Cabin

Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd

Lakefront cabin with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd

Private backyard and patio
2 kayaks available to guests
36' Dock access to Lake Placid
Spacious living area
Patio lounge area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
  • Place, Beauty Lake
  • Place, Bay Lake
  • Place, Gull Lake
  • Airport, Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Sofa Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd

Welcome to Bigwater Cove! At our cozy log cabin you can escape the cities, enjoy some peace and quiet, and experience everything Northern MN has to offer at your own pace—snuggle up by the campfire to stargaze, go for an early morning kayak ride or relaxing sauna session, or explore the local trails by mountain bike, horseback, or snowmobile.

Located on Lake Placid with access to the Crow Wing River, our property sits on a private acre lot surrounded by mature white oak trees, perfect for your next up north getaway!

There is a living and dining room with vaulted ceilings and wood-burning fire place, kitchen, bathroom, and two bedrooms located on the main level. Upstairs, there is a spacious loft bedroom with a king bed overlooking the waterfront.

The space is equipped with everything you'll need and more to relax and unwind—high speed fiber internet, smart TV, Bluetooth sound bar, outdoor gas grill with grilling utensils, and a full kitchen stocked with the basics: pots and pans, french press, coffee, tea, spices, and more.

NEW THIS SEASON: Enjoy our handcrafted cedar barrel sauna just steps from the cabin, designed for you to relax and unwind year-round.

NOTE: We require a $250.00 security deposit to book Bigwater Cove. This is not a charge against your credit card, just a hold! It will be released 5 days after your departure if no damage is observed.

NOTE: To comply with local noise ordinances and respect our neighbors we use Minut technology (inside and outside) to ensure sound levels do not become excessive or disruptive.

Guests have access to our private lakeshore, barrel sauna, dock, and two kayaks (stored for winter season). We do not have any motorized boats included in the cabin rental. If you're looking to get out on the water, the Lake Placid Public Water Access + Boat Landing is located 5 minutes from the property, where you can drop in your boat (wake boats are not allowed). Otherwise, several boat rental companies are located in Brainerd.

NOTE: Our shoreline can get a bit mucky with more algae arriving in the late summer months. For swimming, take the kayaks out to the larger part of Lake Placid or explore the public Pillager Beach less than 8 min away.

We do have a fire pit on the property! Firewood is not provided on site, but can be purchased at a gas station nearby.

5 min --> Downtown Pillager (The Shante Coffee + Bistro, Casey's Gas, Dollar General, KC's Saloon, Bjerga's Cafe, Corner Store Depot)
5 min --> Lake Placid Public Water Access + Boat Landing
15 min --> Baxter/Brainerd area (Groceries - Costco, Cub, Target, Walmart, Restaurants, Coffee, Golf, Mini Golf, Antiques, Etc.)
15 min --> Lake Alexander (Restaurants - Anchor North, The Landing)

Near Pillsbury State Forest trails for mountain biking, horseback, and cross-country skiing.

Winter guests: Crow Wing County has over 700 miles of groomed snowmobile trails maintained by area clubs. These are easily accessible from our property!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
Dogs only. No pets allowed over 25lbs.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Guest Must Sign Rental Agreement. Security Deposit Required of $250. No Pets. No Parties. No Smoking.
Maximum Occupancy is 8 Guests - that includes all adults and children.
Quiet Hours are 10pm-7am - excessive noise is prohibited at all times.

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
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 and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Pillager

Located in Pillager, this cabin is on the waterfront. Beauty Lake and Bay Lake reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Northland Arboretum and WonderTrek Children's Museum. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at North Central Speedway or Brainerd International Raceway. Kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and horse riding nearby.
Map
Pillager, MN

What's nearby

  • Beauty Lake - 7 min drive - 5.4 km
  • Bay Lake - 14 min drive - 10.4 km
  • Gull Lake - 23 min drive - 21.1 km
  • Cragun's Legacy Courses - 25 min drive - 22.6 km
  • The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 26 min drive - 22.2 km

Getting around

  • Staples Station - 18 min drive
  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Huntin’ Shack Bar and Grill - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪KC's Saloon - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Bjerga’s Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Hennen's Bar On Shamineau - ‬24 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from Beauty Lake and within 9 miles (15 km) of Bay Lake and Gull Lake. Cragun's Legacy Courses is 11.7 mi (18.8 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful weekend at this cabin away from home! Everything was divine and we cannot wait to stay here again next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zach M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time. Great property.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Matt S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is super cute and there is everything you need. We had a great time here and will probably be staying here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great getaway in this charming cabin with all the comforts of home! Reservations, check in and check out were easy and hastle free. The hosts had lots of information for us about local food and attractions as well as managing the air conditioning and wifi. The only regret we have was that we were unable to utilize the sauna because we ran out of time.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and comfortable and hosts were super responsive and great to work with.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Amy O.

Perfect last-minute couples retreat!

We booked Callie's place last minute for a quick couples retreat and it was exactly what we needed! The setup is perfect for a relaxing getaway – we used the sauna, grilled steaks, and went for runs through the beautiful neighborhood. The bed deserves special mention – so incredibly cozy that I scored a 90 on my Oura ring (a personal best!). Everything was spotless and ready for us when we arrived, and Callie was so responsive and gracious throughout our stay. If you're looking for a peaceful escape with all the right amenities, this is your spot. We'll definitely be back!

10/10 Excellent

cmbladholm

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
this is such a cozy cabin with all the amenities you need to stay put and relax and close enough to shopping, restaurants and entertainment that you don't have to venture far. it was a perfect place to have a girls weekend with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy our time. we will definitely be coming back again in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin and great location. Superior service.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jon S.

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

Relaxing cabin

Nice relaxing cabin with spacious backyard overlooking the lake. Comfortable bed and couch.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joaquin M.

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

Unmatched experience

Our stay was incredible, the property is well equipped and a very responsive host. We loved the area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patrick N.

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

nice little place

well equipped, clean and nice location.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah H.

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

Wonderful Cabin

We had a nice stay here, peaceful ,cabin was cozy ,nice back yard. Would recommend to people that want some downtime and quiet time. Thank You for the wonderful stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy A.

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

Wonderful Stay

We enjoyed our time at Bigwater Cove. It is cozy, yet roomy, and the attention to guest's comfort is exceptional. I highly recommend choosing Bigwater Cove for your next visit to the Brainerd Lakes area.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Larry W.

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

Weekend stay

Great listing and loved the location of the cabin!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Brittany P.

Charming and Cozy Getaway!

Charming and cozy cabin, fully equipped for a perfect weekend escape! We especially appreciated the high-quality bedding, thoughtful amenities, and the overall comfort of the furniture and beds. While we initially missed that there was no central air, the ample fans provided kept us comfortable. We absolutely plan to return in the future. The peaceful and secluded setting made it feel like a true retreat.

10/10 Excellent

Resha B.

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

Cutest Little Cabin!

Bigwater cove was the cutest little cabin ever. The hosts were fabulous and we enjoyed our stay. We can’t wait to come back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joel S.

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

Private and Peaceful

Really enjoyed how private and peaceful it was. Had a great feel and very relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Christine M.

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

Quiet week at Bigwatwr Cove

We enjoyed our stay. We spend our days antique shopping and nights at the cabin relaxing.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alex N.

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

Thank you

A comfortable cabin to stay at
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Labor Day Retreat

My wife and i took our kids (3, 1, 1) up here for a labor day weekend getaway. It was a wonderful place to unwind, roast some smores, and enjoy a peaceful kayak. We explored the nearby Baxter/Brainerd areas and had a wonderful weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Joette H.

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

Family Getaway

We enjoyed our stay at Bigwater Cove. The cabin was clean, kitchen had all necessary essentials and beds were comfortable. Completely enjoyed our campires at night and bean bag games during the day. Contacting Callie/Tom was easy and received quick reply.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra S.

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

Clean and comfy

Cabin was clean, comfy, beautiful well taken care of property. Would recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Beautiful!

The property was beautiful, and we had a great time. So cozy! The owners were super nice and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Derek B.

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

Picture Perfect Cabin

We had a wonderful winter visit staying in this perfect cabin. It’s beautifully maintained, spotless and offers a private setting that’s still just a quick ride away from a cafe and restaurant. The views are lovely, in a quiet neighborhood, and professionally managed. Thank you to our terrific hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Larissa R., Jackson, MN

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

Beautiful cabin and property

This cabin and location was perfect for a quick nature reconnect for my daughter and I. The cabin is beautiful and the hosts have stocked it with everything needed for a great stay. Loved the fire pit, the beautiful oak trees, the textures and decor in the cabin, and the quiet area where it is located. We even had a quick kayak adventure! The hosts were great with communication. Would definitely visit again and recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

About the host

Hosted by Callie Karlen

Host profile image
My husband Bob and I are Midwest natives that love exploring the world together—immersing ourselves in new cultures, meeting new people, and of course staying in new and exciting spaces. As hosts, we are committed to providing our guests experiences that they will remember forever and properties they will want to revisit again and again.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests