River Bend Lodge - Washougal, WA

Sited on a picturesque bend in a shady, wooded spot, with a short path down to a quiet beach, and directly across from a waterfall and 20-foot deep swimming hole, this Washougal River vacation rental is a true Columbia Gorge retreat.

You'll find this vintage log home at the end of the lane, beyond an electronic gate. The moment you arrive, you'll be serenaded by the sounds of the river flowing by and the vibrant forest all around. This spacious, charming lodge was hand-built in 1972 and has been lovingly updated to comfortably accommodate up to eight guests. From the dramatic, two-story rock fireplace in the window-walled great room to the view-deck off the queen bedroom, you'll find everything you need for a relaxing getaway.

The lodge is built into the side of a hill, so you'll enter on the upper level, through the carport (covered parking for two vehicles). The entry hall has a place for your coat and shoes - and slippers, if you've forgotten yours (River Bend Lodge is shoe-free!). The main living spaces are on the lower level: great room, dining area, kitchen, master suite, and den/media room.

Straight ahead is one of two small, sky-lit balconies that overlook the great room and add an airy feel to this level. The queen bedroom has a sliding door to a quiet deck where you can sip your morning coffee and gaze at the River, or watch the light change as the sun sets, in a two-person Adirondack chair.

Relax and unwind in the media room, where the sofa/chaise converts to a queen bed, and enjoy the 60-inch plasma TV. Cable TV is not available because the dense trees prevent sighting on a satellite, but there is a Blu-ray player, and the TV has built-in Internet streaming for Netflix, etc.

The outdoors will lure you, though! If the beach and forest aren't enough of a draw, have a game of croquet, or try out the brand-new horseshoe pit. If you venture off the grounds, you can try whitewater rafting or tubing with a local outfitter, or a round of golf at one of several area courses.

You may prefer to just sit by the two-story, native rock, wood-burning fireplace (firewood provided) in the great room, gazing out the panoramic windows at the year-round waterfall and dramatic views of the Washougal River. If the weather doesn't permit being outdoors, a variety of board games offer non-electronic entertainment. But, if you must work (or just want to play on your computer), you'll find a desk and a Bluetooth printer in the smaller of the two sitting areas. Dependable, wireless high-speed internet and a landline will keep you as connected as you want, or need, to be.

When it's time to make dinner for your group, you'll enjoy your time in the spacious, comfortable kitchen. You'll find you'll find everything you need to feed the whole group - right down to a Keurig coffeemaker - with all-new stainless appliances, granite-topped work island, plenty of storage and a great new propane grill right outside the door. Whether sitting at the massive, hand-hewn, black walnut dining table (seats eight), or outside at the over-sized picnic table, everyone can enjoy the beautiful views along with their food.

After dinner, take a luxurious dip in the new hot tub, just outside the great room. Here, from under a generous roof, you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the ancient forest and river all year round. Warm your spa towels in the dryer beforehand!

The lower level also features the master bedroom, with an incredibly comfortable king-size bed. The adjacent bath has double sinks and tub with rainfall showerhead. A door at the end of the bath leads to the laundry room where you'll find a state-of-the-art washer/dryer that can handle your camping gear and sleeping bags as easily as everyday laundry. The laundry room also has its own exterior door, so you don't have to worry about tracking mud and sand through the house!

The surrounding forest is part of a 26-acre family compound that is shared with our own Eva's Cottage, a romantic getaway for two that can be rented together with River Bend Lodge, if your group includes a couple who would like a little extra privacy.

The property includes access to the beach, waterfall, and 20'-deep swimming hole. You can put your kayak or canoe in right from the beach, or watch the river otters catch their dinner.* The beach has no public access, but is shared with guests at adjacent Eva's Cottage, and, from time to time, a few close, trusted, respectful neighbors. Most likely, you'll have it all to yourself, and can swim, wade and sunbathe to your heart's content.

The forest is filled with northwest native plants and includes a large (and rare) stand of old-growth Douglas fir, Western cedar, hemlock and maple; some of which are estimated to be more than 300 years old (this little pocket is unique, since it was never logged). Eva's descendants steward the land and maintain the forest with an eye to future generations' enjoyment. This lodge boasts multiple scenic trails outside that lead through old growth forests. The Blue, White, Yellow, and Red Trails offer glimpses of ancient cedars, wildflowers, and even a traditional and recently restored cabin. Be sure to bring your hiking boots (and for two of the trails, flotation devices)!

You're likely to find deer strolling past the windows, grazing. Many kinds of birds, ducks, geese and other wildlife also call this wonderful spot home. Common visitors include eagles, heron, hawks, and deer. The land surrounding the Cottage and across the river is private and protected. The temperate climate is never too hot or too cold.

The Washougal River is one of only two completely unpolluted rivers in the region. All manner of outdoor activities are close by, yet the setting itself is secluded and free from the noise and distractions of everyday life. Eva's Cottage is a perfect launch pad, with easy, year-round access to hiking, boating, fishing, skiing and more. It River offers fine fishing, whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking as it flows into the mighty Columbia River just a few miles to the south.

For relaxation, quality time with family, or reconnecting with nature, this vintage log cabin is the perfect Columbia Gorge vacation rental!

Fishing is not permitted here, but there is great fishing a mile downriver, on the other side of the Salmon Falls Bridge. Also, please remember that forest fires are easy to start and very hard to put out. Respect the property and help keep it safe by not building fires on the beach, and refrain from smoking anywhere on the property.
his home resides in a noise-sensitive area and the owners participate in our Good Neighbor protection program. Our smart home technology will alert our team if excessive decibel or occupancy levels are detected, allowing us to reach out directly with a reminder of maximum occupancy and quiet hours. This technology is privacy compliant, and only monitors the presence of decibels and devices- not any personal conversation or information. Thank you for supporting our efforts to be good neighbors!

• No pets are allowed at this vacation rental.
• Parking notes: There is free parking available for 2 vehicles.
• Security camera details: There is an active, exterior camera facing the parking area for security.

County permit number: VR-24-029

Please note: this home resides in a noise-sensitive area and the owners participate in our Good Neighbor protection program. Our smart home technology will alert our team if excessive decibel or occupancy levels are detected, allowing us to reach out directly with a reminder of maximum occupancy and quiet hours. This technology is privacy compliant, and only monitors the presence of decibels and devices-not any personal conversation or information. Thank you for supporting our efforts to be good neighbors!

You must be 25 years or older to rent this property.