East Tennessee.

    We have additional cabins available at Watauga River Cabins. Please contact us for availability and rates.

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Firepit
  • Gas grill

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 600 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

All dogs must be on flea control. Limit 2 dogs per cabin. Sorry, no cats.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Well behaved, non aggressive dogs are welcome.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Johnson City, this cabin is in the city centre and on the waterfront. Carter Mansion and Tipton-Haynes Historic Site are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Sycamore Shoals State Park and Watauga River. Johnson City Family Skatecenter and Lakeshore Marina are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging. Visit our Johnson City travel guide
View more Cabin rentals in Johnson City
Map
Johnson City, TN

What's nearby

  • An elk in a forested area with a river.
    Winged Deer Park
    18 min drive - 9.2 miles
  • A race track with cars and a crowd of spectators.
    Bristol Motor Speedway
    31 min drive - 21.0 miles
  • Watauga River
    3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • East Tennessee State University
    13 min drive - 7.3 miles
  • Johnson City Mall
    15 min drive - 9.2 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • McDonald's
    12 min drive
  • Papa John's Pizza
    11 min drive
  • Penny Man's Diner
    10 min drive
  • The Lemon Lab
    14 min drive
  • Jersey Mike's Subs
    9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River located?

Located in the heart of Johnson City, this cabin is steps from Watauga River and within 6 mi (10 km) of Sycamore Shoals State Park and Sycamore Shoals Hospital. Tweetsie Trail Trailhead and Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Reviews

Watauga River Cabins-Laurels Cabin A Cozy Riverside Cabin on the Watauga River Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6

Cleanliness

10

Location

10

Staff & service

9.0

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 194 out of 223 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 223 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 223 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 223 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 223 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property and still close drive to lots of restaurants. We loved staying steps away from the serene river and just a short drive (under 20 minutes) to shopping, dining and hiking options.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Laurels cabin was just what we were looking for. Clean and quiet location. Kitchen was well stocked. We could have sat down by the river all day. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin is amazing.great location . Beautiful grounds.We will definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sweet apartment. Loved the furnishings. Need was a little hard for my liking but i got sleep. Wonderful amenities on the property! Would love it anytime of year!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing stay

Enjoyed our stay. Beautiful, clean, accommodations had everything we could possibly need.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Place to Stay!

Enjoyed time with family! Great location and place to spend a peaceful weekend away!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Incredible property right on the Watauga. Allows you to get away and relax in a secluded property while still being 10-15 minutes away from Johnson City or Elizabethton.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and property! The place was clean with a grill, blackstone and charcoal grill. Nice fire pit and firewood! Very serene and peaceful will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved our stay at the Watauga River Cabins. I was very impressed with the property. Some of my favorite features were the fire pit area/common area, the river and ease of access in & out of the property. I plan to stay here for the Bristol Night Race again in the future!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

TN Vacation

A convenient place to stay and fish the Watauga river and the South Holsten river.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful Getaway

Great stay! We so enjoyed the nature all around us! Very peaceful. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great week in East Tennessee

Nice place next to the river and close to wonderful outdoor activities.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Very Peaceful Place to Stay

I was in town to visit my son and daughter-in-law. I loved how peaceful and quiet it was and felt very safe staying there by myself. Loved not having to stay in a hotel!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Fantastic relaxing stay on the river!!

Had an incredible stay. We usually venture into Johnson City to hang out and dine, but didn’t want to stay away from the house. A very clean relaxing place!! Will def be back
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing

This is our second stay at Watauga River Cabins/Laurels Cabin. We love the atmosphere, and location. Very peaceful and relaxing!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Fly Fishing Retreat

Our flyfishing club members booked 4 units of the beautiful property, providing each person with comfortable privacy and plenty of spaces for indoors and outside group socializing.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Peaceful days by the river

This is our 4th stay at these nicely decorated, comfortable cabins. (They also have everything you need.) We had a relaxing 3 days with a lovely picnic on the deck, fly fishing on the river, and a hike at Sycamore Shoals.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Comfort!

Highly recommend these Cabins, the location is great, so many things to do there and within a short drive. Kiddos had a blast and played outside almost all day! The river is beautiful to wake up to and enjoy a cup of coffee with.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Convenient to fish the S Holston and Watauga Rivers

Great location on the watauga River in a country setting. Unique cabin, with Everything needed for our stay. Enjoyed a relaxing evening by the outdoor fire pit. Will likely stay there again next year. There are also two new mini-splits which made it very comfortable when the overnight temp dipped into the low 30’s
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Weekend getaway

We enjoyed our stay in Laurels Cabin. The property is very laid back and relaxing. We did have an issue at check-in but the property manager was very responsive and quick to resolve the issue. Very unique property!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy and quiet.

This is a great place to stay for your trip to Johnson City and surrounding areas. Be advised that each cabin is actually more like a cabin apartment. But it didn't detract from our stay at all. Its clean and cozy. Staying right on the bank of the river is very relaxing. Sunrises are stunning!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Favorite place to stay

Me and My family always enjoy staying at this location We stay maybe twice a year . Only suggestion needs a little up date on somethings. Outside wood needs staining . Order than that I absolutely love staying here. .
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

The upstairs one bedroom was great although the steps took some effort. The open living room, kitchen and dining room gave plenty of room to spread out. The porches on each end really added a nice touch as well as the fire pit and stack of fire wood. The walkway to the creek was well done and gave easy access. There was nothing to really complain about but I would mention the water pressure was not high even when we were the only ones staying but the hot water was truly and pleasantly hot. We will be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Tri-Cities

Lovely peaceful setting on the river, quiet country setting. Access to surrounding towns was easy and I appreciated the list of businesses you provided. The views from the balconies were great as well. Managing the stairs with luggage was a bit challenging. Would be nice if owners could build out a bit of a landing zone at door height for luggage to sit on while you open the door. That was such a tiny part of the visit, it wouldn’t prevent me from staying again though. Overall I enjoyed the setting and the stay.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lovely Getaway

It is so beautiful by the river it’s impossible to stay in the room. We played corn hole, horseshoes, tether ball, board games on the deck. We sat on the deck overlooking the river and talked. We love a fire so really enjoyed the fire pit area. We hated to leave, however, we live close by so we plan on making your place our weekend getaway as much as we can. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024