Schneider–Wick Lake House on the Sugar Camp Chain: 3 Acres, 250’ of Shoreline, and Kayaks Included. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2017!

Schneider–Wick Lake House on the Sugar Camp Chain: 3 Acres, 250’ of Shoreline, and Kayaks Included. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2017!

If your crew loves long lake days and late-night campfire stories, this Eagle River, WI vacation home sets you up right from the start. Cabintimers get two standout perks the second they arrive: a private, 3-acre setting with 250 feet of level frontage on Chain Lake (part of the Sugar Camp Chain of 5 lakes), and a complimentary fleet of water toys—a rowboat, canoe, and three kayaks—ready on the shoreline. Add a long pier with power for your boat, central A/C with heated floors, and a cozy field-stone gas fireplace, and you’ve got a four-season basecamp that’s as comfortable as it is convenient.

Room to spread out (sleeps up to 14)

Inside the 2,500-sq-ft layout, the living, dining, and kitchen areas flow together so everyone can hang out between adventures. The living room brings the gang together with a big TV for movie nights, a stereo/CD player, and even a piano for impromptu sing-alongs. The dining table seats eight; there’s an extra kitchen table for four. With 4 bedrooms (three with queen beds, one with a twin-over-double bunk), 2 full baths, plus a lounge with a sleeper sofa and three roll-away beds, multi-family groups find easy sleeping arrangements. Traveling with a little one? A crib can be provided.

Lake days done right

Your day starts with coffee on the lakeside deck and ends with s’mores at the fire pit (firewood stocked nearby). In between, the level lot and private shoreline make it easy to pop in for a swim, launch a kayak, or head out fishing. The pier is perfect for docking your boat or renting one nearby. Life jackets are on site, so Cabintimers can spend more time on the water and less time packing the car. There’s even a private sand area and a swimming platform for splash-happy afternoons.

Cook, grill, chill

The kitchen is well-stocked with pots, pans, and the little things that are easy to forget—mixing bowls, measuring cups, a corkscrew, even a pizza cutter. Fire up the gas grill for lakeside dinners, then cap the evening with a crackling fire and a sky full of stars. Inside comforts include Wi-Fi, Smart TV/streaming, and washer/dryer to keep gear fresh for tomorrow.

Bring the pup

Pets are considered here—great news for Cabintimers who can’t imagine a lake trip without the dog. (A weekly pet fee applies.) There’s space to roam and a kennel listed among the onsite amenities.

Four seasons of Northwoods fun

Summer brings classic lake life—swimming, paddling, tubing, wakeboarding, and lazy sunshine on the shore. When temps drop, this spot shifts into snow country. The property sits on ATV and snowmobile trails, so you can ride in/out to explore miles of groomed routes that make Eagle River famous for winter adventure. Indoors, warm up by the fireplace, cue up a movie, and pass the cocoa.

Local things to do (Eagle River, Sugar Camp & beyond)

  • Chain of 5 Lakes: Boat Chain, Echo, Stone, Sand, and Dam Lakes straight from the pier—pack a picnic and make a day of it on connected waters.
  • St. Germain Flea Market (summer Mondays): A Northwoods tradition with food vendors and rows of local finds.
  • World Snowmobile Headquarters (Eagle River): A must-stop for sled fans and a fun rainy-day option.
  • Three Lakes Winery (Three Lakes): Classic Northwoods tastings and tours.
  • Hiking & biking: Hit regional trails and nearby forest land for easy family loops or longer rides.
  • Golf & mini-golf, go-karts, zip lines, horseback riding, museums, libraries: Plenty to keep every age busy when you want a break from the boat.

Good to know

  • Sleeps up to 144 bedrooms + lounge sleeper2 baths
  • Weekly rentals Friday–Friday in June–August; 2-night minimum the rest of the year
  • Boat & trailer parking on site
  • Electric at dock, level lot, and private beach area for easy water access
Book direct.

Why Cabintimers book direct

Skip the middleman and connect straight with the local owner/manager for the lowest rate online—no traveler fees, fast answers to trip questions, and the kind of local tips you only get from folks who live and play here.

Ready to make your Northwoods plans?

Check dates and reach out to the owner directly through the listing. Cabintimers, bring the boat, grab the paddles, and claim your spot on Chain Lake—lake living is calling.

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Idle Hours Resort on Little St. Germain Lake: Classic Northwoods Cabins with a Sandy Swim Beach & Guest‑Only Pontoon Fleet. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2012!

Idle Hours Resort on Little St. Germain Lake: Classic Northwoods Cabins with a Sandy Swim Beach & Guest‑Only Pontoon Fleet. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2012!

If lake days are calling, Cabintimers will love Idle Hours Resort in St. Germain, Wisconsin. Two standout perks set this family‑run resort apart right away: a sandy, roped‑off swim area with a sun‑soaking swim raft, and a guest‑only pontoon fleet so you can cruise Little St. Germain Lake at your own pace. Add in free use of canoes, kayaks, and a paddleboat, and your vacation rhythm is basically set from sunrise to campfire.

Lakefront setting between Minocqua & Eagle River

Idle Hours sits on 500 feet of north‑shore frontage on Little St. Germain Lake, tucked into tall pines on 15 acres. St. Germain is that sweet Northwoods base between Minocqua and Eagle River, so day trips are easy. The lake spans nearly a thousand acres and breaks into several bays. That means you’ll usually find calm water for paddling, fishing, or an easy afternoon cruise.

Cabins for every crew

The resort’s 11 four‑season cabins range from 2 to 5 bedrooms, each with its own character. Bring the entire family, plan a multi‑family trip, or keep it simple for a classic up‑north escape. Because the cabins line the lakefront, mornings start with loons calling and coffee on the porch. Evenings end with stories by the fire and stars that actually pop.

What Cabintimers rave about

Idle Hours is built for simple outdoor fun. Little St. Germain is known for musky, walleye, bass, and panfish. There’s a fish‑cleaning house on site when the bite is hot. Kids dart between the big playground, sand volleyball, and the basketball hoop. Pontoons are available to rent exclusively for resort guests. If you’re bringing your own boat, the public launch is just a few miles away—bring bumpers and mooring ropes.

Want quiet time? Slip a kayak onto Muskellunge Creek for a peaceful paddle. Prefer splash time? The gradual, sandy swim area has no steep drop‑offs, so everyone can cool off with confidence.

Four seasons of Northwoods

Summer brings swimsuits, skis, and sunset cruises. Fall colors here are unreal—bring the camera and hike or bike local trails. Winter is full‑on snowmobile country; St. Germain grooms a huge trail network and the resort shares trail updates often. Spring delivers that calm, uncrowded vibe—and the best fishing of the year.

St. Germain things to do

Start with the Monday Flea Market in town (Memorial Day–Labor Day). Catch seasonal events like the Classic Car Roundup, Colorama in the fall, and winter radar runs. Hungry? There are 20+ restaurants and taverns in and around St. Germain, with even more dining and shopping in Minocqua and Eagle River. Day‑trip ideas include wildlife parks, cranberry marsh tours, waterfalls, and even a big‑view run up to Lake Superior if you want a longer drive.

Planning tips

Idle Hours is a no‑pets resort. Bedding is provided; bring towels or rent sets at the office. Pontoons rent to resort guests only. If you’re eyeing prime dates, book early—these classic cabins fill fast in every season.

Book Direct and Save

Why book direct

Cabintimers know: booking direct means no service fees, better communication, and local advice from the folks who actually manage the cabins. You’ll get the straight scoop on the best bays for morning paddles, where the fish are moving, and which weekend events are worth your time.

Ready to go? Visit the Idle Hours Resort listings to explore cabins, availability, and current specials. Then line up a pontoon, grab the paddles, and make Little St. Germain your base for the week.

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Lake Sullivan Cabin: 145 Feet of Private Shoreline, a Billiards Barn, and Sunsets for Days. Now Taking Direct Bookings Through RentMinnesotaCabins.com!

Lake Sullivan Cabin: 145 Feet of Private Shoreline, a Billiards Barn, and Sunsets for Days. Now Taking Direct Bookings Through RentMinnesotaCabins.com!

Cabintimers, if “lake time” means swimming off your own dock, playing a quick game of 8-ball between grilling sessions, and capping the day with a sunset from a screened-in porch (with its own bar), this Minnesota Lake Sullivan Cabin hits the sweet spot. The fully remodeled main level and kitchen make cooking easy, the big deck begs for long conversations, and the detached game room with a slate pool table keeps the fun rolling after dark. With three bedrooms plus a loft (sleeps 9), two baths, central A/C, a 65″ Smart TV, and a Nintendo 64 for throwback nights, it’s set up for family gatherings and fishing weekends alike. Two kayaks are available to rent, and there’s a large private dock for your boat.

This place sits on 145 feet of private shoreline on clear, fishy Lake Sullivan—about two hours from Minneapolis—so your days can be as relaxed or as active as you want. The lake spans roughly 1,221 acres with depths to about 55 feet and connects to Platte Lake via the Platte River, opening up even more water to explore. Anglers appreciate the walleye and panfish scene, and paddlers love the calm morning water for sunrise laps along the shore.

Inside, the sleeping setup is trip-friendly: two king beds, one queen, and a queen futon in the loft. Coffee is covered with a full kitchen (dishwasher, microwave, blender), plus there’s a minibar with an extra fridge for beverages and bait. A screened porch with seating and a bar keeps bugs at bay while you cheer on the cornhole champs in the yard. And yes—there’s no Wi-Fi here. Hotspots work with major carriers, but the real invitation is to unplug: more dock time, more stories around the gas fireplace, more cribbage in the porch.

When you’re ready to roam, you’re a short drive from some of Minnesota’s most loved outdoor playgrounds. Mountain bikers and gravel riders can chase “red gold” flow at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, where 50+ miles of singletrack weave around aqua-blue mine lakes—bring cameras and your sense of adventure. In winter, fat-tire riding continues on groomed trails. (Minnesota DNR)

Prefer big-lake beaches and fishing piers? Father Hennepin State Park on Mille Lacs has a sandy swim beach, easy shoreline access, and room to picnic after a morning on the water. Mille Lacs shines year-round too—ice fishing, dark-house spearing for northerns, snowshoe laps, and cocoa by the warming house make winter feel downright festive.

If the forecast calls for a rest day, cruise into Little Falls to wander the Minnesota Fishing Museum & Hall of Fame—thousands of artifacts celebrate a deep tradition of time spent on the water. It’s a fun stop for anglers of every generation. (Minnesota Fishing Museum)

A few local tips from the Lake Sullivan side of the county line: sunrise tends to be glassy for paddling; the mid-day bite often pushes deeper on sunny days; and evening swims off the dock are hard to beat after a day on the trail or on Mille Lacs. Lake Sullivan sits in northeast Morrison County near Hillman and Harding, with Platte Lake just a quick boat ride through the river connection—so you’ve got options when winds pick up or you’re scouting new structure. (Lake Sullivan)

Who’s this cabin perfect for? Families who crave easy water access and a kid-approved game room. Anglers chasing walleye and panfish with room to spread out gear. Biking crews aiming for Cuyuna laps, then back-porch beverages. And any group that appreciates a little digital detox—more lakeshore, fewer notifications.

Why book direct.

Ready to plan? Book directly with the owner/manager through the rental website to skip service fees, skip the middleman, and tap into local expertise about the lake and nearby trails. That’s the It’s Cabin Time® way—more value for your stay and more dollars kept local.

Explore even more cabin-country inspiration on our regional sites, then come back and lock in your dates at this Lake Sullivan cabin rental:

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Eagle River, WI — Where the Lakes Are Connected, the Old Fashioneds Are Serious, and “We’ll Do It Tomorrow” Is a Valid Itinerary. Over 100 “Book Direct” Cabins on RentWisconsinCabins.com!

Eagle River, WI — Where the Lakes Are Connected, the Old Fashioneds Are Serious, and “We’ll Do It Tomorrow” Is a Valid Itinerary. Over 100 “Book Direct” Cabins on RentWisconsinCabins.com!

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Cabintimers… Cabin Joe here, reporting live from the land of pine-scented mornings, dock-side debates about musky lures, and a town that basically runs on waterways, winter legends, and Wall Street (the Wisconsin version—less suits, more sweatshirts).

Eagle River WI Cabin

You asked for local-tour-guide depth. So we’re not doing “Eagle River has lakes.”
We’re doing: which lakes, how they connect, where to launch, where the pirate ship hides, where the chickadees literally eat out of your hand, and why a 1923 woodstove basically shaped downtown history. Let’s go.


Eagle River’s origin story (the “Kee Mi Con” chapter)

Before Eagle River became the place to disappear into cabin life for a week (or “accidentally” two), it was a trading, logging, and railroad town built at a literal gathering of waters.

Local history points to early settlement on Watersmeet Lake, right where the Wisconsin River meets the Chain O’ Lakes area. The town’s name? Eagles nesting along the river—simple, perfect, Northwoods. Then comes the legend of Joshua Fox setting up a trading post on Eagle Lake in the 1850s… and an Indigenous guide asking “Kee Mi Con?” (“Have you found it?”). Fox said yes, basically, and that little phrase became a piece of Eagle River’s DNA: you come up here to find something you didn’t know you needed.

Now, if you want a history moment that feels like a movie scene, head to the Chicago & North Western Depot Museum downtown. The original depot burned in February 1923 (overheated woodstove… classic Northwoods plot twist), and the current depot was completed in November 1923 in a Tudor Revival style because Eagle River was becoming a tourist town—not just a timber town. eagleriverhistory.org

That depot is the perfect “first stop” because it explains Eagle River in one sentence:
work town → rail town → resort towncabin town → winter-sports legend.


The watery map, explained like a friend with a pontoon

Eagle River isn’t one lake town. It’s a connected-lakes town—the kind where you can say “Let’s go see what’s around the corner,” and the corner is… another lake.

The Eagle River Chain (10 lakes you’ll actually learn to name)

The Eagle River Chain of Lakes is 10 lakes connected by the Eagle River:
Catfish, Cranberry, Duck, Eagle, Lynx, Otter, Scattering Rice, Voyageur, Watersmeet, Yellow Birch.

If you’re staying on (or near) these, you’re in “dock coffee + evening cruise” cabin country.

WI fall cabin

The secret sauce: the Burnt Rollways Boat Hoist

Now here’s the thing only “been-here-a-while” folks get excited about:
the Burnt Rollways Boat Hoist is how you jump between the Eagle River side (10 lakes) and the Three Lakes side (18 lakes). It’s a working piece of engineering history—originally built in 1911, later modernized with an electric gantry hoist running on a 165-foot-long trestleway—and yes, watching it operate is weirdly mesmerizing.

Cabin Joe move: make the hoist a mid-day “field trip.” It’s like a rideshare for boats.


Public launch + “where do we put the boat?”

Here’s the plain-English version:

  • Eagle Lake County Park is a classic family-friendly hub (swim beach + park vibes), and there’s a public boat launch there.
  • Locals talk about the T-Docks as a key public access point on the chain (especially if you’re aiming for that Yellow Birch / chain area). It comes up even on city notices around access projects.
  • If you want “downtown convenience” for gas, slips, or help, Your Eagle River Marina literally brands itself as a full-service marina right in downtown on the chain. Your Eagle River Marina
WI boat dock

Boat rentals, water toys, and the “we don’t own a pontoon” solution

If your group didn’t tow a boat up (or you don’t want the stress), Eagle River makes it easy:

  • Boat Sport Marina rents pontoons & tritoons right on the chain—so you pick up in the water. They also note dogs are welcome on rental boats, and they’ve got options for fishing boats/ski boats via trailer or delivery rules (especially for longer stays). Boat Sport Marina
  • Want paddles, SUPs, and silent-sport gear? WalkAbout Apparel and Paddle is the downtown-ish “we do outdoors, but make it stylish” spot—kayaks, paddleboards, and seasonal gear like snowshoes.

And if you’ve got kids… or adults who act like kids… you need this:

The pirate ship is real (and it’s not trying to rob you)

Pirates Hideaway is part tiki bar, part ice cream, part “why is there a pirate ship?” It’s a lakeside stop with tours and private cruises, and yes—this is one of the most Eagle River things imaginable. Pirates Hideaway


Fishing: musky lore, walleye missions, and the aquarium you didn’t see coming. Eagle River, WI Cabin Rentals and Resorts

Eagle River is fishing country—especially musky country—and you’ll hear phrases like “last cast” spoken like a prayer.

Don’t skip Guide’s Choice Pro Shop. Besides being a full-service fishing/hunting shop, it’s also home to a 16,300-gallon freshwater aquarium with native fish (including trophy musky) that’s basically a mini-attraction on its own.

Cabin Joe move: take the kids (or the skeptical non-fishers) there first. Suddenly everyone “gets it.”

Wi fisherman

Downtown Eagle River: Wall Street, Railroad Street, and small-town shopping that actually hits

Downtown Eagle River has the kind of shops that make you say, “We’re just popping in,” and then 45 minutes later you’re carrying a bag of fudge, a new hat, and a candle you absolutely didn’t plan for.

A few fun local stops to stitch into your days:

  • Tremblay’s Sweet Shop (because sugar is a vacation activity)
  • Grandma’s Toy Box (dangerous if you promised the kids “no souvenirs”)
  • Splash Soap Company (the “we’re taking self-care seriously” stop)
  • Shepherd’s Wool (cozy gifts, Northwoods vibes)
  • Arrow Gift Shop, Fredrick’s Corner Shoppe, Lyn’s Antiques (browse therapy)
  • The Hiker Box + WalkAbout (gear up without driving all over)
  • Eagle River Pet Company (pet travelers: you’re seen)

And here’s a spicy little pride point: downtown Eagle River’s core blocks were listed as an historic district on the National Register of Historic Places in 2025—so when you’re strolling Wall Street, you’re literally strolling history.


WI pub

Drinks, dinners, and the holy ritual of Friday fish fry

Eagle River doesn’t play around with food and drink. You’ve got everything from lakeside dining to “sit here long enough and you’ll make friends” breweries.

Breweries + tap vibes

  • Tribute Brewing Company (locals love their Blueberry Train Wheat Ale)
  • Riverstone Brewing Company (family-friendly with house sodas for kids + a tiki bar/patio vibe)
  • Three Lakes Brew Station (just outside town; great hang + garden vibes)

Fish fry & classic Northwoods eats

Want an “official” fish fry hit list? Some of the names you’ll see again and again include:

  • Eagle Waters Resort (supper club energy, lakeside setting)
  • Buckshot’s Saloon & Eatery
  • LP’s Pizza & Pasta
  • Bortolotti’s Cin Cin Wine Bar & Restaurant (date night / girls night / “we deserve this” night)

Dining on the water (yes, literally)

If your group wants to eat where the view is doing half the work:
Eagle Waters Resort, Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort, Chanticleer Inn, Sweetwater Spirits, plus spots like Pirates Hideaway for drinks/ice cream/tiki energy.


Trails and “quiet fun” that still feels like an adventure

Three Eagle Trail (the non-motorized connector)

The Three Eagle Trail is a 12.7-mile crushed-limestone trail connecting Eagle River and Three Lakes. Four-season, easy to love, and perfect for bikes, walks, and “we earned dinner” cardio.

Anvil Lake Trail + the chickadees that land on your hand

This is one of the most wholesome Northwoods flexes: in winter, there’s a warming area on the Anvil Lake Trail where you can hike about a half-mile in… and feed chickadees from your hand while a volunteer (Tom Hill) keeps the fire going and the birdseed stocked on Saturday mornings. It’s half nature documentary, half Disney moment.


Winter Eagle River: ice castles, pond hockey, and “snowmobile racing is our Super Bowl”

If you’ve only done Eagle River in summer, winter is the plot twist.

The Eagle River Ice Castle

Downtown Eagle River has a famous ice castle tradition dating to 1933, originally tied to a “King Winter” festival, built from ice blocks harvested from local lakes (historically Silver Lake gets name-checked a lot in the story). Some winters it’s up, some winters it’s too warm—but when it happens, it’s a must-see night photo stop.

World Championship Snowmobile Derby

The World Championship Snowmobile Derby is one of Eagle River’s crown jewels. The 63rd runs January 15–18, 2026 at the World Championship Derby Complex.

USA Pond Hockey on Dollar Lake

Every winter since 2006, teams come to Dollar Lake, and the local fire department creates 24 marked rinks for a throwback pond hockey tournament vibe. (If you’ve never seen pond hockey under a winter sky… put it on your list.)


Seasonal events worth building an Eagle River, WI cabin vacation around

A few “anchor events” that make Eagle River feel like a festival town:

  • Cranberry Fest — the big fall classic at the Vilas County Fairgrounds + downtown activities, and it even includes cranberry marsh tours (in 2025, tours were tied to Lake Nokomis).
  • Up North Beerfest — summer beer celebration at Hi-Pines Campground (21+ event).
  • SepTimber Ride — cycling event energy that pairs beautifully with brewery/winery stops (perfect “fall weekend” move).

WI kids at cabin

Cabintimer Sections: How your crew should do Eagle River

1) Families with kids

Your vibe: fun that’s easy, not exhausting.

Do this Eagle River recipe:

  • Morning: beach/park time at Eagle Lake County Park (swim, sand, picnic).
  • Midday: pirate mission at Pirates Hideaway (ice cream + pirate ship = instant parenting win).
  • Afternoon: downtown stroll—hit Grandma’s Toy Box and Tremblay’s Sweet Shop (bribe fuel).
  • Evening: dock fishing + s’mores + “who heard the loon first?” contest.

Winter family flex: ice castle photo + watch a little pond hockey energy on Dollar Lake.


2) Multi-family large groups

Your vibe: coordinated chaos, with lake time as the glue.

Group-winning plans:

  • Rent a pontoon or tritoon for at least one full day (make it “Boat Day,” no arguments). Boat Sport Marina
  • Do a “chain safari”: name your goal lakes (Eagle, Catfish, Cranberry, Duck), then make the Burnt Rollways Boat Hoist the big mid-day spectacle.
  • Pick one night for “everyone goes out” dinner (Eagle Waters / Sweetwater / Chanticleer-style lakeside dining).
  • Assign roles: Grill Boss, Reservation Captain, Cooler Sheriff, and the person who’s not allowed to forget the buns.

3) Groups of women

Your vibe: cozy + fun + “we’re not rushing for anyone.”

Build your trip around:

  • Boutique + browse loop: Everything I Love Boutique, Splash Soap Company, Shepherd’s Wool, Lyn’s Antiques.
  • Drinks with taste: do Cin Cin Wine Bar for a classy evening, and hit Tribute or Riverstone for laid-back brewery laughs.
  • Pretty trail time: bike a chunk of the Three Eagle Trail, stop for photos, and pretend you’re in a fall catalog.
Cabin Joe

Cabin Joe tip: one themed cabin night (charcuterie + cozy sets) is not cheesy. It’s tradition building.


4) Groups of men

Your vibe: fish stories, grill smoke, and competitive “who’s better at this” energy.

Summer plan:

  • Start at Guide’s Choice Pro Shop (yes, even if you “already have gear”). The aquarium alone is worth it. TravelWisconsin
  • Hire a local guide or at least do a “lake plan” before you launch—this chain is big enough to lose an afternoon if you wander blindly.
WI snowmobiling

Winter plan:

  • Center the trip on the World Championship Snowmobile Derby weekend (or race events around it).
  • Post-ride dinner: Buckshot’s / fish fry / and a rule that anyone who says “one quick nap” must set an alarm. (They won’t.)

5) Solo travelers

Your vibe: quiet mornings, nature, and doing exactly what you want.

Your Eagle River solo itinerary:

  • Sunrise coffee, then a downtown museum hour at the Depot Museum (history with zero pressure).
  • Bike/walk the Three Eagle Trail (go out-and-back your own distance).
  • Winter solo magic: do the Anvil Lake chickadee hand-feeding moment. It’s peaceful, weirdly joyful, and very “I’m glad I did this.”

couples cabins

6) Couples

Your vibe: romantic cabin time without trying too hard.

Date ideas that feel like Eagle River:

  • Supper club night at Eagle Waters (old fashioneds + lakeside atmosphere = the move).
  • Sunset cruise (rent a boat or grab a scenic tour), then back to the cabin for firepit dessert.
  • Winter romance: ice castle photo at night (if it’s up) + cocoa back at the cabin.

Cabin Joe rule: leave the phones inside for one full dock sit. The lake is the entertainment.


WI dog at cabin

7) Vacationing with pets

Your vibe: “my dog is the co-captain.”

Dog-friendly wins:

  • Boat Sport explicitly welcomes dogs on rental boats (huge).
  • Downtown treats and supplies at Eagle River Pet Company.
  • Walks on the Three Eagle Trail (leash up, enjoy the smells—your dog will write a novel about it).

Where to find your vetted cabin or resort basecamp

Eagle River, WI has a big collection of area stays (cabins, cottages, resorts, homes) and leans hard into booking direct—which is very Cabin Joe-approved.

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Why book direct.
SWMI Lake House Rentals: two big-group stays where cabin life meets pure lake time. Now taking direct bookings through RentMichiganCabins.com.

SWMI Lake House Rentals: two big-group stays where cabin life meets pure lake time. Now taking direct bookings through RentMichiganCabins.com.

If your crew is itching for wide-open water, bonfires, and easy access to the best of Southwest Michigan, SWMI Lake House Rentals has two standouts Cabintimers should know about. One sits on a private lake with 350 feet of shoreline plus a seasonal hot tub and optional pontoon rental. The other is set on a popular all-sports lake with sandy frontage, a shallow swim area for kids, and room for the whole family (pets welcome!)

Sweet Lake: private-lake seclusion + seasonal hot tub

This seven-bedroom, three-bath home sleeps up to 20 and spreads out along a quiet, private lake—perfect for paddles at sunrise and s’mores by the firepit after dark. You’ll find a full kitchen, Wi-Fi, A/C, and the kind of indoor/outdoor spaces that make multi-family trips smooth. At the shoreline: a dock, kayaks, and paddle boards; add a pontoon to your stay if you want lazy cruises at golden hour. The hot tub is available October through April, so winter weekends feel extra cozy.

Planning day trips? This corner of SWMI puts you within an easy drive of Lake Michigan beaches and artsy Saugatuck, with ski days at Bittersweet and Timber Ridge when the snow flies.

Saddle Lake: all-sports action for big groups (and dogs)

Bring the cousins, the cards, and the cooler—this five-bedroom, three-bath home offers over 4,000 finished square feet and sleeps up to 20. It sits on Saddle Lake, an all-sports spot loved for sandy bottom and kid-friendly, shallow swimming. Pets are allowed here, so four-legged family members can join the fun.

Saddle Lake itself spans roughly 300 acres in Van Buren County, giving your crew plenty of room for fishing, tubing, and exploring by kayak. Nearby towns like Grand Junction, Bloomingdale, and Bangor make stocking up easy, while South Haven’s lighthouse and beaches are a scenic cruise away. (Fishermap USA)

Make it a Southwest Michigan getaway, four seasons strong

  • Beach days & sunsets: South Haven’s lighthouse pier is a must for photos and evening strolls.
  • Bike and hike: The 34-mile Kal-Haven Trail State Park links South Haven to Kalamazoo under a leafy canopy—great for family rides and wildflower spotting.
  • Winter turns: Bittersweet Resort adds snowboarding and skiing to your weekend—easy to reach from either home.
Why book direct.

Why Cabintimers book direct here

Skip the middleman. When you book directly with the owner/local manager, you avoid service fees and get the inside scoop on lake toys, boat rentals, and seasonal availability (like hot-tub months). Locals know which sandbars are quiet, where the walleye are hitting, and the best blueberry donuts on Saturday mornings—that’s the stuff that turns a trip into a memory.

Ready to start planning? Check availability and connect with the owner on the SWMI Lake House Rentals listings—then pack the marshmallows and the fishing nets.

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West Bay Lake House on the Cisco Chain — A Pet-Friendly, Boat-Lover’s Basecamp in Land O’ Lakes, WI. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2012!

West Bay Lake House on the Cisco Chain — A Pet-Friendly, Boat-Lover’s Basecamp in Land O’ Lakes, WI. A RentWisconsinCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2012!

If your kind of cabin week smells like pine, sunscreen, and a fresh fish fry, this spot is calling your name. West Bay Lake House sits right on the Cisco Chain in Land O’ Lakes, WI and brings two rare perks Cabintimers rave about: a private fish‑cleaning house with running water and power (no more messy improvising) and a mosquito‑treated yard so those golden‑hour deck hangs actually last. Add a large private dock with a great swimming area and an aluminum fishing boat included, and you’ve got the recipe for classic Northwoods days right out the back door.

West Bay Lake itself is clear, calm, and loaded with multi‑species action, and you’re connected by water to the 15‑lake Cisco Chain—a playground for boating, paddling, sandbar picnics, and island exploring. Tie up back at the dock for lunch on the huge lakeside deck, then settle in for fire‑pit s’mores when the loons start calling. Pets are welcome here, so the whole crew gets to come along.

Space for the whole crew (sleeps up to 13)

This Northern Wisconsin log home spreads out groups comfortably with two living areas, two full baths, and three bedrooms. The main‑level primary bedroom has a queen, a second bedroom has two bunk sets (kid‑approved), and a third bedroom has a double bed. Extras include two twin beds, two sleeper sofas, and a futon—handy for multi‑family trips and fishing buddies. Inside you’ll also find Wi‑Fi, satellite TV, a wood‑burning fireplace for cool nights, a window A/C that chills the main living area on warm afternoons, plus a full kitchen (dishwasher & microwave) and in‑house laundry.

Dock days done right

Bring your own boat or hop in the included aluminum fishing boat to explore West Bay Lake and beyond. The private dock sits in a good swimming area for cannonballs and floating around with a cold drink. There’s a charcoal grill on the deck for burgers and brats, and that powered fish house makes filleting the day’s catch fast and tidy. Want more toys? Paddleboards, additional boats, and gear are available to rent nearby—just ask the owners for local contacts.

Eat, sip, and stock up by land or water

Cabintimers love the easy boat or car ride to Bent’s Camp on Mamie Lake for a meal with a view, boat fuel, bait, and a bit of Cisco Chain history. For groceries and odds‑and‑ends, head to Land O’ Lakes or swing through Boulder Junction and Minocqua. If your timing lines up, the St. Germain Monday Flea Market (Memorial Day–Labor Day) is worth the drive for antiques, crafts, and kettle corn. The Land O’ Lakes Art Center offers classes and events for all ages when you want a creative break from the water.

Trails, wilderness, and day trips

Beyond the Chain, lace up for quiet miles in the Sylvania Wilderness just over the border in Michigan’s U.P.—glass‑clear lakes, old‑growth forest, and canoe‑only shorelines make a perfect half‑day paddle or hike. Cyclists can spin scenic miles on local bike routes between Eagle River and Land O’ Lakes or loop rides around the wilderness area. Prefer a lazy day? Grab ice cream in Boulder Junction and wander the outfitters.

What Cabintimers say yes to here

  • Pet‑friendly policy so the four‑leggeds don’t miss out
  • Mosquito‑treated yard (you’ll notice the difference at dusk)
  • Powered fish‑cleaning house steps from the dock
  • Large private dock + sandy swimming area
  • Aluminum fishing boat included for low‑effort lake time
  • Sleeps up to 13 with two living areas—easy for groups
Book direct icons.

Book direct and keep your dollars for the bait shop

Ready to check dates? Skip the fees and the middleman. Book directly with the owner to get local answers fast and the best value. Have questions? Send Joanne an inquiry today—she knows the Cisco Chain like a neighbor because she is one.

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P.S. Cabintimers, if this is your kind of Northwoods basecamp, explore more no‑fee, book‑direct cabins across our growing network:

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North Twin Lake View Resort: Steps-to-the-water cabins + on-site pontoons in Phelps, WI. A RentWisconsinCabins.com listing partner since 2012!

North Twin Lake View Resort: Steps-to-the-water cabins + on-site pontoons in Phelps, WI. A RentWisconsinCabins.com listing partner since 2012!

Cabintimers, here’s the kind of Northwoods basecamp you tell friends about later. A flat, grassy lot that rolls right to the shoreline. Two cabins sitting just a few strides from the water (we’re talking 8–15 feet). And those 80-foot piers? They put you over fishy water fast—morning coffee in one hand, rod in the other. Add on-site fisherman-style pontoon rentals and a screened fish-cleaning house, and you’ve got a lake-life setup that’s hard to beat on North Twin Lake in Phelps, Wisconsin.

Why Cabintimers love this spot

  • Waterfront made easy. No steep stairs. No huffing gear. Just level ground from cabin door to the lake. Swim from the shoreline as the water gradually deepens, or tie up at the long piers.
  • Serious fishing credentials. North Twin (2,880 acres) links with South Twin (another 780 acres) and produces walleye, musky, perch, and bass. Ice fishing is excellent too. Clean your catch in the modern, screened house with lights, power, and running water.
  • Boats ready on-site. Bring your rig or rent fisherman-focused pontoons and an Aluma Craft with GPS/depth finders, live wells, and trolling motors.
  • Walk-to conveniences. A gas/bait/convenience store sits a short walk away. Restaurants and a lakeside Irish sports bar are an easy stroll or a fun boat ride.
  • Open year-round. Come for summer swims, fall color and hunting weekends, winter snowmobiling and hardwater action, and spring walleye runs.

Pick your place at North Twin Lake View Resort

Walleye Inn — 3BR, sleeps up to 8
Just 15 feet from the water with an unobstructed lake view. Rebuilt in 2008, this year‑round home has 1.5 baths, a dishwasher, microwave, Keurig, washer/dryer, and a 46″ TV with Blu‑ray and surround sound. Bedrooms: one queen; second with queen bunks; third with single bunks. Air conditioning included.

Perch Inn — 2BR, sleeps up to 6
A newer 1,250‑sq‑ft home about 120 feet from shore with a gas fireplace, 1.5 baths, washer/dryer, dishwasher, extra‑large fridge, Keurig + drip coffee makers, and custom hickory cabinets. Big stamped‑concrete patio with a pub table and high‑back swivel chairs—prime territory for golden‑hour hangs.

Loon Lodge — 3BR, sleeps up to 10
This high‑end, brand‑new build sits just 8 feet from the lake for that splash‑zone feeling. Two full baths, granite countertops, custom vanities, a 28‑cu‑ft fridge, dishwasher, microwave, Keurig, main‑floor laundry, and a 50″ TV with surround sound and outdoor speakers. Patio pub table faces the water. Reserved for guests who’ll take excellent care of the hand‑crafted furnishings.

All three homes include fast Wi‑Fi, cable/satellite TV with DVD, fully stocked kitchens, bedding and linens (bring your own bath towels/washcloths), and air conditioning.

Boat rentals for anglers and cruisers

On-site fleet highlights typically include 20–22′ fisherman‑style pontoons with 50–90HP motors plus the 16.5′ Aluma Craft. Most rigs are set up with GPS/depth finders, live wells, LakeMaster chips, trolling motors, and power anchors—great for chasing structure, slip‑bobbering for walleye, or easing along a weed edge for musky.

Pro tip: Pair a half‑day cruise with a shoreline dinner by the fire ring. That long pier makes loading and unloading a breeze.

Things to do around Phelps, Eagle River & Land O’ Lakes

  • Eat & sip. Boat across North Twin to Dublin’s Irish Sports Bar for 17 taps and hearty pub food. In town, grab ice cream or candy and soak up a small‑town stroll.
  • Trail time. Bring hiking boots for nearby forest trails. Winter brings miles of groomed snowmobile routes and quiet cross‑country skiing.
  • Easy day trips. Eagle River and Land O’ Lakes are about 15 minutes away for shopping, outfitters, golf, and more up‑north flavor.

Quick planning notes

  • Open year‑round. Weekly and daily stays available; rates vary by home and season.
  • Policies. No pets and no indoor smoking. Check‑in at 2:00 p.m.; check‑out at 9:00 a.m.
  • What to pack. Bath towels and personal washcloths, shoreline water shoes, and your favorite coffee pods.
  • Payments & deposits. A modest reservation deposit holds your dates; balances are due ahead of arrival. Boat rentals require a refundable security deposit. (All terms are subject to change.)
Book Direct and Save

Book direct—skip the fees

Ready to lock in lake time? View current availability, see photo galleries, and book directly with the owner for no service fees and local expertise. Start at the resort’s website or reserve through the resort’s listings on RentWisconsinCabins®.

Cabintimers, share your stay: #PhelpsWI #NorthTwinLake #WisconsinCabinRentals #EagleRiverArea #BookDirect #ItsCabinTime #MuskieFishing #Walleye #PontoonRental #FamilyCabin #Snowmobiling #IceFishing

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Plan more cabin adventures across the It’s Cabin Time® family:

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Final nudge: Curious about dates or on‑site boat availability? Visit the rental website directly and connect with the owner—no middleman, no added fees, just straight answers from folks who know the lake.