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.
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.
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
If you’re looking for a true Northwoods stay where mornings begin with glassy water and loons, meet Holiday Harbor Cabin in Eagle River, Wisconsin. This two-room, two‑bath cabin sits a few steps from the shoreline on Lynx Lake—at the northern tip of the famous Eagle River Chain. Cabintimers get rare perks here: a private boat launch and dock just outside the door, sandy, gradual frontage that’s perfect for swimming, pet‑friendly stays, and a whole‑home backup generator so your vacation doesn’t skip a beat if the power flickers.
Why Cabintimers love this cabin
You get the place to yourself. There’s only one rental on the property—no shared fire pit, grill, or shoreline. Spread out, unplug, and let the lake set your schedule.
Bring the boat—or rent one. Launch your fishing boat or pontoon on‑site, tie up at your private, powered dock, or have a rental delivered right to the pier. No crowded public ramps, no scrambling for slips.
Sandy swim area. The shoreline steps down just an inch or two to clear, shallow water with a gentle slope—great for kids and lazy floats.
Stay connected when others can’t. The backup generator keeps water hot, lights on, internet streaming (HBO, Showtime, Starz, more), A/C humming, and the coffee brewing.
Easy sleeping for couples or small families. A queen Murphy bed with a Serta Perfect Sleeper, a queen sleeper sofa, plus a twin daybed with trundle.
Dog‑friendly. Well‑behaved pups are welcome—call for details.
Complimentary rowboat with oars and life vests so you can sneak out for sunrise casts or sunset paddles.
Full kitchen & outdoor cooking. Gas range/oven, microwave, coffee maker, cookware, plus a gas grill, picnic table, and lakeside seating.
Where you’re staying
Holiday Harbor sits on Lynx Lake, part of the storied Eagle River Chain, a gateway to endless water. Step onto your dock and you’re minutes from classic Northwoods scenes: mornings dripping with mist, eagles tracing the treeline, and the soft hush of pines. Musky, walleye, bass, and panfish lure anglers out early; paddlers hug the shoreline to watch turtles slide from logs; swimmers post up by that sandy edge and call it a day.
What to do nearby (besides floating all afternoon)
Fish & boat the Chain. Explore link‑by‑link, stop for lunch by boat, or drift a weedline. Guides in Eagle River can help you target trophy muskies or introduce new anglers to the fun.
World Championship Derby Complex. In winter, Eagle River roars to life during the historic snowmobile races. Tour the grounds, visit during race weekends, and hop on meticulously groomed trail systems that spiderweb across Vilas County.
Three Eagle Trail. Bike or hike this scenic route connecting Eagle River and Three Lakes through forests and wetlands—blazing colors in fall.
Nicolet National Forest. Trail‑rich public land east of town for hiking, birding, snowshoeing, and quiet exploration.
Downtown Eagle River. Scoop old‑fashioned candy, browse outfitters, and fuel up at supper clubs that feel like time capsules.
Cranberry season. Come fall, tour local marshes, grab cranberry goodies, and chase peak color around the lakes.
Practical info Cabintimers always ask
Weekly stays, Saturday changeover.
Fast Wi‑Fi (wired + wireless) and free streaming channels (plus a Roku).
Two bathrooms, each with a shower—no waiting in line after a swim.
Fire pit for lakeside s’mores (bring wood from within 25 miles).
Parking for your trailer and easy in‑and‑out at the private launch.
Book direct and keep it local
Skip the big‑box booking fees and talk to the folks who know the shoreline best. When you book directly with the owner, you avoid service fees, get the most accurate availability, and tap into local knowledge—from “where they’re biting” to “which supper club has the best Friday fish fry.”
Cabintimer tip: Ask about having a boat rental delivered right to your dock—then watch the sunset from the bench by the water and let the loons handle the soundtrack.
By booking directly through RentWisconsinCabins.com, travelers connect with owner Greg, ensuring no service fees, no middleman, the lowest price, and direct access to local expertise.
Cal’s Cottage is a two-level lakefront retreat on Arrowhead Lake, accommodating up to eight guests. The property boasts excellent windows, comfortable decks, two screen porches, and countless views of the lake. The sandy-bottom lakefront tapers off gently, making it perfect for swimming. Amenities include a 12-person pontoon, motorized fishing boat, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and a two-person paddleboat. The authentic Northwoods interior features a master suite with a private deck, two fully furnished kitchens, and a cozy family room with a fireplace and flat-screen TV. Conveniently located near Minocqua, guests have easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, golf courses, a casino, and downtown shops.
Cal’s on the Chain is a newly remodeled waterfront destination on Eagle River’s Chain of 28 Lakes, accommodating families and groups. The property includes a deluxe pontoon, motorized fishing boat, kayaks, and paddleboards. Modern amenities feature freshly renovated bathrooms, all-new beds, a large family room, dining room, screen porch, and rooftop deck. The upgraded galley kitchen with skylights is fully stocked. Private yet conveniently located near town, guests can enjoy local establishments, shopping, and other activities just minutes away.
Things to Do in Eagle River and Minocqua
In Eagle River, visitors can explore the Northwoods Children’s Museum, offering interactive exhibits for all ages. For snowmobile enthusiasts, the “Eagle River 500” provides a 500-mile trail network, renowned as some of the best in the Midwest.
In Minocqua, strolling through downtown reveals a variety of local shops, including Dan’s Minocqua Fudge, known for its delectable treats. The area also hosts annual events like Beef-a-Rama™ in September, celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage.
At It’s Cabin Time, we specialize in connecting travelers with authentic cabin and cottage experiences across Wisconsin and 11 other states. By booking directly through RentWisconsinCabins.com, you not only secure the best rates but also benefit from Greg’s local insights, ensuring a memorable Northern Wisconsin cabin experience.
Booking a vacation rental for a large crowd can help with congestion over a week and allow more space and convenience for those that come from a far.
We often don’t think of vacation rentals for more than just a family vacation but vacation rentals are nice for other reasons too. Have you thought about a vacation rental for these occasions?
Small lakeside wedding
Vowel renewal
Family reunion
Corporate retreat
Leadership conference
Girl’s week (the guys get one every fall, don’t they?)
Meditation retreat
Babymoon
When renting a vacation rental, it is always best to weigh your options. Do you want the whole group at once or coming in spurts? Is there ample parking? Are there enough things to do for the whole group? Can the kitchen accommodate the needs of the group?
The Conger Collection offer many larger vacation rentals that provide ample room, tranquil settings, unique amenities and more. The newest addition to their vacation rental homes is the Mishpocheh. This secluded home sits on 3 wooded acres on a semi-private bay, with 250 feet of sandy shoreline. The loft is a perfect place for kids to sleep and all three floors overlook Yellow Birch Lake and forest (superb when the leaves turn ravishing red and blaze orange in the fall).
Mishpocheh, pronounced “mish-POKH-ah,” literally translates to “family” but often means “extended family, close friends, and then some,” which is just what this spacious family retreat will offer you and your guests.
Mishpocheh has a covered boat dock, full kitchen, AC, Wi-Fi, private beach, lakeside fire pit, and more on site amenities. This home is also walking distance from the Eagle River Championship golf course, minutes away from downtown shopping and fine dining. One hint we might provide…When totalling up the total cost of rental, divide this up between groups that are coming for a more final estimate. It is cheaper than you think! To view more photos, videos, rates or to inquire on specifics, please click this link.
We have a serious obsession with #CabinTime in many other states as well. If your looking outside of Wisconsin, check out our other states as well:
Introducing our newest Eagle River cabin listing: Van’s Knotty Pine Cottage. This spacious and beautiful property is located right on the Sugar Camp Chain of Lakes with a pier and sandy beach located right out the front door. Enjoy the 16′ Alumacraft boat rental for all of your Eagle River fishing needs. This cabin is the destination to your fall color tour this year and part of a great network of snowmobile and cross country trails. This vacation rental books fast so be sure to act quickly. To inquire directly with the owner and view more photos, rates, and availability, please click here to our www.rentwisconsincabins.com listing.
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