Cabin

A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River!

Photo gallery for A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River!

The cabin as you drive up to it.
Cabin is in forest above the beach shown here.
A portion of our deck showing proximity to the river, a "stones throw".
The fully supplied kitchen. A long padded bench at right sleeps 2-3 people.
The bedroom and half bath in upstairs loft.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1+ bathroomSleeps 683.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pool
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Crescent City, CA
  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Beachfront Park
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Trees of Mystery
    ‪50 min drive‬
  • Crescent City, CA (CEC-Del Norte County)
    ‪34 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River!

This is a vacation spot you will want to return to. Our cabin is in a beautiful setting, perched above the wild and scenic South Fork Smith River surrounded by beautiful forest. The peacefulness of this river environment will linger with you for months.

Relax in sun or shade on our large deck complete with nice furniture, or lounge on the edge of the river with an exquisite view of our beautiful swimming hole from the stone patio area. An amazing stone stairway winds down to a magnificent sandy beach, where you can sunbathe, wade or swim in the pristine waters of the Smith. The clear green water of this famous river will soothe your soul.

Enjoy regular sightings of Dippers, Kingfishers, Mergansers, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, an occasional Bald Eagle or River Otter. Mask and snorkel open a world of small salmon and trout fingerlings, large Cutthroat Trout, and an occasional large Spring Chinook Salmon.

Our cabin is a very comfortable A-frame which was completely remodeled in 2004. It features a very nice open kitchen fully supplied with everything you will need to prepare a feast. The floors are wood/laminate, with three large rugs.

A large bathroom has a shower/tub combination and large sink. A nice river rock hearth holds a wood stove to warm you, with firewood provided. A nice carpeted loft upstairs has a comfortable queen size bed and half bath, accessed by a spiral staircase.

Under one angled wall of the main floor is a nice sleeping bunk area with covered foam pads and storage underneath, suitable for sleeping bags for two or three. A set of three pads can be made into a queen sized bed on the floor. During spring and summer some people enjoy sleeping on the deck or pitching a tent outside for larger groups.

The campfire area just off the deck is a wonderful place to enjoy an evening of storytelling. Don't forget the marshmallows!

Keywords: Cabin

Property manager

Joe and Sally Gillespie
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 3 total)
$10/night fee charged for all pets.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
A $20 fee will be charged to those who do not separate recyclables and compost.
No campfires without permission from owners

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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

Crescent City

Located in Crescent City, this cabin is on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Redwood National and State Parks and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Crescent City, CA

What's nearby

  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park - 22 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Redwood Heritage State Wilderness - 23 min drive - 16.5 km
  • Beachfront Park - 31 min drive - 32.0 km
  • Crescent City Harbor - 33 min drive - 33.5 km
  • Trees of Mystery - 50 min drive - 56.7 km

Getting around

  • Crescent City, CA (CEC-Del Norte County) - 34 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River! have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total).

What time is check-in at A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is A Beautiful Vacation Awaits You on the Emerald Smith River! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Del Norte Coast Redwood State Park and within 12 miles (20 km) of Redwood National and State Parks and Smith River. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and Redwood Heritage State Wilderness are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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. 174 out of 191 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 191 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 191 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 191 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 191 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin M.

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

Great Place to Get Away

If you are looking for a place to stay as a jumping off point to all the redwood forests, this cabin is what you want. Wonderful hosts that can point you in the right direction for places to go and a friendly dog to greet you when you return from a day of hiking and sightseeing. Get a taste of off grid living without having to fully commit to moving to the mountains.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Skylar

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

For a romantic setting, the A-frame cabin knocks it out of the park

I hadn't seen my girlfriend in months -- I'd been working internationally, sometimes going without refrigeration for weeks at a time -- so I was looking for a romantic spot that wouldn't involve too much roughing it. This cabin far exceeded my expectations. Outside, the redwoods formed a kind of garrison around you, a cushion from the outside world. Inside, the furnishings are super comfy and the appearance is right on the nose. Our host welcomed me warmly and his orientation to the systems was detail-oriented and easy to follow. It's easy to care about this place and to do right by the people who tend it year round. We found it easy to forget everything outside the park and lose ourselves in catching up and reconnecting. This is the spot. We loved it. You will, too.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard B.

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

A Little Slice of Heaven

My spouse and I reside in San Diego, and we chose to take a Christmas roadtrip to see the Redwoods. Seeing the Redwoods had been on our bucket list for some time. We wanted to take this time to disconnect from the world for a bit and reconnect to each other. From the moment we found this listing on Vrbo, I guess you can say it was love at first sight. And from the moment we pulled up to the cabin, we knew we made the right decision. Joe and Nellie greeted us when we pulled up and made us feel welcomed. Nellie as greeted us every day when returned from exploring the park. The cabin was fully furnished. All we had to provide was food for the week. Unfortunately, it rained most of our stay, so we were not able to utilize the amazing back porch next to the Smith River. But we did not let the rain ruin our visit. And hearing the rain on the roof at night made for some of the best sleep. I guess the only con I can come up with is that we had to leave. I would absolutely recommend staying here to any one. We will be returning again in the near future.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pete C.

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

Redwoods River Homestead

Our small family just had an amazing stay here. The gorgeous crystal clear Smith River is visible/walkable from the back porch, and this is a *perfect* home base location to see the Redwoods in the prime JS area. Joe the host was super friendly and let us use his canoe on the beautiful river, we had a little campfire out back and he has an active orchard/garden going on. Joe pressed some apples and gave us a jug of apple juice that was unforgettable! They also had a Golden Retriever dog Nellie that visited the boys every day. Just make sure to send a message to the host a week or two before you arrive.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shasta D.

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

Great Off Grid Aframe

We absolutely loved it, we didn't know it was a off grid place, but it was fun to just unplug no phone no TV no nothing
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brad S.

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

Great visit.

Nice. Quiet. Lovely stay. Host was extremely helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ann S.

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

gorgeous river setting

This was a great place to get truly off-the-grid! Open floor plan w loft gorgeous swimming hole w paddle board to use and beautiful madrone trees I would definitely return!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

John W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ellen v.

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

Great little cabin

Beautiful cabin, great location for beautiful redwood drives and hikes on the gorgeous Smith River. Very nice hosts who can offer recommendations on things to see. Stairs to the bed are a little funky and no WiFi in cabin.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan H.

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

Wonderful home, wonderful hosts!

Our stay in the A-frame was fantastic. We loved it all... the atmosphere of the landscaping, a house with great vibes, and a ridiculously beautiful river. It was a truly peaceful (and cozy) getaway, one that left us wanting more. And on top of all that, Joe showed us warmth and kindness from the minute we arrived to the moment we left. This is a seriously special place!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

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

Amazing!!!

We experienced a little slice of paradise in this sweet cabin on the Smith River: Awesome swimming hole, cozy comfortable, and peaceful. We will return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Sigrid H.

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

Awesome location overlooking the river

Absolutely loved the location and quietness of the cabin. Cabin is off grid as described and Wifi is spotty, but you might be glad for it, as staying there will make you want to unwind. Bed was comfortable, bathroom dated but clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa A.

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

Perfect romantic getaway

This spot is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. We spent the whole week enjoying all the South Fork has to offer. Thank you Joe & Sally. We can’t wait for our next visit.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

carlton c.

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

Great off-grid getaway

The property is right along the smith river. The location is beautiful with plenty of outdoor activities nearby. If you are looking for a getaway with yons of natural wonders, then this is the place.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

ERIKA N.

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

Great time, rain or shine

We loved our stay here—the beautiful river, friendly hosts, and the cabin was just perfect! The sleeping bunks are generously sized and there bed in the loft was super comfortable. We really enjoyed all the area has to offer, wish we had stayed longer. It was also such a relief to be out of cell service for a while. Hope we can return again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter C.

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

Cabin in Paradise

We enjoyed three days at this location while on a western road trip. Joe and Sally were excellent to stay with. They pointed us in the right direction for the best experience. This property is absolutely beautiful. Joe’s stone work is amazing. If we ever make it back to this part of the world, we will stay here again. Thanks for making our stay great!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

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

Couples retreat

This trip did not disappoint! The serenity, tranquil nature surrounding this rental was so beautiful. The hikes were majestic and breathtaking. Thank you Sally and Joe for making our stay comfortable and welcoming.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas K.

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

One of the best places on the Smith River!

Like paradise located on the bluff above the beautiful South Fork Smith River. Feels wild yet just a short drive to all the great Del Norte sights. Beautiful A-Frame with all the comforts of home. We had friends for Thanksgiving dinner and prepared a huge meal in the full kitchen. Joe and Sally (and Nelly the wonder dog!) are the perfect hosts. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy C., Eureka, Ca

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

Sweet cabin on the Smith River

Great spot. We had a very quick trip, and the entire trip made a huge impression. Thank you Joe, Sally and Nelly, for sharing your special place, what an absolute treat. Every detail is covered, like a wood burning fire awaiting our arrival on a cold rainy night. It was hard to leave...until next time. Cheers
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

William D.

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

Quaint Getawat

Really cute cabin. Definitely a place to go and unplug from the world for a little bit. Owners were very communocative keeping us up to date on what's happening in the area and offered a lot of suggestions for our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pamela R.

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

Beautiful, remote, riverfront property

This beautiful property location did not disappoint! It was everything I was hoping it would be, and the hosts, Sally and Joe, were very accommodating, even allowing us to shift our 4 night stay dates up a day. We had unusual circumstances, being that our booking ended up landing during the middle of the Smith River Complex Fire, with Del Norte County shutting down power to the entire county. We fared well, however, in Sally and Joe's cabin -- they are equipped to operate "off the grid" and we continued to have power throughout our 4 day stay. Thank you for your hospitality, Sally and Joe, and for your efforts to maintain our safety and comfort during what was likely a very stressful time for you during the fire. Hoping all continues to be well with you and praying that you and your home remain out of harm's way!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

JoAnna C., Portland Oregon

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

Smith River Paradise!

This was our third time here and it was amazing as always. You can't beat the swimming hole and beauty and tranquility of the property. And, of course, Nelly, the sweetest dog!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deirdre W., Winnabow, NC

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

When can we go back?!??

This was the BEST vacation my family’s experienced in quite some time! Visiting the Pacific Northwest has always been on our “bucket list” but we were overwhelmed with it ALL! Our 16 yo daughter literally described this as a dream vacation and asked if we could just leave her behind! Being in the middle of nature, overlooking the Smith River, and seeing EVERY SINGLE STAR in the night sky was more than any of us could have hoped for! Our daily greetings and company with Nelly were the cherry on the top! We had some lovely talks with Joe, he is a super cool guy! The “living off the grid” thing was certainly a new experience for us, but it was great and exactly what we needed to calm down & refocus. We cannot recommend this place enough!!! Absolutely wonderful!!! Just trying to figure out when we can get back!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elaine H.

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

Cozy solitud

Fabulous river spot with a cozy cabin. Very clean and quiet. We loved being off grid, playing board games, reading on the deck, star gazing at night in the reclining lawn chairs. Would be ideal for a couple with one/two small kids although I wouldn't recommend it for toddlers due to the spiral staircase to the loft with no railing. Kids 5 - 12 are probably best for this spot. We would love to visit again, we had a fabulous time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

John P.

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

Beautiful Smith River

The property was amazing. Joe and wife are amazing hosts. Their house is located on the same property but they gave us our privacy. The sandy beach swimming hole just down from the cabin was awesome. We loved being "off grid" with no wifi, tv, cell service, or microwave. All of the remote hiking trails in the area are gorgeous and Joe was able to gelp us with that too. Our dogs had a great time playing with Nellie and it was so cute how she came to greet us every morning or when we had returned to the cabin. It is 30 minutes from Crescent City so you have the forest and ocean at your fingertips. We would love to return. The spiral staircase to the loft is super cute but dont recommend for someone that has bad knees the same with the steep rock staircase down to the swimming hole.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

About the host

Hosted by Joe and Sally Gillespie

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests