Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here
LITTLE LAKE COTTAGE
SLEEPS: 8 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 LAKEFRONT (Little Lake) *KAYAK and ROWBOAT INCLUDED *PRIVATE BOAT DOCK *PETS ARE WELCOMED *SWIMMING ON PROPERTY
This charming cottage was built by a wonderful family to create place for retreat, and bring about a sense of peace to all who visit. It hasn't changed much over the years, yet it is still a nice place for a family to enjoy their time together. No cable TV, no local channels, yet we do have WiFi and a DVD player. Enjoy the quiet surroundings as you are surrounded by woods, while perched next to the Little Lake waters. Trees surround 3 sides of the cottage, creating a very private buffer from the other cottages around the lake. Simplicity is key here. Enjoy the 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with many of the comforts from home. The dishwasher and washer/dryer are wonderful, often unexpected treats in a cottage. Although rarely needed in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, we do not currently have air conditioning at the Little Lake Cottage, though we do have baseboard heat for those chilly spring and fall evenings. Generally, leaving the windows open to the cool lake breeze provides the comfort guests need, with the help of fans moving around air on the few days where the heat is uncomfortable.
Enjoy the outside fire pit on fun summer nights. We've had many talk about the fun they had swimming and the great fishing, from Perch to Walleye. Expect to create many fun, family memories here at the cottage, while you take time to recharge. We hope you depart with a sense of a renewed spirit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A/C: Although rarely needed in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, we do not currently have air conditioning at the Little Lake Cottage, though we do have baseboard heat for those chilly spring and fall evenings. Generally, leaving the windows open to the cool lake breeze provides the comfort guests need, with the help of fans moving around air on the few days where the heat is uncomfortable.
ATV's: Escanaba to Hermansville Rail – approximately 25 miles away Haywire Grade Trail – Approximately 33 miles away Iron Ore Heritage Trail – Approximately 47 miles away
Bathrooms: Main Floor Bathroom: sink, shower and toilet Upstairs Bathroom: claw tub with shower + sink and toilet
Beach: While there isn't an official beach at the cottage, many claim the swimming is very good.
Bedroom Configuration: Main Floor Bedroom 1: 1 Queen bed Bedroom 2: (adjacent to the washer/dryer) twin bunk bed Upstairs - 2nd Floor Bedroom 3: (water view) 1 Queen bed Bedroom 4: 2 twin beds
Boats: We have 1 rowboat, 1 canoe and 1 kayak for your sole use during your stay.
Cable/Satellite TVs: There is a TV with a standard DVD (not Blu-Ray) player in the living room. There may be a couple movies at the cottage, yet I would advise you to bring your own movies.
Cell phone service: Cell phone service is generally unreliable in the Upper Peninsula when you travel outside of Marquette and Escanaba. There is a landline at the cottage for local calls.
Distances: Marquette: approximately 20 minutes away Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes away. (66 miles) Tahquamenon Falls State Park: 2 hours 30 minutes away. (135 miles) Mackinac Bridge: is approximately 3 hours 10 minutes away.(172 miles)
Dock: We do have a dock with 2 bumpers in front of the cottage. If you need to launch your boat on a trailer, you can do so. Check with the Brown's Store, about 1 mile from the cabin for details.
Fire Pit- There is a fire pit that guests are welcome to use. Please plan to bring your own wood.
Fishing: We've had many guests talk about the great fishing, from Perch to Walleye.
Fishing License: You can purchase your fishing license online through the Michigan DNR website.
Fishing poles: Please bring your own.
Grill: Yes, there is a Charcoal grill!
Grocery Store: Larry's Family Foods approximately 10 minutes away in Gwinn, MI.
Handicap Accessibility: Must be able to navigate stairs.
Internet: Wi-Fi access is available
Linens: Yes, we provide your sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. If you are fussy about the thread count of your sheets, just let me know, and I'll make sure we leave a bed open for your sheets. We have just the basic sheets, pillows, pillowcases, and bath towels.
Parking: Approximately 5 to 7 cars would fit.
Pets: *Pets are welcome! Freshwater Vacation Rentals currently charges $75/per pet.
Privacy: Incredible. An ideal private view, with trees on both sides with Little Lake right in front of you. You can only see other cottages off in the distance.
Space: This 2 story charming cottage was built by a wonderful family to create place for retreat, and bring about a sense of peace to all who visit. It hasn't changed much over the years, yet it is still a nice place for a family to enjoy their time together.
Towels: Yes, we provide towels. It's always good to bring extra though.
Washer and dryer: Yes. Laundry detergent provided.
Water: As with all cottages in the Upper Peninsula, and even some parts of the larger cities, there is well water. While I personally enjoy the taste of well water, you are always welcome to bring your own bottled water if you are at all concerned.
Wood: We do not guarantee there will be firewood available during your stay. Many times, you will find firewood left in close proximity to the cottage. Please plan to bring your own.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Gwinn- Little Lake - Pristine Lakeside Home. Great all season getaway!
Gwinn
Gwinn- Little Lake - Pristine Lakeside Home. Great all season getaway!
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
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
Gwinn
Located in Gwinn, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Marquette Mountain and Upper Peninsula Children's Museum are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park and Moccasin Lake. Marquette Maritime Museum and Marquette Harbor Light are also worth visiting. Waterskiing and water tubing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and ecotours nearby.
Is Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here?
As of 15 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here on 16 Aug, 2026 start from S$419, 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 Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Little Lake Cottage in Gwinn: Sun, Swims & S'mores – Your Summer Starts Here located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 2.5 mi (4.1 km) from Moccasin Lake and within 6 miles (10 km) of Stump Lake and Forsyth Township Ball Park. Bertraud Lake and Johnson Lake are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had good family time. We all were very happy with our stay.
Troy D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Oct, 2025
Thank you so much for staying with us! We’re delighted to hear you had a wonderful family time and enjoyed your stay. We’d be happy to welcome you back anytime! -Van FVR
This a property offers peace and quiet beautiful views beautiful clean water for swimming good for fishing and a lot of other stuff we had alot of fun and created a lot of memories very good people to work with whenever you need anything they will be there for any questions you may have on time highly recommended..
Claudia H.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Jun, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review , Claudia! We're thrilled to hear you had a fun and memorable stay. You were wonderful guests a pleasure to host.We’d be happy to welcome you back anytime! -Van, FVR
We really enjoyed the little lake cabin. The lake itself is beautiful and peaceful. The cabin is an old and dated up north cabin, but that is exactly what we were expecting based on the listing. We used the canoe which was nice and the kids took a dip in the lake. The beds were comfortable and the cabin was clean. Definitely a fun UP getaway!
Emily P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jul, 2025
Thank you so much for the lovely review Emily! We're glad the cabin was just what you expected and that you were able to enjoy the lake. It sounds like a wonderful UP getaway! You were fantastic guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime. -Van FVR
Thanks so much for a great stay. Property was everything our family needed. Great Lake access and plenty of things to do in the area.
Geoffrey M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Dec, 2024
We're thrilled to hear that the property provided everything your family needed and that you enjoyed the lake access and local activities, Geoffrey. You were fantastic guests, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime! -Van FVR
Our family would rent this again. Plenty of space and everything needed to have a comfortable and fun vacation. Beautiful lake with plenty of room to gather inside and out.
Lori J.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug, 2022
Lori, we're so glad that you would rent Little Lake Cottage again! It was our pleasure to host you.
Very quiet and tranquil setting for an older home on Little Lake. Bed was comfortable and was stocked with everything we needed. Only stayed for the weekend but would come back for a longer stay to enjoy the lake more.
David C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Oct, 2024
David, we’re glad you found the setting peaceful and enjoyed the comfortable bed and amenities. You're a great guest and we’d love to host you again for a longer stay so you can fully enjoy the lake! - Van FVR
We had a great time. Couldn't have asked for more. The lake, the house everything we wanted. Private and clean.
Travis B.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar, 2020
Travis, we are so glad that you had a great time at Little Lake Cottage. Having the rowboat, the canoe and the kayak for your sole use during your stay means that you have many options for play, plus its proximity to Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls State Park and the Mackinac Bridge makes for great day trips. We hope to see you again!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jody V.
19 Jul, 2017
5 stars
Very peaceful and quiet. And the fishing was great! See you next year😊
Jody V.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Dec, 2024
Thank you for the kind review Jody! We’re so glad you enjoyed the peace, quiet, and great fishing. You were wonderful guests, and we can’t wait to welcome you back.-Van FVR
Jon, we're glad that you had a peaceful stay, and we hope that you come back again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Patricia H.
11 Jun, 2016
Peaceful and relaxing!
The cottage is wonderful! Ample room for the 7 of us on our mini vacation. The nights were still chilly when we stayed and the fireplace was perfect to sit around and relax. The weather was not very cooperative but we got in the lake anyway, very brisk but wonderful swimming none the less. The canoe and kayak were wonderful to have available to us. Overall a great stay and would definitely stay again!
Patricia H.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Dec, 2024
Thank you for your fantastic review Patricia! We're so glad the cottage provided ample space for your group and that the fireplace added to your cozy evenings. It's great to hear you made the most of the lake, even with the chilly weather, and enjoyed the canoe and kayak. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime for another great stay! -Van FVR
This was the perfect place for us to enjoy the week up north with our young kids- they loved jumping off the dock and swimming, we brought kayaks and the lake was great for that as well. Loved the huge deck overlooking the water. Beautiful location that is private and peaceful and is convenient to Marquette, Munising, etc. We actually enjoyed the break from TV, though the WiFi worked great if we felt like being “connected”. The cabin itself could use some updating but was overall clean. We would stay here again
Amy C.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar, 2020
We are so thrilled to hear that your family was able to have so much fun and make such good memories! There is so much to to do in the area and plenty to keep the family entertained at the cottage. Thank you for choosing Freshwater Vacation Rentals and we look forward to having your family back in the future!
Everything was as advertised. No sand beach, but a gentle slope of shallow water with sand bottom extends far beyond the end of the dock. Great place to play in the exceptionally clear water. Brought our own boat and kept it at the dock (public launch at East end of lake). Some furnishings "tired" but did not detract from our comfort in a beautiful setting. Would stay again.
Dwight S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul, 2023
Dwight, we're glad that you had a fun week. The ability to bring your own boat is a bonus, and we're glad that the dock worked for you. We do hope that you come back again.
Loved our stay on little lake. Cabin was perfect for our family of 5. Very private. Water is shallow and sandy. Great views of lake from large dining table during meals and family game time. Could drive to Marquette easily and loved our day trip to Pictured Rocks. We loved that this has been a summer cabin for many decades. Perfect if you do not expect new and shiny. Appreciated old books and record player. Bring bag chairs for comfortable outdoor seating. Grocery close. Thanks for a memorable trip.
Nancy T.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Aug, 2021
It's so wonderful to hear that you and your family were able to create some great memories here! We're so glad you were able to visit our cabin. We would love to have your family back in the future!
Archival
8/10 Good
Jody V.
20 Aug, 2016
Overall we were very pleased
We were pleased with the cabins accomodations. Our party of 9 was comfortable. The directions to the cabin were incorrect and should be fixed. We found it, but not easily. There is an excellent swimming area right out front. However, access to it is difficult. A short ladder off the dock would fix this. Overall, We had a very relaxing and peaceful week. We hope to book again next year. Thanks!
Jody V.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar, 2020
I'm happy to hear that you and your family would like to return to the Little Lake Cottage in the future!
I'm so sorry our directions were not accurate. We didn't realize it until we received your feedback. We have since corrected this mistake that was made when we transferred software. The tough part is that the GPS accuracy isn't clear either. As you know, once you find the place, it is super easy to get around the central part of the Upper Peninsula.
I love your suggestion of the swimming ladder. I've passed that suggestion along to the owners.
Sincerely,
Cara
Very impressed with location & privacy. Way to large for my wife and I but enjoyed getting back to my wife's teenage home of Gwinn and Northern University @ Marquette. Peaceful week with no TV or Cellphones. Loved it !! Thank you. We'll probably call you again. Gerry & Diana
Verified traveller
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar, 2020
Gerry and Diana, you certainly got the UP lingo down! We are pleased that you liked Little Lake Cottage. It's the perfect spot to really unwind - no TV or cable to get in your way. we do hope that you call us again.
We had a good time at this charming old lakehouse! Everything we needed for our stay was already at the house. Groceries and a pharmacy are a short drive away. The house could probably use a really thorough cleaning. Furnishings are very worn, including some of the beds. Personally I didn't mind; I liked the well-loved feel of the place. It is perfectly suited for relaxing and spending quality time with the family. The lake is great for fishing and kayaking (we brought our own.) The most popular U.P. attractions are a bit far away, so we packed a picnic and tried to group a few together for a day trip. Bug spray is absolutely essential if you plan to stay here.
Daniel S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jun, 2023
Daniel, it sounds like you had an active stay! We're glad that you enjoyed yourself, and we hope to work with you again.
The reviews were pretty accurate and honest. It’s a place that makes you think of going to grandpas lake house cabin. Not a modern home/look. But very warm, clean, comfortable so no complaints. Lake was perfect. They provide tons of water items, plus beach towels. Kids didn’t want to get out of water. I had to call about washer and mentioned a few things that could be done later but not necessary during our stay. But when they came out to fix washer they took care of another item too so it was very nice and unexpected. We had several family members book other houses on same lake but the other side off little lake road. Our house was the best for cool breeze with shade in evening on deck. Also we had no biting flies or mosquitos because tons of dragonflies eating them. All other houses on opposite side of lake got swarmed and bit up. Hard to swim or sit outside so our kids wanted to be at our house to swim. Very happy with the home and the response from office staff.
Bambi N.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2025
Thank you so much for the detailed and thoughtful review Bambi! We're so glad the home brought back that “grandpa’s lake house” charm, warm, clean, and comfortable. It’s wonderful to hear your family had such a great time enjoying the lake, the water toys, and the peaceful deck in the evenings. We’re also happy the breeze, shade, and dragonflies made your stay even more enjoyable and mosquito-free!Thank you for your kind words about our team’s responsiveness. You were truly fantastic guests, appreciative, communicative, and respectful. We'd love to welcome you back anytime! -Van FVR
The lake, dock, view, canoe, fire part and deck were great. So was the setting. I'd highly recommend from that standpoint.
The cabin is dated but overall it had a good cabin feel with a great view from the dinning room table.
But the plumbing was less than desirable. Very hard to get a good temp in the shower and low pressure. The floors are very squeaky and doors were hard to close.
I made the mistake of thinking the cabin was closer to Marquette so made for long drives back and forth. But that's my error. The Marquette airport is close..... That is not the property owner or management company's issue.
Overall we had a nice time. Would recommend the cabin if the plumbing was updated and to someone looking to just be in the woods or on a lake for a few days.
Travis C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jul, 2024
Travis, we're glad that overall you had a good stay. Thank you both for your recommendation and your feedback. We will forward your feedback to the owner. You were a great guest, and we hope to work with you again. - Claire, FVR
Archival
8/10 Good
Heather S.
12 Jul, 2017
Peaceful and unplugged
The lake house was in a great location, although the directions provided seemed almost backwards, luckily we knew about where we were going so after a little hunting we got back on track. The lake is very peaceful with very little noise from lake traffic. Great fishing we caught 45 gills in one afternoon. The swimming area is very nice and sandy however it is difficult for little ones to get in and out, it would be nice if the undergrowth and brush on the shoreline to the west of the dock was cleared out to make access to the water more manageable. The house was okay, the shower in the downstairs bathroom had mold in all of the seams, one of the couches has holes in it and rather then replacing it it has a cover on it that constantly falls off when in use, the mattresses on the bunkbeds were so uncomfortable that my 10 and 12 year old's preferred the floor to the bed and the queen mattress upstairs sags in the middle (good for one-not so good for two). For the weekly rental rate these are items that should be corrected. The kitchen was perfectly stocked with everything we needed and the charcoal grill was in great shape. My kids are curious as to how the fly's got inside the stereo? The kids had a great time playing chess and checkers. Overall it was a very pleasant unplugged vacation.
Heather S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar, 2020
Freshwater Response:
WOW, you have some great fishermen/women in the family. 45 Gills is awesome! I am passing your suggestions about the underbrush, the bathroom, and the beds on to our maintenance department. Rest assured that is NOT how we wanted your experience to be. We will make changes immediately. Thank you for those details. We are happy you, overall, enjoyed your experience. Please consider booking with Freshwater in the future for your next Michigan adventure.
What we loved about this home:
1- lake was great and the kids enjoyed it
2- available boat and kayak were a good fun activity for the teens and kids
3- awesome large deck and table to fit a large family
4- blueberry bushes on the entry were a pleasant surprise and we did some bb picking
What we didn’t like:
1- the beds were horrible. I have never gone to vacation and woken up every day with a back ache. My son was willing to sleep in the car’s backseat instead of the twin bed in the first floor.
I would recommend to the owners to update the bedding. Considering what they charge a night I would expect something more comfortable
2- the house was very dusty. I can understand sand and dust entering during the day because of the lake (I was wiping the floors twice a day). However, there are areas that definitely could use a deep clean. Our allergies were triggered a lot.
3. The bedroom in the first floor smelled really bad. Between the old wood furniture smell and probably some previous animal peeing in the carpet the nightly experience was not good.
Overall we loved the area but would not go back unless there are some updates to the house.
B C.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov, 2024
Thank you for sharing what you and your family loved about Little Lake Cottage! We’re thrilled you enjoyed certain aspects of your stay, but we’re truly sorry to hear about the challenges you faced with the comfort of the beds. We want you to know that the twin beds have since been updated to ensure a much more comfortable experience for future guests.
Additionally, as a direct result of your feedback, we’ve partnered with a more meticulous cleaner to uphold the high standards we strive for. We are also working closely with the owners, who deeply cherish this family cottage, to continue making thoughtful improvements. Your experience matters to us, and we appreciate the opportunity to learn and grow from it.
We hope to welcome you back in the future so you can enjoy the updates firsthand!
Warm regards,
Cara
Owner, Freshwater Vacation Rentals
Thank you for the kind words, Kathleen! We would love the opportunity to work with you again in the future.
About the host
Hosted by Freshwater Vacation Rentals
Freshwater Vacation Rentals • Established in 2005 If you are looking for a vacation rental, you have come to the right spot! We offer an unparalleled selection of properties across the state-from private islands and large family lodges to peaceful Great Lakes getaways. We specialize in finding your ideal setting, whether it's a social spot where you can enjoy evening fires with neighbors, or a remote retreat where you won't see another soul. Our philosophy: We work hard so you don't have to. As both owners and property managers for nearly two decades (since our start with Republic island and the Rapid River Lodge), we offer a unique, insider perspective. Our mission is to guarantee our guests a wonderful experience and help our owners maximize their investment. Give us a call, and we'll find the right fit for you!
Languages:
English, Spanish, Danish, Croatian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests