Rustic, All-Wood Sierra Cabin in the Woods Near Arnold\/Bear Valley
About this cabin rental
Located in Dorrington, this lovely cabin for £124 per night is a fantastic choice for your next vacation. Mountain House is located at 5,200 feet only minutes from the Stanislaus River, Lake Alpine, and the Bear Valley Ski Area. Nestled on a 1/2 acre lot with large cedars and fir trees you in the forest overlooking the woods yet only minutes from recreation that includes downhill skiing in the winter, kayaking, and canoeing in the summer, swimming, and always great hiking. Our wonderful cabin has high ceilings, an all-wood interior, and new wood-like laminate flooring and carpeting throughout the bedrooms and loft. This is our family cabin for the last 30 years. And has 80-year-old snow shoes on the wall. My kids grew up coming here and now my grandkids love it. It's beautiful and quiet and the season changes are amazing. Please, do not expect a five-star hotel here. We keep it rustic, basic with a few amenities. If you love old California, this place is for you. The peaceful and beautiful surroundings of the Mountain House cabin make it a great retreat from the San Francisco Bay Area only 3 hours away off Hwy 4. There is also the historic gold mining towns of Murphy and Angels Camp only just 20 minutes down the hill and of course the Big Trees State Park with it's towering 1000-year-old redwoods. Come and enjoy a weekend away in the summer or winter for a great retreat back to nature. Snow parks and Bear Valley ski area: We can access Winter recreation areas easily. The Bear Valley ski area which includes downhill skiing, cross country, and events through the winter is only 16 miles or 20 minutes from our cabin. In addition, there are two Snow Parks monitored by the State of California nearby. The Stanislaus Snow Park, only 15 minutes up Hwy 4, and The Lake Alpine Snow Park. You need to purchase a daily pass and can park your vehicle in the plowed parking lot. Cross country, snowshoeing, and sledding are available at these two locations. Summer fun with rivers, lakes, and hiking: Our cabin is perfectly located for local recreation by rivers and lakes. The Stanislaus River is only 15 minutes away, Lake Alpine is 16 miles east past Bear Valley and the wonderful Utica and Spicer Reservoirs that are perfect for kayaking are about an hour away. And for our 6-year-old, we go to White Pines Lake near Arnold a great, simple place to be in the afternoon with family just down the road. For hiking, the options are endless as you get up into the national forest.
Amenities
Pets allowed
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Family friendly
Map of Dorrington, CA
Reviews
4.4/5.0
Excellent(96 Reviews)
5.0
We stayed for 5 days four nights. The place was as described. Good direction to get to, and close proximity to many local attractions. The owner was very responsive to questions.
All in all, great location and value.
One suggestion: it was summer and it was rather hot and stuffy in the house. We wanted to open all windows to let the cool air in, but was limited to those windows with screens to prevent mosquitoes from coming into the house. If possible, install screens on doors and windows to facilitate airflow.
4.0
We’ve been coming back year after year bc we haven’t found another cabin as nice in this area. The downstairs has plenty of space, the loft is really spacious and it is very quiet and peaceful.
Plus, the owner was very helpful when we initially couldn’t get the lockbox open.
5.0
This was a very cozy cabin with all the amenities we could ask for. We did have a few issues - we had to shovel a path to the door, and the cleaners hadn't come after the last residents, but the owner warned us about the snow and offered a full refund if we didn't want to go. It turns out the cleaners hadn't come (probably because of the snow) and didn't tell him, so we had to do some of our own cleaning, but he refunded us the cleaning deposit. Overall excellent communication, service, and a very nice place. I'm sure our experience was also a one off due to the unprecedented amount of snow this winter.
Would recommend!
4.0
Stay was perfect for the weather, lots of snow at the house.
5.0
Super cozy cabin with all you need for a weekend away
5.0
The cabin had a nice slope and large backyard for 5 kids from 6-11 to sled and play in the snow all weekend. The experience mas of course differ depending on the amount of snow on the ground and the new snow falling, but we had steady snow fall the entire time we were there. We never made it out to the sno parks near Bear Valley. And when the kids were tired, they came in for hot chocolate and TV. It was a great stay overall!
5.0
We very much enjoyed our stay at Mountain House over the holidays. The property is warm, spacious, and has premium TV channels and laundry facilities. We never lost power during the historic snowstorms in 2022-23. The owner is kind and accommodative. Dog friendly and reasonably priced. We would definitely return!
5.0
Stayed here with a group of 9 and we had a great time , all fit comfortably would def stay here again
5.0
We had a great holiday in the property here very chose to the ski resort. Kids so happy to play snow at outside the house.
It is recommended to increase the brightness of the living room.
4.0
It was exactly as described. Actually a little better. Only one mishap. One of the entry steps broke during the stay.
5.0
My family and best friend really loved this cabin! The set up was awesome because the adults could send the kids up stairs to play in the loft area while preparing meals. The deck was a great place to relax and have coffee in the morning.
Steven sent really specific instructions before check in. Although I did not need to contact him he seemed to be available, if needed. Other friends who saw our pictures really want to stay at this same location because it was such a cozy fit.
4.0
We stayed here with another family for a long summer weekend. The cabin and yard were spacious and easily accommodated our party of 4 adults, 4 kids, and 2 dogs. It was a good location for exploring Lake Alpine, White Pines Lake, and Calaveras Big Trees State Park and nice for relaxing in the evening among the trees. The kitchen, bathrooms, and carpets are outdated, but all in working order. The two issues that should be addressed is the ability to cool the bedrooms at night during the summer (there was only one, partially working fan in the cabin and it was not possible to let any fresh air in upstairs since there was only one sliding door without a screen) and the huge ants that kept coming into the upstairs bathroom.
5.0
Quiet and comfortable. Close to amenities, but far enough away for a peaceful stay.
5.0
Beautiful surroundings, plenty of room, sleeping accommodations and a nice kitchen
A very charming mountain retreat. A fine place to rest, relax and enjoy nature.
5.0
Even better than we expected
This cabin was awesome and the area is absolutely beautiful! It was nice and clean and fully stocked with everything we needed besides food. There were toys for my son and plenty of books to read if you're looking to relax in peace and quiet. We had such a nice vacation! I just want to say thank you to Steve, for allowing us to rent your cabin for the weekend, we loved every second! We will definitely be back for a winter trip!
3.0
Cute cabin, but not well maintained. There was rotting food in the fridge, mold in the bathroom, broken screen door, broken microwave panel, and a very poopy mouse leaving its business everywhere. The cabin has a list of cleaning requirements, however not enough cleaning supplies were made available to complete the list. The owner explained they hired a new cleaning service, that’s why everything was in bad shape. If that is true, I hope they are able to negotiate a refund, because the place was very messy… but also why are we tasked with cleaning if there’s a cleaning service…
6.0
Cute cabin, but not well maintained. There was rotting food in the fridge, mold in the bathroom, broken screen door, broken microwave panel, and a very poopy mouse leaving its business everywhere. The cabin has a list of cleaning requirements, however not enough cleaning supplies were made available to complete the list. The owner explained they hired a new cleaning service, that’s why everything was in bad shape. If that is true, I hope they are able to negotiate a refund, because the place was very messy… but also why are we tasked with cleaning if there’s a cleaning service…
3.0
Nice but not clean
Cute cabin, but not well maintained. There was rotting food in the fridge, mold in the bathroom, broken screen door, broken microwave panel, and a very poopy mouse leaving its business everywhere. The cabin has a list of cleaning requirements, however not enough cleaning supplies were made available to complete the list. The owner explained they hired a new cleaning service, that’s why everything was in bad shape. If that is true, I hope they are able to negotiate a refund, because the place was very messy… but also why are we tasked with cleaning if there’s a cleaning service…
4.0
A bit dated but very quaint and would stay again....
4.0
a bit dusty
A bit dated but very quaint and would stay again....
3.0
The inside looked as if no one had been there for some time. A lot of spider webs through out the house. Food left in the fridge, but other than that I enjoyed the house and the kids loved it as well
3.0
Wedding stay
The inside looked as if no one had been there for some time. A lot of spider webs through out the house. Food left in the fridge, but other than that I enjoyed the house and the kids loved it as well
1.0
The cabin had not been cleaned & was horribly dirty not only with dust but lots of food in the refrigerator & sticky handles & food crumbs & personal items left
The owner responded quickly & said he had paid to have it cleaned.
Be careful on the stairs coming down from 1 bedroom. It has has a loose board .
It is quiet & has a beautiful view.
1.0
Mountain ccabin Dorrington
The cabin had not been cleaned & was horribly dirty not only with dust but lots of food in the refrigerator & sticky handles & food crumbs & personal items left
The owner responded quickly & said he had paid to have it cleaned.
Be careful on the stairs coming down from 1 bedroom. It has has a loose board .
It is quiet & has a beautiful view.
5.0
It was my first time going thought Vrbo and it was so easy. And the owner sent me detail directions to the cabin and instructions. I would Definitely rent this cabin again.
5.0
It was nice and very cozy
It was my first time going thought Vrbo and it was so easy. And the owner sent me detail directions to the cabin and instructions. I would Definitely rent this cabin again.
4.0
Rustic cabin is great location for easy access to ski area.
4.0
Great location
Rustic cabin is great location for easy access to ski area.
4.0
Rustic and spacious with no frills, but great location and comfy.
4.0
Rustic and spacious.
Rustic and spacious with no frills, but great location and comfy.
5.0
Great location to Bear Valley and Arnold. Plenty of space for all. Everything you need in the kitchen. Very responsive host.
5.0
Great place to stay near Bear Valley
Great location to Bear Valley and Arnold. Plenty of space for all. Everything you need in the kitchen. Very responsive host.
5.0
Everything was great! The driveway was a little sketchy because of the snow/ice but after a little digging and compromising with the cars we were fine. A TON of snow up there. It had everything you could want for a nice stay - tons of room. We would definitely go back!
5.0
This place is AWESOME!
Everything was great! The driveway was a little sketchy because of the snow/ice but after a little digging and compromising with the cars we were fine. A TON of snow up there. It had everything you could want for a nice stay - tons of room. We would definitely go back!
5.0
Very comfortable and cozy. Kids loved the loft.
5.0
Lovely place
Very comfortable and cozy. Kids loved the loft.
4.0
We went for Thanksgiving and had a wonderful time. 1 thing that is worth mentioning are the stairs to get down to the house, there are a lot and it makes it a little difficult for unloading and loading up your stuff. It was hard on my MIL who is older but with the help of us and our kids she managed fine. It's nothing fancy but it was perfect and you can't beat the price. The owner was pleasant and easy to communicate with. They even let us check in early on our arrival date. Make sure you arrive when it's light outside. Navigating the stairs in the dark was an experience I would warn anyone to avoid if they can. All in all it was a great place to spend Thanksgiving with the family. I bet it's equally as great during the summer. A lot of great little places not very far from the cabin. Thank you for sharing your rustic getaway home with us!
4.0
Great rustic cabin, very peaceful area
We went for Thanksgiving and had a wonderful time. 1 thing that is worth mentioning are the stairs to get down to the house, there are a lot and it makes it a little difficult for unloading and loading up your stuff. It was hard on my MIL who is older but with the help of us and our kids she managed fine. It's nothing fancy but it was perfect and you can't beat the price. The owner was pleasant and easy to communicate with. They even let us check in early on our arrival date. Make sure you arrive when it's light outside. Navigating the stairs in the dark was an experience I would warn anyone to avoid if they can. All in all it was a great place to spend Thanksgiving with the family. I bet it's equally as great during the summer. A lot of great little places not very far from the cabin. Thank you for sharing your rustic getaway home with us!
5.0
Perfect getaway
This cabin was perfect for a quiet getaway. We weren’t looking for anything fancy, but wanted comfortable and quiet. That is exactly what we got. If I would have them change anything, it’s just a couple of inconsistencies from online to reality. The trash compactor didn’t work. Not a big deal, but online it told you how to work it and where the bags were. We had to pull our trash out when we realized it didn’t work. Another thing was one of the beds in a downstairs bedroom. It had a queen sized mattress on a full sized box spring and frame. So one side hung over by quite a bit. It was okay for one person to sleep on, but not two.
My other complaint is that we were informed a couple of days before our check in that there would be painters painting the cabin. They were very respectful and even embarrassed to be there while it was rented out. Some of the windows got covered for the painting, taking away the beautiful view. And then when they were on the ladders on the deck, they were able to watch everything that we were doing inside. They were there two days from about 10am to 2pm. Not the end of the world, but as an owner, I would’ve definitely scheduled that without renters.
Other than that, it was terrific. Great wifi and almost all streaming services. We would most definitely go again.
5.0
So Authentic- Feels like Tahoe 30 Years Ago
Owner was great about coordinating for a last minute getaway. Had a great time with my husband and dog, the accommodations are modest but the area is quiet and not crowded, perfect for some R&R (the wifi was excellent) The locals we met self-describe the area as “Tahoe 30 years ago” and we definitely agree. The check in document mentions needing to bring your own towels etc but you actually only need to bring sheets. Owner is extremely responsive, there’s plenty of firewood and the stove is impressive in its ability to warm the living room (there is also heating). Would highly recommend!
FAQs
How much does this cabin cost compared to others in Dorrington?
The average price for a rental in Dorrington is £142 per night. This rental is £18 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this cabin?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Rustic, All-Wood Sierra Cabin in the Woods Near Arnold\/Bear Valley. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cabin?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cabin. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Rustic, All-Wood Sierra Cabin in the Woods Near Arnold\/Bear Valley pet friendly?
Yes! This cabin is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Rustic, All-Wood Sierra Cabin in the Woods Near Arnold\/Bear Valley?
We found 10 amenities for this rental. This includes pets allowed, kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Dorrington
Explore all rentals in DorringtonDorrington travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Ski Trip Packing List: What to Bring Skiing or Snowboarding
Trends
VacationRenter Holiday Travel Trends 2023
Featured Rentals
Architectural Vacation Rentals: Experience the Beauty of Unique Properties
Featured Rentals
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Vacation Rentals Around the World
Featured Rentals
Our Favorite Vacation Rentals With Unique Experiences
Featured Rentals
Amazing Cabin Rentals Across the Globe
Featured Rentals
Have You Ever Wanted to Stay in a Dome Rental? Now You Can
Featured Rentals
Jaw Dropping Treehouse Rentals All Over the World