If your perfect Northwoods stay means sandy toes, calm morning paddles, and space for the whole crew, put Gilmore Lake House Retreat on your short list. Cabintimers love the gentle, level approach to crystal‑clear water—no stairs—plus free use of 2 kayaks and 3 stand‑up paddleboards. Add a private dock and a big lakeside yard, and your days pretty much plan themselves.
Lake life, made easy
Step out to a small natural sand area where kids can splash and float while you relax at the shoreline. Launch the SUPs for a slow lap around the bay or slip a kayak out at sunrise when the loons call and bald eagles cruise overhead. Bring your boat (there’s trailer parking and a dock right out front) or rent one nearby for tubing, skiing, or an evening cruise.
Gilmore Lake offers a classic Wisconsin mix of walleye, largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish. With hundreds of acres to explore, it’s easy to find a quiet corner to cast or drift.
Room for everyone (and then some)
Inside, two comfy gathering rooms—one on the main level and one on the walkout lower level—both frame the water view. The main‑floor primary suite with California king and private bath faces the lake, so you’ll wake to that glass‑calm blue. Another main‑floor bedroom sits steps from a full bath. Downstairs, two more bedrooms include queen beds; the larger adds a bunk (full below, twin above) and a crib—nice for families with littles. Three full baths keep mornings smooth. Additional sleeping options may be available—just ask when you inquire.
The kitchen is set for group meals with seating for 8 at the pine table, 4 at the high‑top, and another 8 outside at the big picnic table/benches. Fire up either grill (gas or charcoal). After dinner, gather at the lakeside fire pit for s’mores and stargazing.
Creature comforts? You’re covered: Wi‑Fi, smart TVs/streaming, board games, A/C and central heat, washer/dryer, linens and bath/beach towels, plus yard games for the big lawn. Pets are considered—reach out with details. There’s even handicap access; contact the owner with your specific needs.
Four‑season fun around Minong
When you’re ready to explore beyond the shoreline, you’ve got options:
Wild Rivers State Trail rolls right through Minong with year‑round ATV/UTV and snowmobile connections, plus biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and horseback riding. Ride right from town and link up to a huge regional network.
Black Bear Golf Club (18‑hole, par‑72) weaves through Northwoods scenery just a short drive from the lake.
Totogatic Wild River rewards paddlers with quiet water, wildlife, and sandbar picnics; adventure farther on the Namekagon/St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Rainy‑day backup: the Jack Link’s Aquatic & Activity Center in Minong has a pool, indoor playground, gym, and fitness center—great for kids.
Easy day trips that add “wow”
Spooner (about 25 minutes): climb aboard the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad for a themed rail excursion and visit the Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum.
Hayward (about 25 minutes): snap a photo at the giant muskellunge at the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, then poke around local shops.
Duluth, MN (about 45 minutes): head to Canal Park to watch freighters glide under the Aerial Lift Bridge and tour the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center.
Trip tips from a local
Pack water shoes for rock‑hunting walks down the shoreline.
Mornings are glassy on Gilmore—best time for paddling.
The yard is perfect for family yard‑game tournaments.
Bring your favorite grilling rubs; the kitchen’s set with the essentials.
Why Cabintimers book direct here
Booking direct with the owner/manager means you skip platform fees, get local expertise, and have a clear line for questions about boats, the best fishing spots, trail maps, or pet details. No middleman—just easier trip planning and more vacation in your vacation budget.
Ready to check dates? Visit the rental page and inquire directly to start planning your Gilmore Lake getaway.
Cabintimers, this one is special. The Sunset House sets you right on Lake Superior’s Great Sand Bay with a walk-out sand beach and nightly bonfire vibes. Two standouts grab you right away: a huge game room (ping-pong, air hockey, darts, foosball) that keeps the crew smiling after dark, and an upstairs king bedroom with a glass balcony for private stargazing and sunrise coffee. That’s how you start and end days on Superior.
Step onto the sand and you’re a half-mile beach walk from Eagle River. Great Sand Bay sits between Eagle River and Eagle Harbor on scenic M-26, famous for soft dunes, offshore sandbars, and those long lavender sunsets that make you pause mid-conversation. It’s a front-row seat to ships, night skies, and—if you’re lucky—the Northern Lights.
Inside, the kitchen is road-trip smart: two refrigerator/freezers so you can stock once for the week, plus dishwasher, stove/oven, microwave, coffee maker, and the works. Eat at the deck’s picnic table or grill out—gas and charcoal are waiting. The living room has Lazy Boy rockers, and there’s fast Wi-Fi; Verizon service is noted to be strong. Part of the home’s power even comes from solar. Movie night? Queue up the entertainment room with a 60″ TV and a library of discs.
Sleep space is generous for multigenerational getaways. The home sleeps 10 with five bedrooms and two baths, including three king beds. Add a full-size Lazy Boy sleeper and a full sofa sleeper for flexible arrangements. Weekly rentals only—Friday to Friday—from May through November; no pets. Minimum renter age is 30. Check-in 4 p.m.; check-out 11 a.m. (Pro tip: booking direct here saves you serious money compared to third-party sites.)
Your Keweenaw playbook
When you’re ready to roam, this stretch of the peninsula is loaded with easy day trips:
Waterfall hop to Eagle River Falls, Jacob’s Falls, Silver River Falls, Haven Falls, and Hungarian Falls. Start right in town at Eagle River Falls—an easy roadside stop with big scenery.
Copper history lives underground at the Delaware Mine, where self-guided tours take you 100 feet below the surface.
Scenic drives & dark skies: Cruise the shore on M-26’s “Sand Dune Drive,” then climb Brockway Mountain Drive for sweeping Lake Superior views by day and star shows by night.
Lighthouses: This coast is lighthouse country—think Copper Harbor Light, Eagle Harbor Light, and more across the Keweenaw.
Ferry over to Isle Royale (seasonal) from Copper Harbor on the Isle Royale Queen IV for wilderness trails, moose sightings, and big-lake horizons. National Park Service
Low-key beach days: The no-fee Gratiot River County Park delivers driftwood, agates, and wild shoreline. Pack in, pack out.
Ride time: The Keweenaw has 160+ miles of ATV/SxS routes and 200+ miles of snowmobile trails when you return in winter. Rentals and maps are local.
Eat & sip: Grab thimbleberry jam and baked goods at The Jampot near Jacob’s Falls, then settle in lakeside for barbecue and a deep whisky list at Fitzgerald’s in Eagle River.
Good to know
Linens and towels are provided. There’s a washer/dryer with detergent, a landline, boat/trailer parking, and a level lot for easy beach access—great for kids and multi-generational groups. Weekly stays only, Friday–Friday, May–November. Book directly with owners Mark and Joni Martin for no service fees, no middleman, and local insight you won’t get elsewhere.
Ready to watch Superior swallow the sun from your own sand beach? Head to The Sunset House listing on RentMichiganCabins.com to connect with Mark and Joni and book direct—keep your budget for pasties, lighthouse tours, and extra marshmallows.
If lake life is calling, answer it in Phelps, Wisconsin—12 miles northeast of Eagle River—at Northern Exposure Rentals on North Twin Lake. Three cabins. Big-water views. A level, yard-game-friendly lot right at the shoreline. Early standouts include a 20’ x 15’ lakefront deck at Eagle’s Nest and the Musky Lodge’s theater-style surround sound with Blu-Ray for cozy movie nights after sunset.
Pick your Northwoods basecamp
Eagle’s Nest – 3BR, right on the water. Wake up to a wide-open lake view and step onto that oversized deck with your coffee. Inside, all three bedrooms have queen beds, plus a main-level kitchen and a large living/dining room facing the water. Rates from $272 nightly or $1,450 weekly for up to 4 guests.
Musky Lodge – 2BR, modern and comfy. A fully remodeled 1,000-sq-ft home finished in Northwoods décor. Enjoy a dishwasher, washer/dryer, 1.5 baths, Keurig + coffee maker, AC, a 40″ HD TV, Blu-Ray, and surround sound. Two bedrooms feature a queen in one and a queen + single bunks in the other. From $272 nightly or $1,450 weekly for up to 4 guests.
Minnow Bucket – 1BR, just right for two or three. A remodeled, cozy cabin about 70 yards from the shoreline with a queen bed, full-size fridge, and a comfortable couch. From $182 nightly or $820 weekly for up to 2 guests.
Why Cabintimers love this location
Big-water fishing on North & South Twin. These connected lakes are known for musky and walleye. Bring your boat and chase trophies or cast from shore at dusk. Regional fishing guides call the Twins a musky destination, and local resources highlight multi-species action all season.
Winter that actually delivers. When the snow stacks up, Eagle River lives up to its Snowmobile Capital of the World® nickname with 500+ miles of groomed trails that link small towns, forests, and frozen lakes. Ride right into eateries and warm up for round two.
Trails for every pace. Stretch your legs on nearby routes in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and around Phelps. From easy family paths to longer forest loops, you’ll find miles of hiking and biking, including the Conover-Phelps Trail.
Quick trip ideas
Morning: cast for walleye on North Twin, then grill your catch back at the lake-level lawn.
Afternoon: bike the Conover-Phelps Trail and watch for wetland views and water crossings.
Evening: sunset on the Eagle’s Nest deck or a movie at Musky Lodge with surround sound.
Winter day: cruise groomed snowmobile routes into Eagle River for lunch, then wind back through the forest.
Good to know
All three rentals are available year-round on North Twin Lake in Phelps, WI.
Rates noted above are for base occupancy; check the availability calendar and book direct with Northern Exposure Rentals. No traveler fees. No middleman. Local owners who actually know the lake.
Ready to lock in waterfront dates? Visit Northern Exposure Rentals to see calendars and reserve your spot. Book direct for the best experience and the best value.
What sets Bear Creek Log Cabins apart? Two things Cabintimers love right away: authentic 1800s American pioneer log cabins that have been carefully reconstructed, and a peaceful setting on roughly 200 acres atop Lookout Mountain—minutes from waterfalls, trails, and jaw-dropping canyon overlooks.
You’ll find Bear Creek Log Cabins in Fort Payne, Alabama, a perfect base for Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park. Some cabins add modern comforts like hot tubs, while keeping the front-porch-rocker vibe that makes mountain time slow down.
From cozy to spacious, there’s a cabin for every crew size. The 4-bedroom Lodge sleeps up to 10 with two bathrooms—great for family meetups. Smaller options keep it snug: Cabin I is a one-bedroom that can sleep five, and Cabin II offers two bedrooms and space for five as well. That balance of history and comfort is the Bear Creek sweet spot.
When you’re ready to explore, head a short drive to Little River Canyon National Preserve for waterfall viewing, rim-side overlooks, and wooded trails. DeSoto State Park adds 35+ miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails, an ADA-accessible boardwalk trail, and seasonal cascades like Laurel and Lost Falls. Scenic drives along Lookout Mountain Parkway stitch it all together with views, small mountain towns, and roadside produce stands.
Make time for local flavor, too. Watch glassblowing or take a class at Orbix Hot Glass, then wander Fort Payne’s galleries and cafés. Visiting in winter? Surprise—Alabama has skiing at Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort up on Lookout Mountain near Mentone.
Why Cabintimers book direct here
Booking right on the Bear Creek Log Cabins website connects you with local owners, not a call center. You skip traveler fees, get honest answers about trails and waterfall conditions, and keep more trip dollars in the community. It’s the easiest way to line up the cabin that fits your crew—whether that’s a historic one-bedroom with a porch swing or the 4-bedroom Lodge for the whole gang.
Ready to plan your Lookout Mountain cabin time? Visit the Bear Creek Log Cabins site to check availability, ask questions, and book direct with no middleman or service fees.
If you’re road-tripping beyond Alabama, you’ll find hand-picked cabins (and the same book-direct benefits) on our regional sites:
Cabintimers, meet your low-key Northwoods hideout on the Holcombe Flowage. This classic log cabin puts you steps from the water with a fieldstone wood‑burning fireplace for crackling nights and a dock slip for your boat or pontoon by day. Two bedrooms, one bath, and sleeps up to 6—perfect for fishing weekends, festival trips to Cadott, or a mellow family lake week.
Why Cabintimers love it
On the Holcombe Flowage (aka Lake Holcombe): more than enough water to explore by kayak, fishing boat, or pontoon. Launch nearby and tie up at your slip.
Comforts covered: WiFi, cable TV, window A/C, full kitchen, linens provided (bring towels), patio with picnic table and grill.
Easy rhythm: Enjoy coffee on the patio, cast for walleye and musky, then wind down by the fireplace. Repeat.
Inside the log cabin
Sleep spaces: Bedroom 1 has a king and a queen; Bedroom 2 has a double‑bottom/twin‑top bunk. Simple, clean, and made for early mornings on the lake.
Living area: Rustic log walls and that big stone fireplace—the cabin’s heart on chilly nights.
Kitchen: Stove/oven, fridge, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, plus cookware for pancake mornings and shore‑lunch days.
Bath: Full bath with tub/shower.
Outside, where the fun is
Dock slip + level lot for easy lake access.
Firepit, grill, picnic table, patio for long evenings under the stars.
ATV & snowmobile trail access from the property area, so four‑season adventures come built in.
On the water: The flowage is known for musky, walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. Cruise coves, stop at sandbars, and keep the camera ready—sunsets here like to show off.
Trails & parks: Pack the bikes and a picnic for Brunet Island State Park in nearby Cornell—quiet lagoons for paddling, wildlife viewing, and links to the Old Abe State Trail, a paved rail‑trail that follows the Chippewa River. In winter, swap to snowshoes or cross‑country skis and keep the cabin fireplace waiting at home base.
Festivals & small‑town finds: Planning a summer escape? Time it around Cadott’s big music weekends (country and rock) for an easy day trip from the cabin. Closer to home, swing through Holcombe’s supper clubs and local taverns for Friday fish fry and curds—because, Wisconsin.
What to pack
Bath and beach towels
Life jackets for your crew
Your favorite coffee beans and s’mores supplies
Seasonal gear: rods/tackle, paddles, bikes, trail maps, or sleds
Quick facts
Bedrooms/Bath: 2 BR • 1 BA • Sleeps 6
No pets • Non‑smoking • Family‑friendly
Minimums: Seasonally 2–7 nights; weekly Saturday‑to‑Saturday in summer (holiday weekends may have 3‑night minimums).
Book‑direct rates: From around $115/night or $600/week when you book direct with the owner.
Book direct and keep it simple
Skip third‑party fees, talk with a local, and get the inside scoop on launch sites, bait shops, and where the evening bite has been hot. Use the inquiry form on the listing to start planning.
More cabin inspo across the It’s Cabin Time® family
Browse direct‑booking cabins by state and start plotting your next escape:
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.
Bonus: Motor rental available (9.9 HP) if you want to roam the lake with ease
What makes this cabin special
Swimmable shoreline steps from the door. Walk-in, sandy-bottom water that’s perfect for little swimmers and low‑key float sessions. That raft? It’ll get plenty of use.
Anglers’ playground. Crescent Lake is clear, deep, and stocked with opportunities—musky, walleye, northern, bass, and panfish. There’s a fish cleaning station back on shore and a private dock for your boat (or the on‑site rental motor).
Wallet‑friendly weeklong stays. This is one of the most affordable waterfront vacation homes in the Northwoods. Book direct to keep more of your budget for bait, ice cream runs, and a Hodag hoodie.
Inside the cabin
The vibe is unfussy and comfortable—everything you need for a full‑week lake fix. A furnished kitchen (stove/oven, fridge, microwave, coffee maker) keeps breakfasts easy and fish‑fry nights fun. Linens are provided, and the enclosed porch doubles as extra sleeping space and a hangout for late‑night card games. After sunset, head for the fire ring or catch a game or movie with satellite/cable.
Outside is the star
Morning coffee on the deck. Midday swims off the sandy shoreline. Paddle or putter along the shoreline, then grill out and swap fish tales around the fire. Boat and trailer parking makes arrival simple, and you’re close to town when it’s time to restock.
Close to everything Cabintimers love
Rhinelander eats & traditions. This is supper club country—come hungry for Friday night fish fry. Pubs are friendly and portions generous.
Trails for days. Hike or bike the scenic Bearskin State Trail, a historic 18‑mile route that crosses lakes and wetlands between downtown Minocqua and Harshaw. Mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV/UTV routes are nearby, plus snowmobile trails when the flakes fly.
Golf with Northwoods character. Play the area’s standout courses; crisp air, tall pines, and rolling greens make every round feel like a little victory lap.
Easy arrivals. Flying in? You’re close to the Rhinelander–Oneida County Airport, so meeting the crew at the cabin is a breeze.
Who this place is for
Swim‑happy families who want gradual, sandy entry and room to splash.
Anglers chasing musky at dawn and panfish for a kid‑approved shore lunch.
Couples or small groups who want a quiet spot with big‑lake access and a friendly price tag.
Cabin details & amenities
Non‑smoking • Suitable for children • Seasonal & monthly availability
Weekly: From $950 for 4 guests in summer (Saturday–Saturday). Additional guests are $100/week, up to 6.
Deposit: $200 on all reservations
Check‑in 2:00 PM • Check‑out 9:00 AM
No service fees. No middleman. When you book direct with the owner/manager, you get the lowest rate and local insights you won’t find in a call center script.
Trip ideas nearby
Paddle + Picnic: Drift the shoreline in the calm morning hours, then beach the boat at your private shore for a lazy lunch.
Trail + Treat: Ride a section of the Bearskin, then head into Rhinelander for ice cream and a Hodag photo.
Cast + Coast: Start with walleye at sunrise, switch to swimming and raft time by noon, and finish with brats on the grill.
Ready to lock in lake time? Visit the rental listing directly to inquire and book—ask about the outboard motor rental if you’re planning to explore the full lake.
More Northwoods cabin inspo
Cabintimers, you can find even more book‑direct cabins (no fees) across our regional sites:
It’s Cabin Time® Blog 