Cabintimers, meet Deer Haven on Kathan Lake—a three-bedroom, two-bath Northwoods retreat that sleeps up to eight and puts you right on the water with a screen porch view you’ll remember long after the cooler’s empty. It sits on the former Kathan Inn & Resort site, now fully updated by owners who took over in late 2021 and finished a 2022 remodel. The vibe is relaxed. The lake view does the heavy lifting.
Inside, you get a full kitchen, dining area, cozy living room, plus a lower-level family room for board games or a quiet movie night. Linens and towels are provided, there’s Wi-Fi, and the washer/dryer keeps the crew ready for day two. Three bedrooms + two full baths = space to spread out without stepping on fishing rods.
Out the door, you’ve got a shared sand beach, a pier, and a small fleet: kayaks, rowboats, a canoe, and life jackets. There’s a fish-cleaning table for the day’s catch and a lakeside firepit for s’mores under a big sky. Kathan Lake is a quiet 214-acre lake with low boat traffic, and it’s known for musky, walleye, bass, and panfish. The kicker: no public access means a calmer scene. That’s a treat in peak season.
Hungry after the evening bite? Walk to The Last Cast Bar & Restaurant next door for a casual bite and a local chat. It’s the kind of neighbor that makes “one more round” sound reasonable.
Why Cabintimers love this basecamp
In winter, Deer Haven sits at the intersection of the Sugar Camp and Eagle River snowmobile trails. Bring the sleds, ride from the area, and warm up by the fire when you’re done. ATV riders can trailer to nearby parking areas and hit designated routes just minutes away. In summer, swap sleds for paddles, bikes, or golf clubs. It’s easy to stack a week with fishing, hiking, and lazy swims, then cap it with a sunset paddle on glassy water.
Explore Eagle River and nearby towns
Eagle River is famous for its chain of connected lakes—the largest freshwater chain in the world—plus friendly downtown shops and ice cream after dinner. Boat, fish, or just cruise and count loons. St. Germain, Three Lakes, and Rhinelander add go-karts, trails, and more supper clubs than your appetite can handle.
If tasting rooms are your speed, swing by Three Lakes Winery for cranberry wine history and a flight that leans fruit-forward. It’s been a local staple since 1972 and makes a fun rainy-day plan.
Snowmobilers, this is hallowed ground. The World Championship Derby Complex in Eagle River is the sport’s storied stage—home to legends, vintage sleds, and a winter calendar circled in permanent marker. If your stay lines up, go feel the roar.
Good-to-knows at a glance
Deer Haven is non-smoking and pet-free. It’s part of a multi-cabin setting with shared lakeside amenities and a playground for the kids. Minimum 3-night stays. Boat and trailer parking available. Book direct to skip third-party fees and get local answers from people who actually know where the walleyes are moving.
Plan your stay like a local
Build your itinerary around the water first—morning paddles on Kathan, an afternoon casting session, then a day trip to the Eagle River Chain for a different slice of lake life. Mix in a hike, a round of golf, and a night cheering under the Derby lights if the calendar cooperates. That’s a classic Northwoods week with zero fluff.
Ready to kick back on the lake? Inquire and book directly with the owner/manager to avoid platform fees and get real local insight. Cabintimers know: no middleman, more adventure.
Looking for a Northwoods base where mornings start with loons and end by the fire ring? Say hello to Wildflower Cabin on Wood Lake in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. This peaceful two‑bedroom, one‑bath cabin sleeps up to six and sits steps from the water, giving Cabintimers easy access to paddling, fishing, and those unhurried porch sit‑downs that make trips memorable.
Room for six with two bedrooms and four total beds—great for families or two couples.
Full kitchen with the essentials (coffee maker, full stove/oven, microwave, fridge, plus staples).
Comfort perks like broadband Wi‑Fi, A/C and heat, washer/dryer, and a hair dryer for fewer “oops, forgot it” moments.
Outdoor hangouts: back deck and patio, lakeside fire pit, and dedicated canoe/kayak racks so your boats are ready when you are.
Book direct for the best rate and local tips—no service fees, no middleman. Head to cabininbloom.com to check dates.
Where you’re staying: Wood Lake + Grantsburg
Grantsburg sits in Burnett County near the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, so you get a friendly small‑town feel with serious outdoor access. Wood Lake is a calm spot to paddle at sunrise, try for panfish or bass, and watch migrating birds cruise overhead.
3 easy ways to spend a day
1) Paddles up on the St. Croix
The upper St. Croix is classic Northwoods water—forested banks, sandbars, and stretches with a little zip. Rent gear or book a shuttle through local outfitters, then float for a few hours and be back in time to grill dinner. Pick a mellow section for the kids or a slightly faster run if your crew wants a splash.
2) Wildlife watching at Crex Meadows
Just a short drive from the cabin, Crex Meadows Wildlife Area is 30,000 acres of wetlands and prairie. Cruise the auto‑tour route, scan for trumpeter swans and sandhill cranes, and pop into the visitor center for maps and current sightings. Photographers, bring the long lens—sunrise light over the marsh is next‑level.
3) Trails and river views in Governor Knowles State Forest
This 32,000‑acre forest parallels the St. Croix and offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, and winter ski/snowmobile routes. Mix a morning trail loop with an afternoon paddle or a lazy shoreline picnic.
Rain plan (or rest day) in town
Brickfield Brewing pours a wide rotating tap list in a restored creamery space across from Memory Lake. Grab a flight on the patio and watch the water.
Memory Lake Park has playgrounds, shelters, and seasonal events—easy fun for littles between adventures.
Seasonal notes for Cabintimers
Spring: Waterfowl migration at Crex Meadows, cool nights by the fire, and quiet trails.
Summer: Prime paddling and fishing. Bring water shoes for sandbar stops.
Fall: Color show across Burnett County; crisp mornings on Wood Lake with steam rising off the surface.
Winter: Pack the fat‑tire bike or skis for forest trails. Warm up back at the cabin with cocoa and a movie.
What to pack
Layers, even in July—Northwoods evenings run cool.
Binoculars and a camera for Crex Meadows and those lakeside loons.
Your favorite spices or rubs for the grill—kitchen’s ready for it.
Fast Wi‑Fi for remote work or movie nights between hikes.
Canoe and kayak racks onsite; bring your boats or rent in town.
Book direct & keep it local
Skip third‑party fees and connect with owners who know the area best. Check availability and rates at cabininbloom.com and start planning your Wood Lake stay.
Quick trip‑planning hits for Grantsburg
Best quick paddle: A morning lap on Wood Lake, then brunch back on the deck.
Wildlife on wheels: Drive the Crex auto route near golden hour.
Trail sampler: Short hikes in Governor Knowles with river overlooks.
Post‑adventure sip: Brickfield Brewing patio at sunset.
Keep exploring with It’s Cabin Time®
Discover more cabin country across our regional sites and always book direct:
Hayward’s lake country is made for Cabintimers who travel as a pack. Think sand-between-the-toes mornings, long dockside afternoons, and big family dinners where the kitchen actually has room for the whole crew. Majestic Escapes in Hayward, Wisconsin delivers the space and the shoreline to match.
These are true lake houses with elbow room. Waterfront. Sand frontage. Space to gather without stepping on each other’s flip-flops. Cabintimers planning reunions, multi-family trips, retreats, or milestone celebrations will find lodging scaled for 20–30+ guests with private bedrooms, multiple common areas, and the creature comforts that make a week on the lake smooth.
The headliner: The Old Chicago Club on Lac Courte Oreilles
This historic Northwoods estate sits on more than 300 feet of level, sandy shoreline on Lac Courte Oreilles (one of Wisconsin’s largest, clearest lakes). Inside you’ll find 14 bedrooms plus one extra bunk space, 8 bathrooms, and over 10,000 square feet, including three fireplaces and a three-season room right by the water. The kitchen is a crowd-pleaser with multiple sinks, ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, and a commercial coffee maker—breakfast for 30 doesn’t have to be chaos. Outdoors, the beach is steps from the porch, perfect for sandcastle engineers and sunset watchers alike.
What Cabintimers do in Hayward (besides the lake)
Ride singletrack: CAMBA maintains hundreds of miles of mountain bike trails—flowy, forested, grin-worthy. Bring bikes for all ages.
Ski, hike, and run the Birkie Trail: The legendary American Birkebeiner trail system doubles as an all-seasons playground. Miles of gliding in winter. Miles of wandering in summer.
Roam the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest: 850,000 acres of pines, lakes, and wildlife. Pack a picnic and go get lost (the good kind).
Cast for trophies: Lac Courte Oreilles and nearby lakes serve up musky, walleye, bass, perch, and panfish. Book a local guide for that first-light bite.
Go full Northwoods: Check out the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, the World Lumberjack Championships, mini-golf and go-carts for the kids, and a lineup of local events that keep summer buzzing. When hunger hits, Hayward favorites like Angry Minnow Brewpub, Coops Pizza, and The Fireside are crowd-tested.
Play a round (or several): Hayward is known for its collection of quality golf courses—most within a short drive of the lake.
Trip planning tips
Summer stays often run weekly; book early for June–August.
Bring beach and bath towels, and your go-to spices and condiments.
Ask about boat and PWC rentals nearby. Marinas around Lac Courte Oreilles can set you up for tubing, cruising, or a quiet sunrise paddle.
Traveling with grandparents or toddlers? The level sand frontage and multiple living areas make together-time easier.
Skip the third-party fees and talk with the local team that knows which cove catches the calmest evening water. You’ll get dates, rates, and answers faster—plus tips that only locals share.
Ready to plan?
Round up the family text thread and pick your week. Then head straight to the Majestic Escapes website to view availability and connect with the owner/manager. Your best days of the year are often the ones that start on a dock.
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:
Cabintimers, ready for true lake life? A1 Gypsy Villa Resort in Eagle River puts you right on Cranberry Lake—the storied Eagle River Chain of 28 connected lakes. Here, your “villa” isn’t a unit in a building. It’s a freestanding lake home with a full kitchen, living room, fireplace, and a screen porch for loon-call evenings. Many have their own sandy stretch of shoreline, a private pier, and a boat included. That means coffee at sunrise, tackle box at noon, and stars for dessert.
Why Cabintimers love A1 Gypsy Villa
Waterfront, all the time. Many villas sit right on the shoreline, with space to beach the kids and beach the boat. Island villas feel like a world apart; mainland homes keep you close to town while still on the water.
Boats and play built in. From a classic fishing boat to pontoon time, the resort makes getting on the lake easy. On land, you’ll find tennis and sport courts, a game room, playground space, and room to breathe among tall pines.
Bring the whole crew (and the pup). Options range from cozy two-bedrooms to larger family places, and many stays are pet-friendly. Privacy is a feature here—no shared walls, just your people and the water.
Four seasons of Northwoods fun. Summer is for sand-between-toes, paddles, and lake hopping to dock-and-dine spots. Fall flips the forest to copper and gold. Winter delivers snowmobile heaven—Eagle River is famous for it—and quiet-ice fishing days. Spring is for walleye runs and first-cast grins.
Screen porch + fireplace: built for loon-listening nights and shoulder‑season coziness.
Full kitchen & full bath: cook big breakfasts, pack the cooler, repeat.
Automatic gas heat & hot water: steady comfort when temps swing.
Your own shoreline setup: many villas have private sandy frontage, a dedicated pier, and an included pontoon or fishing boat, so you’re lake‑ready the moment you park. (Yes, bring life jackets for the crew.)
Layouts vary by villa. Some two‑bedroom homes work well for a small family; others add a family room or loft‑style “dorm” area for overflow sleepers. Examples include larger two‑story options like Executive Pinecrest with a huge lake‑view screen porch and sun room, plus 1.5 baths—great for groups that live outdoors between casts.
Featured villas at a glance
Executive Pinecrest (island): Two stories, 1.5 baths, a huge screen porch facing the lake, plus a vaulted sun room—plenty of hang‑out space between swims and evening fires.
Gypsy Baron (mainland): Cozy two‑bedroom with a cathedral‑ceiling living room, fireplace, separate dining room, and a sandy, shallow beach—includes a fishing boat for easy mornings on Cranberry.
Carriage House (mainland): Classic Northwoods comfort near the water with its own private pier and roomy living spaces—good pick for multi‑generational groups that prefer quick car access to town.
Hillcrest House (mainland): Larger footprint and lawn space for yard games, plus a screen porch for late‑night card games; walk down to your dedicated pier and shoreline.
Island Villas 1–12: Waterfront porches, fireplaces, and that tucked‑away island feel—expect screen porches, full kitchens, and the easy rhythm of boat‑in, boat‑out days.
Resort history & fun facts
Family‑run since the early 1960s: A1 Gypsy Villa has welcomed Cabintimers for generations, keeping that classic Northwoods resort feel with modern comforts.
A ~100‑acre island setting: Many villas sit on the resort’s wooded island on Cranberry Lake; others line the mainland shore—either way, you’re plugged into the Eagle River Chain of 28 navigable lakes.
Privacy by design: Many homes note around 200 feet of individual waterfront, which is why mornings feel quiet even in mid‑summer.
Old‑school extras that stuck: On‑site play includes a game room, tennis/sport courts, playground, fish‑cleaning house, and more—easy non‑boat fun between swims and spins around the Chain.
Flexible stays: Rent by the day or week, and start any day—handy for long‑weekend escapes.
Quick timeline
1960s: Resort era begins; housekeeping cabins with fireplaces and screen porches set the tone.
1970s–1980s: Expansion of island homes and shoreline infrastructure; dedicated private piers standardize the experience.
1990s: On‑site amenities like tennis/sport courts and the game room become Cabintimer staples.
2000s: Wider pontoon and fishing‑boat options accompany most stays; more pet‑friendly choices appear.
2010s–today: Ongoing updates to interiors and porches; emphasis on book‑direct service and flexible arrivals.
On the water: the Eagle River Chain
Cranberry Lake plugs you into 28 navigable lakes. Cruise for miles without trailering. Troll drop-offs for walleye and smallmouth. Cast weed edges for muskies that star in local tournaments. Prefer easy days? Pack a cooler, idle to a lakeside patio, and call it very productive leisure.
Nearby things to do
Eagle River: Stroll downtown for fudge shops, bait stops, and supper clubs. Check out the World Snowmobile Headquarters. In autumn, cranberry marsh tours and festivals take over the calendar. Golfers can play a long list of nearby courses—one is even reachable by boat.
Three Lakes & Sugar Camp: Hop the scenic roads (or trails) for bike rides, berry picking, and supper clubs with fish fry traditions. Paddlers will love winding creeks and quiet back bays.
Nicolet National Forest: Lace up for hiking and biking. Come winter, switch to snowshoes or skis. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, otters, and fox tracks sketched in fresh snow.
Planning tips for Cabintimers
Pick your perch. Island villas deliver a castaway vibe with an easy hop to resort amenities. Mainland homes give simple car access to town while staying steps from the water.
Book direct. Skip third‑party fees and talk with local folks who actually know the cabins, the docks, and the bite window. You’ll get better answers and keep more trip money for bait and pie.
Build a dock-and-dine day. Plot a route that includes lunch by boat, a swim stop, and sunset casting. Put kids on panfish early for instant wins.
Winterize your fun. Bring the sleds, line up a trail map, and plan a chili stop. The trail network is extensive and well groomed.
Who this place is for
Families that like elbow room, anglers chasing big follows, couples who want porch time, and anyone who measures vacation by dock hours. This is classic Northwoods—pine scent, starry skies, loons at dusk, and easy lake access from your own pier.
Ready to go?
Browse A1 Gypsy Villa Resort’s listings and book directly with the owner/manager—no service fees, no middleman, real local knowledge. Ask about boat options, pet policies, and which villa fits your crew. Then pack the marshmallows.
Explore more cabins across the It’s Cabin Time® family
Cabintimers, set your sights on lake country. StepAway Vacation Rentals anchors your Northwoods escape in St. Germain—right where fishing stories begin, bikes roll past pines, and winter trails hum with sleds. Their year‑round cabins and vacation homes put you close to the water, the trailheads, and the kind of small‑town stops that turn a weekend into a tradition.
Why StepAway works for Cabintimers
StepAway Vacation Rentals offers a range of pet‑friendly and family‑ready homes with the comfort perks Cabintimers crave—full kitchens, outdoor spaces, easy parking for trailers, and access to lakes and trails. Pick a classic cabin on a quiet shore, a multi‑bedroom home for a crew, or a hideout with a sauna or hot tub. You’re not just getting a place to sleep; you’re getting Northwoods access—dock time at sunrise, s’mores under a big sky, and first tracks on the trail.
Book direct for the win. You’ll skip service fees, talk with local managers who know the waters and woods, and get straight answers on boat rentals, snowmobile access, and the best fish fry in town. No middleman, no mystery.
Where you’ll be playing
St. Germain & Sayner
Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System: More than 50 miles of smooth, paved trail connect St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, and beyond. Morning pedal with loons calling? Yes, please.
Awassa Nature Preserve: A mellow network of forest paths right in St. Germain—great for a first‑day leg stretch with kids.
Snowmobile Hall of Fame & Museum: Racing sleds, vintage iron, and Northwoods stories. It’s a must‑stop on a cold day.
Bo‑Boen Snowmobile Trails: When the flakes stack up, this club’s groomed routes are legendary. Trailers fit easily at many StepAway homes.
Eagle River
The World’s Largest Chain of Freshwater Lakes: Launch for walleye at dawn or cruise past islands on a slow afternoon.
Shops & snacks: Warm up between runs with coffee, bakery stops, or a classic supper club.
Minocqua & Woodruff
Northern Highland–American Legion State Forest: Hundreds of lakes and miles of trail for paddling, birding, and snowshoeing.
Min‑Aqua Bats Water Ski Show (summer): Free shows that turn Lake Minocqua into a stage—bring a lawn chair and cheer.
Seasonal trip ideas
Spring: Chase panfish in warming bays, bike the Heart of Vilas with maples budding, and sit by the fire when the temps dip after sunset.
Summer: Dock a pontoon at lunch, watch eagles hunt the shoreline, and end the day with sunsets that linger forever. Families love sandy shallows for splash time.
Fall: Color tours by bike or ATV/UTV, pumpkin‑patch detours, and evenings that pair chili with a star‑packed sky.
Winter: Sledding on the Bo‑Boen system, cross‑country loops in the state forest, and hot‑mug mornings before first tracks. Ice anglers, bring the shack and swap stories at dusk.
Smart planning tips from local managers
Trail access matters: Ask which cabins connect fastest to sled or ATV routes.
Boat & toy logistics: Many driveways handle trailers. Confirm dock dimensions and water depth for your rig.
Bring the crew: Multi‑bedroom homes with second living spaces keep early birds and night owls happy.
Pets welcome: Several rentals allow well‑behaved dogs—get the rules and nearby dog‑friendly beaches.
Cabintimer itinerary blueprint (weekend version)
Friday: Arrive, quick grocery run, sunset dock time. Sheet‑pan nachos, then board games.
Saturday: Morning pedal on the Heart of Vilas. Lunch in town. Afternoon paddle or swim. Golden‑hour photos on the pier, then a cabin fish fry.
Sunday: Coffee on the deck, a museum stop or short hike, and one last cast before checkout. Everyone leaves a little lake‑soaked and grinning.
Ready to step away?
Skip the fees and talk with locals who pick up the phone. Book direct with StepAway Vacation Rentals and get the straight scoop on lakes, trails, marinas, snow conditions, and the best shore‑lunch spots in the area.
Keep exploring cabins across the country—book direct on these regional sites:
If your radar is pinging for a true Up North cabin experience, set your sights on Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort in Eagle River, Wisconsin. Since 1928, this family-run resort has welcomed generations to its shoreline on Sand Lake—part of the five-lake Sugar Camp Chain. Cabins are spread along a gentle slope with tall pines, sandy swim areas, boat docks, and that easygoing Northwoods pace that nudges you outside before breakfast and brings you back to a crackling fire after dark.
Cabins for couples, families, and the whole crew
Pitlik’s offers a mix of classic log cabins and larger rentals. Expect full kitchens, lakeside porches, cozy gathering spaces, and that satisfying “pair of boots by the door” simplicity. Some layouts cater to couples seeking quiet mornings on the pier; others are perfect for multi-family trips with bunkrooms, big tables for card games, and space to spread out. Pets are welcome in select cabins, and many rentals sit steps from the sand—so the coffee-to-kayak commute is about thirty seconds.
Quick Cabin Guide: Snappy blurbs for every stay
You & I – Cozy 1BR just steps from Sand Lake with a front-row sunrise view; couples love the quiet porch time and easy walk to the water.
Clearview – Modern 2BR close to shore with a queen room, twin room, and a bright lake outlook for morning coffee duty.
Oakcrest – A 2BR classic with tub/shower and an easy lakeside vantage—simple, comfortable, and close to the action.
Lagoon – Breezy 2BR near the beach with queen + twins and a tub/shower—quick launch for swims, paddles, and dock hangs.
Knotty Pine – One of the originals: roomy 3BR log cabin with wood-burning stove and screened porch—great for card nights after sunset cruises.
Outlet – 3BR peninsula perch where water wraps three sides; windows frame the shoreline and the vibe is all “waves for soundtrack.”
Bayview North – Full-log 2BR+loft with wood stove and fieldstone chimney; big deck connects to Bayview South for group getaways.
Bayview South – Twin to North: queen main floor, three twins in the loft, 1.5 baths, and a hilltop panorama over the Sand Lake thoroughfare.
Lakeview – 3BR full-log showpiece with spiral stair to the loft, two baths, and sliding doors to a patio aimed right at the lake.
Eagle’s Nest – 3BR full-log with loft sleeping, roll-in shower on main, and patio access—easy flow between lakeside lounging and fireside chats.
Chalet – 3BR lofted log cabin with stone chimney, spiral stair, and patio—room for eight and space to stash rods, boards, and boots.
Lookout – 3BR with that classic log-home warmth—wood stove, two baths, and a layout made for big breakfasts and bigger lake days.
Moonshine (upstairs lodge unit) – 2BR above the main lodge with open kitchen/living, laundry, and lake views; expect some downstairs buzz during restaurant hours.
Premier Lakehomes (non-resort, separate terms) Chain Lake Hideaway – 2BR waterfront (plus sleeper) 1.5 miles from the lodge; gas fireplace, laundry, patio, private dock—pets considered.
Dam Lake Villa – 3BR lakefront (sleeps up to 9) 1.6 miles from the lodge; 3-season villa with built-in grill/bar, fireplace, laundry—pets considered.
Sand Lake Lakehouse – 4BR on Sand Lake with two levels of sleeping space, gas fireplace, modern kitchen, washer/dryer, southern-exposure deck—pets considered.
Eat & drink at the Lodge (and don’t miss Friday Fish Fry)
A huge part of the Pitlik’s experience happens at the main lodge. Stop in for hearty plates, Wisconsin tap favorites, and the resort’s famous Ultimate Bloody Mary. It’s social, it’s lively, and it’s always a short walk back to your cabin. When the fish fry bell rings on Friday, locals and resort guests make a beeline—arrive hungry.
Life on the Sugar Camp Chain
Five connected lakes—Sand, Dam, Chain, Stone, and Echo—mean endless routes for pontoon cruising, paddling, and fishing. Anglers chase panfish, bass, walleye, and yes, musky. The sandy swim area is friendly for kids, and calm morning water is tailor-made for paddleboards. Bring or rent a boat and spend the day lake-hopping, then drift back to your pier as loons call across the bay.
Four seasons of play
Summer is for swims, s’mores, and sunny boat days. Fall turns the shoreline into a fiery color show with cool nights perfect for the fireplace. Winter flips the script: Eagle River is a snowmobile capital with state trails linking right from the resort, plus cross-country skiing, ice fishing, sledding, and nearby downhill options. Spring? Quiet woods, migrating birds, and glassy, crowd-free water.
Nearby things to do in Eagle River & St. Germain
You’re a short drive from mini-golf, go-karts, horseback riding, local events, and trail systems. Golfers can pick from several public courses. Rain in the forecast? Pop into town for a museum stop, a bakery run, or a browse through outfitter shops. Winter visitors should mark the World Championship Snowmobile Derby on the calendar—part spectacle, part tradition.
Cabintimers know: booking direct with the resort is the smart move. You skip third-party service fees, get accurate availability, and talk with people who actually know which pier gets morning sun and which cabin has the roomiest table for your board-game tournament. You’ll also hear about shoulder-season savings, holiday openings, and boat rental details straight from the source.
Trip-planning tips
Bring layers. Even in July, evenings by the lake feel cooler than town.
Pack a lightweight tackle kit and a pair of camp shoes that can get wet.
Plan a shore lunch. Fresh fish, lemon, butter, a cast-iron pan—done.
Schedule at least one “stay put” day. No driving, just dock time, paddling, lodge snacks, repeat.
Ready to become part of the tradition? Explore accommodations, check dates, and contact Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort directly to book like a Cabintimer—no middleman, no extra fees, all the local intel.
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