WEEK-LONG STAYS AND HOLIDAYS: AVAILABLE June 6-13, 2026 AVAILABLE August 22-29, 202 Labor Day weekend
SHORTER STAYS: 3-night stay June 6-9, 2026 Saturday arrival, Tuesday departure 4 night stay June 9-13, 2026 Tuesday arrival, Saturday departure
PLAN FOR A STAY AT WOOD HAVEN! Join us for your summer or fall fun in Hayward! Close to town for festivals, events & shopping! Snowmobiles Trail #4, through Nelson Lake; ATVs—Easy Access ATV trail #19.
OPENINGS FOR 2026--Enjoy fun times at the lake. Weekends and weekdays -- September and Fall dates are available. Fall/Winter - weekday and weekends starting mid-September
NELSON LAKE--Nelson Lake is a premier fishing lake and most species can be caught directly off the lodge dock; bass, northern, crappie, blue gill, perch and an occasional walleye. With 31 miles of shoreline and over 3000 acres, guests can kayak, canoe, fish, swim and explore. Our local bait shop not only has great tackle and live bait, but stories and insights into the lake's best fishing holes. Two boat landings--within minutes of the lodge. You may boat to various restaurants & watering holes.
HAYWARD--We are 5 miles from downtown Hayward. We are less than 5 miles from hospital and library. So relax and enjoy the lake, but make a quick trip to town to enjoy all it has to offer. There are lots of adventures here in the Hayward area; world-class bike and ski trails, hiking trails, ATV and snowmobile trails. Golfers can choose from a large variety of courses, 9 or 18 holes, while searching for their hole in one. For those enthusiasts who are looking for unique eating experiences; there are restaurants, wineries, candy & ice cream shops, coffee shops, Friday night fish fry, steakhouse, bar & grills, saloons, BBQ joint, brew pubs, and the list goes. Don't forget to stop at the Big Musky -- Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fall; and area flea and farmers' markets.
EVENTS and FESTIVALS--Hayward is home to internationally and nationally renowned events such as the American Birkebeiner, World Lumberjack Championship and Chequamegon Fat Tire Race. Other events and festivals occur almost weekly.
WOOD HAVEN LODGE--Join us for your Northwoods vacation—Our lodge has 5 bedrooms, 4 baths along with 2 additional sleeping areas (loft daybed/trundle and living room sofa sleeper), a total of 11 beds. Our lodge is a newer (2012) 2-story walkout with a loft. Approximately 2400 sq. ft. of quarter-sawn oak hardwood floors and tile. This cabin has year-round accommodations on 3072 acre Nelson Lake. WIFI is available throughout the home.
MAIN FLOOR (Living room, kitchen, bath, deck, and master bedroom suite): The main floor has a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, living room with flat panel TV and a huge gorgeous 3-sided wood burning fireplace, and a full bath. The main floor also has access to the raised deck spanning the entire lake side of the cabin, which is great for viewing the wildlife & enjoying that A.M. cup of coffee.
The main floor master bedroom suite (approximately 300 sq. ft.) includes a queen hickory bed set, gas fireplace, executive bath, walk-in closet and sliding glass doors to the deck. This bedroom accommodates a Pack-n-Play and air mattresses, if needed.
LOFT LEVEL (2 bedrooms, bath, and loft area): On the top floor you will find a bedroom with a queen bed, a second bedroom with 2 sets of bunk beds and small TV/DVD player (perfect for kids) and a full bath. The loft area can be for reading and relaxing after a day of fishing and recreation. It has a log day bed and trundle.
LOWER LEVEL (Family room, 2 bedrooms, bath and laundry room): The lower level has stunning log walls with a gas fireplace, 70' flat screen TV with full surround sound, DVD player. There is also a 3/4 bath and a cozy bedroom with queen bed. The washer/dryer is on the lower level also. The second lower level bedroom is approximately 120 sq. ft. and can accommodate a Pack-n-Play or twin air mattress.
LOCATION: Wood Haven Lodge sits about 40' back from Four Seasons Road, which is a dead-end road. It is a short jaunt of about 150 feet to the 120' of undeveloped shoreline. The fishing is excellent for all panfish, bass, northern and walleye on this lake— 31 miles of shoreline with maximum depth of 33 feet. There is a public boat landing about 5 minutes away. Minnow Jim's Bait & Tackle Shop is 5 minutes away also. There are restaurants on Nelson Lake.
FISHING DOCK AND BOATING: We have electricity and room for up to 3 boats (depending on size). There is a dock with chairs, and bumpers for docking boats. Fish cleaning station is available.
PONTOON RENTAL: -We have a 20' Misty Harbor pontoon available for rent for our guests at our lodge. Cruise and fish on Nelson Lake--11 person capacity, 40hp ETEC motor, bimini, livewell, swim ladder and snack/drink table. If you are interested in boat rental, please contact us.
CLEANING: Wood Haven Lodge is new and very clean. We will have the cabin professionally deep-cleaned after every use. All linens, bedding, blankets, spreads, and throw rugs are laundered prior to your stay. We live nearby and will be able to take care of any problems or additional needs.
PETS: We are pet friendly. Our pet addendum outlines our pet policies. Please review and complete the pet addendum if you have a pet. Please indicate in your message that you will be bringing your pet. Pet charge is $225/1 pet.
SMOKING POLICY---NON-SMOKING HOME: We DO NOT allow smoking in the lodge. Smoking is only allowed outside on GROUNDS/PROPERTY. Receptacles available for disposal and must be used.
FURNISHED ITEMS: We furnish many items for your stay at Wood Haven. BED & BATH— We provide bed and bath linens for your use. Each bathroom is supplied with Kleenex, toilet paper and pump soap. We do provide body wash for the showers/tubs. We have a new iron and ironing board. Please bring your own beach towels. If you forget, there will be a few available for your use. KITCHEN— We have dishcloths, hand towels, dish drying towels, 2 rolls of paper towels and dishwashing liquid for dish washing and dishwasher use. We also have small boxes of ziploc bags and aluminum foil, along with some garbage bags to get you started on your stay. We do have a cupboard with coffee filters, some salt/pepper and toothpicks. KITCHENWARE— We have a 25+ cu ft refrigerator in the kitchen, along with a 20 cuft refrigerator in the laundry room. We have a coffee maker, grinder and carafe. If you have a particular baking dish or small appliance that you use, check with us and we will let you know if we have it. The lodge is equipped with just about everything— pizza pans, pie dishes, baking sheets, muffin pans, lasagna pan, roaster, wok, popcorn airpopper, toaster, cast iron pans, griddle, crockpots, blender, etc. We now have a punch bowl, fun for meals.
OUTDOOR DECK AND FIRE RING: The raised deck spans the entire lake side of the cabin. GRILL & DECK DINING— There is a large gas grill with propane. We have table/chairs for dining on the deck, along with acrylic dishes and drinkware. OUTDOOR FIRE RING— We do have a bit of firewood from some dead trees we cut down. We will have some out back for campfires. We do have Adirondack chairs for around the fire ring (adults and kids).
BASE RATE and EXTRA GUESTS: Our base rate is for 6 guests. As you add overnight guests, a charge of $35/guest/night is added FOR THE FULL LENGTH OF YOUR STAY. In addition, there may be a charge for day visitors. No deductions for late arrivals or early departures. WITH PRIOR APPROVAL EVENTS ARE ALLOWED--$875/NIGHT-- maximum 25 attendees.
RATES: Rates are subject to change until the reservation is confirmed. Rates are adjusted for seasonal specials, area events and holidays. As of Jan. 1, 2020 VRBO will add the State/County sales tax of 5.5% and Lenroot Township Lodging Tax 2% to your reservation.
We strive to keep our rates reasonable and will tailor your quote to the size of your group (adults and children). Our rate structure allows different sizes of families/groups to enjoy our Northwoods home. LISTED RATES FOR 2025/2026 ARE FOR 6 GUESTS. Additional guests are $35/night/guest FOR YOUR FULL STAY. If you are planning to have other visitors who are not the registered overnight guests, please let us know in advance. Knowing in advance allows us to identify usage impact and determine an appropriate yet reasonable quote for your stay. Minimal charges may apply for these day visitors. Due to licensing requirements for consumer protection, and insurance/liability coverage, we will ask for the names of all overnight guests & day visitors.
EVENTS--If you are having a family gathering/event on Nelson Lake, or the Hayward area, please contact us in advance for approval. The lodge rents for $875/night and has 11 beds (4 queens, 6 twins and a pull-out twin sleeper sofa).
RENTAL AGREEMENT--After booking a stay, a rental agreement will be sent via email for electronic signature. Your RENTAL AGREEMENT must be completed/signed within 5 days of booking to confirm reservation. If signed rental agreement is not received by the 5-day deadline, the booking/reservation may be cancelled by homeowner/Lessor.
GAMES/TOYS/DVDs: Please bring games, books, puzzles and DVD(s) for your enjoyment at the lodge.
License ID# MDAE-986RMX State of WISCONSIN
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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We have high chair, pack-n-play, kids table/chairs
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Events
Events allowed: family gatherings
WITH PRIOR APPROVAL, $875/NIGHT, 25 guest maximum
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Must register pet on Pet Addendum; $225 fee/1 pet
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
See rental agreement. Outside only.
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Please see checkout instructions in the binder on the kitchen counter.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rates are based on 6 persons, additional guests at $30-$35/night/guest for the full stay.
PLEASE READ RENTAL AGREEMENT regarding no fireworks, DNR lake and campfire regulations, day visitors, etc.
RENTAL AGREEMENT will be sent via email for electronic signature. Reservation may be cancelled by Lessor if not signed within 5 days of booking.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
Note from host: WITH PRIOR APPROVAL, $875/NIGHT, 25 guest maximum
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
About the area
Hayward
Located in Hayward, this cabin is on the waterfront. Hayward Golf Club and HookStone Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum and Wilderness Walk Zoo and Recreation Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
American Birkebeiner Trail - 20 min drive - 20.1 km
Getting around
Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.) - 97 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 11 min drive
El Tequila Mexican Family Restaurant - 13 min drive
Louie's Bar And Bites - 10 min drive
Coop's Pizza - 10 min drive
Angler's Bar & Grill - 11 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental?
As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental on 12 May 2026 start from £390, 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 Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental?
Check-in begins at 4:30 PM.
What time is check-out at Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental?
Checkout is at 9:00 AM.
Where is Wood Haven Lodge/Pets/Nelson Lake/Pontoon Rental located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps from Nelson Lake and within 3 mi (5 km) of Smith Lake and Totagatic Wildlife Area. Eytcheson Park is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Great place for a getaway! The kids caught plenty of fish off the dock and had a lot of fun playing at the beach area. We rented the pontoon which was very clean and everything worked great. Cabin was fully stocked and clean (high chair, bed rails, pack and play for the littles) and great communication with hosts. Can’t wait to return!
Beautiful home! This house has everything you could possibly need! Caught plenty of fish off the dock. Home owners are so easy to work with and so, so kind! Martha responds quickly and makes sure you have all needs taken care of!
The house was a perfect fit for our family of 10. We really enjoyed all the nice things Martha provided to make the stay very comfortable.The pontoon was a a great way to get the whole family out on the lake for fishing or an evening cruise. We made some wonderful memories! Thank you Martha and Dennis
Beautiful property. Can't think of a thing the house didn't have readily available. Kids enjoyed fishing every day, and then spent all their cash at the bait shop and candy store in Hayward. The Fishing Hall of Fame and mini golf were great diversions when it was a little too windy for fishing or paddling. Excellent communication with the host throughout. Highly recommend this property for a wonderful lakeside retreat.
We had a wonderful time at Wood Haven. We brought our pups and enjoyed a chilly Memorial Day on and off the lake. We had great luck catching bass of all sizes, loads of panfish and a couple northern pikes too! We rented the pontoon with the cabin and brought our boat too. Both fit on the dock perfectly. We 10/10 recommend.
Beautiful craftsmanship throughout the home. Very clean and has absolutely everything you need for an extremely comfortable stay. We loved this place!
Definitely the top choice for a Hayward stay.
I traveled to this property with my wife, kids, and dog and we had a wonderful time, it is beautiful, very very well taken care of and every detail was thought of by Martha and her family!!! I very much hope to be back soon!
Martha and Dennis were amazing host.The Lodge had endless amenities set up by Martha. The house was spotless, the beds were so comfortable, and kitchen is well stocked with quality dishes and cookware.Our weather was prefect all week for fishing in the morning (even the 3 yr old caught a fish), swimming and tubing in the afternoon, and grilling and s’mores in the evening. We couldn’t be more pleased about the enjoyable fire pit area. The extra chairs for adults and little kiddos was a big plus for a large family.The children are enjoying the gifts they received during our stay. (made from Martha’s photography projects) and the adults enjoyed the gift of coffee from Wood Haven Lodge. Thank you.
Everything was exactly as described or better, very clean! Everything was in good working order, communication with host was as good as it gets! Close to everything you might need but far enough away to feel secluded. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay here and hope to come back soon.
Annual Family Reunion - First Visit to Nelson Lake
The property was perfect! Martha, the owner has thought of everything. We have never stayed at a home so well thought out, every time we thought “I wish I had brought…” a quick search and we found it. It is a beautiful lake home with a nice, easy, and short walk to the lake. Everything about our week was wonderful!
Loved the home, everything you needed and more was provided. We caught tons of fish, enough for two fish fries for 13 hungry folks and took some home. Our dog went swimming three times and the kids did 4 times but end of the week was pretty cool 60's for swimming. Great owner nearby to fix or bring anything needed or ask questions.
Martha Brauer was a very welcoming host, even for our dogs - supplying dog dishes, a kennel and clean up supplies. The kitchen was well equipped with quality dishware, eating utensils, pots and pans. There was even an extra refrigerator in the laundry room. We appreciated how clean and organized everything was. There were detailed descriptions on what to do with the bed and bath linens on our departure. The location of the home was very convenient and the nice dock was easily accessible. We highly recommend this VRBO and hope to return next year!
If you're looking for convenience to Hayward, access to easy fishing and an easy drive to everything the areas has to offer, this is the perfect house. Plenty of room for adults and kids, and everything you need for your stay.
I rented with a group of adults for the Chequamegon bike fest and it's proximity to Hayward and Cable, and it was great. Five minute to downtown Hayward, easy access to trails and lakes.
We threw some casts in the water when we had a moment to spare and caught two northern. Not too shabby and made the stay that much better knowing we didn't have to spend time with a canoe or boat.
Martha was great to work with and is an excellent communicator.
Could not ask for more!
This property was just as nice and charming as the owners.
We loved our stay at The Lodge. The Home is absolutely beautiful, clean, and well stocked. Nothing was spared and everything was considered. Everything was in working order. Martha and Dennis are very responsive, accomodating, and the property is very well managed. This was our yearly New Year family snowmobile trip. We shared the home with another family and found that it had more than enough room for all of us (including 2 dogs). The property was just as described, and even more peaceful than we could have dreamed. Our hosts were great and very quick to respond. Thank you Martha and Dennis for another great New Year family getaway! We look forward to coming back!
My husband and I just spent the long Thanksgiving weekend at Wood Haven Lodge with my two sisters and their husbands and I can't even begin to tell you how fantastic it was. With three separate levels, each having its own bedroom (or two!) and bath, it was wonderful for each couple to have their own space. However, we spent most of our time together in the ultra-cozy main-level family room, cooking in the amazingly well-equipped kitchen, while listening to music with the woodburning fireplace going nearly all day every day. There's also a second living space in the lower level with a gas fireplace and giant TV, so IF there had been kids involved, they would have had their own space to hang, too. Martha and Dennis could not have been better hosts! They are close by and highly attentive, without hovering. Super friendly and a delight to get to know. When the snow storm hit later that weekend, Dennis was out plowing and shoveling out our cars before we were barely out of bed! And then, when my car wouldn't start after the below zero night, he cheerfully gave it the jump start it needed. I honestly don't know what we would have done without them close by. Every inch of this lovely lodge is beautifully appointed. North woodsy touches, without being too kitchy. The beds are comfortable with cozy flannel sheets and the lucky person or couple who gets the Master Suite will enjoy another fireplace and private ensuite master bath. The backdrop of the woods outside through the large windows overlooking the lake, with the freshly fallen snow, was breathtaking.
An added bonus was having the Four Seasons Supper Club and Resort within walking distance (less than a block) when we didn't feel like cooking. The owners currently live on premises, so they were able to open even during the storm. More delightful people to meet and excellent food in the restaurant and bar.
If you're looking for a perfect place to spend some quality winter time, this is your spot!
Very nice property. House has everything you could need, including a well stocked kitchen and large grill with grilling accessories.Martha and Dennis are great hosts and very responsive!
This is a beautiful cabin! It has all the amenities you would need. Bring your own food and you're good to go. There was a picture of the lake included with all the pictures, but the reality is that you cannot see the lake from the cabin. There is a path that takes you to the lake, but beautiful once you get down there. The cabin itself is surrounded by trees. We had the pontoon booked from the owners but last minute, it was not available. The owners took charge and found us another pontoon which was nearby and easy to pick up and return.
This home had the perfect “north woods” feel we were looking for while also being SO clean and organized. Everything was easy to use. The kitchen was super stocked with anything you would need. The attention to detail was beyond expectations. It felt very private and peaceful. Just the perfect spot for our purposes!
We spent a week at Woodhaven and Martha & Dennis are great hosts, very prompt with replies and accommodating. The house is very cozy, clean, & the kitchen has everything you need and more. We also rented the pontoon, which is definitely a must when vacationing on a lake. Good memories had by all.
This property is beautiful and well maintained. The bedrooms were comfortable, the mattresses are heavenly. The kitchen is so well stocked, nothing was needed from home but food. The dock is sturdy and long, plenty of room for our toys. They offered complimentary canoe, kayak and row boat which our family took advantage of. Martha and Dennis have thought of everything to make our stay more enjoyable. They put great thought into cleanliness and comfort. Thank you for such a beautiful location for our family to create memories in!
Our family of 12 had a great time and had everything we needed for a great vacation.
Gerald R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
About the host
Hosted by Dennis and Martha Brauer
Hello! We are Dennis and Martha Brauer. After vacationing in Hayward for many years we purchased our cabin on Nelson Lake in 1994. Our oldest son and his wife, Jeff and Janene Brauer, built this vacation home (2012) next door to ours to share with their children (pictured).
During 2014 ownership of this vacation home was transferred to us.
Our community and lake area have a variety of amenities. We hope that you will enjoy your time here as we have for many years.
Why they chose this property
Hayward is remote yet not too remote. There are tons of places to shop and eat and yet you can go back to the cabin and most times it is so quiet you can hear a pin drop. We chose this area to have as much of the Northwoods rustic feel, while at the same time having modern day conveniences -- cable, phone, excellent cell phone signal, and close to town. We also chose Nelson Lake due to its excellent fishing.
What makes this property unique
LODGE--Our lodge was built with craftmen's hands, bringing natural woods and materials into the home to reflect the Northwoods and the unique character of our area. Locally cut and milled wood, along with hand-made antler chandelier and other furnishings brings in the warmth and spirit of our area. PROPERTY--We kept the surrounding woods to allow for enjoyment of the natural aspects of Northern Wisconsin, while at the same time providing privacy for our guests. While on the lodge dock you will enjoy watching the eagles, loons and other lake wildlife. You'll never forget the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that grace our horizons. NELSON LAKE--Nelson Lake is a premier fishing lake and most species can be caught directly off the lodge dock; bass, northern, crappie, blue gill, perch and an occasional walleye. With 31 miles of shoreline and 3000 acres, guests can kayak, canoe, fish, swim and explore. Our local bait shop not only has great tackle and live bait, but stories and insights into the lake's best fishing holes. Two boat landings are within minutes of the lodge. You may boat to various restaurants and watering holes on Nelson Lake.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests