The first, most important aspect to note in this review is: THE CABINS HAVE AC! The website hasn't yet been updated, but each cabin has a new, modern portable-style AC unit installed which vents out the window.
This was a big relief, as the listing indicated "NO AC" and as my trip approached, the forecasted temperature at the Gorge kept increasing into the 90's, so I was concerned how I would keep cool. But, I needn't have worried! The portable was a little on the loud side but quite effective.
I stayed for two nights in cabin #5, and had a comfortable, relaxing stay!
I can't say enough good things about the location, it's literally right on the river, and most if not all of the units have at least partial river views. In addition to the view from the porch, the property walks out onto public waterfront park with numerous benches, playgrounds, etc. Lots of people windsurfing directly from the beach next door.
Physically, most of the cabins are house-shaped units with three units, two downstairs and one upstairs. The downstairs units share a hot tub on a wooden porch overlooking the river; the upstairs unit had a balcony.
The hot tub is really nice, it's large, tiled inside with a sort of whirlpool effect. Sweet.
Huge props for being a friendly, welcoming place which facilitates relaxation and enjoyment -- all these Airbnb type rentals drive me crazy with 100 signs about what not to do and complicated instructions of how to clean and prepare for the next guess, like what's the cleaning fee even FOR? None of that here at Wilder and Pine, thanks for that.
Great jumping off point for adventures, I did some FANTASTIC hikes in close proximity to the cabin and can't wait to return for more.
Stevenson itself is a charming small town, easy to walk around, the cabin is close to restaurants, shops, and a full-service supermarket. Regular river cruise traffic at the dock keeps local businesses going more than you'd think for a population of only 1,500, but it's still a small town; don't expect any national chains. The one nice restaurant on the river was closed both days of my visit, one for a scheduled day off, one for a "staff emergency."
Oh, the train tracks are RIGHT beside the property, like, close enough to see the contents of the cars. It's a "no-whistle" zone but you WILL hear the trains at night, as well as river barge traffic. For me it's peaceful and pleasant, but if that isn't you, expect to use earplugs (provided), noise cancellation, etc.
Only constructive criticism, such as it is:
Wifi really spotty, I did not have good luck with either device and mostly just used mobile data, no issue for me but FYI Coffee maker in cabins and in Lounge are higher-end Keurigs, but K-cups provided are some cheap store brand and just terrible, I ended up buying beans and using the camp coffee press I had in my car Kitchenwares are all there, but extremely basic; suggest bringing knives and tools with you if your idea is to really cook full meals, it's not like the kitchens at beachside rental houses or something Installing some screens would be really nice, either on doors or big windows! I'm kind of a fresh air fanatic and, there was only one screened, opening window; I tried opening the door to let some cross-ventilation a bit but too many bugs When can...
Read moreI try to be honest and fair.
Pros: quiet, you can hear the water, nice bath tub, nice bed, cozy, Cons: not as private as you might expect when it comes to the surroundings, kinda overpriced, help not very easily accessible
It was okay, seems quite overpriced. Stayed in more private and nicer places for similar amounts of money. Used to be a lot more affordable until what I understand is new owners took over. I wouldn’t complain at all about small things if it weren’t for the price, but they decided to start pressure washing fairly early in the morning (at least early for when you’re on vacation) on a day that wasn’t even going to be super hot. Seems kinda rude to people staying for $250+ a night to not just wait until later in the day if the weather permits. I know pressure washing is maintenance, but for real, let people sleep in. No one was in the office when we went to check in, even though we got there within an hour of our check in time since it’s at 4 PM, which you’d think is exactly when they’d want someone to be there to help guests. The phone number on the door was not in service(we only tried once so could be user error) & the on site manager phone went to voice mail when we called to ask for help. Luckily we figured it out and it’s pretty self serve when it comes to checking in. We only struggled because when we reserved it, it was on the old website so all the links they sent us upon reserving were dead as we got closer to the actual trip and the email didn’t provide super specific instructions (cabin number and such). Again, I’m not even very picky, but when you’re charging a lot you should invest in better stuff & care.
The Bathtub though, is amazing. 10/10. If you don’t want to use the hot tub like me because it’s shared, the bath tub is a good alternative.
No one staying with me agreed but to me, the sheets kinda smelled like a dog had been in them and I had terrible allergies when I woke up. Idk if pets are even allowed but if they aren’t it would be easy to sneak one because I really didn’t talk to or see anyone in charge so that’s why I imagine there might’ve been one. Take that with a grain of salt because like I said, only I experienced that.
Anyone can access the area you’re on so really, unless you’re set on being able to see the water from your room, I would lodge somewhere else more affordable and just walk to the water.
I see some reviews that they paid $130 ish. We paid 250. I’m no pro traveler but $150-$170 would make more sense. I’m sure it depends on time of year & room, but I still think it would be more appropriate to cost less. Or, to make it worth your price, have someone on site more often, have kayaks & other things to either use freely or cheaply rent to be on the water. The latter would make the cost way more...
Read moreFive Star Accomodations - 10 Star Service
I am a long time vacationer in the Gorge area, always staying at Carson Hot Springs. As the Universe would have it, this last time I wanted to get a way for a couple of days, my normal haunt was totally booked up. Truth be told Carson has become a bit of a party spot for younger people. Anyway I quickly started searching for a cabin close to Carson or Stevens and came across Wilder and Pine. I scoured all the images, read the descriptions and thought "wow, could this be more perfect". The answer is no.
I had the pleasure of talking with the manager Lisa to get all of my silly questions answered and she made me feel instantly welcomed and like family. Such positivity and fun. There was one room left and I took it..
Upon arrival I was blown away, who knew this little gem was so close, and also within walking distance of anything you need in Stevens. The cabins are original all wood classic cabins with several modern features. Lisa greeted me like a family member would and made sure I had all I needed. The grounds are spectacular, and when I say spectacular, I mean it. The cabins are clustered together yet very private, there are decks and balconies for each one and shared hot tubs for every two cabins. You can step outside your cabin and walk literally less than a 100 fee and be in the water.
Every morning and afternoon there are non stop surfers and water enthusiasts coming and going as well as great people enjoying the park. Did I mention that Wilder and Pine also take dogs? Well they do and they go above and beyond for your furry friends as well.
As I spent the weekend there I thought about all the ways this awesome retreat could be used and here are a few of my thoughts. Of course talk with the owners but I can guarantee they will do their best to accommodate
1: Wedding Venues: This location would be ideal for a destination wedding with cabins to house all of your guests safely and comfortably. There is a lot of space to actually have the wedding and great locations for food. There are two breweries close by that could supply the beer.
2: Family Reunions: What a great idea, have everyone meet in one neutral location and stay on site to enjoy each other. This allows for maximum downtime and safe fun.
I can't say enough about this place, I highly recommend you check it out today and get your...
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