Large SECLUDED Historic Cabin with PRIVATE access to Kayak Canoe on Blue River
Lodge in Indiana
12 guests · 5 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
About this lodge
"Charming cabin nestled in the woods, perfect for a fall retreat! Enjoy stunning foliage views and cozy nights by the fireplace. This rental is available until the temperature drops below freezing.- book your autumn getaway now!" Cardinal House Lodge offers a large screened porch that wraps around 2 sides of the building and provides space to dine, sleep, or watch the river. A large circular fireplace offers additional gathering opportunities in an open family room setting. The cabin will sleep 8 to 12 comfortably. The cabin has 3 bedrooms. There are also 4 twin beds in view of the fireplace and two comfy couches. There is additionial sleeping arrangements with 3 cots located on the screened-in porch. The cabin has 1 bathroom with a shower and a 1/2 bathroom. The kitchen is fully equipped and features a Vulcan stove with a large butcher-block prep table. Exterior gas and charcoal grills are located outside with propane and charcoal provided. Your choice of indoor or outdoor dining areas, and a riverside campfire circle. NO CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING OR HEAT. Fans are available upon request. Firewood is provided with the rental for use of both inside fireplace and out side campfire.
Cardinal History - The cabin is adapted from a 1950's church camp called Camp Merry Ledges. The Camp is constructed of rustic redwood and douglas fir and provides the perfect setting for couples, families, fishermen, and outdoor groups looking for a river retreat. This cabin is the perfect retreat for a river and nature lovers.
We are bordered by the Blue River and public lands: Enjoy easy access to Blue River from the lodge with many access points downstream at approximately 3 1/2, 7, 10 or more miles.
Bring your own boat, kayak, canoe or tubes or rent them from a nearby livery.
This section of Blue River where Cardinal House Lodge is located is not part of the public canoe rentals water route. So you can enjoy a more private and peaceful trip.
The Blue River is renowned for it's cleanliness and naturalness. It abounds with wildlife. Fishermen ABSOLUTELY love fishing on our section of the river.
Harrison Crawford State Forest, O'Bannon Woods State Park, Patoka Lake, Hoosier National Forest, Hemlock Cliffs, Yellow Birch, and the Ohio River are all within 15 minutes of us. That means there is a lot of Hiking, Biking, Hunting, Fishing, and backpacking awaiting you.
Gambling, night life, and shopping abound: We are only 40 minutes from 2 different Casinos. Louisville is about 40 minutes away. French Lick is about 50 minutes away. Corydon is Indiana's 1st state capital and has a lot of things going on.
Scenic Drives and Historic Tourism : We are located right on the Ohio River Scenic ByWay, HWY 62. Route 66 is a few miles away. These roads offer roadside picnicking, amazing vistas, and roads canopied by living trees. You can explore for days and not see the same road twice. Need more space? We have several rentals within 5 min of the Cardinal. Family Reunion? Ask us about renting our incredible Event space. *BOOKINGS AFTER NOVEMBER 1ST WILL BE TENTATIVELY HELD PENDING WEATHER FORCAST AND ARE SUBJECT TO CANCELATION IF FREEZING TEMPS ARRIVE BRFORE YOUR BOOKING DATE. If your reservation is cancelled by the host all money will be refunded and we hope you will visit us during warmer temperatures. REMINDER THAT THE CARDINAL DOES NOT HAVE HEAT. BRING WARM CLOTHES AND YOUR INDOOR BUDDY HEATER TO MAKE YOUR FALL STAY AT THE CARDINAL A LITTLE COZIER while you take in all the beauty and tranquility that Fall brings along Blue River. There isn’t any words to describe the beauty surrounding the cabin, you will just have to see it to understand it.
Cardinal History - The cabin is adapted from a 1950's church camp called Camp Merry Ledges. The Camp is constructed of rustic redwood and douglas fir and provides the perfect setting for couples, families, fishermen, and outdoor groups looking for a river retreat. This cabin is the perfect retreat for a river and nature lovers.
We are bordered by the Blue River and public lands: Enjoy easy access to Blue River from the lodge with many access points downstream at approximately 3 1/2, 7, 10 or more miles.
Bring your own boat, kayak, canoe or tubes or rent them from a nearby livery.
This section of Blue River where Cardinal House Lodge is located is not part of the public canoe rentals water route. So you can enjoy a more private and peaceful trip.
The Blue River is renowned for it's cleanliness and naturalness. It abounds with wildlife. Fishermen ABSOLUTELY love fishing on our section of the river.
Harrison Crawford State Forest, O'Bannon Woods State Park, Patoka Lake, Hoosier National Forest, Hemlock Cliffs, Yellow Birch, and the Ohio River are all within 15 minutes of us. That means there is a lot of Hiking, Biking, Hunting, Fishing, and backpacking awaiting you.
Gambling, night life, and shopping abound: We are only 40 minutes from 2 different Casinos. Louisville is about 40 minutes away. French Lick is about 50 minutes away. Corydon is Indiana's 1st state capital and has a lot of things going on.
Scenic Drives and Historic Tourism : We are located right on the Ohio River Scenic ByWay, HWY 62. Route 66 is a few miles away. These roads offer roadside picnicking, amazing vistas, and roads canopied by living trees. You can explore for days and not see the same road twice. Need more space? We have several rentals within 5 min of the Cardinal. Family Reunion? Ask us about renting our incredible Event space. *BOOKINGS AFTER NOVEMBER 1ST WILL BE TENTATIVELY HELD PENDING WEATHER FORCAST AND ARE SUBJECT TO CANCELATION IF FREEZING TEMPS ARRIVE BRFORE YOUR BOOKING DATE. If your reservation is cancelled by the host all money will be refunded and we hope you will visit us during warmer temperatures. REMINDER THAT THE CARDINAL DOES NOT HAVE HEAT. BRING WARM CLOTHES AND YOUR INDOOR BUDDY HEATER TO MAKE YOUR FALL STAY AT THE CARDINAL A LITTLE COZIER while you take in all the beauty and tranquility that Fall brings along Blue River. There isn’t any words to describe the beauty surrounding the cabin, you will just have to see it to understand it.
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Indiana
££££
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
The cabin was really quiet and have a large backyard for outdoor activities. Most of all, Jennifer was great and appreciated her helps during our stay at Cardinal House.
5.0 / 5.0
We weren’t ready to leave! Beautiful property. Perfect to celebrate my husband’s birthday. He loves the river and has mentioned so many times his desire to stay on it. Water level was a little low but that section of the river was one we hadn’t done before and we can’t wait to go back with our kids. So much room to accommodate people. Casual enough you don’t have to worry but still so so cool and nice at the same time. The property manager was amazing. Spoke with her a couple times before the trip and once we got there. Zero complaints. Can’t wait to rent again.
5.0 / 5.0
The management team was friendly and amazing welcoming. The cabin was described as online and has plenty of outdoor space for doing all kinds of activities including hiking,kayaking and bonfire. I recommend this cabin and I’ll be back here again.
5.0 / 5.0
I rented the Cardinal Cabin for group of 8 childhood friends that had not had any significant time together in decades. It was everything I wanted it to be. Secluded in nature, it was quiet, peaceful, and relaxing. River access was icing on the cake
Although we spent the majority of our time outdoors, the cabin was inviting, comfortable, and clean, with plenty of room for guests. The kitchen was perfect for preparing large meals.
5/5 highly recommend for anyone looking for a place to enjoy time with friends & family all while enjoying the great outdoors!
5.0 / 5.0
Perhaps my 12th time visiting the Cardinal Cabin and it never disappoints. Although this was my first time visiting during the warm summer months, and it does get warm in the cabin. They provided AC units, which helped out!
This place is an absolute treasure if you need to get away from it all, including technology! Magical!
Jenny
5.0 / 5.0
We noticed some improvements from the last time. Air movers and fans for when the weather was hot and humid were comforting. There was more room to put the suitcases etc.
The wrap around screened in porch was perfect for watching a thunderstorm roll by. The setting was beautiful, rural and serene yet not too far from town. Access to the Blue River was easy. We could either put in or take out there.
We saw lots of wild life and enjoyed being serenaded by a barred owl.
Jennifer was very attentive to us. She checked in with us before we got there and was quick to answer any questions we had.
We loved it.
5.0 / 5.0
Thank you so much for a very nice few day stay there in the Cardinal cabin! We had a ton of fun riding the back roads, fishing, and golf. It was exactly what we needed for a quick work retreat.
The host was excellent…..she even came and cleaned up some boxes of mess we had left in the patio area (which was a really nice surprise to come back to).
Thanks again for an awesome stay!
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful cabin in secluded location with easy access to the river. Hosts are top notch and provide an accomodating stay every time.
4.0 / 5.0
It was fun, family time.
5.0 / 5.0
The location is great, and the cabin is incredible! Really a gem - it’s a wonderful place to get together
5.0 / 5.0
Nice place in the woods. Fishing,kayak right out the front door. Sleeps 20. Owner is very nice.Stuff people need not apply. We all loved it!!!
5.0 / 5.0
ive been coming to this camp, almost 50 years
it is always GREAT
5.0 / 5.0
We come here every year for our Fall Break. Our kids love it and it's a tradition now. Everything was great yet again!
5.0 / 5.0
This place is so great to get away from it all and a perfect location right next to the Blue River. Loved the property! Can’t wait for the next trip.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful scenery, peaceful vibes and lots of memories made in this comfy cabin
5.0 / 5.0
Cabin was exactly as listed. Huge interior, plenty of seating, good water pressure, and very helpful host. Weather was only downer, but that can't be helped. Porch screens need some maintenance, but never had 1 mosquito bite, so no complaints. Overall it was as I expected.
4.0 / 5.0
Great cabin for a group that likes camping! We had a group of 8 stay for a weekend away. The cabin is very difficult to find but otherwise check-in was easy. Kitchen is well equipped for feeding a large group which is nice. Screened in porch is the real treasure (at least in the hot weather while we visited) it was significantly cooler than inside the house which got very hot during the day. Bring water for drinking and cooking and bug spray - there’s no escaping the bugs in the summer (inside or out) and you’ll be set. There was plenty of firewood, towels and games which all made the trip easier for our group.
River access makes fishing and kayaking easy. It’s also a great fishing spot our group caught quite a lot just off the bank. There were 4 cars with groups of people not in our group that came to launch kayaks and parked in the access path to the river which made it challenging for our group to get down there and was a little surprising as we didn’t know that was a possibility and they didn’t leave until close to dark.
If you want to explore the area it’s easy to get to state parks and caves as well. All in all it was a great backdrop to a family trip!
5.0 / 5.0
We have a wonderful stay. Expect primitive and wildlife. We spent all day at the river, kids swam and fished. Loved it!
5.0 / 5.0
This is our 2nd time staying here. Love the peace and quiet of nature!
5.0 / 5.0
Very nice hime to relax and get away from the busy life
2.5 / 5.0
This place is a great getaway for relaxing and beautiful views. Its super quiet semi-remote. The kitchen and open space is large enough for a sizable group of people. Highly recommend!
4.0 / 5.0
Quiet clean serene setting
Everything you need for a wonderful damily gathering, plenty of space a blue river fun for kids
Had trouble with breaker , electric went off several times. Reported to owner. Other than that perfect!
5.0 / 5.0
Great property to just go to and relax! Loved the river view! We lived on the porch and with the fans on it was comfortable. We had trouble with the smell of the sulfur water. It is a rustic and beautiful lodge! Would be great for a large group!
4.0 / 5.0
The cabin was large and comfy. There is no air conditioning but plenty of fans. Only issue we had is the sulfur water, which is quite unpleasant. But it was roomy, nice rustic cabin with a large screened in porch, several nice grills, and all the necessities on a large wooded lot on the river.
5.0 / 5.0
Cabin stay
Peaceful and relaxing few days we spent here, we will definitely be returning
5.0 / 5.0
Buddy Trip
This is our groups 3rd time using this cabin for an incredible guy trip. It is a perfect option for those that enjoy camping but want to escape the primitive part of it. Having access to the meal prep area, screened in porch, fire pit, and Blue River makes this cabin a perfect spot for our group to get away. We will keep coming back.
5.0 / 5.0
Quiet, Woods, & Water
We as a family really enjoyed our stay at the Cardinal House. The kitchen was well-stocked, and the building is spacious & accommodating. The kids loved the easy river access for their canoe & Kayaks.
5.0 / 5.0
Family get away
Everything was absolutely wonderful. The only negative is that there is No air conditioning and that was not mentioned in the description. But we made it work and had a good weekend. Thanks
5.0 / 5.0
Great getaway!
It was so peaceful. We loved it!
5.0 / 5.0
Family Get Together
Great space for hanging out with family, both inside and out. Will be back.
5.0 / 5.0
Best southern Indiana rustic cabin and water front!
As always, the Cardinal Cabin never lets us down. I would love to have access to a few kayaks on the property for leisure water sport on the Blue. Otherwise, such a great spot! Cant wait for next year!
4.0 / 5.0
Great cabin on the river
Large Cabin with two bathrooms, tons of room inside and outside. You are roughing it because the beds are terrible, no WiFi and you cant drink the water but other then that a wonderful get away to unwind.
5.0 / 5.0
Family Weekend Trip
We had a wonderful time staying at the Lodge. We would definately come again. Thank you.
4.0 / 5.0
Love the location but-
We enjoyed watching wildlife and easy access to the river.
5.0 / 5.0
The best vacation ever!!
What an incredible place!!! We were amazed at the beauty & privacy that we experienced at the Cardinal House! We had everything we needed as the kitchen had plenty of dishes & pans & the bathroom had plenty of towels and washcloths for all 10 of us. We felt that communication was open & easy with Nancy & Missy and we absolutely loved this stay. We did a ~3 mile float down the river and visited 2 incredible caverns nearby. Nearly everyday we played and fished in the river and had a campfire.
So much fun to be had! We definitely did NOT miss WiFi or TV!
We most certainly will be making this trip an annual event and feel so blessed to have found such an incredible space!
5.0 / 5.0
We had the most amazing time here! Paradise!
This piece of property is so beautiful and the Blue River is amazing. There's so much room and so many beds. The wraparound porch is great. The only problem we had was finding it.
5.0 / 5.0
Great weekend away
Wonderful place to get away from it all and just relax. Kids had a great time exploring and playing. We will be back for sure.
5.0 / 5.0
We loved our stay!
We had a very relaxing, peaceful weekend! Most of us had not been the Southern Indiana/Louisville. We all had a great time!
2.5 / 5.0
Fun cabin for the kids to immerse in early Indiana history with “rustic” living (plus modern cooking, lighting, and plumbing for mom’s sanity)!Close to many valuable learning opportunities in southern Indiana!
5.0 / 5.0
Homeschool filed trip
Fun cabin for the kids to immerse in early Indiana history with “rustic” living (plus modern cooking, lighting, and plumbing for mom’s sanity)!
Close to many valuable learning opportunities in southern Indiana!
FAQs
How much does this lodge cost compared to others in Indiana?
The average price for a rental in Indiana is £134 per night. This rental is £64 above the average.
Is parking included with this lodge?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Large SECLUDED Historic Cabin with PRIVATE access to Kayak Canoe on Blue River. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this lodge?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Large SECLUDED Historic Cabin with PRIVATE access to Kayak Canoe on Blue River. Enjoy the water!
Is Large SECLUDED Historic Cabin with PRIVATE access to Kayak Canoe on Blue River pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this lodge is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Large SECLUDED Historic Cabin with PRIVATE access to Kayak Canoe on Blue River?
We found 7 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Indiana
Explore all rentals in IndianaIndiana travel inspiration
Read our blogResearch
Road Trip Routes to Witness Incredible Astronomical Events in 2023 and 2024
Guides
The Ultimate U.S. Bucket List: Top Activities in Every State
Budget Travel
Best Staycation Cities in the United States: 50 States Edition
Guides
Visit Indy: Complete Visitors Guide to Indianapolis
Budget Travel
20 Exciting Weekend Getaways from Chicago