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Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!

Tahlequah vacation home with kitchen

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Exterior
Interior
A bedroom with a large bed, a ceiling fan, and multiple windows with a view of trees.
Interior
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, video library

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 13353 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Park Hill, OK
  • Place, Tenkiller Ferry Lake
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, John Ross Museum
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Cherokee Heritage Center
    ‪10 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Tahlequah

On river.A stay at this vacation home places you within half a mile (1 km) of Tenkiller Ferry Lake and 6 miles (10 km) of John Ross Museum. George M. Murrell Home and Cherokee Heritage Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).
View more Vacation homes in TahlequahOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Tenkiller Ferry Lake - 2 min drive - 1.5 km
  • John Ross Museum - 7 min drive - 8.7 km
  • George M. Murrell Home - 9 min drive - 10.2 km
  • Cherokee Heritage Center - 10 min drive - 11.2 km
  • Cherokee Casino Tahlequah - 14 min drive - 15.2 km

Getting around

  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL) - 79 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Subway - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Fish's Bar B Que - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Red Moon - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪White Wolf Steakhouse - ‬14 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!

Discover Bending Waters

Nestled on five private wooded acres at the threshold of Lake Tenkiller, Bending Waters is a serene escape just steps from the beautiful Illinois River. This modern, 3,800-square-foot home blends nature with contemporary elegance, comfortably accommodating up to 13 guests.

Luxurious Living Spaces

Bending Waters boasts four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and two family rooms with wood-burning fireplaces that open onto a deck with breathtaking river views. The primary suite features a private two-person Jacuzzi, a spacious walk-in shower with body sprays and a rain-head, and a gas fireplace. It also offers direct access to the upper deck, where you can enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of the river below.

Gourmet Kitchen and Dining

The fully equipped kitchen features a cozy eating area with stunning river views, a hearth room with a fireplace and television, and access to an upper deck with a gas grill for perfect outdoor dining. Adjacent to the kitchen is a formal dining room, ideal for special gatherings.

Nature at Your Doorstep

Large windows throughout the home provide stunning views of the river and wooded acreage. The property is equipped with a security system for your peace of mind. Wildlife abounds here; you’ll spot hummingbirds, eagles, deer, turkeys, and more. The Illinois River offers exceptional fishing right in your backyard, with species like crappie, trout, bass, and catfish.

A True Escape

Bending Waters is surrounded by thousands of acres of Corps of Engineers land, accessible via a paved road and a solid rock drive. A pond with a waterfall and lilies welcomes you to this tranquil retreat, nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by dogwood forests and beautiful foliage.

Endless Adventures

Illinois River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or rafting on 70 miles of scenic waters with outfitters providing rental equipment and shuttle services.

Fishing: Year-round fishing for black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Fly-fishing classes and guided trips are available.

Lake Tenkiller: Just 0.5 miles away, offering clear waters for boating, sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and more. Marinas provide rentals, supplies, and floating restaurants.

Scuba Diving: Explore sunken vehicles, planes, boats, and historical artifacts in waters up to 165 feet deep.

Hunting and Wildlife: Enjoy state game management areas and wildlife observation opportunities, including migratory geese, ducks, bald eagles, and more.

Golfing: Scenic championship courses are nearby for a relaxing round of golf.

Nature and Hiking: Explore trails and parks, observing diverse wildlife and stunning rock formations.

Whether you're seeking tranquility on the back deck, adventure on the river, or fun on Lake Tenkiller, Bending Waters offers an unforgettable retreat in nature. Come and create lasting memories at this beautiful home!

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  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
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Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • No elevator
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycles
  • Boat
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Optional golf privileges
  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Bicycles
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 3,800 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Turning off/disconnecting the WiFi that connects the exterior security cameras can result in a cancelled booking with no refund.
Date Changes require $50 Change Fee Early checkin/out require $50 +/- 2 hours
Check-in will require an accurate guest/pet count any additional un-reported guest/pets will be considered a breach of contract

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 3 pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Fee covers 3 dogs, extra dogs per request + fee

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Events Fee $1500.00 ($500.00 Refundable) 40 Guest

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 40
Note from host: Events Fee $1500.00 ($500.00 Refundable) 40 Guest
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 40. Note from host: Events Fee $1500.00 ($500.00 Refundable) 40 Guest For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! to the airport?

This vacation home is 74 mi (79-min drive) away from the Tulsa International Airport (TUL) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home, but Cherokee Casino Tahlequah (14-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! to downtown Tahlequah?

This vacation home is 6.7 mi away from Tahlequah.

Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 135 out of 160 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 19 out of 160 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 160 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 160 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 160 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jack S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house and property were amazing. Quiet and secluded with beautiful views. The hosts were extremely friendly and easy to communicate with.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dian F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
They were very friendly and accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dane H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great accommodations, plenty of room, ample kitchen amenities, comfortable seating and bedding! Outstanding host!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Valarie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were fantastic. The house was gorgeous. The view was wonderful. Everyone enjoyed watching all of birds that came to the bird feeders.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katheryn J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place, very spacious and had everything we needed! Definitely would go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was great, very responsive. There were a few minor things that we were able to work around easily. Overall a super place with a great view
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was beautiful and clean
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Syndee S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot for a relaxing getaway. Comfortable and well-equipped. Mornings and evenings spent on the deck enjoying the birds and the view. Deer out front in the morning. Great spot for the family to enjoy time together with easy day trips to hiking and sightseeing.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bird watching paradise

Great space on a nice property
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eva T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!!!

We stayed here for our daughter's graduation from NSU. We had a great stay! We hope to come back in the future to enjoy the river!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful retreat

The peace we needed. Amazing views.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation Stay

This house was gorgeous and the perfect place for our family to gather during my kids 3 graduation ceremonies from NSU! The hosts were wonderful, super supportive, and very accommodating after another property had cancelled on us last minute. We will definitely be staying again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nate P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice getaway

Beautiful views, very quiet, pet friendly.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jerry M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Very nice views of the river and wild life

Im going to stay again when i go back to oklahoma too see family.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing River Views

Great home for our family stay! Enjoyed the views of the river, wildlife, and birds! We even caught a glimpse of a Bald Eagle soaring over the river!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angel W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Place

We had a great time! Home was beautiful! Didn’t want to leave!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Stephanie S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Trip

It was very nice and spacious! Communication was so easy and accommodating. The kids loved fishing off the river and the journey down and up the pathway. Was a bit of a hike but still manageable. The rooms do not have curtains or blinds so the sunrise gets you moving!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Trina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home!

The property is beautiful and the deer come right up in the yard! The house is very spacious and cleverly built plenty of places to relax, will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer vacay

We had a very relaxing time. The house was very comfy! Thanks
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Genevieve F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Long weekend!

House is nice. The trail down to the water is steep, but views from the house are terrific!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect relaxation escape

We were in need of a getaway and this place was just perfect peaceful fun for the kids. Right on the water. The home was huge we each could get away to be alone or come together and hang out. We loved this location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

6/10 Okay

Nolan B.

River stay

House was as advertised. Very communicative owner and the property manager was very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family stay for Powwow

Beautiful property. A little drive to anything but that made it better. It was very secluded, like walking into a nature wonderland..
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

randy p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family getaway

Great stay , nice home,, the only thing would have improved the stay , would have been to have easier access to the river below the house,, steps , rails , something to get ya to the bottom
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

We loved our stay here. The river was a treat that we all enjoyed even though it's not the easiest to get down to. The home was large enough to accommodate our group of 11 very comfortably. It was well stocked and the owners/property manager were very attentive.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023