Located in Grayling, this lodge is on the waterfront. Hartwick Pines State Park and McMasters Bridge Landing reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include AuSable Artisan Village and Wild Frontier Fun Park. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Hartwick Pines State Park - 36 min drive - 35.8 km
Getting around
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 101 min drive
Restaurants
Lovell's Riverside Tavern - 17 min drive
Rustic Inn - 26 min drive
About this property
Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres!
Bear Creek Lodge, built in 1927, is the perfect north woods retreat for family reunions, hunting or fishing vacations or just a relaxing escape to the north woods of Michigan. The lodge is situated on 120 acres with 510' of frontage on Big Creek's West Branch (a premier northern Michigan fly fishing river).
You will love to start the day enjoying a cup of coffee in the sitting area of the kitchen watching the deer make their way to the river. As you begin preparation of an old fashion country breakfast and the other guests gather in the kitchen area you will start to plan the day - fishing in the Big Creek or the nearby Ausable River, Hunting on the 120 acres of private land, a hike through the woods, a round of golf, snowshoeing or x-country skiing in the winter; or maybe you just want to relax on the deck and enjoy the serenity of the north woods of Michigan.
In the evening your group will gather around the massive 3 story field stone fireplace. Comfortable seating in the leather chairs, an old hickory rocking chair and 2 large sofas will allow you to relax and recount the adventures of the day.
Meals are easily prepared in the fully equipped kitchen with 2 refrigerators (1 with an ice-maker), new glass-top stove, antique 6 burner Garland gas stove, 2 large sinks, dishwasher and an abundance of counter space. Cooking utensils, china and flatware to serve 20+ guests. A breakfast room table that will accommodate eight.
You will share your adventures of the day over dinner at the large custom made dining table (seating for 14+). After dinner, perhaps a game of pool, ping pong or marshmallows and smores by the fire pit.
Sleep in one of the 7 themed bedrooms: Master Suite - 1 king, Antler Room - 2 full, Golf Room - 1 full, Cowboy Room - 1 full and 1 twin, Bird Room - 1 queen and 1 twin trundle, Fish Room - 1 full, Flag Room - 1 twin bunk. Sleeps 24 family style. All of the bedrooms are on the second floor.
There is plenty to do close by, but most guests never want to leave the property once they arrive at Bear Creek Lodge!
Unfortunately the Lodge is not set up for events, weddings or receptions, parties. It is perfect for family reunions, fishing, hunting, enjoying the Pure Northern Michigan outdoors making lasting memories!
When you send a inquiry or booking request tell me a little about your group and plans, what you like to do.
Lovells Township Ordinances and Guidelines must be followed and are located in the Guest Information book. Thank you.
Cancellation Policy: a. If a Guest makes a reservation and later cancels his/her reservation more than 60 days prior to the check-in date, Homeowner shall retain 50% of the reservation/security deposit as a processing fee and return 50% to the Guest. b. If a Guest cancels his/her reservation within 60 days of the check-in date, Guest shall forfeit the entire reservation/security deposit and Homeowner shall retain 50% of the rental fee. If the Homeowner is able to rebook the property for the rental period stated in this Agreement then Homeowner shall retain the deposit and return 100% of the rental fee to the Guest.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Amenities
Free WiFi
Parking available
Laundry
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events
No events allowed
Not set up for weddings, bachelor/rette events
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Smoking may take place outside the Lodge.
Lovells Township Ordinances & Policies must be agreed to and followed by all guest. These are located in the Guest book at the Lodge. Thank you.
Accidental Damage Protection Policy cannot be cancelled by the guest.
Prior to confirming a reservation, I like to find out a little about my guest ~ send some information about your group and plans ~ Thanks
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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: Not set up for weddings, bachelor/rette events
Frequently asked questions
Is Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres!?
As of 18 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres! on 24 Apr 2026 start from £334, 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 Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres! located?
Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly lodge is within 9 mi (15 km) of McMasters Bridge Landing, Huron-Manistee National Forest and Au Sable River. Mason Tract Pathway is 11.2 mi (18.1 km) away.
Bear Creek Lodge - Historic Riverfront Lodge on 120 Wooded Acres! Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The stay was very enjoyable, but i would say the dock and shed door need some attention. Other than that the place was very clean and tidy and a very fun place for a small group of friends
We had a group of 15 and everyone had enough room to be close, but not too close. Large yard for kids to play and plenty of toys and games. Well equipped kitchen, missing a few utensils, but lots of pans, casserole dishes, and charm. The lodge itself is very unique. We waded and floated in the river. It is very clean. Overall, no glitches and a very good weekend. We used an insecticide fogger, so the bugs were not an issue for us.
loved the lodge. I believe your stovetop and oven is not
working correctly. One burner on stovetop works great.
Other three do not get very hot. Tried to boil pasta and
the water never did boil. Oven does not seem to calibrate
the correct temp. thank you. will surely stay again.
Our group of 14 had an absolute blast at the Lodge. Each couple their own bedroom.
The weather was spectacular so we enjoyed the fire pit and creek.
We would stay here again
Parents, adult children and grandchildren all joined together for a long weekend. It was just perfect. The kids were electronics free so we all played games, walked to the creek, had a fire with s’mores, rode on the swing. There were tons of books, an out of tube piano for the kids to try out and comfortable outdoor chairs for morning coffee. The lodge had everything we needed (even the water was delicious straight out of the tap!) We would go back in a heartbeat.
We had a family gathering at Bear Creek Lodge and had a wonderful time. Out host George was very accommodating and had the Lodge in tip top shape. All the bedrooms were extremely nice There were plenty of restrooms for the group of 9 people. The kitchen had everything we needed to prepare the meals. The Living Room, sitting room off the kitchen, Dining Room were all very nice and would accommodate a larger group than ours. The game room and pool room was nice for the kids and for the adults. This was our second time staying at the Lodge. I highly recommend it. We spent one day in Traverse City and one day in Grayling. Thank you George for allowing us to stay at your Lodge. We tried to take good care of it!
The lodge was incredible, not only the size but the set up with everything you could need, inside and out.
The owner was friendly and helpful. We will definitely will recommend this property.
Was good a little hot at night to sleep a few nights access to river was not very clear maybe can't mow close to river due to restrictions by state night lights would be a plus over all a good experience and would rent again great for large family that wants to relax and have fun together
We loved our vacation to the Lodge. We had 18 family members (8 of them kids ranging from 2-21) & everyone found things to do all day. There was enough snow to sled & make great snowmen, we walked around the property & fly-fished. The owner George was available to us at a moment’s notice & he provided so many extras to make our trip the best ever. There were little kids’ toys, board games, a fun game room with a pool table & ping pong table top, movies & TV. There was plenty of room for all 18 of us to eat, sleep & play together to build forever memories! We can’t wait to schedule our next visit at Bear Creek because we’ll definitely be back!
We had such an amazing time at the lodge! There were 3 families that stayed together with kids ranging in ages from 4-15, and there was always something for everyone to do. The younger kids loved playing in the creek that is very close by, while the middle aged kids played pool and the older kids rode quads and played yard games. We did not hear the words "I'm bored" once, which as a parent is awesome! All the adults had a great time as well. This property is perfect for a big group, as there are so many different things to do. We played yard games and explored during the day, and had fires at night, while all the kids used the big property to play hide and seek games in the dark.
The lodge is so well stocked! George even provides towels, paper towel, TP, and wood for the fire. George is very responsive too, we weren't sure where the creek was on our first day and he called me back right away with detailed instructions on how to get there. He was even nice enough to mail us back clothes that my daughter had left in one of the drawers.
I highly recommend this property to anyone looking to have some time away and enjoy the quiet life off the beaten path. We would definitely return to this property!
We had a group of 16 celebrating an 80th Birthday and could not have asked for a nicer place to stay! There is so much room to spread out! We enjoyed cooking together in the large kitchen, eating at the huge dining table, nature walks, bonfires and just being together making memories at such a peaceful and unique place. George is quick to answer any questions you have. We all highly recommend Bear Creek Lodge!!
Our family gets together every two years and meets at one centrally located location. This was the perfect spot. George was great to work with and the lodge is spectacular. Amazing great room, plenty of bedrooms for everyone, lazy river, horseshoes (haven’t played horseshoes in forever), and a smoker and grills with a stocked kitchen that was perfect for all our needs.
This is a wonderful place to stay with your family. There are games, toys, puzzles inside and out. We kayaked three times with the AuSable being so close. If you love the outdoors and need a place to relax, this is your place.
If you are looking for a family adventure, this is the place. This historic lodge is HUGE! This isn't your typical lay-on-the-beach place. Instead, this is your: fishing in the river, horseshoe tournament, Baggo championship, trail exploring, bike riding, river tubing, Smores making, game playing, firefly watching, pingpong playing, chair in the river, and being with your family place! George has stocked this lodge with every amenity one could ever need, so you can pack light. Nostalgia buffs will enjoy the rustic and unique decor with which the lodge is tastefully decorated. And don't forget to try out the two most comfortable leather recliners in the living room! You will have plenty of room, indoors and out, if you want to seek out a quiet reading spot or nap opportunity. Thank you, George! We will be back!
I packed paper plates and pots and pans and everything else I thought it would need.
When I arrived with my party the whole cabin was stocked with anything you could dream of to cook along with games and other methods of entertainment.
The property is about a 30 mile drive from Pembrook (sp?) where we went kayaking for a 3 hour, 8 mile adventure. It was like an obstacle course and was a very cathartic experience.
This is a place I can see myself vacationing at every summer 10/10.
We had an amazing time hanging out in the river, on the porches, in the cottage. Everything we could think of was provided. George is a wonderful host. We can’t wait to visit again!
Our 4th time staying at Bear Creek Lodge & we grow to love it more each time!
Secluded, cozy & nostalgic! Plenty of space, provisions, bedrooms & games to provide a memory making getaway with family. We have come to look forward to it as a yearly "tradition"
We had a wonderful time at the Lodge! We were celebrating two 40th birthdays and a 4 year old's birthday and there was something for everyone. No phone, no work - just relaxing, bonfires, outdoor games, sitting in the river and soaking up some awesome family time! The great room of this home is so unique and feels like a special place filled with a lot of memories! There were 10 adults and 3 kids (12, 8 and 4) and we had plenty of space to spread out and got a kick out of all of the doors around upper level that you could see from the main floor. We shot skeet one morning down at the designated area, played in the yard and consumed a lot of food and drinks. George, the owner, was very responsive! Thanks for sharing with our family!