Rustic luxury meets riverfront serenity at The Meander by The Kern River House, a stunning retreat on Kern River. Nestled among oak trees and granite boulders, this 1950s collection of cabins offers curated comfort, breathtaking views, and spa-like amenities—sauna, soaking tub, firepit, and private beach. Just minutes drive from Downtown Kernville, it’s the perfect blend of nature, style, and relaxation. Unwind, explore, and let the river set your pace.
The space
You'll find stylish comforts within the rugged beauty of California’s Kern River Valley at The Meander, a serene riverside haven nestled on nearly an acre of land directly on the wild and scenic Kern River. A short three hours from Los Angeles, this one-of-a-kind property blends local charm, modern comfort, and natural splendor into a truly unforgettable stay.
Tucked among granite boulders and mature oak trees, The Meander’s 1950s collection of cabins has been lovingly restored and thoughtfully designed to elevate your experience from the moment you arrive. Every space inside and out has been curated with care, from the art and furnishings to the landscaping and amenities.
The Cabins
Tukaway (Main Cabin): A spacious King bedroom opens onto a fully fenced flagstone patio overlooking the property. Inside, a cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a full kitchen, dining area, and two full bathrooms (one en suite with tub & shower) create the perfect blend of comfort and design.
Understory Cabin: A private retreat with a Queen bed, full bathroom, and mountain views. Indoor and outdoor sitting areas invite quiet relaxation among the trees.
Overlook Cabin: Featuring two Full beds and a bathroom with a clawfoot tub/shower combo, this cabin offers sweeping river views and a peaceful outdoor seating area.
The Grounds
Gather in the Cubhouse - a lounge with sofas, games, Roku TV, and openable glass garage door. Wander through shaded courtyards framed by oaks and mountain vistas. Sip morning coffee or sunset cocktails at the live-edge bar deck, share stories by the gas firepit, or nap beneath the trees in a hammock by the river.
Unwind in the cedar wet/dry sauna or Japanese soaking tub, then refresh under the open-air rinse shower. Play a round of cornhole or horseshoes on the sandy “island,” or take the short footpath to your own private riverside escape, Tukaway Beach. Perfect for river dips, fly fishing, or simply soaking in the view.
Float tubes and a paddleboard are available for a peaceful glide on nearby Bubbles Beach, a calm pond-like section of the river just a few minutes walk reserved for neighborhood residents.
PLEASE NOTE: We also own/rent the property next door called 'River Willow Cabin' for up to 5 guests. Please consider additionally booking that property if you have a larger group.
The Location
Only five minutes away, Downtown Kernville offers charming shops, local dining, and small-town hospitality. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the nearby opportunities for hiking, fly fishing, rafting, tubing, and mountain biking. Or you may simply choose never to leave the serenity of The Meander.
At night, sink into luxurious linens and plush mattresses, lulled by the sound of the river under a canopy of stars. With commanding views of the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains from nearly every room, The Meander offers a truly unmatched experience. A place where time slows, nature inspires, and every detail feels intentional.
There’s no other property quite like it. Welcome to The Meander - where you can stay, slow down, and let the river lead the way.
Guest access
Guests have access to the entire property except for the locked garage, and the locked housekeeping pantry.
Other things to note
We also rent the next door property called River Willow Cabin for 5 guests. If you’d like to rent both properties for a larger group, please let us know! :)