Frequently Asked Questions
To help you plan a seamless getaway, here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions about life at the cove.
Booking Requirements & Occupancy Limits
To ensure a seamless and exceptional stay, we maintain clear standards regarding reservation ownership and property limitations.
What are the age requirements for booking Acorn Cove?
The primary guest booking the property must be 25 years of age or older. This individual must be present onsite for the entirety of the stay and is responsible for ensuring all guests adhere to our property guidelines.
What is your maximum occupancy and daytime visitor policy?
To ensure comfort and protect our sensitive lakeside septic system, we have a limit of 6 overnight guests. Day guests are welcome to join you for gatherings up to a maximum of 12 people. We do not permit mass hosting, events, or commercial vehicles such as food trucks.
Can we bring an RV for additional guests or larger family stays?
No. To protect our sensitive lakeside septic system, RVs, campers, and live-in trailers are not permitted on the property. We do not have the onsite utility to support them. If your gathering requires additional lodging, there are available RV spots available just around the block at Lake Palestine Resort & Marina. We are happy to pass along their contact information and you can inquire with them directly.
Property Protection & Policies
Important information regarding security pre-authorizations, property protection policies, and stay compliance.
Are there security cameras or other monitoring devices?
Yes, Acorn Cove utilizes exterior-only cameras in full compliance with Texas property laws. Inside, the home is equipped with standard smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, alongside ambient noise-level sensors. There are no interior video or audio recording devices.
What is your policy on pets?
We are a pet-free property. Pets of any kind or size are not permitted, no exceptions. This policy is driven by our specialized short-term rental (STR) property insurance policy. An automatic $300 fee will be charged if any evidence of a pet is found on the property. This fee is assessed strictly as an immediate contractual penalty for non-compliance, in addition to full financial liability for any documented damages, deep cleaning, or remediation repairs required.
What is your policy on smoking and vaping?
Acorn Cove is a strictly smoke-free and vape-free property. Smoking and vaping are prohibited everywhere on the property, including inside the home, on the outdoor decks, by the water, and on the surrounding grounds. An automatic $500 fee will be charged if any evidence of a pet is found on the property. This fee is assessed strictly as an immediate contractual penalty for non-compliance, in addition to full financial liability for any documented damages, deep cleaning, or remediation repairs required.
How does the credit card hold work for damages?
A temporary $500 security pre-authorization is placed on your credit card three days before arrival. This is just a hold on the funds to secure your stay, not a charge. To ensure fairness, our turnover team completes a thorough before-and-after documentation process to verify the property's condition. Following a clear inspection, the hold is fully released no later than three business days after your departure.
Your Packing List
A helpful checklist of what we provide and what you should bring to ensure a comfortable stay.
What basic essentials should we bring?
Because we are surrounded by East Texas nature, we highly suggest packing your preferred sunscreen and insect repellent.
Are linens and luxury bath amenities provided?
Yes. We provide premium linens, plush bath towels, and curated luxury bath essentials so you can pack light and experience boutique resort comfort. We also provide designated blue & white striped lake towels for the backyard.
Should we bring a portable outdoor speaker?
Yes! To make your evenings in the backyard or down by the water even more enjoyable, we highly recommend packing your favorite portable Bluetooth speaker so you can play your preferred playlists outdoors.
Check-In & Departure Logistics
We believe your arrival and departure should feel entirely effortless. Below are the details regarding property access and scheduling.
What is the check-in and checkout time?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM, and checkout is at 11:00 AM. These times allow time our turnover team to meticulously prepare the home to our next guests. If you require early arrival or a later departure, please reach out for available options.
How do we access the property upon arrival?
Acorn Cove utilizes a secure, keyless smart-lock system. You will receive a personalized digital access code 24 hours prior to your check-in time. The code remains active for the duration of your stay. After checkout, the system will reset at remove your access.
What are our checkout responsibilities on departure day?
While departure is the last thing on your mind at check-in, we believe your final morning should be effortless. The afternoon before your checkout date, we will send over a brief to do list. We don’t expect a deep clean, but we kindly ask that trash is properly placed and the home is left in a respectful condition, allowing our turnover team to efficiently handle the rest.
Property Amenities & Kitchen
Details regarding our cooking appliances, outdoor cooking setups, and culinary provisions.
What type of outdoor grill is available for guest use?
Acorn Cove features a premium Blackstone flat-top gas griddle rather than a traditional open-flame grill. It is excellent for everything from smash burgers to breakfasts. We provide the propane and basic griddle scrapers/spatulas for your convenience.
What basic essentials is the kitchen stocked with?
The home is stocked with a complimentary starter set of essentials so you can relax upon arrival. This includes one roll of paper towels, two kitchen trash bags, a small selection of K-cups, and toilet paper in each bathroom. For additional quantities, a Dollar General is located just across the bridge.
Technology & Connectivity
Everything you need to know about connecting to our high-speed internet and navigating our smart systems.
Is there Wi-Fi available, and how do we connect?
Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. To connect, simply open your device's network settings and select "AcornCove_GuestWiFi." A launch page will automatically open asking for a name and email address. Once entered, your high-speed access is unlocked. No traditional password required. Each guest is welcome to connect their individual devices in the same manner.
How do the TVs work, and do I need my own streaming accounts?
The house is equipped with smart Roku TVs in the living area as well as both bedrooms. A Roku TV is a smart television that uses an internet connection to stream movies and shows through apps (like Netflix, Hulu, or Prime Video) instead of traditional cable. While Roku TVs provide access to a selection of free channels, you will need to log into your own personal subscription accounts to watch your favorite shows or stream premium live sporting events.
How reliable is cell service at the property?
Because Acorn Cove is nestled right on the water, cellular signal strength can vary depending on your carrier. However, by enabling "Wi-Fi Calling" on your personal cellular device, you can utilize our high-speed network for reliable calling and messaging from inside the home.
Water Logistics & Safety
Safety standards, limitations, and guidelines for enjoying our waterfront access responsibly.
Can I bring my own boat, and is there trailer parking?
Absolutely, Lake Palestine is a premier boating destination, and our wide driveway offers ample room to comfortably park multiple vehicles and trailers. To protect our underground irrigation and septic lines, we require all trailers and vehicles to remain on the driveway; parking on the grass is prohibited.
Is there a boat slip or dock available for guest use?
We have a floating dock equipped with secure boat tie-offs. Guests are welcome to tie off their boats there overnight. For launching, the Lake Palestine Resort and Marina is located just one block from the home. Please inquire directly with the marina regarding their standard launch fee. Also, you are welcome to fish from the dock. Please note that anyone aged 17 or older must possess a valid Texas fishing license, which can be purchased online.
Do you provide fishing gear or life jackets?
No, we do not provide fishing poles, tackle, or recreational life jackets. For emergency situations adjacent to our shoreline, a life buoy is attached to the dock. It is not intended for recreational use nor should it be removed for boat trips.
Can we swim directly from the property?
For your safety, swimming is not permitted from our shoreline. The water near our dock contains submerged pillars from the original boat house. While these underwater structures create a phenomenal habitat for local fishing, they pose a serious hazard for swimmers. As an alternative, we recommend you utilize the designated, beach-like swimming area at the Marina, just one block from the home.
The Neighborhood Experience
Insights on our proximity to local provisioning options and guidelines for maintaining our quiet neighborhood rhythm.
What are the neighborhood guidelines regarding noise?
Our property is tucked into a quiet cove shared with wonderful full-time residents. To respect our neighbors and maintain the tranquil atmosphere, we observe outdoor quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM daily.
Where can I find grocery and local recommendations?
Please refer to 'The Local Provisions & Pursuits' guide, its link is located at the top of this page. It features our handpicked spots for grocery shopping, dining, as well as other local activities and excursions.