The Rookery Cottage

Our newly renovated Rookery Cottage is a quiet retreat in the heart of the Middle Raccoon River Valley. Situated on our private acreage, this rustic cottage overlooks a prairie and vegetable garden. With close proximity to Whiterock Conservancy, guests can easily access over 40 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, or float the nearby river. Then, return to relax by a campfire and enjoy dark skies perfect for stargazing. A "rookery" is a nesting site for herons, a bird that prefers quiet, undisturbed habitat near water. And so the Rookery Cottage seeks to provide a quiet, natural escape from the daily grind. This building used to be a flower shop and was built using reclaimed barn board and other re-purposed materials. We converted it to a guesthouse but kept a lot of the rustic charm. It sleeps 6 with two queen beds and a plush, new futon. Heated floors (redone winter 2021) and an air conditioner keep you comfy in every season. The kitchen is equipped with sink, mini fridge, microwave, toaster, electric skillet, utensils and coffeemaker. Alternatively, a charcoal grill or fire pit can be used for outdoor cooking. We provide firewood, charcoal and lighter fluid, as well as coffee, creamer/sugar, and a tea assortment. Our acreage is home to dogs, chickens, cows, honey bees and a goat. We also gladly share our space with wildlife. In the evening, it is not uncommon to hear coyotes, owls, whippoorwills, tree frogs, and occasionally a bobcat. PLEASE NOTE: There is a TV/DVD player but no cable in the cottage yet. You may have to access our home wifi in the yard if spotty. Also, some cell phones will not have service here. Relax and unplug!