Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys
Swim-friendly lakefront cabin on Big Blake Lake with a walk-out lower level and flat yard. Enjoy great fishing right off the dock, a sandy swimming area, and included water toys for effortless lake days. End your evenings around the custom fire pit, just steps from the water.
Welcome to Cabin on Blake
Welcome to Cabin on Blake, a beautiful Up North lake home on Big Blake Lake in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, just about an hour from the Twin Cities.
This lakefront retreat offers one of the most enjoyable lake experiences on the lake, with easy walk-out access to a flat yard and swim-friendly shoreline, fantastic fishing, and thoughtfully designed spaces for relaxing, gathering, and making memories in every season.
Whether you’re visiting for summer lake days, fall colors, or a quiet winter getaway, Cabin on Blake is a place guests return to year after year.
Why Guests Choose Cabin on Blake
✔️ Swim-friendly sandy shoreline ✔️ Walk-out lower level directly to the lake ✔️ Flat yard and lakefront area ideal for relaxing and play ✔️ Fantastic fishing right off the dock ✔️ New custom fire pit / bonfire area with Adirondack seating ✔️ Included water toys — no extra rentals needed ✔️ Spacious layout with room to gather and spread out
The Home
This 2,000 sq ft lakefront home features 3 bedrooms, 8 total beds, 2 bathrooms, and 2 kitchens, making it comfortable for a wide variety of stays — from lake vacations to girls’ weekends and winter retreats.
The home blends rustic Northwoods charm with modern comfort, featuring knotty pine walls, custom log furniture, and large windows that bring the lake views inside.
Main Level
Bright, open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area
Oversized windows and sliding doors with beautiful lake views
Fully equipped kitchen with updated appliances
Dining area with a custom log table seating 8
Living room with large sectional, recliner, and 50”+ Roku Smart TV
Primary bedroom with serene lake views and private deck access
Second bedroom with custom log furniture, bunk bed (full over twin), and a separate twin bed
Full bathroom
Lower Level (Walk-Out)
Large family room with cozy sectional and 50” Smart TV — perfect for movie nights, games, or relaxing
Second kitchen / kitchenette with full-size refrigerator and extra prep space (great for snacks, beverages, and outdoor meals)
Third bedroom with a queen bed, bunk bed (full over twin), and a separate twin bed
Full bathroom
Laundry area with washer and dryer (dryer included for damp towels and winter gear)
🛏️ All bed linens and bath towels are provided for every guest.
Outdoor Living & Lake Fun 🌊 Lakefront & Swimming
Swim-friendly sandy shoreline
Floating swimming dock (seasonal)
Private dock for swimming, fishing, or tying up your boat
Calm water perfect for relaxed lake days
🚣 Included Water Toys & Lake Amenities (Seasonal)
Multiple kayaks
Canoe
Paddle boat
Floating swimming dock
Life jackets provided
A garage full of water toys for lake fun
All water amenities are available seasonally and weather permitting.
🔥 Relax & Gather
New custom fire pit / bonfire area with Adirondack chairs
Large wrap-around deck with patio furniture
Gas grill for outdoor cooking
Walk-out lower level directly to a flat yard and lakefront, making it easy to move between the house, fire pit, and water
🚤 Public boat launch is located right next door, making it incredibly convenient if you’re bringing your own boat.
Big Blake Lake & the Area
Big Blake Lake is a favorite in western Wisconsin for:
Excellent fishing (bass tournaments are common)
Swimming, kayaking, and boating
Peaceful lake views and abundant wildlife
The lake connects to Little Blake Lake and marks the start of Fox Creek / the Apple River, making it easy to kayak right from the cabin for a scenic day on the water.
Winter & Off-Season Getaways
Cabin on Blake is also a wonderful fall and winter retreat, especially for guests looking to unplug and enjoy the quiet.
❄️ Winter highlights include:
Snowmobile trail access directly from the lake
Ice fishing right out front
Cozy evenings indoors after a day outside
Peaceful weekends ideal for ladies’ weekends, girls’ getaways, and small group retreats
Additional Details
High-speed Wi-Fi
Smart TVs for streaming
Board games and DVDs
Ample parking
Pet-friendly (up to 2 dogs, restrictions apply)
Maximum occupancy: 8 guests total (including children), per Polk County regulations
Minimum stay requirements apply during high-demand periods. If you’re hoping for a shorter stay, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to try to accommodate when possible.
The Cabin on Blake Experience
Cabin on Blake offers a beautiful, well-cared-for lake home where comfort, space, and thoughtful details come together to create an unforgettable stay. From the swim-friendly shoreline and flat, walk-out lakefront to the cozy interiors, comfortable beds with all linens provided, and inviting gathering spaces, everything here is designed to help you truly enjoy time at the lake.
Days are spent swimming, fishing, kayaking, or relaxing on the deck. Evenings are made for bonfires, sunsets, and connection. Whether you’re visiting in summer or enjoying the quiet beauty of winter, Cabin on Blake is a place to slow down, recharge, and make lasting memories on Big Blake Lake.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Must sign rental agreement upon booking and a picture ID
A $500 security hold will be placed 2 days prior to arrival and released 7 days after departure
Must follow all house rules including but not limited to no smoking, no parties. Pets allowed with a $100 per pet fee
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
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Balsam Lake
Located in Balsam Lake, this cabin is on the waterfront. Luck Golf Course and Frederic Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Polk County Forest and Joel Marsh Wildlife Area. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake - 24 min drive - 31.9 km
Restaurants
Balsam Lake Lodge & Supper Club - 16 min drive
Eagle Lounge - 5 min drive
Blacksmith Shop Bar - 9 min drive
Wilkins Bar And Resort - 15 min drive
Staples lake bar - 11 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys?
As of 2 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys on 3 Apr 2026 start from £187, 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 Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Swim-Friendly Lakefront Cabin on Big Blake | Flat Lot, Fire Pit & Water Toys located?
Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly cabin is within 9 mi (15 km) of Apple River, Polk County Forest and Twin Lakes. Townline Lake and Chelstrom Lake are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This was a great location and a perfect stay for a few days in February. Warmer weather but the lake was still frozen enough to walk across. All the amenities and a great time.
It was very peaceful - kitchen and bathroom were clean and stocked well. Check in was so easy! Check out requirements were minimal.Our hosts were very responsive! Totally recommend this location.
We enjoyed a very nice family weekend at the cabin! The swimming area was great for the kids (sandy bottom, not many weeds) and the cabin was cute with great amenities!
Paige M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Jul 2024
Thanks Paige! So happy to hear you enjoyed the family weekend!
We had a group of nine women from 22-65. Everyone enjoyed their stay. The cabin was cozy, beautiful lake with kayaks & paddle boat, nice fire pit. Place was clean and beds were comfy. We would definitely stay again.
We loved the quiet neighborhood and lake. The kayak, paddleboat and outdoor equipment was so much fun to enjoy out with the kids! The host was very responsive when we had questions. We all said we would stay here again!
Rylee G.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Aug 2023
We would love to host you and your group again! Thank you for staying with us and making some fun lake memories.
My family had the most amazing time while staying at Cabin on Blake!! From paddleboating to kayaking, to games, grilling and stories around the bonfire. It was the perfect vacation for our family. I also enjoyed the ease of renting the cabin and the communication with the property management was top notch! We will be back!!
Crystal P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jul 2022
Crystal,
Thank you for your review. We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your family time at the cabin!
Our family had a great time at the cabin. The kids loved fishing off the dock, swimming, the swing over the lake, paddle boating, ect. The cabin was stocked with everything we needed! The lake was weedy past the dock but the kids didn't seem to mind. We will definitely be booking again!
Angela B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jul 2023
Sounds like you made great summer lake memories. We look forward to hosting you again.
We had a great weekend with family! The cabin was clean and had everything we needed to relax and enjoy our stay. It snowed most of the weekend, but we still got out skiing at Trollhaugen, enjoyed a walk on the lake, and had a great dinner at Indianhead Supper Club. The big dining table was perfect for game night!
Britta H.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Mar 2023
So thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the winter activities in the area! We enjoyed hosting you and your group and hope to see you again. Thanks!
6 ladies stayed at the house and had a wonderful time! 5 stars on everything! Easy access, was able to check in a little early, clean, well stocked for cooking, beautiful view and great spot. Plus, they have the best link to find ALL your needs in their area. Highly recommend!
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified
6/10 Okay
Katie G.
5 Sept 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, communication
Nice Cabin
Nice cabin. Not much privacy. Not a very clean lake. We went in August.
Katie G.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jan 2022
Katie,
We enjoyed hosting your lake vacation. I am sorry to hear that the lake was dirty during your stay. The lake water can get a little weedy or green for a short time in August depending on the summer. Typically, the Big Blake Lake is good for swimming, fishing, and boating. Thank you for your review.
The cabin is spacious and well appointed, having every thing we needed or wanted from kitchen items, to extra blankets, to kayaks. Six women had a lovely stay, kayaking, reading, knitting, and exploring the area. The lake is right out the back door, perfect for kayaking several times every day. The owners kept in contact from the day we booked the cabin until the day we left. They are very organized and provide lots of information, which allowed us to have a fabulous time.
The property was nice. The excessive paperwork and guest information for the the rental will preclude us for ever renting it again.
Scott F.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jun 2023
Thank you for your feedback on the contract. We agree with you that the old PDF format of the contract was cumbersome for some Cabin renters. For that reason, we have upgraded to an all-digital link as of January 2023. Anyone that rents going forward will receive a link that is shorter and user friendly. I apologize that you missed this new format as you started your rental request in July of 2022.
We are pleased that you thought the Cabin was nice, and we hope that you and your family enjoyed the incredibly special birthday celebration.
Warm regards,
The Pannkuks
We had a wonderful winter stay at this house. The location was good, we visited the Trollhaugen Ski area daily, the Dancing Dragonfly Winery, and the Maple Syrup Shop. We were two families with two kids and two small dogs, and there were plenty of space to spread out during the day, and then again get together at the evenings for dinners and table games in the living room/kitchen. The open plan worked just great for our group! The house was clean and well stocked up for us to cook our dinners, but the carpets seemed very old, so this is the only reason we put 4 stars for cleaning. Other than that, we had a wonderful stay! Thank you for hosting us!
Irina P.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified
8/10 Good
Kathy B.
30 Mar 2019
Nice place to stay!
Our family rented this cabin recently. It is a very nicely decorated place. Plenty of room for everyone. The owners were very pleasant and willing to help with anything we needed. Probably the only downside was the fact that they did not provide blankets or comforters and this was in the middle of winter. For the people flying in town, it was impossible for them to bring them so I brought everyone’s with me in our car. It was a lot of blankets to bring and pretty inconvenient. Other than that, it was a nice place to stay and very comfortable. If you are wanting to be on the lake, this is great location for you.
Kathy B.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jan 2022
Kathy,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased that you liked the cabin. We are currently reviewing the guest provided blanket policy. It is important to provide a clean sleeping environment for all our many guests but seeing that you have guest flying in from out of town we understand that this would be difficult. We do have a small supply of blankets at the cabin for guests in your situation.
Location was great for the area of lakes we wanted. & price was very affordable. Unfortunately many utensils & dishes in cabinets were dirty & gross with food crusted to them. Also we had 5 men to accommodate for sleeping & basically only one bed in the master bedroom was worth sleeping in. The others are bunks more suitable for children & sleeping was terrible & uncomfortable with the available beds. Overall this is a great place for families with kids but didn't suit our basics with sleeping as i thought it would. The customer manager service was amazing though. Still Overall glad we had a nice place. Thx.
Joe R.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2023
Joe,
I am troubled to hear that you found the utensils and dishes dirty. We do ask our cabin guests, in the house rules, to clean all kitchen item used and return them to their proper location. I guess, some guests are not following cabin rules 😉 I will ask the cleaners to double check the stored kitchen items to make sure they are clean.
We do try to offer may options for sleeping and while we do have bunks beds to increase those options we also offer a king, queen, three full, and one twin bed along with the three twin bunks (over the full beds). The bed sizes are on the VRBO listing as well as pictures of the rooms. We genuinely want our guest to relax and be comfortable. Our apologies if the sleep situation was not what you desired.
As a family ran VRBO we do strive to offer 5-star service and appreciate the feedback and the opportunity to improve our guest’s experience.
Sincerely,
The Pannkuk's
About the host
Hosted by Joe and Caarin Pannkuk
The Pannkuk family is based in the Twin Cities and has spent nearly 30 years enjoying life on Big Blake Lake. What began as a place for family time, swimming, kayaking, and summer memories has grown into a thoughtfully cared-for lake home they’re proud to share with guests.
As hands-on hosts, they focus on creating a comfortable, welcoming experience—from a swim-friendly shoreline and easy lake access to cozy interiors and clear communication. They love helping guests slow down, enjoy the lake, and create lasting memories of their own.
Why they chose this property
Cabin on Blake was chosen and designed with easy lake living in mind. The home sits on a beautiful, flat lakefront lot with walk-out access directly to the water, making it especially enjoyable for swimming, fishing, and moving between the house, yard, fire pit, and lake throughout the day.
Big Blake Lake is known for its excellent fishing, calm water, and abundant wildlife, offering the perfect balance of peaceful relaxation and outdoor fun. Add in the convenient location—just over an hour from the Twin Cities with a scenic, easy drive—and Cabin on Blake becomes a place guests love returning to year after year.
What makes this property unique
Cabin on Blake is a thoughtfully designed lake home that blends classic Northwoods character with comfort and functionality. From handcrafted log accents and rustic furnishings to open, light-filled living spaces, every detail was chosen to create a welcoming and relaxing lakeside retreat.
One of the home’s standout features is the walk-out lower level to a flat lakefront yard, making it easy to move between the house, fire pit, docks, and water throughout the day. The swim-friendly shoreline, excellent fishing, and included water toys make lake time effortless and enjoyable for guests of all ages.
In the warmer months, enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and evenings around the custom bonfire pit under the stars. When winter arrives, the cabin transforms into a cozy retreat with snowmobile trail access directly from the lake, ice fishing right out front, and nearby skiing for day trips.
No matter the season, Cabin on Blake offers a comfortable, well-cared-for space designed for connection, relaxation, and memorable time on Big Blake Lake.