Red River Gorge Kentucky Cabin With Proven Rental Income and Mountain Views

A Turnkey Cabin Retreat in One of Kentucky’s Most Popular Outdoor Destinations

A rare opportunity is available in Stanton, Kentucky, for buyers searching for a cabin that combines natural beauty, modern comforts, recreational appeal, and established short-term rental performance. Priced at $309,000 after a $19,000 price reduction, this approximately 881-square-foot cabin sits on 1.04 acres in the Red River Gorge area and offers two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a layout designed around both relaxation and entertaining.

Known as Wildcat Cabin, the property is positioned within the desirable Twin Arch Development and is surrounded by mature trees and natural scenery. The setting provides the feeling of a private woodland escape while placing owners and guests within convenient reach of hiking trails, climbing destinations, restaurants, scenic attractions, and other outdoor adventures associated with the Red River Gorge region.

What makes this property particularly interesting for real estate investors is its reported rental history. According to the listing, the cabin generated approximately $35,700 in gross rental income during 2025. While past performance does not guarantee future revenue, an established rental history can provide prospective buyers with useful information when evaluating the property’s potential as a vacation rental.

The seller is also offering a reported 5% discount from the purchase price to buyers who agree to sign a three-year rental management contract with Red River Gorge Getaways. Buyers considering that incentive should carefully review the proposed management agreement, including fees, contract terms, renewal provisions, owner-use restrictions, maintenance responsibilities, and cancellation provisions.

For someone searching for a personal vacation retreat, second home, short-term rental investment, or a combination of personal and income-producing use, Wildcat Cabin offers an appealing blend of features.

Property Overview

The cabin is listed at $309,000 and includes approximately 1.04 acres of wooded land.

The residence was built in 2010 and is classified as a single-family cabin. It contains approximately 881 square feet of livable interior space and features a one-and-one-half-story configuration.

Inside, there are two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The primary bedroom is located on the first level, while the second bedroom is upstairs. The first bathroom is also on the main level, with the second bathroom serving the upper portion of the cabin.

This arrangement can work especially well for vacation rentals because it gives guests flexibility and provides separation between sleeping areas.

The property has a kitchen and living room on the first level, with dining space located on the lower level according to the listing’s room information. The cabin also includes a main-level laundry area and comes with a range, refrigerator, microwave, washer, and dryer.

The combination of a manageable interior size, two full bathrooms, and approximately one acre of wooded surroundings creates a property that is both practical and strongly connected to its outdoor setting.

A Cabin Surrounded by Nature

One of the first things that stands out about Wildcat Cabin is its natural environment.

The property is surrounded by towering trees and wooded scenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere that fits naturally with the Red River Gorge vacation experience. For travelers visiting the area, the setting itself can be an important part of the appeal.

Rather than simply providing a place to sleep, a well-positioned mountain cabin can become part of the overall travel experience. Guests may spend their days hiking, climbing, sightseeing, fishing, or exploring the region before returning to a private wooded retreat.

The listing identifies both mountain and tree-covered views. The wooded lot provides privacy and helps create a sense of separation from more densely developed vacation areas.

For an owner, the natural setting can also reduce the need for extensive landscaping. Mature trees already provide much of the property’s visual character.

Two Bedrooms for Flexible Use

The cabin offers two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, with one bedroom and bathroom on each of the primary living levels.

The first-floor primary bedroom provides convenient access and can be especially useful for owners who prefer single-level sleeping arrangements.

The second bedroom is located on the upper level, creating a separate sleeping area for guests, family members, or additional vacation-rental occupants.

For short-term rental purposes, two-bedroom cabins can appeal to couples traveling together, families, small groups of friends, and outdoor enthusiasts who want more privacy than a one-bedroom property provides.

The two-bathroom configuration is another important advantage. Having a full bathroom on each level can improve convenience for multiple guests and can make the property feel more functional than its 881-square-foot footprint might initially suggest.

Open and Comfortable Living Space

The main-level living room is the heart of the cabin.

The listing identifies an electric fireplace in the living room, providing a focal point and helping reinforce the cozy cabin atmosphere.

Electric fireplaces can offer ambiance without some of the maintenance requirements associated with traditional wood-burning fireplaces. However, buyers should still inspect the unit and confirm its condition and operating status.

The living area connects with the overall cabin design, combining wood and tile flooring with natural surroundings visible through the home’s windows.

The goal of a vacation cabin is often to create a comfortable transition between indoor relaxation and outdoor adventure, and this property is designed around that concept.

Kitchen and Dining Areas

The kitchen is located on the first level and includes a range, refrigerator, microwave, and other standard appliances.

A functional kitchen is particularly valuable for a short-term rental because many vacation guests appreciate the ability to prepare breakfast, pack lunches, cook dinner, or enjoy snacks without having to eat at restaurants for every meal.

The cabin also includes a lower-level dining area.

For an owner using the property personally, the kitchen provides a practical space for everyday meals. For a rental property, it adds another amenity that can improve the overall guest experience.

Prospective buyers should inspect all appliances and confirm their age, condition, and inclusion at closing.

Main-Level Laundry

Laundry facilities are included on the main level.

This can be particularly useful for a vacation rental. Guests staying several nights may appreciate access to a washer and dryer, while owners can use the facilities between bookings for linens, towels, and other household items.

The washer and dryer are listed among the included appliances.

For investors, laundry equipment should be viewed as part of the property’s operating infrastructure. Future replacement costs, maintenance, electricity usage, and potential service calls should be incorporated into any rental-property financial analysis.

Outdoor Living and Entertainment

The property’s outdoor features contribute significantly to its appeal.

A fire pit and outdoor grill are listed among the exterior amenities. These features fit naturally with the mountain cabin experience and can provide guests with additional ways to enjoy the property after a day of outdoor recreation.

Outdoor spaces are increasingly important in vacation-rental real estate because travelers often choose cabins specifically for the opportunity to spend time outside.

A wooded setting, fire pit, grill, and mountain views can create an attractive environment for evening gatherings, morning coffee, or simply relaxing among the trees.

The exact condition and dimensions of these outdoor features should be verified during inspection.

The Value of 1.04 Acres

The cabin sits on approximately 1.04 acres of wooded land.

While one acre may not sound enormous compared with large farms or recreational tracts, it can provide meaningful privacy for a vacation cabin.

The property is not simply a structure surrounded by neighboring homes. Its wooded characteristics help create the feeling of a private retreat.

For a short-term rental, privacy can be a major selling point. Travelers visiting the Red River Gorge often seek experiences that differ from conventional hotel accommodations. A private cabin surrounded by trees can provide a stronger connection to the area’s natural environment.

The land also gives the property room for outdoor activities, subject to applicable restrictions and the property’s physical characteristics.

Red River Gorge Location

The location is arguably one of Wildcat Cabin’s greatest assets.

Red River Gorge is widely recognized for its dramatic rock formations, sandstone cliffs, hiking opportunities, climbing destinations, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreation.

This creates a powerful combination for vacation-rental owners: the property itself provides the lodging experience, while the surrounding region provides the activities that bring travelers to the area.

Guests may be attracted by the opportunity to spend a weekend exploring trails, visiting scenic overlooks, climbing, taking photographs, enjoying local restaurants, or simply relaxing in the woods.

A cabin in a destination-oriented market can therefore benefit from more than its interior features. Location, accessibility, scenery, and nearby attractions all contribute to the property’s overall rental appeal.

Outdoor Adventure at the Doorstep

The listing highlights convenient access to hiking trails, climbing destinations, restaurants, and other Red River Gorge attractions.

For outdoor enthusiasts, this creates an attractive vacation formula.

Morning hikes can be followed by an afternoon exploring local attractions. Climbers can spend the day at nearby destinations before returning to the cabin. Families can enjoy scenic drives and outdoor activities, while couples may use the property as a quiet weekend escape.

The area’s broad appeal also means that a cabin can potentially attract different customer segments throughout the year.

Summer visitors may focus on hiking and outdoor recreation. Fall can bring travelers interested in changing foliage and scenic drives. Winter can appeal to guests seeking a cozy cabin experience, while spring offers another period of outdoor exploration.

Seasonality should still be analyzed carefully before purchasing the property as an investment.

Established Short-Term Rental History

One of the most significant financial details associated with the property is its reported rental performance.

According to the listing, Wildcat Cabin generated approximately $35,700 in gross rental income during 2025.

This information is important because it provides prospective investors with historical operating data rather than relying entirely on projections.

However, gross rental income is not the same as profit.

A buyer evaluating the cabin as an investment should review actual booking records, occupancy rates, nightly rates, cancellation rates, platform statements, management expenses, cleaning costs, utility bills, insurance, taxes, repairs, supplies, and other operating expenses.

The buyer should also determine whether the 2025 revenue included owner stays, promotional pricing, unusual events, or other circumstances that may not repeat.

Historical performance can be useful, but it should always be evaluated in the context of current market conditions.

Understanding the Reported $35,700 Revenue

The reported $35,700 gross rental income works out to an average of approximately $2,975 per month if spread evenly across twelve months.

That calculation does not mean the cabin actually earned the same amount each month. Vacation rentals can experience significant seasonal fluctuations.

Some periods may generate substantially higher revenue than others, depending on demand, holidays, weather, local events, availability, and competition.

The figure also does not represent net operating income.

Investors should subtract all applicable costs before estimating their actual return.

Potential expenses can include:

• Property management fees
• Cleaning and laundry
• Utilities
• Internet
• Insurance
• Property taxes
• Repairs and maintenance
• Furniture replacement
• Appliance replacement
• Landscaping
• Pest control
• Booking platform fees
• Supplies
• Permit or licensing expenses
• Accounting and tax preparation

A careful buyer should request documentation supporting the reported rental income.

The Seller’s 5% Management Incentive

Another notable feature is the seller’s reported offer of a 5% discount for buyers who agree to sign a three-year rental management contract with Red River Gorge Getaways.

At the $309,000 asking price, 5% represents approximately $15,450, assuming the discount is calculated directly from the full asking price.

That would make the implied purchase price approximately $293,550 before considering other transaction costs, if the stated terms apply exactly as described.

However, buyers should not rely on this calculation without confirming the seller’s current terms.

The management contract deserves particularly careful review.

A buyer should understand exactly what services are included, how management fees are calculated, who pays cleaning and maintenance costs, how bookings are handled, what owner-use limitations apply, and whether the contract can be terminated early.

A discount can be attractive, but the long-term financial impact of a management agreement should be evaluated separately from the purchase price.

What Makes Vacation Rental Real Estate Different?

Buying a vacation cabin as an investment is different from purchasing a conventional long-term rental.

Traditional rentals often focus on stable monthly rent and tenant retention. Short-term rentals depend on nightly rates, occupancy, guest reviews, seasonality, competition, marketing, property condition, and tourism demand.

That means an attractive cabin in a strong destination can perform well, but performance can also change over time.

Competition can increase. Guest preferences can change. Local regulations can evolve. Maintenance costs can rise.

Investors should therefore evaluate the property based on multiple scenarios rather than assuming historical income will continue indefinitely.

A conservative financial model might include lower occupancy, higher maintenance costs, management expenses, and periodic capital improvements.

Potential Personal Use and Investment Combination

One of the most appealing aspects of this property is that it does not have to be viewed exclusively as an investment.

An owner could potentially use the cabin personally during selected periods and rent it during other periods, subject to applicable rules and management arrangements.

This hybrid approach can make sense for buyers who want a vacation property but also want to offset some ownership expenses through rental income.

The key is understanding how personal use affects revenue.

Every night reserved for personal occupancy is potentially a night that cannot be booked by a paying guest. Buyers should therefore establish an owner-use strategy that matches their financial goals.

If personal use is the priority, the rental income may function primarily as a way to help offset carrying costs. If maximizing revenue is the priority, owner stays may need to be more limited.

Modern Construction and Materials

The cabin was built in 2010 and features log siding and wood siding.

The combination contributes to the traditional mountain-cabin aesthetic while allowing the property to retain a relatively modern construction date compared with many historic cabins.

The roof is metal, which is commonly associated with durability and longevity, although the actual age and condition should be professionally inspected.

The foundation is listed as pillar, post, and pier construction.

Buyers should have the foundation, supports, roof, exterior siding, drainage, decks, stairs, and other structural components inspected carefully.

Cabins in wooded environments can face specific maintenance concerns, including moisture, insects, fallen branches, drainage, and weather exposure.

Public Water and Sewer

Unlike some remote mountain cabins that depend on private wells and septic systems, this property is listed with public water and public sewer.

Both utilities are shown as connected.

That can simplify ownership and potentially reduce some of the maintenance responsibilities associated with private systems.

Nevertheless, buyers should confirm utility providers, monthly service charges, connection status, and any outstanding utility obligations.

They should also inspect plumbing fixtures, water pressure, drains, and sewer connections as part of the home inspection.

Electric Heating and Cooling

The cabin uses electric heating and electric cooling.

This setup is relatively straightforward, but utility costs can vary significantly depending on occupancy, weather, insulation, thermostat settings, and guest behavior.

Vacation-rental owners should review historical utility bills if available.

Energy efficiency can have a meaningful impact on profitability because heating and cooling are recurring expenses.

An inspection can also help identify insulation or air-sealing improvements that might reduce operating costs.

Investment Potential and Market Position

The reported rental history gives this cabin an interesting starting point for investment analysis.

The $309,000 asking price represents approximately $351 per square foot based solely on the 881-square-foot interior.

However, price per square foot does not capture the complete value proposition.

The property also includes approximately 1.04 acres, a cabin-oriented design, two bathrooms, outdoor amenities, wooded surroundings, and a location within the Red River Gorge tourism market.

For vacation properties, location and guest appeal can be just as important as interior square footage.

A smaller cabin in a highly desirable recreational destination can potentially command stronger nightly rates than a larger home in a less attractive market.

That is why buyers should compare this property with similar short-term rentals in the same area rather than relying solely on conventional residential price-per-square-foot metrics.

Due Diligence Before Purchasing

Despite its attractive features, this property should be evaluated carefully before purchase.

Prospective buyers should review the complete financial history and verify the reported $35,700 in 2025 gross rental income.

They should also inspect the property and confirm:

• Actual property boundaries
• Title and ownership
• Zoning
• Short-term rental regulations
• Development restrictions
• Any subdivision rules
• Utility costs
• Property taxes
• Insurance availability and premiums
• Cabin condition
• Roof condition
• Foundation
• Electrical system
• Plumbing
• HVAC equipment
• Fireplace
• Appliances
• Outdoor structures
• Fire pit
• Grill
• Road access
• Rental permits or licenses
• Management agreement terms

The three-year management agreement should be reviewed by the buyer and, where appropriate, legal and financial professionals.

Financial Planning for a Cabin Investment

A responsible investment analysis should begin with verified gross revenue and then account for all expenses.

Buyers should calculate expected net operating income rather than focusing only on gross bookings.

They may also want to compare several scenarios:

Conservative scenario: Lower occupancy and higher maintenance expenses.

Moderate scenario: Performance close to historical averages.

Optimistic scenario: Strong occupancy and improved marketing or nightly rates.

This type of analysis can help investors understand how sensitive the property is to changes in revenue.

Mortgage costs should also be modeled separately. The advertised monthly estimate on the listing may not represent the actual payment for every buyer because financing terms, interest rates, down payment, taxes, insurance, and loan programs vary.

A Strong Option for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Even without the rental component, Wildcat Cabin has significant lifestyle appeal.

Someone who loves hiking, climbing, scenic drives, mountain landscapes, and quiet weekends may appreciate having a private cabin in the Red River Gorge region.

Instead of booking accommodations every time they visit, an owner can potentially have a permanent base for exploring the area.

The wooded 1.04-acre setting adds privacy, while the two-bedroom layout provides enough room for family or friends.

The fire pit and outdoor grill further enhance the cabin’s recreational character.

Why the Price Reduction Matters

The property recently experienced a $19,000 price reduction, bringing the asking price to $309,000.

A price reduction can attract renewed attention from buyers who may have previously considered the property outside their target budget.

However, buyers should not interpret a price cut automatically as a bargain.

The appropriate question is whether the current price is supported by comparable sales, verified rental income, property condition, land value, and local market demand.

For investors, the price reduction may improve the potential relationship between acquisition cost and historical gross revenue, but the complete financial picture still needs to be verified.

Property Facts at a Glance

• Asking price: $309,000
• Recent price reduction: $19,000
• Location: Stanton, Kentucky
• Property type: Cabin / Single-Family Residence
• Cabin name: Wildcat Cabin
• Year built: 2010
• Land: Approximately 1.04 acres
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 2 full bathrooms
• Living area: Approximately 881 square feet
• Levels: One and one-half
• Primary bedroom: First level
• Second bedroom: Second level
• Bathroom 1: First level
• Bathroom 2: Second level
• Kitchen: First level
• Living room: First level
• Dining area: Lower level
• Laundry: Main level
• Flooring: Tile and wood
• Fireplace: One electric fireplace
• Heating: Electric
• Cooling: Electric
• Appliances: Range, refrigerator, microwave, washer, dryer
• Parking: Driveway and uncovered spaces
• Exterior amenities: Fire pit and outdoor grill
• Views: Trees, woods, and mountains
• Lot characteristics: Wooded
• Foundation: Pillar, post, and pier
• Exterior: Log siding and wood siding
• Roof: Metal
• Water: Public
• Sewer: Public sewer
• Electricity: Connected
• HOA: None
• Subdivision/area: Red River Gorge
• Reported 2025 gross rental income: Approximately $35,700
• Potential seller incentive: Reported 5% discount with a three-year rental management agreement, subject to the seller’s terms

Final Thoughts

Wildcat Cabin presents an intriguing opportunity for buyers who want more than a conventional residential property.

At $309,000 following a $19,000 price reduction, the property combines a 2010-built two-bedroom, two-bath cabin with approximately 1.04 wooded acres in the Red River Gorge area.

The cabin’s practical layout includes a first-floor primary bedroom, an upstairs second bedroom, two full bathrooms, a functional kitchen, main-level laundry, wood and tile flooring, and an electric fireplace. Outside, the wooded surroundings, mountain views, fire pit, and grill help create the atmosphere many travelers seek when visiting a mountain destination.

For investors, the reported approximately $35,700 in gross rental income during 2025 is perhaps the most important financial consideration. It provides historical performance to investigate, while the reported seller incentive of a 5% discount tied to a three-year rental management contract may provide another consideration for buyers interested in professionally managed vacation rentals.

At the same time, responsible buyers should distinguish between gross revenue and actual profit. Operating costs, management fees, utilities, insurance, taxes, maintenance, booking expenses, financing, and capital improvements can substantially affect the final investment return.

The property’s greatest strength may ultimately be its combination of personal enjoyment and potential income. An owner could potentially enjoy a private cabin in one of Kentucky’s best-known outdoor recreation areas while using short-term rentals to help offset ownership expenses, subject to local rules and the terms of any management agreement.

For anyone searching for a turnkey-style mountain cabin, a vacation home, or an established short-term rental opportunity in the Red River Gorge region, this property deserves a close look.

As always, buyers should independently verify all listing information, rental records, zoning requirements, utility details, property condition, financing assumptions, and management-contract terms before making a purchase decision.

 

 

Listed on Zillow