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

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

A wooden staircase in a forested area with moss-covered rocks and trees. - Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! (Park Hill)
A stone house with a waterfall feature in the front yard. - Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! (Park Hill)
A spacious kitchen with a large island, wooden cabinets, and a dining area with a view of the outdoors. - Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! (Park Hill)
A covered outdoor deck with a grill, chairs, and a ceiling fan. - Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! (Park Hill)
A spacious living area with a high ceiling, a chandelier, a fireplace, and a view of the outdoors. - Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! (Park Hill)
Consider a stay at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! and take advantage of golfing on-site, a firepit and laundry facilities. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Add dates for prices

About this property

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 cosy 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 artefacts 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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About the area

Located in Tahlequah, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. George M. Murrell Home and Tsa La Gi Ancient Village - Cherokee Heritage Center are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Gruber State Game Management Area and Cherokee Landing State Park. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating. Visit our Tahlequah travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Tahlequah
Map
Park Hill, OK

What's nearby

  • Tenkiller Ferry Lake
    11 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Illinois River
    1 min drive - 0.2 km
  • Cherokee Casino Tahlequah
    14 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Northeastern State University
    19 min drive - 19.5 km
  • The Castle of Muskogee
    47 min drive - 63.8 km

Getting around

  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
    79 min drive

Restaurants

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lake Tenkiller Family Friendly Estate on the Illinois River - Summer Getaway! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Illinois River and Tenkiller Ferry Lake. John Ross Museum and George M. Murrell Home are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Reviews

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

9.6

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.6

Location
Rating 10 - Excellent. 137 out of 162 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 19 out of 162 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 162 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 162 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 162 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was clean and comfortable, location is great.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were very happy with the home. It was clean and secluded. My family enjoyed the view and access to the beautiful clear water behind the home! Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Bird watching paradise

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

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice getaway

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

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful retreat

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

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

8/10 Good

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Graduation

Excellent property! Fit our needs perfectly and was a bird watchers dream!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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 review

8/10 Good

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

Right on the River

The House ia very spacious and just a short hike to the river. Very secluded and wildlife everywhere including snakes and a Bald Eagle!! View is great! The manager Debbie is very helpful!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property with lovely river views. There are a lot of very nice upgrades and amenities at the house- for instance primary shower. Woodwork in house is lovely and kitchen is well-stocked. It appeared to be one of the only houses with access to the river. We enjoyed playing in the river there. The path is a little treacherous, but my 4-year old and my parents in their 60s all made it down and up safely. Check out processes were minimal, which was appreciated. There are some missed opportunities to make it a really excellent stay. But they didn’t keep us from enjoying the weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Birthday Paradise

The stay at Bending Waters for a birthday celebration was wonderful. The views were amazing. Sitting on the back deck and seeing the river and watching the birds was a treat. The kitchen was a dream-literally everything was provided to prepare meals. The additional fridge in the garage was a blessing! The open spaces made it very comfortable for ten people. The drive to the lake was very easy and convenient. All we needed was another day or two...or more. It's a trip we will all with hold dear to our hearts.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Respite at Lake Tenkiller

My sister, niece, and I stayed here for 4 nights. We had the best time. The set up of the home was perfect for our needs and had all the necessary amenities. I loved the setting of the house in the woods. It was beautiful and peaceful. We tried tubing one day on the Illinois River but the water was so low that it was not great tubing. One day we went to the Cherokee State Park and swam with tubes off the rocky beach. It was so much fun! Lunch at Nancy's Homemade Pies and Cafe provided us with delicious homemade pies for lunch. Ken was a super good host. The property manager was great, too, keeping up with our needs.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice Spot Near Tahlequah

Nice property. Lots of space and beds. Close to the access for the river (2 minute drive/15 minute walk). Communicative host. And great location. I think the only thing I'd say I wish was out of their control. The river was pretty low. Where you walk down to get to the river from the property was really just stagnant water followed by super high weeds/grass area so you couldn't really get to water whereas I thought I'd be able to sit and fish or something. I'm sure it's better when the river is higher but that was the only thing that bummed me out. It was still sweet because we just hopped over to the access area which has a ton of space to park and fish. Again, out of their control and still an extremely great place and I wouldn't drop any stars.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful peaceful and relaxing property with plenty of wildlife and lots to do. Host is very responsive. Enjoyed the stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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