Cabin

Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain!

Photo gallery for Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain!

Fabulous deck and views...  can you believe this is in San Diego County?
Several guests have shared that they ate all their meals outside...
Terrace/patio
Absolute BEST access for snow days! Road and parking area is plowed. Beautiful!
In SoCal our snow melts so fast.  Come on up and enjoy it while you can!

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 483.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Palomar Mountain, CA
  • Palomar Mountain State Park
    7 min drive
  • Palomar Observatory
    11 min drive
  • Palomar Mountain
    38 min drive
  • Murrieta, CA (RBK-French Valley)
    71 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Loft

2 Single Beds

Master

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining Area

About this property

Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain!

Looking for snow? When we are a winter wonderland, Cabin Fever has absolutely the very best snow access on all of Palomar. We front on County plowed, Crestline Road. There is a shovel on the deck if you need to clear the berm.

Cabin Fever has been a much-loved vacation rental since May 2013 with hundreds of wonderful reviews. Many guests have now returned multiple times. We have our first guest coming this year for the 15th time and many quite a few times. We are constantly updating and adding to the cabin and you'll find it immaculate.

Like to get away from it all but have the luxuries of home? Come away to this delightful, enchanting, cabin-in-the-woods. Slip back in time with the mountain-milled, cedar log siding and deck. This cabin makes your heart smile!

A stone fireplace is waiting for you with a rustic mantel claimed from the forest floor. Cozy up in front of the fire on comfortable leather furniture with some vintage antiques woven in.

Modern amenities start with the fully stocked, kitchen and bath with granite counters and a washer/dryer. There is a 50 inch 'Smart TV' to turn on for your favorite music , or watch a movie, and enjoy our high speed internet and Apple TV with so many options using your devices. Built in Mini-splits with both AC and heat on each level to click on while you get a warm fire going.

Browse from our library of books that take you back in time to days gone by, or inspire, intrigue or motivate. When was the last time you played Dominos? We have a collection of games to choose from, plus a few books and toys for the children.

Where will you sleep?
Upstairs is the bedroom with a queen bed and reading nook. Close the black-out drapes, turn on the Sound Soother if you'd like, and settle in to sleep in.
Across from the bedroom, above the living area is a ramp to a loft with 2x2s to prevent slipping but not comfortable barefoot. (Wish there was room for stairs!) There are two, twin mattresses suitable for children, since an adult can not stand up because of a low ceiling. The kids we've met at the cabin absolutely love the loft.

Bathroom
The only bathroom is downstairs. Nightlights, light the stairs and the bathroom. There is a Pack N Play for your little ones.

Palomar is a place to 'not do' too. Enjoy our propane barbecue while soaking up the sun on the deck and take in the chorus of birds, get lost in a favorite book or one of ours.
A trip to Palomar is not complete without going to the world famous Observatory (closed during snow). Browse the General Store and visit the Boucher Fire Lookout. (Our only restaurant is closed for repairs). You can take off on a hike on the many miles of trails in the State Park and National Forest or fish in Doane Pond.

There are several 'Field Trips' within walking distance to visit one farm with chickens, turkeys, goats and sheep for fresh goat cheese, milk and eggs. Our Palomar Roaster imports organic coffee and is a short hike up the road.

There are also wonderful day trips from Cabin Fever. However, one couple planned lots of outings but a couple days later, when they were checking out, totally relaxed, said, 'Next time maybe we will venture out of the cabin. It has such a wonderful ambiance and we loved it so much that we just had to stay in the entire time'. We have lots of options waiting for you at our Fun Things to Do link provided on this page, right above those nice Reviews that have come our way. Keep scrolling...

You're invited to be our guest and come away to Cabin Fever!

Property manager

Bonnie Phelps
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Some toys, books, games, videos and toy bears.

Events

No events allowed
Very quiet area, not suitable for parties.

Pets

No pets allowed
No cats at all, maybe a dog.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please carefully read our Tips for your Trip. It will make your stay MUCH nicer to have that info. It is attached as the 'Rental Agreement'.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Very quiet area, not suitable for parties.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Palomar Mountain

Located in Pauma Valley, this cabin is in a rural area and in the mountains. Palomar Mountain State Park and Palomar Mountain reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Palomar Observatory and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Palomar Mountain, CA

What's nearby

  • Palomar Mountain State Park - 7 min drive
  • Palomar Observatory - 11 min drive
  • Harrah's Resort Southern California - 22 min drive
  • Valley View Casino - 29 min drive
  • Palomar Mountain - 38 min drive

Getting around

  • Murrieta, CA (RBK-French Valley) - 71 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mother's Kitchen & Restaurants - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪San Agustin Vineyards - ‬61 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain!?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever! Fun on the Mountain! located?

This family-friendly Pauma Valley cabin is located in the mountains, 2.9 mi (4.6 km) from Palomar Mountain State Park, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Palomar Observatory and Palomar Mountain. Lake Henshaw and Harrah's Resort Southern California are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 208 out of 230 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 230 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 230 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 230 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 230 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

James H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time
Relaxing and nice change of scenery from where I work
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Jaclyn C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint
Everything was as listed. It was a very small, quaint cabin. The most difficult portion was the parking. It was not clear that the parking was just a pullout along the paved road (no driveway) and that there was a 500-ft walk (with stairs) to the cabin. We are able-bodied with good eye-sight, so when we got there in the dark, it was not a huge issue for us, but felt that portion was misleading in the listing. Otherwise, it is fairly quiet, even if the cabin is next to a paved road.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kyle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very Quaint Cabin
Very quaint and unique cabin! Looks right out to the trees and valley. Easy access from main road via a few stairs. Almost at the end of the paved road so fairly quiet and private. Updated with all the normal amenities and warmly comfortable furnishings. Great place for some R&R. Host Bonnie went above and beyond to ensure we had a good time.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alicia F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin Fever
We had a great time and the host is verg accommodating. The cabin is great for a couple and kids considering the loft is tiny so keep that in mind when booking
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aliki B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely Fabulous!
This cabin is quite something. You feel like you're the only person in the world. We honestly could not hear one sound, other than nature while we were there. You are immersed in the woods, the cabin is so cozy, and comfortable, and has anything and everything you could hope for. Bonnie is quite wonderful, communicative, generous, and just an overall delight. We cannot wait to go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bree P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beyond welcoming!
Not only was the cabin perfect, with a perfect location (far enough away but also, not completed isolated), Bonnie also offered so many resources for our group to enjoy ourselves, explore the region and (most importantly) relax. We received a beautiful tour around the mountain and given so many options of places and activities to check out. Bonnie and her family were even ready to help us at a late hour (we are even more appreciative for all of you for that). So grateful for the experience and opportunity to meet!
Stayed 12 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy Little Cabin
It was a nice relaxing cabin to stay in. Definitely communicate with property manager to find out what pots/pans/dishware they have because the nearest grocery store is an hour away. Best to bring your food ahead of time. It's a drive to go up and down the mountain. But overall it was a great place to chill out and relax
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kj

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This place is a fabulous get away. Super cozy.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stella L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
stress-free rest
I had a good rest for 3 days and 2 nights at your cabin. Everything, including kitchen items, was well-equipped, and the best part was that the inside of the house was clean. I already miss my time there and want to visit again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

8/10 Good

Mani K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful location in the mountains!
It's a long drive through some tortuous but well maintained roads weather you are coming from north or south CA. But the cabin is worth the drive! Cute and cozy with everything a family of four needs including a small loft with two small beds(Cuteness!!) And a small bedroom with a nice bed! The host is very responsive.. a bit too much:) She sent a very long (5 pages long!!!) set of tips and instructions that I'm sure was a result of her experiences and covers everything that will make your trip hassle-free. Be prepared to be cautioned, almost scared, by the host about the driving, filling gas, parking, snow, rain and anything that could affect your trip!! But I'm sure she means well and wants you to have a safe and enjoyable trip without hiccups! The area has a great observatory and a state park with good trails and views from the mountains. Overall we had a good time and so thanks!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shannon G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Mountain Getaway
Great escape about 90 minutes from San Diego. You are about 15 minutes from the Observatory and 10 minutes from the park for hiking. Cabin was incredibly comfortable and had everything you need for a weekend or longer stay. The WiFi was great, thank goodness, since my TMobile phone wasn’t working well. The view from the large deck is gorgeous during the day and there are SO many stars to see at night. Bonnie was very responsive and even met me in town to return some items that were left behind. I hope to be back soon!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenene H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely Perfect, Beyond Expectations
I chose this property after losing confidence in another location. I was hoping for the perfect mountain cabin experience and this beautiful property was it. The property was absolutely spotless, the furniture was clean and comfortable. There were so many adorable accouterments to the decor. The fireplace was clean and in perfect working order. Bonnie was absolutely the best host answering questions and communicating quickly from the very beginning. She was lovely and personalized our experience there in a way we couldn’t have anticipated. We felt welcome and comfortable from the first turn of the lock to our last farewell to her via text. If you want an unforgettable stay on this beautiful mountain book here!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy and Quiet
Really wonderful place to getaway. Went got my anniversary and enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. Highly recommend for anyone looking for quiet and relaxing special moments. Very pleased!!.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tiffinia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gem..
Cabin Fever is such a gem, so quiet and peaceful. The perfect getaway from the business of life. I enjoyed my stay and do plan on returning. I absolutely appreciated the communication about the property before I arrived. It helped so much for preparing for my stay. I would totally recommend a stay at Cabin Fever.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin life
We are repeat customers at Cabin Fever as it’s hard to beat for a quick get away. Its quirky (there’s no pasta pot and the stairs to the bedroom are pretty steep) but packs one of the most comfortable wing back chairs next to a fireplace you’ve ever read a book or two in. The WiFi is fine for streaming and the kitchen works great for the two of us. Can’t tell you about the trails or hiking because that’s just not what we do up there. We bring plenty of food, a bottle of wine or three and just hunker in to recharge and it’s perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Raad J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Vintage/Modern Cabin Fever
Cabin Fever is an amazing place in terms of location and cleanliness and above all its charm. The place is super cute and in a quiet area. I wanted to surprise my partner with something romantic and cabin fever was the perfect place. I really appreciate the owners of the property (Bonnie and Nathan) for their communication and prompt response. It was very easy going in and out as the instructions they provided were very clear. I will for sure stay there again in the future....
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shasta D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Super clean and upgraded place. Very relaxing. Absolutely beautiful inside and outside. They have everything you need to cook. Just an absolute great place. Would definitely go back again
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rick S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Always a great stay!
Have stayed here so many times it's like our 2nd home. We absolutely live staying here over the year's. Great space,and more than gracious host.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dylan P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
cozy cabin
great spot not too far from san diego or oc. east access yet far enough off the beaten path to be quite peaceful. definitely would recommend for a couple looking to get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregory B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Love Cabin Fever!
Absolutely wonderful, thank you again Bonnie and Nathen!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful family time
The cabin is beautiful, we really enjoyed our family time there. Pines, trees and lots of birds everywhere. Perfect to disconnect from the everyday run, and just simply enjoy a quiet present. We made all of our meals there, kitchen is complete and also used the grill… chimney and netflix to relax at night…We loved it!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Martin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute Place
Very clean, just need to straighten the road up the mountain...lol! Wonderful gettaway, thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gerald B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Solitude is bliss
What a wonderful and restorative place to go enjoy some quality solitude!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christopher G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice and quiet
The cabin was quiet and lovely
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Bonnie Phelps

Host profile image
Nathan Phelps grew up with fond memories visiting Palomar each winter for fun in the snow. His parents lived on the mountain in the mid 70s, sold their house, then bought it back 20 years later. Now, full time since 1998 there are always fun times on the mountain. In 2011, Nathan was living in San Diego investing in Fix and Flips when he happened on this fixer cabin. He just had to have it - but not to flip. He plans to keep Cabin Fever forever as a rental to share with folks like you!

Nate's mom, Bonnie Phelps, has been the 'Resident Realtor' on Palomar since the beginning of the Century. All communication will be with Bonnie. She enjoys managing the cabin and sharing the mountain with our guests.

Nathan's brother and sister-in-law purchased a ranch next door to his folks to raise their four kids up here. So, Nathan couldn't resist, sold his place in San Diego and also moved up full time fall of 2016. The mountain is a family affair and we invite you to experience this beautiful area for yourself, too!

Why they chose this property

The cabin really needed someone to breath in new life. It was a very tired, very abused fixer. The floor was bowed and you couldn't even get the door open. That wasn't a problem since you just stepped in through the big, broken window. Nate saw the vision to create something wonderful. After completely gutting and restoring from the foundation to the roof, it's all brand new.
This is the first property that Nathan acquired with no intention of ever selling. A huge bonus is that there is another fixer cabin on the same property. Already named 'Shady Oaks', it is presently used for storage, patiently waiting for him to wave his magic wand again.
Please stay tuned! Eventually the goal is to have two very unique cabins available for larger groups. Be assured that no construction will happen during your visit. That's a promise!

What makes this property unique

Another reason he could not resist owning these two little diamonds-in-the-rough, was the access. It is great to have such good parking when we are treated to a Winter Wonderland.
The property also has some wonderful oaks, firs and cedars with a couple big boulders peppered around the land. There is an amazing chorus of birds to enjoy from the deck.
His initial goal of creating a 'Vintage, Modern Cabin' has paid off and is appreciated by all. You have the comforts of home, with the vintage touches that remind many of fond visits to Grandparent's homes in days gone by. Folks also have fun seeing the 'Before and After' photos in the Welcome Book, of the progress creating this charming cabin with new additions all the time. Ah, Cabin Fever is very special! We hope to have you as guests, and invite you to share this link with your friends! Thank you so much!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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