Skip to main content
Cabin

Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September

Photo gallery for Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September

Big windows looking out at large private yard and lake. Gas grill provided
Great view of the lake, seating for 6 in swivel rocker, 2 recliners, full couch
Great TV viewing in the leather recliners
Welcome to The Boathouse!
Flex area in corner of living room is your place to work or keep a puzzle going

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Brainerd, MN
  • Place, Long Lake Upper
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Brainerd International Raceway
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Place, The Classic at Madden's Golf Course
    ‪48 min drive‬
  • Airport, Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)
    ‪26 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Den

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September

You will love your get away to 'The Lake' when you stay at our cabin, The Boat House, directly on Upper South Long Lake. All the amenities you want mixed with classic cabin comforts like knotty pine interior, quilts, and being lulled to sleep by the loons calling.

The living room addition and connected dining room a provide panoramic view of the lake. The living space features a natural stone gas fireplace, 1 rocking swivel chair, 2 leather recliners, a full couch with 2 recliners, and a 52" high definition TV, cable connected. The dining room has a full size table with 6 chairs.

The kitchen and bath are fully updated. Two generous sized bedrooms plus a separate den sleep 6 comfortably.

Great private lot with huge shade trees, large yard for yard games, and 200 feet of private lakeshore. The lakeside deck includes a dining table with chairs, and glider. Such a great spot for reading, an afternoon nap, watching the loons, a memorable meal, and catching a glorious sunset.

Enjoy the day swimming, boating (canoe is provided), and fishing right off your private dock. Bring along your own boat and waterskiing, wakeboarding, drifting in the sun, and serious fishing are yours. Please note that the dock is out of the lake from around October 1st to around May 15th - check with us if the dock is important to you.

Evening bonfires, roasted marshmallows, shore lunch, the call of the loons, and a lake full of fun will all become a part of your family memories.

While our place is very private it is just a short walk to a local bar and restaurant to enjoy a beer and great burger.

We are just a few miles east of Brainerd for shopping, antiques, and nightlife. Enjoy all the sites, attractions, golf and restaurants in the Brainerd Lakes area! Lake Mille Lacs is a few miles away.



Keywords: lakeshore, private, lake home, cottage, cabin, summer home, knotty pine, families

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Living area
Classically Charming, Quiet Lakeside Cabin less than 2 hours from the Cities
Hillman
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
Classically Charming, Quiet Lakeside Cabin less than 2 hours from the Cities

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Good for families
default

Events

No events allowed
6 person maximum at any time
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
2 dogs max- Addl charge. No puppies.
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking allowed at all

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Make sure canoe is pulled up totally on shore. Put all paddles and life jackets in the cabin.
Yard must be free of dog doo doo.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
1) No fireworks, firecrackers, sparklers, or anything related of any kind at any time
2) No parties of any kind are allowed
Quiet hours 10 pm to 8 am

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: 6 person maximum at any time
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Brainerd

Located in Brainerd, this cabin is on the waterfront. WonderTrek Children's Museum and Roundhouse Brewery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Mississippi River and Telef Paulson Wildlife Management Area. Paul Bunyan Land and Northland Arboretum are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with snorkelling and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling.
View more Cabin rentals in BrainerdOpens in a new window
Map
Brainerd, MN

What's nearby

  • Long Lake Upper - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Brainerd International Raceway - 36 min drive - 38.0 km
  • Gull Lake - 41 min drive - 42.7 km
  • Cragun's Legacy Courses - 45 min drive - 42.3 km
  • The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 48 min drive - 46.6 km

Getting around

  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Green Lantern - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Paradise Shores - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Oak Lawn Tavern - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Dennis Drummond Wine Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Bucky's - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September?

As of 14 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September on 31 May, 2026 start from S$287, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Retreat - Great for families! Great dates available in September located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps from Long Lake Upper and within 9 mi (15 km) of Telef Paulson Wildlife Management Area and Paul Bunyan Land. Buffalo Hills Park and WonderTrek Children's Museum are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 129 out of 152 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 152 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 152 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 152 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 152 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was very nice. Well stocked kitchen, comfortable living room and dining room area. Lot is very wide for a lake lot with trees on both sides to provide privacy from the neighbors. Brought our boat and had a great time on the lake. Visited the nearby resort / bar and grill, which is only about 3 or 4 blocks away. The food there is surprisingly good and reasonably priced. Overall it was a great trip.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice, family friendly property

Our family enjoyed our stay and liked being able to use the canoe and dock to fish from.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikia G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Enjoyed our stay and all the cabin had to offer! Great location and was perfect for the short drive to the BIR on Sunday.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug, 2024
We're so happy you enjoyed your stay! It is our aim to have the items our guests need for their time at the cabin.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachelle O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

This is a quaint cabin on a beautiful location! You can tell the owners put a lot of care into this place & the guest that stay there.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We're so happy that you enjoyed the cabin and the private location. We want all of our guests to feel well cared for!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a great place!!!

We loved the privacy. Super clean and had everything we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
So happy you enjoyed the Boat House! Come back anytime to enjoy!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

tara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place for a family!

We had a wonderful stay with our two kids. They loved swimming in the lake and jumping off the dock. The cabin was clean and very cozy. We would love to stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jul, 2024
So happy your family enjoyed the lake! We'll have it ready any time you want to join us again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lake is so clean

We had a wonderful time at the cabin. We really enjoyed floating in the lake. The water is really nice. The yard is big for outdoor games. It got warm in the bedrooms at night. Temps outside where almost 90. Glad we came.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug, 2025
We're so happy you had a great time with your family. It was a very hot and humid week! The ceiling fans and portable fans always help the air conditioning on those days. Come enjoy on your next visit.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Molly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful quiet cabin

We really enjoyed our family vacation. The cabin was well equipped and the yard was fantastic to play in with our baby.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We're so happy you had a great time. The big private yard is always a hit with families - so happy that was true with yours!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin has very nice furnishings, comfortable chairs and sofa in living room, comfortable beds. The finishings high quality. Nice big treed lot. We enjoyed the firepit and swimming. Not a sandy beach, but water was clear and clean, not weedy. We got more rain than we ordered on this trip, but we would come back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private, relaxing

Very nice, private, relaxing cabin very close to attractions. Hosts were very helpful sending info as needed. Cabin was clean and comfortable. Great weekend get away!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May, 2024
So happy you had a relaxing time at The Boat House. We're glad that you found it as advertised - private and clean. Come back any time!
Verified

8/10 Good

Jessica M.

Peaceful family getaway

We had a great time!! The lake was so peaceful and quiet. We were hoping for more of a beach area by the lake but it all worked out great!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We're so happy you had a great time at the cabin!! Our lake shore is especially peaceful and quiet because we are far from our neighbors. The beach area by the lake is walk in directly to the lake so easy for playing in and accessing the lake. We do not have a lay on the sand and build sand castles type of beach and always try to make our guests aware of that. We're happy that it all worked out great for you and your family!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cecilia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great

Clean, comfortable and has everything needed. We really enjoyed our time there!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay on the Lake

This house is so well positioned - back from the shore of the lack in the trees - giving privacy and easy lake access. The lake was pretty clear and great for a swim. The house is well-equipped and has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edwina K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

Beautiful property. Very private and relaxing.
Stayed 57 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We are so happy that you enjoyed the private setting and how relaxing it is.
Verified

8/10 Good

Bryan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall it was a great place to stay. There was plenty of room for all of us. The only drawback was that I felt the beds/mattress could be updated and that the living room rug smelled a bit like a wet dog(needs a shampooing maybe) and adding a dehumidifier would be nice as it was sort of damp feeling when using living room furniture. Overall it was a really great experience. The convenience of the dock and fire pit as well as the open yard for our dog to run around was great.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

Great setup to relax. Very quiet setting.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Nov, 2024
We're so happy you were able to relax and enjoy what we do about the place - quiet peacefulness! Come back any time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for our family!

We stayed at the cabin with our family and dog and it was great. Easy to bring our boat, put it in at the public landing and leave it at the dock at the cabin. Nice fire pit and wood provided. We had a good time and would go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
So happy your family had a great time! Yes, the public boat launch is not far from the cabin. Nice that you found, like others, the our dock can handle the boat making it easy for you. Come back any time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful family reunion.

Seniors staying to enjoy reunion as widow used to have a cabin on nearby lake. Got to visit old friends & reminisce. Wonderful property for our stay. Very well-kept cabin with all the conveniences for any ages (even though we were seniors).
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We love that you enjoyed your stay at The Boathouse! The summary that you left in the property shows you liked some of the same things our other guests have "comfy beds, peaceful & serene, loons captivating, clean, great shower, beautiful view". Thank you and come again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Up north cabin

The cabin is exactly how it appears in the photos. Is super clean and comfortable, and has everything you need. The property and lake provide lots of great outdoor activities. Will stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We are so happy you enjoyed your vacation at The Boat House. We look forward to having you again!
Verified

8/10 Good

colleen l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely location.

Access to beach would be hard for the elderly.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Victoria S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

peaceful haven

Beautiful location, well-thought-out cabin design with everything you need to be comfortable. Would happily return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
So happy you enjoyed your time. Your children seemed so happy about their stay when we talked with you. We would welcome your family back any time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cabin on a quite beautiful lake

Great property. Our family had a wonderful relaxing week at the cabin. Clean, and perfect size for a family. Easy check in and check out process. Thank you for sharing your cabin, we will be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
We're so happy your family enjoyed our cabin! We appreciate that it works well for families. Come back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darcy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family fun times

We enjoyed the cozy cabin, warm campfire and clear water. It was exactly what we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
So happy your family enjoyed the cabin! We would welcome you back any time
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maureen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property and staycation!

This is a great rental. Everything we needed was there. Simple check in and instructions for everything. We would book again in a heart beat. Super close to so many other spots for a family! As well as down the road for drinks and music just a 6 minute walk away.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug, 2023
So happy you had everything you needed at the cabin for a great family vacation! We'd love to have your family back again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

late September Get Away

Nicely appointed cabin on a beautiful lake. Local bar and grill a short walk from cabin which had live music. Took the canoe out a couple times. All appliances worked well, gas grill was good for the steaks, all amenities were as described.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

About the host

Hosted by Tom and Linda Herzog

Host profile image
Tom and Linda have been vacationing on Upper South Long Lake for many years. We met at a bonfire party on the lake and have raised 3 kids with loads of summer lake adventures! We are excited to share our cabin with you. As a matter of fact you might see us on the lake as we enjoy 'Up North' at our place on the same lake!

Why they chose this property

We have been vacationing on this Lake for over 40 years. We love it up here so much this is our second home on the same lake. Wildlife, long walks, eagle spotting, loon calls, water sports, sunsets, talks and s'mores around the campfire are all woven into our family fabric. You'll be happy when they are part of yours!

What makes this property unique

We take a lot of pride in our cabin so you will find it neat and clean. We have made many improvements that you will appreciate. You will love the privacy provided by our 200 feet of lakeshore, big front yard, lakeside deck, and the wooded lot. From many windows of the cabin you can not see our neighbors. On bad weather days there is lots of space in the cabin for family card games, movies (small library included) or a check on the current sporting event on the big screen TV. Up to 2 dogs can stay with prior approval and additional fee paid

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Go further with the Vrbo app

  • Easily message your host
  • Access, share and manage your trip
  • Earn OneKeyCash on holiday rentals
Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app
QR code to download the app