Birdwatching on the Russian River
Tucked up on the hillside surrounded by trees, this truly is a birdwatcher’s wonderland.
Come stay at a rustic 116 year old cabin on the river, located in Forestville, California.
Dog Friendly, see details below.
Birdwatching Made Easy
At the very end of the road in Forestville, an old cabin is perched among the trees. Transporting you to a natural rustic paradise, surrounded by redwoods and forest, with the flowing Russian River below. Enjoy birdwatching and convening with nature on the many decks, patios and garden levels.
Keep an eye out for the chickens and cats roaming our property, living symbiotically with the wild birds who also call this hillside home. The cats may hide away, the chickens may be curious for a snack, if you save your kitchen scraps the chickens will be thrilled.
Birds often sighted here: Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Chickadee, Osprey, Black-crown Night Heron, Stellar’s Jay, Scrub Jay, Mallard Ducks, Muscovy Ducks, Black-eyed Junco, Robins, Towhees, Violent-green Swallows, Nuthatches, House Finches, Gross Beaks, Turkey Vultures.
Birds occasionally sighted here: Bald Eagle, Pileated Woodpecker, Red Tailed Hawks, Red Shouldered Hawks, Brandt’s Cormorants, Purple Finch.
FAQs
-
Yes! Though there are chickens and cats on the property, if your animal is prone to chasing these small friends we ask you leave them at home, or keep them upstairs and with you on any of the garden pathways.
The community beach asks that dogs are off the beach from 9am - 4pm. Dogs are welcome outside of these hours, and you may meet some of the neighborhood dogs while visiting.
-
There are multiple living spaces at The Cabin, some of which are the private spaces of the owner and caretakers.
The Upper Cabin and exploration of the garden are yours to enjoy during your visit. The Upper Cabin is a rustic cottage with 2 bedrooms, 3 decks, a simple bathroom, spacious living room, galley kitchen, as well as indoor & outdoor dining spaces. Capable of sleeping up to 5.
The Lower Cabin is the owners, Miss Grandma Bones, private living quarters, as well as the surrounding decks on her level. The Garden Hermits are also on the property most of the year tending to the garden and hillside, with a private workspace at the far end of the property.
-
Yes! Miss Bones is happy to have guests stay year round.
During late Spring & Summer we have canoes and floaties available to enjoy on the river. (late May - early September)
In the Fall & Winter it can get mighty cold, bringing layers is encouraged, and swimming is discouraged. The Upper Cabin has a cast-iron fireplace, and you are welcome to bring your own fire wood. (late September - February)
Early Spring here is still pretty chilly, and layers are still encouraged. The brave could try the river, but it is likely still very cold during this time of year. A nice hike on the short trail would be great for part of your morning or afternoon. (March - early May)
-
Unfortunately The Cabin and community beach access are currently not ADA accessible. There are many flights of stairs up to the property, and a flight of stairs to the beach.
-
We share a beach access walkway with the surrounding Highcroft community, entrance is near the parking area a few minutes walk from The Cabin. Our small direct access trail below The Cabin varies season-to-season due to winter water levels changing the landscape of the hillside. If you are athletic, graceful and confident you may be able to reach the jumping rock via the hillside, though it may be best to use the community beach and swim down river to the jumping rock instead.
Testimonials
“The gardens are amazing, the views are inspiring. Every time I visit with my family we fall in love with nature more. My children of course love the beach, and all the animal friends they make at the cabin every year. This is a summer MUST. We come every year because Grandma Bones always makes us feel so welcome and appreciated.”
— Jessica H.
“I stayed with friends during a full moon, and WOW we had front row seats to the most gorgeous moonrise on a crystal clear night.”
— Khaylee L.
“My partner and I stayed one winter weekend on a whim and it was a great experience. We took full advantage of the fireplace and enjoyed a bit of the outdoors on the covered decks, bundled up together. The variety of birds and wildlife we saw even during this time of year was lovely. Can’t wait to stay again as soon as possible.”
— Kevin B.
Contact Me
Availability varies, and we currently do not use an online booking system.
Please give me a call to see if your dates are available.
707-887-9570