If your perfect Northwoods day starts with coffee on a lakeside deck and ends around a crackling fire, Turtle Point Retreat in the Manitowish Waters area belongs on your shortlist. Two big standouts set this cabin apart right away: a pontoon boat available for on‑site rental and free use of kayaks, a canoe, and a rowboat—so you can spend more time on the water and less time hauling gear.
Why Cabintimers love this place
Prime lake time: North Turtle Lake is part of the Turtle Lake chain (North Turtle, South Turtle, and Rock) with around 1,000 acres to fish and explore. The private pier with ladder, bench seating, and a sandy/pebble shoreline makes in‑and‑out swims easy.
Room to spread out: The cabin sleeps up to 6 across 2 bedrooms plus a very large loft. There’s 1 full bath with a walk‑in shower, a high‑ceiling great room with knotty‑pine warmth, and a wood‑burning stove for that classic cabin glow.
Season after season: Come for summer tubing and pontoon cruises; return for fall colors, winter snowmobiling and ice fishing, or spring bike rides and waterfall hopping.
Quick cabin specs
4‑season waterfront cabin on 1.5 acres
~1,000 sq. ft.
Sleeping: Queen in primary BR; twin‑over‑full bunk in BR 2; loft with two queens plus a queen log‑style futon
Off‑season: 3‑night minimum with nightly and weekly discounts
Cleaning fee: applies to all stays
Pontoon: available for weekly rental
Payment options: ask about Venmo, check, and credit
Booking is straightforward—reach out to the owner/manager directly to confirm availability and lock in your dates. That means no service fees, no middleman, and friendly, local insight on the best boat landings, supper clubs, and trailheads.
Northwoods days, dialed‑in
Fishing: The Turtle chain is well‑known for muskie and walleye, with panfish, bass, and pike in the mix. Launch close by and be on fishy structure fast.
Biking & hiking: Cruise the award‑winning Heart of Vilas County Trail System—more than 50 miles of paved path linking Manitowish Waters, Boulder Junction, Sayner, and St. Germain. For flowy singletrack and scenic hikes, head to WinMan Trails.
ATV/UTV: Trail networks in Iron County and beyond offer mileage for days. Bring your machines or rent locally.
Winter play: You’re a quick hop to the Vilas County snowmobile network—hundreds of groomed miles with trailside fuel and food. Add ice fishing on North Turtle Lake and cozy evenings by the stove.
Waterfall day trip: Cross into Michigan’s U.P. for a circuit that tags multiple falls near the Porcupine Mountains. Pack a lunch, the camera, and dry socks.
Nearby towns to explore
Manitowish Waters (4 miles): Lakeside patios, classic Friday fish fries, and boat‑to‑dinner fun in summer.
Minocqua (~30 miles): Shopping, treats, and family attractions.
Boulder Junction: Walkable downtown with galleries and outfitters.
House rules at a glance
Guests: Up to 6
Check‑in/out: 4:00 pm / 10:00 am
No pets, no parties; please keep non‑registered visitors to a minimum and confirm in advance.
Ready to plan?
Cabintimers, bring your crew, set the rods, and cue the campfire. Visit the Turtle Point Retreat listing to check dates and message the owner directly. You’ll save fees and get genuine local guidance to make the most of your time on the water and trails.
Keep exploring cabins and destinations across the It’s Cabin Time® network
There are lake getaways, and then there’s Manitowish Waters — a 4,200-acre, 10-lake chain that’s fully navigable by boat and wired directly into Northwoods legend. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
From your cabin on the Manitowish Waters Chain of Lakes, you’re not just “near” the water. You’re plugged into a watery street grid: breakfast on one lake, a sandbar swim on another, sunset cocktails on a third, and a quiet stargazing cruise back home.
This guide is written for cabin-time people — guests who book direct through RentWisconsinCabins.com and want to actually use the chain, not just look at it from the shoreline. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
We’ll walk through:
Cabin “home bases” on or near the Chain
Where to rent boats and toys
Bait shops, public docks, beaches, and boat launches
A practical “10 Lakes in 3 Days” game plan you can actually follow
Cabin Home Bases on (and Just Off) the Chain
On RentWisconsinCabins.com, Manitowish Waters is all about cabins that drop you right into the system — especially on Little Star Lake, Spider Lake, and the Aberdeen grounds. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
A few of the stars:
Hojnacki’s Cedar Hideaway – On the Chain, On Aberdeen Grounds
Hojnacki’s Cedar Hideaway is a 2,250-square-foot cedar-sided home right on the Manitowish Waters Chain, set on the historic Aberdeen Lodge grounds. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
4BR / 2BA (flexible layout), year-round, with open-concept living–dining area
Access to a private sand beach, boat docks, boathouse, playground, fire pit, and screened gazebo
Easy access to snowmobile trails in winter and lake-hopping in summer (TravelWisconsin)
From here, you can idle out onto Rest, Stone, and Fawn in minutes — or point the bow toward Little Star for a dinner run.
Absolute Heaven – Little Star Lake, Legendary 10-Lake Chain
Absolute Heaven is a newer, thoughtfully designed cabin right on Little Star Lake, squarely in the middle of the 10-lake chain. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Direct Little Star frontage, private dock, modern interior
Set up for families, couples, or solo cabin-timers who want light, bright spaces but still Northwoods charm
Hop in the boat and you’re quickly on Manitowish, Island, Spider, or Alder
Cozy Cottage on Little Star Lake – Pet-Friendly, Dockside Living
Cozy Cottage on Little Star Lake is pet-friendly and sits just steps from the water, with a private dock and calm swimming area — plus instant chain access right from your pier. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
This is the classic “morning coffee on the dock, evening pontoon cruise back under the stars” cabin.
Birch Hollow Cabins on Spider Lake – Quiet Middle-of-the-Chain Vibes
Birch Hollow Cabins on Spider Lake (STePAWAY Vacation Rentals) gives you a tree-lined, tucked-away base that still sits inside the Manitowish Waters Chain. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Two cabins (1BR + 3BR) that can sleep up to 14 when combined
Private, wooded setting on Spider Lake with classic cabin interiors
Just minutes by boat or car from Greer’s Pier Marina and key trail systems (rentwisconsincabins.com)
All of these cabins are listed on RentWisconsinCabins.com, so guests book direct with owners/managers and keep OTA fees out of their trip budget — more room for pontoon days, fish fries, and old fashioneds. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Meet the Legendary 10 Lakes
The Manitowish Waters Chain is a neat, navigable loop of 10 lakes, each with its own personality:
Rest Lake – Big water, ski-show home base, sandy public beach, and two town parks (Rest Lake Park & Koller Memorial Park) right on its shores.
Stone Lake – Quieter, great for paddling and fishing, tucked between Rest and Fawn.
Fawn Lake – Small, cozy, and a bit more secluded; great for a slow morning paddle.
Clear Lake – Crystal water, strong swimming, and public ramps for easy access. (Wisconsin DNR)
Spider Lake – In the middle of the chain, known for excellent fishing and quiet coves.
Island Lake – Bigger water with islands to weave around; classic chain-cruising terrain.
Wild Rice Lake – Marsh edges, bird-watching, and a public boat ramp off Townline Road.
Manitowish Lake – Central connector, easy lake-hopping hub with resort shoreline and on-water dining nearby.
Little Star Lake – Home of Little Bohemia Lodge and Little Star Beach Park; sand, history, and big-sky sunsets.
Alder Lake – Quieter, shallower, great for paddling and relaxing away from the busier sections of the chain.
Once you understand who’s who, planning a “10 lakes in 3 days” circuit becomes a fun routing puzzle instead of guesswork.
Boats, Toys, and How to Get on the Water
No boat? No problem. The chain is built to be rented, borrowed, and played on.
Full-Service Marina on the Chain: Greer’s Pier Marina
Greer’s Pier Marina sits on Spider Lake right in the chain and functions as marine HQ: boat sales, rentals, launch, marine fuel, supplies, plus a bar & grill called The Lower Unit. (greerspier.com)
Rental options typically include:
24’ premium pontoon boats
Ski boats
Fishing boats
Stand-up paddleboards (SUP)
All boats go out directly from Spider Lake, so you’re launched already on the chain. (rentals.greerspier.com)
Pontoon Delivery & More: Northwoods Pontoon Rentals and The Northwoods Life
Northwoods Pontoon Rentals (on US Hwy 51 in MW) offers daily and weekly pontoon rentals and will deliver to Manitowish Waters, Presque Isle, Winchester, and other nearby lakes. (northwoodspontoonrentals.com)
The Northwoods Life (based at 5325 Aberdeen Lodge Rd) also rents pontoons specifically for the Manitowish Waters Chain, with online agreements and local support — a nice fit if you’re staying on or near Aberdeen.
Between these options, your cabin guests can choose the vibe:
Big pontoon with sun deck for multi-family cruising
Ski boat for tubing and wake-play
Smaller fishing rigs for slipping quietly into Wild Rice or Spider coves
Bait Shops, Tackle, and Fishing Essentials
The chain is loaded with musky, walleye, bass, and panfish, and local shops make it easy to gear up:
Close to Manitowish Waters:
Dietz’s Service Station – Right in Manitowish Waters; one of the go-to bait and tackle spots for chain anglers.
Townline Sports – On the south side of Manitowish Waters; another convenient stop for bait, licenses, and tackle tweaks.ortsman’s Motel and Resort)
Nearby, but still an easy drive:
Karsyn’s Korner in Presque Isle
Turtle River Trading Company in Mercer
Layer in local guides like Rob Friedley’s Guide Service if guests want a musky-or-bust mission.
Public Docks, Beaches, and Boat Launches
One of the reasons the chain works so well for “lake-hopping” from your cabin is the network of parks, public docks, and launches.
Rest Lake Park – Big Beach + Launch + Ski Show
Rest Lake Park sits on 10.7 acres with 675 feet of sandy frontage on the west side of Rest Lake:
Large sand beach & swimming area
Pavilion with fireplace, picnic tables, grills, restrooms
Public boat launch ramp and dock with parking
Home of the Manitowish Waters Skiing Skeeters water ski shows in summer
Perfect for: a mid-day family beach break between lake segments, or a launch point if your cabin isn’t directly on Rest.
Frank B. Koller Memorial Park – Downtown Docks & Music in the Park
Right by the Rest Lake Dam in downtown Manitowish Waters, Koller Memorial Park is your “pull up and wander town” stop:
Five public boat docks
Fishing pier and small swimming area
Gazebo, bandstand, picnic tables, grills, and restrooms
Summer Music in the Park concerts and other waterfront events
Boat-in to Koller, tie up at one of the docks, grab food or coffee in town, then head back out.
Little Star Beach Park – Sandbar Swim & Boat-In Beach
On the east side of Little Star Lake, Little Star Beach Park is a classic “drop anchor and swim” spot:
Sand beach with buoyed swim area
Picnic tables, grills, parking, and basic facilities
Accessible by watercraft; people commonly nose pontoons up to the sandy shallows
This is your textbook “sandbar swim on another lake” stop during a 10-lake run.
Key Public Boat Launches on the Chain
You don’t need to memorize GPS coordinates, but it’s useful to know the main public access points:
Rest Lake Boat Landing – Public landing for Rest Lake
Clear Lake Boat Landings – Two public landings off Clear Lake Road
Wild Rice Lake Boat Landing – Public landing with paved ramp at the end of Townline Road
Little Star Lake Boat Landing – DNR-listed public landing off Park Road near Little Star Beach
Greer’s Pier Marina – Private launch on Spider Lake (fees may apply), handy if you’re renting or trailering in
From a cabin-guest perspective, the message is simple: you’re never far from a launch, a dock, or a beach where you can step out of the boat and into town or sand.
Where to Eat & Drink by Boat (or Short Drive)
This is where Manitowish Waters really leans into the “experience” part: multiple true Northwoods dining options are either on the water or a very short walk from public docks.
On or Very Near the Chain
Little Bohemia Lodge – Little Star Lake The historic lodge from the John Dillinger shootout and Public Enemies film, perched right on Little Star. Classic supper-club-style fare, bar, and a built-in history lesson, plus boat-accessible shoreline.
Aberdeen Restaurant & Bar – Aberdeen Lodge Grounds Hand-hewn log lodge with a dining room overlooking the Manitowish Waters Chain. Upscale, cozy, and explicitly designed for “views while you eat.” Great pairing with Hojnacki’s Cedar Hideaway or any cabin near Aberdeen Road.
White Oak Grill – Chippewa Retreat Resort (Lake Manitowish) Lakeside restaurant on Manitowish Lake with a “rustic elegance” vibe, multi-course options, and a proper Northwoods cocktail list. Ideal as a final stop on a chain-wide dinner cruise.
Manny’s Parkside – Overlooking Rest Lake Modern tavern and backyard space with pizzas, wings, paninis, and frequent live music, with views over Rest Lake. The “Backyard” is built for hanging out after a day on the water.
Pea Patch Motel & Saloon – By the Rest Lake Dam A classic bar-and-grill next to the Rest Lake Dam in downtown MW; their tagline brags “Best Burger by a Dam Site!” Dock at Koller Park and walk over for burgers and beers. (thepeapatch.com)
Coffee & Breakfast with a Lake View
Dixie’s Coffee House – On Vance Lake A lakeside coffee house with deck, dock seating, and some of the best “first light over water” views in town. Breakfast sandwiches, paninis, and baked goods make this a perfect day-start before you hop back onto the chain. (dixiesmw.com)
Fine Dining Finishers
Smokey’s Restaurant & Supper Club Classic Northwoods supper club: steaks, chops, walleye, salmon, deep wine list, and a quietly fancy atmosphere tucked in the pines along County Hwy W. When guests ask, “Where do we go for that special dinner?” — this is the answer. (smokeysdining.com)
Between all of this, your guests can realistically build full days where they never need the car — just a boat, a dock, and some time.
How to Explore 10 Lakes in 3 Days!
A Practical Cabin-Time Game Plan
Let’s turn all this into something guests can follow. This three-day plan assumes you’re staying on or very near the chain (Little Star, Spider, Alder, or Rest). Adjust the start/end lake based on your cabin’s dock.
Day 1 – Little Star, Manitowish, Island
Theme: History, sandbar swim, and sunset cruise
Morning: Coffee & Orientation
Start at Dixie’s Coffee House on Vance Lake for breakfast and a caffeine boost with lake views. (dixiesmw.com)
Head back to your cabin dock on Little Star, Rest, or Spider and launch the pontoon.
Midday: Little Star Beach & Chain Sampler
Cruise into Little Star Lake and idle over to Little Star Beach Park on the east shore. Pull the pontoon up to the sandy shallows and let everyone hop out for a swim and picnic.
From there, make a lazy loop: Little Star → Manitowish → Island Lake, getting everyone used to the channels and markers.
Afternoon: Historic Stop at Little Bohemia Lodge
Return to Little Star and tie up near Little Bohemia Lodge for a late lunch or early dinner. Guests can walk through the Dillinger history, browse the memorabilia, and then walk back out to the boat for golden-hour calm.
Evening: Sunset Cruise Back to the Cabin
Finish with a slow cruise back through Manitowish and Little Star as the sky turns orange.
Back at Cozy Cottage or Absolute Heaven, drop anchor off the dock for a final swim, then move to the fire pit. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Goal for Day 1: You’ve touched 3–4 lakes, figured out the channels, and started your “we commuted to dinner by boat” vacation flex.
Day 2 – Rest, Stone, Fawn, Clear, Spider
Theme: Parks, beach time, and mid-chain exploring
Morning: Launch at Rest Lake Park & Explore
If your cabin isn’t on Rest, use the Rest Lake Park boat launch and dock there. (manitowishwaters.org)
Head east across Rest Lake, through the channel into Stone Lake, and onward into Fawn Lake and Clear Lake — you’ll get a feel for how the quieter eastern lakes change in character.
Midday: Clear Lake Swim & Picnic
Clear Lake’s public access and clear water make it ideal for a swim stop; tuck into a quiet bay, drop anchor, and swim off the boat ladder.
Afternoon: Spider Lake & Greer’s Pier
Continue into Spider Lake, one of the best mid-chain fishing and exploring lakes.
Swing by Greer’s Pier Marina: top off with fuel, grab snacks or a drink from The Lower Unit Bar & Grill, and check out their rental fleet if you’re day-renting instead of keeping a boat all week. (greerspier.com)
Guests staying at Birch Hollow Cabins on Spider Lake can treat this day as a full “home-loop”: zig-zagging Spider’s bays and then out into Stone, Fawn, and Clear before coming right back to their own dock. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Evening: Dinner & Music on Rest Lake
Cruise back toward Rest Lake and dock at Koller Memorial Park or Rest Lake Park.
Depending on the day:
Catch Music in the Park at Koller, then walk to Pea Patch Motel & Saloon for burgers and drinks.
Or roll over to Manny’s Parkside for pizzas and live music in Manny’s Backyard, overlooking Rest Lake.
Goal for Day 2: You’ve stitched together the eastern and central chain, mixed in town time, and shown guests how easy it is to “dock and do stuff.”
Day 3 – Alder, Wild Rice, Quiet Corners & Fine Dining
Theme: Wildlife, quiet paddling, and a big-finish supper club night
Morning: Wild Rice & Alder – The Quiet Side
Launch from Wild Rice Lake’s public boat landing off Townline Road or from your cabin if you’re on the western chain.
Start with an early-morning cruise on Wild Rice Lake. This lake’s marshy edges make it a bird-watcher’s dream — think eagles, herons, loons.
Continue into Alder Lake, where the vibe gets even quieter. This is the place to pull out the kayaks or SUPs and drift.
Midday: Dock-and-Dine or Back-Deck Lunch
Head back toward Manitowish Lake for a dock-and-dine lunch at White Oak Grill (Chippewa Retreat) or a mid-day bite at Aberdeen Restaurant & Bar.
Alternatively, return to your cabin (Hojnacki’s, Absolute Heaven, Cozy Cottage) and grill lunch on the deck — that’s still part of the cabin-time script. (rentwisconsincabins.com)
Afternoon: Last-Chance Swim & Sandbar Stop
Use the afternoon to revisit your favorite spot from Days 1–2:
Another Little Star Beach Park sandbar swim
A sandy shoreline stop on Rest Lake Park’s beach
Or a final, quiet float in a Spider Lake bay
Evening: Classic Supper Club Send-Off
End the trip with a reservation at Smokey’s Restaurant & Supper Club. Arrive by car or time your day so you can boat back toward County Hwy W and dock at a nearby access before dinner.
Signature steaks, walleye, salmon, dessert, and Dixie’s coffee cap the trip with a very Northwoods “last night.”
Goal for Day 3: You’ve visited the quieter western lakes, circled back for favorite swim spots, and capped the trip with a supper club story your guests will tell for years.
Putting It All Together (and Keeping It “Cabin Time”)
When you connect the dots — book-direct cabins on RentWisconsinCabins.com, marinas and pontoon rentals right on the chain, on-water restaurants and bars, and an unusually rich network of public docks and beaches — Manitowish Waters stops being just “somewhere with a nice lake.” (rentwisconsincabins.com)
It becomes a lake system you live in for a few days:
Morning coffee at Dixie’s or on your dock
Boat-in beach time at Little Star or Rest Lake
Bird-heavy drifts on Wild Rice and Alder
Dock-and-dine nights at Little Bohemia, Aberdeen, Manny’s, or Smokey’s
Cabin decks, fire pits, and quiet Spider-or-Little-Star nights to reset between adventures
That’s how you turn a rental into a full-tilt Manitowish Waters Chain experience — and why your It’s Cabin Time blog can proudly claim “niche authority” on how to do 10 lakes in 3 days without ever losing that cabin-time heartbeat.
Cabintimers don’t come to Mercer to rush. They come for water that wanders between islands, for mornings that start with loon calls, and for the particular hush that happens when pines hold fresh snow. Turtle Chalet puts you right in the middle of that—on the storied Turtle‑Flambeau Flowage—with room to spread out, easy lake access, and a year‑round lineup of simple pleasures. Think porch coffee that turns into a second cup, sandy shoreline play for the kids, and lazy pontoon loops that turn into golden‑hour fishing.
Why Turtle Chalet works for real cabin time
This place checks the boxes Cabintimers care about: space for family and friends, a lakeside screen porch that faces the sunset, and a big gathering room with a gas fireplace when the air turns crisp. The kitchen is ready for shore‑lunch experiments and big pancake mornings. Multiple bedrooms and two full baths mean everyone settles in fast. Linens and towels are provided so you can pack light and spend your energy on bait choices and trail plans. Outside, a private 40‑foot pier means you’re never more than a few footsteps from the Flowage.
The Flowage: water with personality
The Turtle‑Flambeau Flowage isn’t just a lake; it’s a wilderness‑style water maze with more shoreline than you’ll expect and pockets of quiet everywhere. Anglers know this water for musky and walleye. Early risers slip out when the fog is still working through the spruce tops, casting along weed edges and rock bars. Midday is for cruising between islands to swim in shallow, sandy coves. Late day brings that glassy calm where paddles barely drip and the sky goes long. If the wind kicks up, tuck behind a point and you’ve got your own private bay.
Trails for every season
Mercer loves motion. In spring and summer, Cabintimers roll out onto Iron County’s ATV/UTV network that winds through forest and past old logging roads. Fall rides are a color show. As soon as winter arrives, the region flips the switch to snow season. Sledders chase miles of groomed routes that connect towns, taverns, and scenic overlooks. Cross‑country skiers glide the MECCA Trails for quiet loops under big trees. Snowshoers follow animal tracks along shorelines and through balsam groves. When the thaw returns, hiking boots and trail runners take over again.
A day that flows naturally
Start with coffee on the porch and a quick wander to the water to check conditions. If the kids are up early, the gentle, sandy swim area is an easy win. Late morning can be a paddle between nearby islands with a break on a sun‑warmed rock. Afternoon might turn into a trail ride for a few hours, then back to the pier for a couple casts before dinner. Evenings belong to the fire pit, the grill, and a sky full of stars. Rinse and repeat in whatever order suits the crew.
Mercer leans laid‑back. You’ll find bait, ice, and strong coffee without hunting around. Small‑town supper clubs and taverns handle the cravings: Friday fish‑fry, burgers after a trail day, or a plate of pancakes that can hold its own against a long paddle. Day trippers can slide north toward Hurley and Ironwood for a peek at waterfalls and mining history, or swing west to quiet forest roads that end at boat landings and picnic spots. Bring a paper map; half the fun is following a line to wherever it goes.
Cabin layout snapshot
Inside, there’s room to stretch out, swap stories, and regroup between outings. Bedrooms are spaced for privacy and easy kid‑napping. Two full baths keep things moving. The great room has a cathedral ceiling and a gas fireplace for shoulder‑season coziness. The lakeside screen porch is the best seat in the house when the breeze is soft and the mosquitoes are curious. The kitchen handles big breakfasts and late‑night snacks, and a gas grill outside keeps the cook connected to sunset.
Fishing details for Cabintimers
Bring a walleye plan, a backup smallmouth plan, and at least one musky lure you believe in. Early and late in the day, work current areas and shorelines with structure. Mid‑summer, target weed edges and island points. In fall, follow cooling water into shallower action. Shore lunch doesn’t need to be fancy; keep it simple and the setting will handle the rest. If you’re new to the Flowage, chat up a local bait shop for timely intel—conditions change, and local insight shortens the learning curve.
Kid‑friendly by default
The sandy, gradual entry is the star for younger Cabintimers. Add easy paddles in shallow water, rock collecting on island edges, and the thrill of seeing an eagle up close. Back at the chalet, board games around the table turn into story time by the fire. Keep a stack of towels near the porch door; lake days have their own rhythm.
When the lakes lock up, the Flowage trades wakes for wind‑packs. Ice anglers set up near structure and swap stories over hot cocoa. Sledders run for miles, connecting bars and overlooks. Cross‑country skiers and snowshoers drift through quiet woods where the only sound is snow squeak. Evenings hit different when boots are drying by the door and the fire is humming.
Respect the Northwoods
Pack out trash, keep noise reasonable, and stay aware of weather. On the water, wear life jackets, watch the forecast, and keep an eye on boating markers. On trails, stay to the right, slow down near walkers, and give a wave when you pass. Fires belong in the pit with a water bucket nearby. The loons will thank you with an encore at dusk.
3 sample days for different Cabintimers
Angler’s day: dawn walleye on a rocky point, brunch back at the chalet, afternoon nap, evening musky run when the light softens, burgers on the grill. Family splash day: pancakes, sandcastles, paddle to a close island, picnic lunch, quiet time with books on the porch, sunset swim, s’mores and stargazing. Trail & tavern day: morning ATV loop through the pines, snack stop in town, shoreline casting before dinner, fish fry and a slow drive home under a sky full of stars.
What to pack
Focus on layers and comfort. Bring quick‑dry clothing, a warm fleece for evenings, sturdy shoes, rain shells just in case, and a hat that won’t bail in the wind. Toss in binoculars, headlamps for late fires, and a small tackle box tuned to walleye and smallmouth with one confident musky bait. Add sunscreen, bug repellent, and extra zip bags for snacks and found treasures.
Simple housekeeping
Linens and towels are included, which eases the packing list. The kitchen is stocked for real meals. There’s a gas grill outside. Ask the owner about bringing boats, ATVs, or pets, and get the latest on parking and trailer space. A quick note on quiet hours keeps the peace and helps wildlife drift close.
When to visit
Spring starts with hungry fish and uncrowded trails. Summer stretches long with warm water near shore and sunsets that don’t know when to quit. Fall is made for color runs and strong bites. Winter is its own season of delight with groomed trails, frozen‑lake wanderings, and cozy fireplace nights. Pick your season and Turtle Chalet shapes itself around the plan.
Skip third‑party markups and algorithms. Booking straight with the owner or local manager means no service fees, fast answers to real questions, and the kind of small details that only come from people who know this shoreline by heart. Your dollars also stay closer to the Northwoods community that makes trips like this possible.
Ready to plan?
Turtle Chalet is the kind of place you return to because it’s easy to live well here. Grab your calendar, look at the family’s school and sports schedules, and carve out a slice of the year for water, woods, and starry nights. Reach out through the rental website to check dates and lock in your stay. Cabintimers, this spot belongs on your map.
Explore more regions on It’s Cabin Time®
Discover more authentic cabins and book‑direct stays across our regional sites:
If “lake time” is your love language, Eve & Pine delivers it from sunrise swims to starry-night fires. This four-bedroom, 3.5-bath lake home near Minocqua is built for group memory-making—bring the whole crew (up to 14), the fishing rods, and yes, the dog. Inside you’ll find an airy open-concept main level, a basement bar for game nights, and a cozy 3-season porch for that first cup of coffee. Outside, the shoreline is sand-bottom and swimmer-friendly—exactly what families hope for on a full-rec Northwoods lake.
Why Cabintimers love this spot
Eve & Pine sits about 14 minutes from downtown Minocqua, so you can split your days between quiet on the water and the energy of town. Fast Starlink Wi-Fi keeps remote workers and teens happy; evenings flow from grilling on the deck to stories by the firepit. Two king bedrooms, a queen, and a loft with two full-over-full bunks make bedtime easy for mixed-age groups. Four TVs mean nobody argues over the game.
Your lake, your pace
You’re on Shishebogama Lake with access to Gunlock—known for clear water, bays made for exploring, and classic Northwoods fishing: musky, walleye, bass, and panfish. With 700 acres to roam (max depth ~42 feet), bring the boat or rent one nearby and spend the day hopping between coves. When the wind dies at sunset, the water turns to glass—perfect for a lazy paddle.
Screenshot
Minutes to Minocqua fun
When it’s time to play in town, don’t miss:
Wildwood Wildlife Park & Safari — home to 1,700+ animals and hands-on encounters the kids will talk about all year. wildwoodwildlifepark.com
Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Shows — legendary, free summer shows on Lake Minocqua (Wed/Fri/Sun at 7 pm in season). Arrive early and cheer on the pyramids. Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show+1
Winter Cabintimers, you’re in luck: this corridor is a snowmobile playground, and Eve & Pine’s location puts you close to trails and frozen-lake fun. (Anglers, bring the tip-ups.)
Straight talk on booking
Skip the third-party markups. When you book directly with the owner or local manager, you avoid service fees, get better answers to local questions, and keep your dollars in the community. Eve & Pine is listed on RentWisconsinCabins.com—a direct-booking marketplace built for Cabintimers like you.
Quick specs Cabintimers ask about
Sleeps: up to 14
Bedrooms: 4 (2 kings, 1 queen, loft with two full-over-full bunks)
Lake vibe: sand frontage on a full-rec system; great swimming off the shore
Distance to town: ~14 minutes to Minocqua; the zoo is ~8 minutes from the property
Pet policy: pet friendly (confirm details when booking)
Cabintimer tips
Morning: Paddle the quiet bays of Shishebogama before boat traffic. Cast for smallmouth along rocky points by mid-morning. Wisconsin DNR
Afternoon: Head to Minocqua for ice cream and a stroll down Oneida Street’s shops.
Evening: Grill on the deck, then walk down for a golden-hour swim. If you’re in town on show days, cap it with the Min-Aqua Bats at 7 pm. Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show
Ready to line up your Northwoods plans? Visit the Eve & Pine rental page and book direct—no middleman, no service fees, just real cabin time with local expertise guiding your stay.
Big week ahead? Bring the whole crew to Deer Lake Resort in Winchester, Wisconsin. Cabintimers get the rare combo here: a private, 40‑acre, electric‑only lake wrapped by nearly two square miles of forest and a 9,000‑sq‑ft lodge that sleeps up to 20. It’s quiet. It’s spacious. And it’s set up for easy living and long lake days—without neighbors peeking over the dock.
Why Cabintimers love this Winchester, WI cabin rental
This is a true large‑group basecamp. You’ll find nine bedrooms and six full baths, including a 1,000‑sq‑ft bunk room with its own sitting area and fireplace. There are four fireplaces total, multiple family rooms with lake views, and a lakeside screened porch perfect for morning coffee or late‑night card games. The oversized dining/family room overlooks the water and gives everyone a place to gather without squeezing onto pullouts.
The kitchen was remodeled recently and is stocked to feed a crowd: two coffee makers plus a 50‑cup brewer, two slow cookers, a convection oven, commercial gas cooktop, two full‑size refrigerators, and a stand‑up freezer. Bar seating for six keeps the cooks company while they work. Pro tip for planners: bring the spice kit and a menu—this kitchen can handle it.
On‑the‑water fun (all included)
Because Deer Lake is private and electric‑only, the water stays calm and wildlife hangs close. Fishing is catch‑and‑release and the lake has been stocked with walleye over the years, along with northern, crappie, and panfish. Your group can spread out on the private sand beach, swim platform, and dock. Boats and toys are part of the package: kayaks, canoes, paddle board, paddle boats, two 14‑ft fishing boats with electric motors, a two‑person electric pontoon, and a 6–8 person electric pontoon. Want to waterski? There’s a slip on nearby Birch Lake for your motorboat.
Game on, rain or shine
The lower‑level game room keeps kids and night owls happy with ping‑pong, foosball, and video games. Outside, set up volleyball on the big lawn, shoot hoops, or gather by the firepit. There’s also a hot tub and multiple decks when you’re ready to unwind.
Trail time & town time
Just a few miles away, WinMan Trails offers 20+ miles of groomed biking and hiking. Paved paths connect you to Manitowish Waters, Boulder Junction, and Presque Isle for ice cream runs, coffee stops, and souvenir browsing. Day‑trip options include Lake Superior’s beaches and scenic shoreline. Closer to home you’ll find golf courses, supper clubs, antique shops, and even underground caves. Pack for adventure and see where the day takes you.
Good to know
• Weekly stays are common, typically Saturday–Saturday in summer.
• Pets are considered—bring the four‑legged family if approved.
• Linens and beach towels are provided. There’s a washer/dryer and even an outdoor rinse station.
• Wi‑Fi keeps you connected when you need it; a back‑up generator keeps vacation on track.
Multi‑family gatherings, reunions, corporate retreats, fishing groups, outdoor clubs—if you’re organizing for up to 20 Cabintimers and want elbow room plus serious privacy, this place hits the mark.
Book direct & keep more for s’mores
Skip traveler fees and work with the local owner/manager for the best week‑by‑week insights. Check dates, ask questions, and book direct here: Deer Lake Resort House on RentWisconsinCabins.com
Plan more Northwoods time
Cabintimers, you can browse and book direct across all 12 of our regional sites—no service fees, no middleman, and local insight every time:
Looking for a one-of-a-kind Manitowish Waters cabin rental on the Manitowish Chain? Cabintimers, meet the Cozy Cottage on Little Star Lake—a 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage that sleeps 4 and puts you steps from calm, clear water and the storied Little Bohemia Lodge. This is the kind of place where mornings start with coffee on the porch and end with s’mores at the fire ring, with a full day of lake time in between.
Why Cabintimers love this cottage
Set right on Little Star Lake, the property has over 125 feet of private, rippled sand frontage and a private dock—a big win for families with young swimmers and anyone who wants quick, easy access to the boat. Bring your own rig or rent one locally and enjoy door-to-dock access to the 10-lake Manitowish Chain. Musky, bass, walleye, and panfish keep anglers busy from opener to fall color. Back at the cottage, you have A/C, satellite TV, a grill, and a full kitchen to make meals together simple. Pets are considered with owner approval, so the whole crew can tag along.
Inside, the cottage layout is dialed for a small family or two friends’ trips: one bedroom with a queen bed, one with two twins, and one full bath. It’s an easygoing base that lets the lake steal the show.
A location with a story
History buffs and food lovers will get a kick out of the scene here—the cottage sits by Little Bohemia Lodge, home to the famous Dillinger shootout and filming location for Public Enemies. Walk over for a meal, a drink, and a slice of Northwoods lore. Around town, you’ll find friendly supper clubs, taverns, and dock-and-dine spots that make a day on the chain feel complete.
Cabin Joe from It’s Cabin Time® spotted in Manitowish Waters.
Things to do on and off the water
Paddle the calm bays at sunrise. Cruise to Island Lake for a picnic on a sandy point. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, hop on the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System toward Boulder Junction for miles of paved riding. Mountain bikers and winter sport fans can hit WinMan Trails for singletrack, fat biking, XC skiing, and snowshoeing. The area’s snowmobile and ATV/UTV trails connect you to big-mile adventures right from Manitowish Waters.
Seasonal details Cabintimers should know
The Cozy Cottage rents weekly, Saturday to Saturday, from mid‑May through the third week of October. After Labor Day, the owners will consider a four‑night minimum—great news for a quick fall color escape. Rates and availability change with the season; reach out directly for current info.
Book direct and save
Skip third-party fees and book directly with the local owners (The Johnses) for the best rate and real Northwoods advice. You can browse the listing on RentWisconsinCabins.com and then send an inquiry or call for availability and questions:
There’s something special about a lakefront rental in Wisconsin. Mornings start with calm waters reflecting the sunrise, and evenings wrap up with golden sunsets over the lake. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, a family vacation, or a quiet escape with your favorite book, the perfect cabin or cottage is waiting for you. But here’s the thing—how you book your stay can make just as big of a difference as where you stay.
At RentWisconsinCabins.com, you can explore hundreds of verified lakefront rentals across Wisconsin without worrying about extra booking site fees. Instead of scrolling through third-party travel sites, you get to connect directly with local cabin owners and property managers. This direct connection means better rates, personalized advice, and insider tips on the best spots around the lake.
Why Wisconsin Lakefront Rentals Are So Popular
Wisconsin is home to thousands of lakes, from the vast and well-known Lake Winnebago to the quiet, hidden gems in the Northwoods. Each lake offers a different kind of adventure—clear waters for swimming, sandy shores for kids to play, and excellent fishing for walleye, bass, and musky.
Lakefront rentals here offer front-row seats to all of it. Imagine waking up and stepping right outside to your private dock or enjoying coffee on the deck with nothing but the sound of loons calling across the water. These cabins and cottages are more than just places to stay—they are part of the experience.
Lakefront Rental Wisconsin: Top Activities
A Wisconsin lakefront rental is a launchpad for endless outdoor fun:
Fishing: Cast right from the dock or rent a boat for a full day of chasing trophy fish.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore hidden coves and enjoy the lake at your own pace.
Swimming: Many lakefront properties offer sandy-bottom shorelines that are perfect for family swimming.
Bonfires and Stargazing: Evenings on the lake are made for roasting marshmallows and watching the sky light up with stars.
Winter Fun: Don’t forget about winter. Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing make lakefront rentals in Wisconsin a four-season destination.
Book Direct, Save Money, Get More
When you search Lakefront Rental Wisconsin on Google, you’ll see big travel sites dominating the results—but here’s what they won’t tell you: their service fees can add hundreds of dollars to your stay. Booking directly through RentWisconsinCabins.com eliminates these unnecessary fees.
Plus, when you communicate directly with the cabin owner or property manager, you get insider knowledge—like which bait works best on that lake or where to find the best local fish fry on Friday night. These personal touches simply don’t exist when you book through a third-party platform.
Where to Start Your Search
Whether you’re looking for a rustic log cabin on the shore of a quiet fishing lake or a modern home with a private beach, you’ll find it on RentWisconsinCabins.com. Use our easy search filters to find properties by lake, town, or amenities. Each listing connects you directly with the owner or local manager—no middleman, no fees.
Ready to Find Your Lakefront Rental in Wisconsin?
Your next lake adventure starts here. Browse our selection of Wisconsin lakefront rentals today, send an inquiry, and book directly with the people who know these lakes best.
It’s Cabin Time® Blog 