Entire home

Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub

Photo gallery for Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub

Outdoor spa tub
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
Beach
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 474 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet friendly
  • Pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor Space

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub

Unplug and unwind in the tranquility of the desert. Take in 270-degree mountain views from the newly remodeled, 1950s modern-rustic retreat with no one to disturb you. Rock the day away in serenity in a hammock under the patio, soak in seclusion in the pool or hot tub under an incredible star-filled sky or snuggle up by the fireplace watching movies. Let your pup stretch his legs in the fully fenced acre or stroll the full five-acre property and beyond on the surrounding, expansive Public land.

The Space:
Wonder House is off the beaten path and is perfect for those looking to relax in the serenity and quiet. It is highly likely you will not see another person (even in the distance) during your stay!

Pet-friendly, comfy and well-stocked with two bedrooms and one bath, full kitchen plus a grill, heat and A/C, WiFi, Smart TV, Bluetooth speakers, fire pit (we do not supply firewood), hot tub, stock tank pool (open seasonally from April until October) and queen-sized memory foam mattresses, you can enjoy all the amenities of home without the noise or the neighbors. Large windows showcase amazing views of nearby Sheep Hole Pass (great for pet-friendly hiking) and Cleghorn Wilderness Area. *For your planning purposes, please note there is not a washer/dryer or dishwasher in the house.

The property is five acres, with one acre fully fenced (and rattlesnake fenced for safety).

If you are traveling with friends or kids who do not want to share a bedroom, the couch pulls out into a queen size bed. If you would like to use it, there are linens in the bedroom trunk. Pulling the bed out makes the walkway to the bathroom tight, so we recommend folding it up when not in use.

*If you would like to bring more than two pets please contact me prior to booking.

The Neighborhood:
Wonder House is set in the Wonder Valley area of Twentynine Palms. Homesteaders in the 50s were given 5 acre parcels in the area to live on. Over time many of the homes were abandoned (sometimes leaving cars and trailers behind), but more and more are being purchased and renovated like Wonder House to become quiet and secluded vacation getaways! Seeing these old homes around is part of the charm of the area, and not unique to Wonder House or any vacation rental in the area.

The only neighboring properties are 350 and 500 feet from Wonder House. One is currently unoccupied, and the other was a past local business that has since been abandoned. Our guests enjoy privacy and quiet, and typically never see another human during their time at Wonder House!

Wonder House is just down the road from the Palms Restaurant and Bar, less than 20 minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor's Center, Smith’s Ranch Drive-In Theater and the town of Twentynine Palms. It is about 25 minutes to the North Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park (3 miles South of the intersection of Utah Trail and Highway 62 in Twentynine Palms).

Guest Access:
Fully fenced acre, five full acres
Surrounding Public land
Fire pit (we do not supply firewood)
Fireplace
Horseshoes
Hammocks
Yoga mats
Indoor and outdoor Bluetooth speakers
Hot tub
Seasonal cowboy pool open April until October
Gas grill
Full kitchen
Unlimited filtered drinking water and ice
Complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, tea and waffle mix
Stocked kitchen with pots, pans, cooking utensils, spices, oil etc
WiFi - fastest WiFi in our rural area. Please note, if many people are on the satellite network at once (nights and weekends) it can be a bit slow for streaming. However, our guests have reported it works great for working and streaming during the weekdays.
Smart TV with Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, etc
Heat/AC
Queen-sized memory foam mattresses

Interaction With Guests:
There is a keypad for easy check in/out. We are not on site but are available by phone, text or email if you have questions during your stay!

Property manager

Melissa and Paul Ruthenbeck-Chiaramonte

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 800 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 22

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs and cats only
2 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Housetrained, non destructive dogs

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number CESTRP-2021-00342

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Map
Twentynine Palms, CA

What's nearby

  • Sheep Hole Mountains - 14 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Joshua Tree National Park Oasis Visitor Center - 32 min drive - 31.2 km
  • 29 Palms Historical Society - 33 min drive - 32.0 km
  • Joshua Tree National Park - 34 min drive - 33.5 km
  • Joshua Tree National Park North Entrance - 37 min drive - 36.8 km

Getting around

  • Bermuda Dunes, CA (UDD) - 112 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Palms - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Palms Restaurant - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Star's Way Out - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Intermission Cafe - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub located?

Situated in a rural location, this vacation home is 4.3 mi (6.9 km) from Mojave Trails National Monument and 6.3 mi (10.1 km) from Sheep Hole Mountains. The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery and Luckie Park are also within 20 mi (32 km).

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Wonder House: A Peaceful Desert Oasis With Great Views, Pool & Hot Tub Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 55 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Fiona M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Really enjoyed Wonder House, lots of little touches that really enhanced the stay. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Erica P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful stay in the desert
Had an absolutely amazing time staying here- amazing night star gazing in the wide open space and enjoyed the comfortable, beautiful house. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nick M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing stay
Looked even better than the pictures. 10/10 high recommend. The night sky was incredible
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Trent B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing experience
Wonder House is a great destination to get away from it all. We very much enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shaunna A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful time at Wonder House
This stay was everything I had hoped for and more. The property was pristine and welcoming and the hot tub was a delight after long days hiking. We already can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

K. S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful desert oasis
My daughter and I stayed at Wonder House while we visited Joshua Tree National Park. The location was wonderful and helped us really appreciate the big sky and mountain views -- especially from the hot tub! The hosts were helpful and communicative, and the home was filled with thoughtful touches. Truly a top-notch experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Annemarie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing Desert getaway
This was a very nice house perfectly set in the middle of nowhere. We went to take pictures of the Milkyway and were very happy with the location. It’s a great house to relax in and outside.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca W., Gardnerville, United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Little Hideaway
The owners of this property have put considerable time, effort, and expense into making this house unique and inviting. It was clean and cozy, with plenty of outside space - perfect for our needs of capturing the Great Conjunction.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Brandon B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Free your mind in the desert
Such an amazing place. Great house and amenities. Clean and organized. If you want to stay in the middle of the desert with absolutely no city noise or lights stay here. Amazing property to sit out at night and open your mind to the universe. Coming back soon!!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

ron r., Naperville, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ron
Exactly as advertised! Great retreat site. Everything exceeded expectations.
Stayed 31 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Iris M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
INCREDIBLE
Everything was impeccable at this stunning house. I cannot wait to return! We watched the stars drift by while lounging in the hot tub, relaxed in the hammocks, and slept like babies! The hosts have provided so many thoughtful details. The Wonderhouse is INCREDIBLE!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janis M., Chicago

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Desert Oasis
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Wonder Valley. The Oasis was well equipped, clean and comfortable. We particularly enjoyed our mornings taking in the view and desert scents. It is situated fairly close to the Joshua Tree National Park and we spent some time there exploring and a day over at the Mojave National Preserve ( a hidden gem!). Good communication with the host(s). We would definitely book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cassandra V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Social distance win for people & dogs
Our family of 4 adults and 3 small dogs loved this place. Everything was exactly what we were looking for: dog friendly A++, clean and CUTE, beautiful views (mountains & stars!), well stocked 5/5, firepit, hot tub, plunge pool (closed this time of year as it would be too cold), & great communication from owners. If you are looking for a place to unplug, relax, and reset for you and your furry family this is it.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Hank B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Trip number 7 to Wonderhouse
Once again, for our seventh time, we found Wonderhouse to be the idea place for escaping reality! This is the ideal place for nighttime photography or deepsky astro and the main reason we come. The house is perfectly comfortable, safe and remotely located. With the Scenic highway closed right now, there was almost no traffic on Amboy Road making it exceedingly quiet! Thank you again Melissa! We love it here. And thank you Liz who takes care of the place too! Always the best.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katelyn Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Desert Delight!
Such a great spot to soak up the beauty of your surroundings! The house was super cute with everything you need (and more) for a getaway from the daily grind. It was only a short drive to the much less crowded north entrance of Joshua Tree NP and it was so relaxing to return to this perfectly appointed house each evening to rest our tired bones. Loved getting to roast marshmallows in the fire pit under an incredible night sky. Can’t wait to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Marcie Lynne M., Phoenix, AZ

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peace, Love and a Wonderful time.
Wonder House is the BEST kept gem of all the vacation rental sites I've used! Hands Down!!! Stay here & watch the sunrise, the sunset, soak in the hot tub, float in the pool, build a giant fire in the fire pit, nap in a hammock, sleep on the amazin beds, find Wanda, etc....But most of all, be grateful you found Wonder House ♡ ~ Marcie from Phoenix, Arizona p.s. I can't wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christi V., Chino, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful and quiet
This cabin was in a very quiet and private area. We were looking to get away from it all, and this was perfect. We didn't see anyone the whole weekend. The cabin was very clean and well-stocked. We brought our two dogs, and they had a blast. The fence was very secure for them. We enjoyed the star gazing in the hot tub in the evenings. We explored Amboy Crater which was only half an hour away. This place was great and we will be booking again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Myles M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Desert Getaway
Had a wonderful time at the house! Very clean, cool and stocked with goodies. After the heat the yard became the main attraction with the stars above, the time spent taking space pictures and chilling in the hammock during the night was great! Although internet wasn't the fastest and the neighbouring views were a bit sketchy can't complain at all. Take bug spray, Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hank B., Huntington Beach and sometimes Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Back once again...
This is our.. 5th or 6th trip..? It's like going home. This well equipped house is perfect if you want quiet and wide open skies and nobody around! We love coming back here as often as possible to enjoy the comfort and peace. The new spa is awesome too! There is nothing like this place! Thank you again! See you next trip. : )
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heather G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Views & Relaxing Atmosphere
We were able to easily access the property, all essentials were available (kitchenware fully stocked, goodies left for the kids, even past travelers left behind firewood!) and the property was well maintained. This property had the best views that I've ever seen, and the kiddos had a blast running around in the fenced in area. One thing that I noticed, there wasn't a washer/dryer available. We were only there a few days, but if you plan on staying an extended time, just make sure to pack extra; the closest town is about 20-30min drive.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hank B., Huntington Beach and sometimes Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Trip 4
This was our fourth visit to Wonderhouse this crazy, 2020 year. That speaks volumes! It is a great place to visit and quiet and comfortable. Last trip it was 118 during the day and this trip it got down to 34 at night. No problem inside, the place has the best heating/cooling system! Thank you once again Melissa and Paul for this offering and letting us have that "home away from home" feeling when we visit. We'll be back, many more times!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Hank B., Huntington Beach and sometimes Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The WonderFUL House.
The day we returned from our first visit, we booked another trip. That only happens with us when we go to Maui, but this Wonder House is our new favorite all time desert retreat. Paul & Melissa really went all-out making a safe, comfortable, modern, but very beach-like down-to-earth place. The artwork and style is fun and fits the place perfectly. Every detail was considered and its a perfect place for wide open unobstructed views, especially at night. We hope to come back many times. Thanks Paul & Melissa for all the hard-work you put into this house, it shows, and your generosity offering it is great!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Hank B., Huntington Beach and sometimes Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thunder House!
Our 8th trip to Wonderhouse. That speaks volumes! This is a great place to experience the beauty of the California desert and the skies that were very alive this trip! We had monsoon weather and one great thunderstorm! We'll post a video on YouTube (wonderhouse storm) shortly. As always, Melissa is the best host and we love the style of the place and the comfort and security. I'm probably going to write a dozen more of these reviews in the future! This is our fav place in the desert. Thanks again guys for your wonderful hospitality. This was one of our best trips ever.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hank B., Huntington Beach and sometimes Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Consistency
Our 5th stay here. Yep, one day we'll set the record. That says it all, right?! Always the same consistent, reliable place. Clean, safe, unique and still has a dazzling night sky to beat. Thank you again Melissa & Paul for this offering, it's great upkeep, and cleanliness (thank U Liz). We surely will be back again! And again. More. LOL! Aloha, Hank & Sheryl
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Andrea W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Desert Cleanse You Need
Looking for a home base for Joshua Tree that puts you smack in the middle of amazingly beautiful wilderness, complete with a hot tub for star gazing and all of the comforts of home? Look no further. Wonder House is truly that and we could not be happier with our experience. Dog friendly and so easy to go for miles in any direction. The hosts have fenced in an acre of the property to protect you and your dogs from rattlers and there are no cacti on site to worry about when you let the dogs explore. Heat lamp and comfortable outdoor furniture, fire pit, horse shoes, hot tub and even a stock tank pool for summer guests…putting on clothes is optional given the isolation. Beds are comfortable and the house is well stocked and clean. We will definitely be back!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021