Michigan Resorts

Shanty Creek to Little Traverse Bay: A Cabintimer’s Guide to Northern Michigan Cabin. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partners Since 2018!
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Shanty Creek to Little Traverse Bay: A Cabintimer’s Guide to Northern Michigan Cabin. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partners Since 2018!

Cabintimers, consider this your compass to the good stuff Up North. Northern Michigan Cabins brings together four-season stays placed smartly around Bellaire’s Shanty Creek/Schuss Mountain and the Harbor Springs–Petoskey corridor. Ski days. Beach days. Barrel-sauna nights. Retro-arcade showdowns with the kids. It’s all on the table—and you can book direct to skip the big-platform service fees and talk with real local hosts who know every trail and taproom.

Why this collection stands out

Northern Michigan Cabin features multiple homes with different vibes and group sizes, so your crew can pick a base that fits the plan.

Shanty Creek Treehouse (Bellaire / Schuss): A mid-century-inspired chalet high in the hardwoods. Sleeps 8+. Open living area with a cool retro fireplace. Big deck in the trees. Rec room with a pool table. Quick drive to Schuss Mountain lifts, Cedar River and The Legend golf, and indoor/outdoor pools.

A-Frame of Mind (Bellaire / Schuss): New build with classic A-frame lines. Sleeps 12. Custom game room and an outdoor Finnish barrel sauna steps from the deck. Big windows, quartz island, and a 60″ linear fireplace. Minutes to Torch Lake, Glacial Hills singletrack, and Shanty Creek golf.

Valley View Lodge (Top of Schuss): Austrian-style A-frame with a wall of windows and valley views. Sleeps 12. Stone fireplace, renovated kitchen and baths, retro arcade in the lower-level rec room. Walk to the access path for the first run or roll down to the lifts.

Mountainview Townhouse (Sudendorf at Schuss): End-unit condo that sleeps 9 with an extra loft. Overlooks the course and ski hill. Kids get a dedicated gaming station and loft bunks; adults get a red retro fireplace and balcony views. Heated Sudendorf summer pool plus access to Summit and Schuss indoor/outdoor pools.

Many homes welcome pets with approval. All include Wi-Fi, full kitchens, and easy parking. Most offer access to multiple pools and hot tubs around Shanty Creek.

Seasons to plan around

Winter: Schuss Mountain is your family-friendly launchpad. Nub’s Nob and The Highlands are a short hop from Harbor Springs. Boyne Mountain is an easy drive when you’re chasing more terrain. Fat-tire biking, XC skiing, and snowshoe trails branch in all directions.

Summer: Torch Lake shows off that electric-blue color that breaks camera apps. Lake Bellaire and Little Traverse Bay call for paddleboards, pontoons, and beach time. Golfers can bag rounds at Cedar River, The Legend, Schuss Mountain Course, Summit, plus Bay Harbor and Chestnut Valley near the bay.

Fall: Color tours on M-119 (Tunnel of Trees) and along Jordan River Road. Hike Glacial Hills or drive winery-to-winery around Petoskey and Harbor Springs.

Spring: Quiet trails, steelhead runs on the Jordan and Boardman, bike-tune season, and first patios of the year.

Eat, sip, and roam like a local

  • Bellaire: Short’s Brewing for flagship pints and pizza; Toonie’s for a post-hike plate; stroll to Lake Bellaire at golden hour.
  • Harbor Springs & Petoskey: Morning coffee downtown, beach time at Zoll Street or Petoskey State Park, then dinner along the waterfront. Check local wineries and Happy Days & Nights near Ironwood Lodge.
  • Torch Lake & Chain of Lakes: Boat days, sandbar meets, and sunset cruises.
  • Trails worth your legs: Glacial Hills (flowy singletrack), Boyne Highlands MTB, and miles of XC and snowshoe paths right from Shanty Creek neighborhoods.

Smart booking for Cabintimers

Skip third-party markups. Book direct with the owners/managers at Northern Michigan Cabin for transparent pricing, quick answers, and local recommendations tailored to your itinerary. You’ll get insider lists for swimming holes, trailheads, patios, and rainy-day backups—handy when the lake breeze shifts.

Ready to stake your dates? Choose your base and book direct now

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Upper Peninsula Basecamps: 3 Cabin Stays Near Pictured Rocks for Trail Lovers, Waterfall Chasers & Star-Gazers. Now Taking Direct Bookings Through RentMichiganCabins.com!
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Upper Peninsula Basecamps: 3 Cabin Stays Near Pictured Rocks for Trail Lovers, Waterfall Chasers & Star-Gazers. Now Taking Direct Bookings Through RentMichiganCabins.com!

Say Hello to Superior Vacation Rentals. Pictured Rocks isn’t just stripes on a cliff—it’s a full-body reset. Sandstone cathedrals glowing at sunset. Cobalt water cruising beneath you. Trails that slip from pine to Lake Superior shore in a single mile. If you’re craving that “let’s pack the cooler and go” energy, here are three stays from Superior Vacation Rentals that put Cabintimers within minutes of the good stuff—kayaks, ORV routes, waterfalls, night skies, and the UP’s legendary H-58 curves.

Jordan’s Retreat sits about 10 miles outside Munising with room for the whole crew. Three bedrooms and two living spaces give everyone breathing room, plus an easy-entry, single-level layout. Bring the machines—there’s a garage and Trail 8 access nearby—then wind down by the backyard fire ring under a sky that actually shows stars. You’re close to Miners Castle, Chapel Rock, and the Lake Superior overlooks that make phones run out of storage. Book direct, keep your dollars for pasties and gas.

Catchin Crickets is the UP in motion. This 3-bed, 2-bath cabin sleeps up to 10 and allows one pup under 50 lbs. Step out to Trail 8 and ride for miles; in February, the UP200 sled-dog race slips right behind the property—front-row winter magic. Back at base, there’s WiFi, AC, laundry, and a full kitchen for hot cocoa and skillet breakfasts. Boat tours, kayak rentals, and waterfall hunts—Wagner, Tannery, Munising—are all an easy hop. Direct booking means no mystery fees and fast answers from locals.

The Barndominium near Pictured Rocks brings group-friendly comfort with a utility twist—heated garage for sleds and ORVs, in-floor radiant heat, and a big open living space with a 65″ TV for game night. A spacious kitchen with an 8-foot island and blue cabinets begs for pancake duty. Three bedrooms, two baths, laundry, and a patio with a kettle-style fire pit round it out. Trails and kayak launches are minutes away; chase the Northern Lights at Miners Castle or Au Train Beach, ride the rolling H-58, or day-trip to Marquette for breweries and bay views—all while booking direct to skip third-party fees.

Things to do while you’re here

Base your days around water and woods. Kayak along the cliffs for close-up color therapy. Hike to Chapel Falls, Miners Falls, and Munising Falls for mist-on-your-face moments. Cruise Grand Island or trek a slice of the North Country Trail. When the throttle calls, rip Trail 8 through Hiawatha National Forest. Roll H-58’s curves to beach pull-offs and stargazing pullovers. Then reward yourself with Johnny Dogs, Foggy’s, or a local brew in Munising. These stays keep you close to it all, without the chaos of town.

Why Cabintimers book direct here

No middleman. No “surprise” fees. You talk with owners or local managers who actually know where to see the aurora, which launch handles pontoon rentals on a windy day, and which trailheads are snow-packed by noon. That local intel turns a nice trip into a story you retell.

Ready to lock in dates and play outside? Visit the rental pages and book direct—then start building your waterfall-and-campfire itinerary.

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Cabintimers Guide: Lovells Riverside on Michigan’s Au Sable—where waders, woodsmoke, and wild trout set the pace. A RentMichiganCabins.com listing partner!
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Cabintimers Guide: Lovells Riverside on Michigan’s Au Sable—where waders, woodsmoke, and wild trout set the pace. A RentMichiganCabins.com listing partner!

Lovells has a way of slowing time. The steady hush of the North Branch of the Au Sable River, the pine-scented air, and a sky that actually gets dark enough to show off the Milky Way—this is where Cabintimers come to swap push notifications for mayfly hatches. Lovells Riverside (formerly Bud’s) sits right in the action near Grayling, with direct access to legendary trout water and a down-to-earth basecamp vibe that makes “one more cast” feel perfectly reasonable.

Why Lovells Riverside hits different

This stretch of the Au Sable is famous for wild brook and brown trout. Wade-friendly currents, undercut banks, and classic northern Michigan scenery set you up for sunrise casts and twilight drifts. Even if you’re not fishing, that riverside soundtrack pairs well with coffee in the morning and a camp chair in the evening. Michigan DNR access points nearby—like The Sand Trap and Sheep Pasture—make it easy to hop around for a change of scenery when the hatch shifts.

For the fly-curious and the fish-obsessed

Make time for the Lovells Museum of Trout Fishing History, Michigan’s only trout fishing museum. You’ll find vintage gear, river lore, and exhibits that trace the Au Sable’s outsized impact on conservation and angling culture. It’s a small place with big stories—perfect for a mid-day break when the fish are sulking. Seasonal hours typically run during trout season, with Saturday openings and appointments available.

Beyond the river: pine cathedrals and quiet trails

Ten miles down the road, Hartwick Pines State Park lets you wander among old-growth white pines on the accessible Old Growth Forest Trail. With 21 miles of paths, a logging museum, and year-round recreation—from summer hiking to winter snowshoeing—it’s a natural reset button for the whole crew.

Nearby small-town stops for your cabin week

Grayling rounds out the trip with outfitters, cafes, and river-friendly shops. Time your visit with late-July’s AuSable Canoe Marathon if you want a shot of pure paddle energy, or keep it mellow with a hatchery visit and an ice cream cone by the river. Either way, Lovells + Grayling is a classic northern Michigan combo where days flow easy and nights cool off fast. graylingmichigan.org

Cabintimer tips

  • Pack layers; northern Michigan evenings can catch you by surprise—even in July.
  • Respect private land along the river and use marked state access sites. A short walk often leads to wonderfully quiet water. Michigan Department of Natural Resources
  • New to fly fishing? Local guides can flatten the learning curve so you spend more time casting and less time retying.

Book direct for the best trip intel

Lovells Riverside is about location and local knowledge. When you book direct with owners or managers, you skip third-party fees and gain real insight on what’s hatching, which access to use, and where to grab a hearty breakfast before first light. That’s the Cabintimer advantage—no middleman, just people who actually know the river.

Ready to wade in? Visit the Lovells Riverside page and reach out to the owner/manager to plan your stay, ask river questions, and lock in those book-direct savings.

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Book direct.

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Ron’s Waterfront Cottages on Lost Lake: Five Classic Michigan Cabins for Every Season. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2014!
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Ron’s Waterfront Cottages on Lost Lake: Five Classic Michigan Cabins for Every Season. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2014!

If your kind of vacation starts with a quiet morning on the dock and ends with s’mores by the fire, set your compass for Barryton, Michigan. Ron’s Waterfront Cottages sits on Lost Lake in the Martiny Chain—an all-sport playground of connected waters where Cabintimers can boat through channels, cast for panfish and bass, and watch loons glide past at sunset. Weekly and nightly stays are available year-round, and booking direct with the owner means no service fees, no middleman, and real local know-how.

The Setting: Lost Lake & the Martiny Chain

This pocket of mid-Michigan is a paddler’s and angler’s happy place. Ten+ lakes link together through calm channels, so you can make a half-day paddle or an all-day cruise without ever loading your boat. The shoreline is largely natural, with state land and the Martiny Lake State Game Area nearby for wildlife viewing, waterfowl watching, and fall color drives. Winter brings hardwater action—bring a heater or pick up propane and take advantage of the ice shanty.

Choose Your Cottage

Ron’s offers five waterfront stays, each with its own personality and shoreline hangout. Rates below were current at the time of writing and may change—check availability directly with the owner.

The Loft — Open all four seasons and built for together time. An entertainment room with a pool table sets the tone, while big windows frame water on two sides. Two lofted sleeping spaces (one enclosed with an Amish queen bed) add flexibility. A covered porch with grill and log furniture extends the hangout outdoors. Utility room with washer and dryer keeps week-long stays simple. Max 7 guests. From about $160/night or $945/week.

Island View — A classic cottage layout with a fire pit and boating dock steps from the door. Free use of the ice shanty in season makes it a solid pick for hardwater anglers. Max 6 guests. From about $135/night or $795/week.

The Cove — A snug basecamp for small groups that just want to fish, float, and relax around the fire. Max 5 guests. From about $110/night or $645/week.

Sunset Cottage — Bring the whole crew and spread out. An extra-large deck stares straight at the lake. Inside you’ll find a king bed in the primary bedroom with an en-suite half bath, plus a second bedroom with a queen. Central air and satellite TV deliver easy comfort; propane for the gas grill is included. Max 6 guests. From about $135/night or $795/week.

Loon’s Nest — Cozy nights are a given thanks to a real wood-burning fireplace, and summer days roll by around the lakeside fire ring. Central air keeps things cool; a 50″ TV covers movie nights. Master bedroom has direct access to the full bath; living room includes a pullout couch. Propane for the grill is included. Max 3 guests. From about $125/night or $750/week.

All Stays Include the Waterfront Fun

Every cottage is fully furnished so you can focus on the lake. Kitchens are stocked with pots, pans, and utensils. Outside, you’ll find a gas grill, picnic space, and a lakeside fire ring. The private dock and calm water are perfect for kayaks and canoes—and they’re included, along with a rowboat and paddle boat. Anglers will appreciate the screened fish-cleaning station with running water.

Traveling light? Pillows are provided; please bring your own bed linens and towels. If you need a specific fitted sheet size, the owner can provide one. Check in after 3 p.m.; check out before 11 a.m. For everyone’s comfort, there are no pets allowed.

Pontoon Days, Bonfire Nights

Want to range farther across the Martiny Chain? Ask about the on-site pontoon rental. It’s a relaxed way to explore channels, picnic on the water, and sneak into quiet coves for wildlife photos. Pontoons head back before dark; fuel is paid by the renter. Pro tip for Cabintimers: sunrise cruises are glassy and peaceful, while golden hour brings the best photo light on the docks.

Four-Season Play for Cabintimers

Spring & Summer: Launch right from your dock. Spend the day paddling through channels, trolling for crappie and panfish, or anchoring up for a swim. Evenings call for grilling and a campfire under big Midwest stars.

Fall: Maples light up the shoreline and the bite stays strong. Bring layers and a thermos for morning paddles. Wildlife viewing peaks as migration moves through the state game area.

Winter: When the ice sets, the fun continues. Use the ice shanty and chase bluegill, perch, and crappie, with chances for largemouth bass and northern pike. Back at the cottage, warm up by the fireplace at Loon’s Nest or settle in for board games at The Loft.

Nearby Things to Do (When You Can Pull Yourself Off the Dock)

Big Rapids is an easy day trip for coffee, galleries, and a thoughtful visit to the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University. Cyclists can hop on the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail—now a fully paved 92-mile route linking Cadillac and Grand Rapids—for smooth cruising through towns and countryside. Hikers can summit Bundy Hill Preserve for sweeping views, while golfers can tee it up at St. Ives or Tullymore in Stanwood. For a float day on moving water, J & J’s River Run in Evart rents tubes, canoes, and kayaks on the Muskegon River. Back near the cottages, the Martiny Lake State Game Area offers quiet two-tracks and wildlife viewing year-round.

Why Book Direct with Ron’s

You’ll talk to the owner, get straight answers, and skip big-site service fees. You’ll also get local tips—where fish are biting this week, which cove stays calm on a breezy day, and where to grab a great burger after the evening bite. Cabintimers know: book direct for the best rates and the best info.

Ready to plan? Check availability and ask questions at RonsWaterfrontCottages. Bring the crew, bring the marshmallows, and make Lost Lake your new cabin tradition.

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Explore more cabins on the 12 It’s Cabin Time® regional sites:

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Scott Lakes Properties in Southwest Michigan: Lake life for Cabintimers who love space, sunsets, and no service fees. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2018!
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Scott Lakes Properties in Southwest Michigan: Lake life for Cabintimers who love space, sunsets, and no service fees. A RentMichiganCabins.com Listing Partner Since 2018!

There’s a sweet spot in Southwest Michigan where two inland lakes meet easy access to Lake Michigan towns. Scott Lakes Properties sits in Lee Township between Upper Scott Lake and Lower Scott Lake, a quick drive to South Haven, Saugatuck, and Douglas. Cabintimers come for the water, the woods, and the flexibility to host everyone—from a couples’ weekend to a 32‑person reunion. Book direct, skip extra fees, and get real local tips from the team who knows these shores best.

Scott Lakes at a glance

Lake time starts in the backyard. Many homes offer private docks and sandy swim areas. Several add hot tubs with a water view. Firepits, grills, and big decks keep the gathering going after sunset. Inside, you’ll find roomy great rooms, game spaces with pool or air‑hockey, and cozy corners for morning coffee. It’s the Midwest lake vibe, dialed in.

Stay your way: from cozy to colossal

Cabintimers can pick from stand‑alone homes or smart dual‑home combos on Upper and Lower Scott Lake. Here are a few guest‑favorites to help you plan:

• Lodge & Lake (dual‑home). Two neighboring homes team up for lake days and forest walks. 13 bedrooms and 10.5 baths welcome up to 32 Cabintimers.

• Serenity Lake Combo. Two lakefront homes on Lower Scott Lake with 8 bedrooms and 7.5 baths. Decks, fireplaces, hot tub, private dock—easy living for up to 20.

• Lucky Duck + Hawk’s Haven. Split your crew across the street and still gather on Upper Scott Lake. 10 bedrooms, 7.5 baths, private beach and dock, and a rec room for rainy‑day fun.

• Scott Creek Lodge (single‑home). Seven bedrooms and 7.5 baths, a fireplace that warms both inside and the patio, plus a secluded hot tub. Not on the shoreline, but you still get a private beach and dock a short drive away—great value for big groups.

• More options. Look at Sunset Shores Lake House, Eagle’s Nest, Swan Shores, Heron’s Landing, Sunset Beach House, Upper Scott Lake Retreat, Maple Woods Hideaway, White Oaks Haven, Woodland Pines, and Morningside Vista. The mix covers hot tubs, screened porches, detached game rooms, and pet‑friendly stays.

Why Cabintimers love this location

You’re less than 20–30 minutes from beach towns you’ve heard about for years. Spend a sunny day at Oval Beach in Saugatuck or stroll the South Haven pier and lighthouse. Sample Southwest Michigan wine country with stops at Fenn Valley, Modales, and Michigan Wine Company. Take kids to the Allegan Event indoor ropes course or the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo. Learn Great Lakes history at the Michigan Maritime Museum. When the orchards ripen, hit Crane Orchards for u‑pick fruit and a fall corn maze.

Four‑season fun

Spring brings Tulip Time in Holland and antique‑hunting at the Allegan Antiques Market. Summer means farmers’ markets, art fairs, lake swims, and golden sunsets. Fall pops with color around Upper Scott Lake; plan apple picking and the Allegan County Fair. Winter brings the South Haven Ice Breaker festival, local ski hills like Bittersweet and Timber Ridge, and quiet hot‑tub nights under a snowy sky. Lake life doesn’t clock out.

How to plan your stay

Pick your dates, party size, and must‑haves. Need a private beach and dock? Want a hot tub or a game room? Traveling with pets? There’s a match on these two lakes. Chicago is roughly a 2.5‑hour drive. Detroit is about three. Grocery runs are easy, and towns nearby cover coffee, craft beer, and dinners out. Ask the Scott Lakes team for pairing ideas if you want two homes for a larger group.

Book direct and keep more for the fun stuff

Cabintimers know this rule: book direct to keep dollars in your trip, not in fees. You’ll talk with a local team, get better date flexibility, and hear real‑time advice on fishing spots, kayak rentals, and hidden beaches. First‑timers—watch for newsletter specials. Ready to start? Head to Scott Lakes to browse homes, check calendars, and reserve your stay.

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

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Why book direct.
Murray Properties in Norton Shores, MI: Lake Michigan days, Muskegon nights, and a book direct path through RentMichiganCabins.com!
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Murray Properties in Norton Shores, MI: Lake Michigan days, Muskegon nights, and a book direct path through RentMichiganCabins.com!

Cabintimers, this corner of West Michigan is all about sandy shoreline, tall dunes, and easy-going lake time. Murray Properties is based in Norton Shores—right between Muskegon’s big-beach energy and the quiet trails of P.J. Hoffmaster State Park—making it a great launchpad for pure Lake Michigan fun. Better yet, you can book direct with the owner/manager and skip traveler fees while getting local tips you won’t find on the big sites. If you’re planning a summer swim week, leaf-peeping hike, or quick shoreline escape, you’re in the right place.

What makes this spot work for Cabintimers

Location is the win here. You’re minutes from P.J. Hoffmaster State Park’s dune overlooks and long, sandy beach. Trails run through beech-maple forest to dune crests with sweeping lake views. It’s a natural playground in every season, with miles of shoreline and plenty of hiking.

Muskegon’s Pere Marquette Park brings the big-lake scene: a wide strand of surf-raked sand, accessible walkways, and the twin lights guarding the channel. Bring a picnic, set up by the pier, and let the kids sprint the shoreline between dips. Sunsets here regularly steal the show.

Day-trip ideas that fit every crew

Got thrill-seekers? Block off a day at Michigan’s Adventure—Michigan’s largest amusement and water park. Coasters, a full water park, and kid zones mean everyone finds a lane.

History fans can tour the USS LST 393 in downtown Muskegon. Walk the decks of a World War II landing ship that now serves as a veterans museum. It’s eye-opening and easy to pair with a stroll along the lakeshore.

Craving something different? Ride the Lake Express fast ferry for a breezy day over to Milwaukee. The crossing takes about 2½ hours, and the terminals on both sides are simple to reach. Catch a morning boat, explore the lakefront, and be back in time for a beachy sunset.

Winter isn’t a time-out, either. The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park (inside Muskegon State Park) offers one of the nation’s public luge tracks, plus a lighted ice trail, cross-country skiing, and more. It’s an easy add for a cold-weather cabin weekend.

How to plan your stay (and save)

Booking through RentMichiganCabins connects you straight to owners and local managers. That means no service fees and direct answers about shoreline access, parking, pet rules, and what’s open in shoulder seasons. Use the inquiry form or click through to the Murray Properties website to confirm dates, ask about seasonal rates, and lock in your trip with the folks who know the area best.

A simple Norton Shores game plan

Morning: Coffee, then Hoffmaster’s Dune Overlook Trail for those views. Pack snacks—sand between your toes is guaranteed. Afternoon: Roll to Pere Marquette Beach for kite watching, volleyball, and pier walks. Evening: Grab dinner in town, then close the day with a west-facing sunset over Lake Michigan. Repeat as needed.

Why Cabintimers love booking direct

You keep more of your budget for fun when you avoid third-party fees. You also gain local knowledge: the quietest path to the beach, which trail dries fastest after rain, and where to find a post-hike cone. That’s the It’s Cabin Time® way—simple, friendly, and focused on the stay you want.

Ready to go? Head to the Murray Properties page on RentMichiganCabins and follow the “Visit Website” or inquiry button to start a conversation with the owner/manager. Book direct. Save money. Get real local advice.

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Sweethaven Resort in Union Pier, MI: six pet‑friendly cottages with hot tubs, fireplaces, and forest paths near Lake Michigan. A RentMichiganCabins.com member since 2013!
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Sweethaven Resort in Union Pier, MI: six pet‑friendly cottages with hot tubs, fireplaces, and forest paths near Lake Michigan. A RentMichiganCabins.com member since 2013!

Cabintimers, meet your next Michigan escape in Harbor Country. Sweethaven Resort sits in Union Pier on 9+ wooded acres with only six standalone cottages, so there’s room to breathe between the pines. Expect screened porches and sunny decks, private hot tubs at several cottages, crackling fireplaces, and quiet paths that lead to campfire circles, a tree house, a horseshoe pit, and a volleyball court. It’s a low‑key retreat with high‑comfort touches—and it’s minutes from Lake Michigan beaches, wineries, galleries, and cafés.

Pick your cottage

The Wren (1 BR, sleeps 2–4): A snug one‑bedroom with a queen bed and gas fireplace. The galley kitchen opens to a comfy great room. Step out to your private deck for grilling under the oaks.

The Dove (1 BR, sleeps 2–4): Similar size to the Wren but adds a screened porch with a hot tub—perfect for steamy soaks after shoreline sunsets.

The Robin (2 BR, sleeps 4–6): A family‑friendly two‑bedroom with a gas fireplace and a screened porch that hides another hot tub. Popular for summer weeks.

The Cardinal (3 BR + loft, sleeps 6–10): Two baths (including a claw‑foot tub), a great room with an electric fireplace, and an outdoor hot tub. Plenty of sleeping space between the bedrooms, sleeper sofa, and loft futon.

The Martin House (3 BR, sleeps 6–8): A standout for gathering thanks to a 24′×30′ great room with a stone‑surrounded wood‑burning fireplace. Outside, a fenced patio opens to a private hot tub off the bedroom’s French doors.

The Heron House (5 BR, sleeps up to 14): Big, bright, and tucked deeper in the woods for extra privacy. There’s a vaulted great room with dining space, a large kitchen, front and screened back porches, a private fire pit, and a hot tub.

Every cottage includes a full kitchen, Wi‑Fi, TV/DVD, and a Weber grill. Several offer weekly rentals in July and August—plan ahead for those peak weeks.

On‑site extras Cabintimers love

Follow moss‑soft paths to discover the Bike Shed (grab complimentary bikes and yard games), a shady tree house, and wide lawns for friendly volleys and horseshoes. Screened porches keep summer evenings bug‑free; sunny decks call for morning coffee. Quiet hours keep the forest calm after dark. Bringing a four‑legged friend? Sweethaven is pet‑friendly—bring bedding and a leash, and always clean up so other travelers can bring their pups too.

Where you’ll be

Union Pier is one of the most convenient beach towns in Southwest Michigan—just off I‑94 (Exit 6). You’ll be about 1.5 hours from Chicago, 3 hours from Indianapolis, and 4 hours from Detroit. It’s a straight shot for weekenders and week‑longers alike.

Things to do around Union Pier & Harbor Country

Lake time. Spend your days on the Lake Michigan shoreline. Pack a picnic, hunt for beach glass, and stick around for those technicolor sunsets.

Trails & dunes. Warren Dunes State Park is a short drive and delivers towering dunes, wooded trails, and big‑lake views that reset your soul fast.

Wine & hops. Sip your way along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail or let a local tour company do the driving while you sample. Farm markets keep the seasonal flavors going—bring a basket back to your cottage kitchen.

Entertainment & gaming. Catch live music at intimate venues like the Acorn Theater or a film at historic Vickers Theatre. Try your luck at Four Winds Casino or Blue Chip Casino, both within easy reach.

Golf & more. Tee up at nearby courses such as Whittaker Woods and Briar Leaf. Kids (and kids at heart) can hit Captain Mike’s Fun Park, rent beach gear and paddlecraft locally, or say hello to the animals at Washington Park Zoo.

How to book (and save)

Sweethaven keeps it personal: check each cottage’s calendar online, then send an inquiry or call the resort directly. Booking direct with the owners—longtime hosts Liz and Chuck—means no service fees, no middleman, and straight answers from locals who know Harbor Country. Rates vary by season and cottage size; larger homes typically rent by the week in July and August.

Cabintimers, if Union Pier is calling, grab your dates before they go. And if you’re mapping out a longer Midwest cabin loop, keep the It’s Cabin Time® regional sites handy for more book‑direct stays.

Keep planning with It’s Cabin Time®

RentWisconsinCabins.com • RentMichiganCabins.com • RentMinnesotaCabins.com • RentTennesseeCabins.com • RentNewYorkCabins.com • RentMontanaCabins.com • RentKentuckyCabins.com • RentTexasCabins.com • RentColoradoCabins.com • RentOklahomaCabins.com • RentNorthCarolinaCabins.com • RentAlabamaCabins.com

Final tip: When you message or call, mention how many in your group (including pups), what season you’re targeting, and whether you want a private hot tub—that’ll help the owners match you to the best cottage.

RentMichiganCabins.com
10 reasons to book direct.

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