Photography courtesy of Real Log Homes
High on a private peninsula deep within Oklahoma’s Ouachita National Forest, Eagle’s Nest Cabin is secluded but notably well-appointed. Owners Tony Cross and Kim Linville describe the gated retreat, tucked miles into the forest, as an immersive place that encourages guests to completely unwind without sacrificing any modern comforts.
Designed and fabricated by Real Log Homes using authentic Swedish-cope logs, the 1,500-square-foot handcrafted cabin fits seamlessly into its surroundings. Tony says the log choice was intentional. “A lot of people don’t use real logs because they can be expensive,” he explains. “But these are natural insulators, and they create a different level of authenticity.”
Visitors are introduced to the cabin’s rustic refinement from the moment they arrive. Natural cedar posts support the extended wrap-around porch, while hand-whittled artisan stair railings lead up to the cabin. Inside, cathedral ceilings, sealed slate floors and a stone fireplace ground the open-plan living area. Walls clad in blue-hued, beetle-killed pine add warmth and visual depth. “Wood can be hard to soften,” Kim notes. “So, I layer in throws and pillows—mostly in shades of blue—to keep it calming and relaxing.”
The main-floor primary suite, complete with a walk-in shower, supports accessible single-level living. Upstairs, two more bedrooms and a loft offer privacy, while expansive windows flood each space with light. Thanks to the cabin’s strategic position, Broken Bow Lake is visible from nearly every room. “The cabin has arguably one of the best views of the entire southeast Oklahoma region,” Tony proudly observes.
Eagle’s Nest Cabin runs fully off the grid, relying on solar panels, backup batteries and generators, alongside a well-water filtration system. However, high-speed Starlink internet means staying connected with the outside world is effortless. Plus, the Swedish-cope logs and triple-pane low-E windows regulate indoor temperatures year-round, keeping the home comfortable through both winter chills and Oklahoma’s intense summer swelter.
Outside, the porch extends the living space. Rocking chairs, gliders and a hot tub overlooking the water encourage relaxation into unhurried days and extended evenings. The cabin is aptly named, as bald eagles frequently swoop down to fish, while clear, dark night skies make stargazing a highlight of any stay.
Beyond the cabin, adventure awaits on forest hikes and bike trails where wildlife sightings are common. Fishing and fall color drives along the nearby Talimena Scenic Byway round out the experience. And if guests are interested in using the getaway for small events, like a corporate retreat or intimate wedding, a 4,100-square-foot lodge on the same property offers additional space and amenities, expanding the cabin’s hosting capabilities.
Whatever the reason for the visit, Kim and Tony create an experience as intentional as the build itself. “We build a rapport before guests ever arrive,” she says. “By the time they get here, nobody’s a stranger.”
Book Your Trip: Learn more and book a stay on their Airbnb listing!
