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Cabin

Lj's River Cottage Up North

Photo gallery for Lj's River Cottage Up North

Exterior
Terrace/patio
Exterior
Property grounds
Unclassified image, 5 of 23, button

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
Fife Lake, MI
  • Place, Fife Lake
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Fife Lake Area Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Long Lake
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds and 2 Queen Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Lj's River Cottage Up North

LJ's River Cottage accommodations include a two story cottage, living/ dinning room, full kitchen, bathroom, jacuzzi tub, stand up shower and direct t.v. Upstairs a large room with two queen size beds and two roll away beds. There is also a deck with chairs. Every thing is fully stocked and furnished.Shared fire pit and dock to the beautiful Manistee River. The priority is backed up to miles of state land. With miles of two tracks for your four wheeling pleasure or snowmobiling.There is also a state access shooting range along with a public access boat ramp. We by law are not able to turn down service dogs. However, we don’t recommend having service animals at our location. We are nestled in the woods and require using poison to keep the critters out of the cabin. This makes it unsafe for pets/ service animals.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds, gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
If house rules are broken you will be asked to leave and pay any additional fees for cleaning, damage or missing items . 200.00

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1038056vb
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

About the area

Fife Lake

Located in Fife Lake, this cabin is on a river. While the natural beauty of South Boardman Preserve and South Branch Nature Preserve can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Emerald Vale Golf Course. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and hiking.
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Map
Fife Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Fife Lake - 9 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Fife Lake Area Park - 9 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Long Lake - 10 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Fife Lake Public Library - 11 min drive - 11.9 km
  • Fife Lake Area Historical Museum - 11 min drive - 12.3 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Upper Bar and Grill - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Fife Lake Inn - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Loon's Nest - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪taffel town - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Gracie's Restaurant - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lj's River Cottage Up North pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Lj's River Cottage Up North?

As of 9 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lj's River Cottage Up North on 12 May, 2026 start from S$265, 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 Lj's River Cottage Up North?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lj's River Cottage Up North?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lj's River Cottage Up North?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lj's River Cottage Up North located?

Situated on a river, this cabin is within 6 miles (10 km) of Bloom Lake, Fife Lake and Fife Lake Area Park. Long Lake and Lakeside Park are also within 6 miles (10 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. 56 out of 65 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 65 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 65 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 65 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 65 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very peaceful place, hosts are very nice, greeted us right away
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Franklin H.

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

Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Would definitely stay again!!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept, 2020
So Happy you enjoyed your stay, with LJ’S river cottage.!Looking forward to having you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful, clean and relaxing. Thanks for sharing your beautiful cabin/home with us!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexis H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was super cozy. The area was very pretty, we didn't do much exploring since it rained the entire time but it was very peaceful. My only complaint was a lack of cell service.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Sept, 2025
We are happy to hear you enjoyed your stay. Cell service is rough in the river valley when the weather is rainy and stormy . Sometime it can be a blessing though.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark F.

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

Turkey hunting camp

Really liked our accommodations at LJ’s! We will be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice location,was easy to find. It was a little chilly but did have a pellet stove and electric heaters available if needed. Was semi rustic feel. I love the tables and the kitchen.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenifer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lj’s River Cottage was amazing! You won’t regret staying there. My children loved every minute of it. Thank you Lisa & John for the opportunity to make so many memories with our kiddos.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug, 2025
We are so happy you and your family enjoyed your stay with us! It was such a pleasure meeting you all! Watching your children enjoy the outdoors! Hope to see you all again some day!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew B.

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

Weekend getaway

Very friendly owners nice guest house on owners property with a great fireplace and view of the water!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This amazing little cottage in up north is absolutely perfect for a getaway into the Woods! Linda and John do a great job keeping up the property and overall I'd have to give them a 10 out of 10 as hosts! Between the Frog Pond and the zipline I can guarantee we will return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug, 2025
We are so happy you all enjoyed staying with us! You were wonderful guests and seeing you all enjoy our property. We love seeing family’s enjoy it as much as we do. We look forward to seeing you all again in the future! Thanks again, Lisa and John
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debra C.

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

Beautiful property and cabin.

Lovely cabin and property. Very clean and well kept. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth G.

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

Lovely Stay!

The cabin was all we hoped for and more, very clean and cozy with a fantastic mural and a neat set up with the tub upstairs. We will definitely be booking it again next year or sooner!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jul, 2024
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay! Hope to see you soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheila G.

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

Nice clean quiet cabin

Nice area on the Mainstee River, great for kayaking. We stayed while viewing fall color.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BRIAN M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very peaceful and tranquil. Hot tub is wonderful as is the pellet stove for chilly nights. Kitchen well equipped, and bathroom has a good supply of Princess paper. Clean and relaxing. Nice spot
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber R.

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

Girls Weekend

The cabin was perfect for the four of us.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jun, 2024
So glad you all enjoyed your stay with us! Hope to see you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robbie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We’ve stayed multiple places in the area and this was the BEST! We loved the woods and the hosts were wonderful. Felt very safe, secluded and taken care of. The place is very unique with plenty of space. There are trundle beds so the kids could sleep downstairs with the tv. Couldn’t have asked for a better place - very clean! Thank you so much!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott D.

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

Deer Camp

Had a great time as always.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jun, 2021
We look forward to seeing you again this year!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah H.

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

Family reunion

Centrally located.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon B.

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

Good Stay

Everything was as advertised.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Crystal P.

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

Next to the river

Beautiful fire pit, close access to the Manistee, beautiful home with comfortable funiture and beds. Hosts are awesome too!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug, 2024
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us! It was a pleasure having you and hope to see you again . Sincerely , Lisa and John LJ’s River cottage
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Whitney S.

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

Cherry fest

Property was great, owners were AMAZING to work with. We had absolutely no problems and will stay here again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Nagasawa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The room was clean, but the fireplace switch was difficult to use, so it would have been nice if there had been more detailed instructions.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth B.

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

Wedding Cottage

Check in and out were smooth The cottage is very well equipped - especially in the kitchen There was coffee, spices, Pam, nice pots and pans, in addition there were lots of towels and Lisa came right over to get us started with the TV and then when we blew a fuse, she offered to send her husband There was an Air Conditioner upstairs We loved being there
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug, 2025
Ruth , It was a pleasure having you and your family! We hope to see you again in the future ! Thanks again for booking with LJ’s river cottage! Lisa and John
Archival

8/10 Good

Brian K.

Everything was clean and as described!

It is a truly amazing cabin in a great location. The bed was more comfortable than my own!! I do wish that the spa bath wasn't in the bedroom and surrounded by carpet... but it's a cabin. I will definitely be looking to stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr, 2020
So glad you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to your next stay with us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

frances p.

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

Fife lake cottage in the woods

Very nice owners, nice property, very clean, no wifi and no phone service.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jul, 2024
We advertise no WiFi available , however cell service availability depends on your carrier. AT&T and Verizon seem to work the best.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John L.

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

L &J. Resort

Property nice, john and Lisa were great Overall experience was great. Had me recalling times of long ago. Having prpoerty close to there, pulling the heart strings of great memories. Thanks for the good time!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Aug, 2024
We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful time! We so enjoyed are time with you all. We hope to see you all again in the future!

About the host

Hosted by Lisa and John Pfeiffenberger

Host profile image
My husband John and I (Lisa) raised 6 children in historical district of Traverse City Michigan. It was always our plan once we became empty nesters to purchase a home on the Manistee river. So in 2014 our dreams came true as we bought our home on the river backed up to miles of state land. We now have 8 grandchildren and enjoy the time we get to spend with them. John and I remodeled the cottage that is on our property for a vacation rental. We wanted to share this beautiful area with others. Ever since we moved it here we have felt like we were on vacation.

Why they chose this property

This property is on the upper part of the manistee river and backed up to miles of state land. The boat launch is a minute down the river from our cottage and house. The wheeling,snowmobile,two tracks, hunting,fishing,kayaking,tubing,and snowshoeing are fantastic.

Languages:

English

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