Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing
Baldy Lake Rustic Cabin – A True Off-Grid Northwoods Experience
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE BOOKING — this is a truly rustic, off-grid cabin experience.
If you love unplugging, simplicity, nature, and quiet, this cabin is magical. If you are looking for modern conveniences or a traditional vacation home with electricity and plumbing, this will not be the right fit.
This cabin has been a 5-star guest favorite for many years and is best enjoyed by guests who are excited about an authentic Northwoods getaway.
A Peaceful, Unplugged Escape
If you’re seeking peace, quiet, and a deep connection with nature, our cozy cabin on Baldy Lake offers exactly that. Situated on 10 private acres in the Hiawatha National Forest, this off-grid cabin sits directly on the water with only a handful of neighboring cabins — and ours enjoys the most private location on the lake.
Bring binoculars and enjoy watching bald eagles, trumpeter swans, ducks, geese, turtles nesting in the spring, and other wildlife. Moose tracks have even been spotted in the area. This is a place to slow down, breathe, and truly unplug.
Rustic Comfort (Not Camping, Not Modern)
This cabin is ideal for guests who enjoy camping but want real beds and shelter without sacrificing the rustic feel.
Important details to understand before booking:
No electricity
No carpeting
Gas lighting
Gas range and gas refrigerator
Comfortable beds
Tongue-and-groove aspen interior with wildlife décor
Please bring slippers — this is part of the experience.
Bathroom & Shower (Rustic but Functional)
Composting toilet
Battery-operated shower located in a full shower stall
Water is heated on the stove using the pitcher pump, mixed to your desired temperature, and then pumped into the shower. This system is easy to use and works well, but it is not a traditional bathroom setup.
Internet & Power (Very Limited)
We offer a portable power station upon request only. This can power limited Wi-Fi/internet use when needed (checking messages or basic browsing).
It does not replace electricity and will last your stay only if used sparingly. This setup is not suitable for streaming, hair dryers, or electric appliances. Most guests love the opportunity to disconnect.
Outdoor Living & Lake Fun
Enjoy the screened-in porch with outdoor furniture for relaxing, reading, and watching wildlife. The large dock is perfect for fishing, sitting, or playing fetch with your dog.
A fishing boat, four kayaks, and life jackets are provided. Fishing opportunities include crappie, bluegill, bass, perch, northern pike, sunfish, and rock bass.
Please note: the area near the dock is soft, shallow, and marshy, so it is not ideal for swimming directly off the dock. There are sandy swimming spots around the lake.
Trails, Exploring & Nearby Attractions
Walk old two-tracks that connect to hiking trails directly from the property, or enjoy ATV riding. When you’re ready to explore beyond the cabin, you’re just 12 miles from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Munising area.
Nearby attractions include waterfalls, hiking, Pictured Rocks boat cruises, Grand Island Ferry and tours, Lake Superior sugar-sand beaches, farmers markets, and local events.
Location
Located in the Hiawatha National Forest
Approximately 2 hours west of the Mackinac Bridge
Approximately 55 minutes east of Marquette
Quiet and secluded, yet only 2 miles from the highway
Please Note Before Booking
This is a rustic, off-grid cabin. Reading the full description and amenities is essential. We are unable to accommodate cancellations due to guests not reading or understanding the rustic nature of the cabin. Please message us with any questions before booking.
Additional fees: Please enter the correct number of guests in the Vrbo system to receive accurate pricing.
Hiawatha National Forest surrounds your stay with outdoor adventures for all seasons. With hundreds of miles of scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, you can explore the forest on foot or on wheels. The area also offers abundant fishing on more than 75 lakes and over 600 miles of streams, with opportunities for trout, bass, pike, and more year-round. In the winter, trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Whether you love wildlife viewing, birdwatching, picnicking, or simply soaking in quiet natural beauty, there is always something to do just minutes from your cabin. Nearby campgrounds, dispersed camping areas, and scenic drives add even more ways to enjoy the forest. Up Travel +2 US Forest Service +2
Examples of Activities You Might Highlight (depending on your audience):
Hiking & Trails — With trails ranging from short walks to long scenic loops, there’s something for every skill level. AllTrails.com
Fishing — More than 75 lakes and 600 miles of streams for angling. US Forest Service
Wildlife Viewing — Watch for eagles, swans, deer, and more in their natural habitat. Up Travel
Camping & Picnicking — Forest campgrounds and dispersed sites make it easy to enjoy a campfire and open skies. Recreation.gov
Scenic Drives & Views — Routes like the Whitefish Bay National Forest Scenic Byway offer coastal views and access to waterfalls, beaches, and lighthouses. Wikipedia
Winter Adventures — The forest’s trails are excellent for skiing and snowshoeing during colder months, making it a year-round destination. Up Travel
This home is owned and professionally managed by Hiawatha’s Hideaway, offering several unique vacation homes in the area.
$25 per night for each additional guest $25 per night for each dog $199 cleaning fee $0 administrative fee 6% MI use tax 1% MI Rm Assessment Fee
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Lake view
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Return the keys
Please follow the checkout procedure located in your arrival email.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
A signed rental agreement and guest info is required; a credit card may be required for additional security.
Pet fee is per dog (no puppies, cats or other animals); if you have more than 1 dog, please inquire.
If you are staying two weeks or more, cleaning fee and security deposit maybe higher.
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
About the area
Wetmore
Located in Wetmore, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Hiawatha National Forest and Baldy Lake can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Valley Spur. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - 38 min drive - 42.1 km
Getting around
Marquette, MI (MQT-Sawyer Intl.) - 76 min drive
Restaurants
The Milkweed Inn - 8 min drive
Buckhorn Resort - 24 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing 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 Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing?
As of 10 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing on 14 Jun, 2026 start from S$376, 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 Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing?
Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Rustic Baldy Lake Cabin near Pictured Rocks, Boats, Island and Fishing located?
This family-friendly Wetmore cabin is located on the waterfront, just steps away from Hiawatha National Forest and Baldy Lake. Fish Lake and Bar Lake are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved the cabin - haven’t stayed at remote place like this cabin before and was very impressed with all the comforts available. We enjoyed the privacy and the scenery.
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this place! Culturing & fun experience using the composting toilet and battery operated shower. Great fishing on Baldy Lake, too!
Really enjoyed our time at the cabin. Very peaceful and had a great time fishing. Close to all our excursions and still felt secluded. Our 2 yo son loved picking the wild blueberries and fishing from the dock.
We had a great couple days of fishing and relaxing. The kids enjoyed kayaking and running around. We also had a great dinner at the Camel Riders restaurant a few miles to the south.
Great place for a family vacation away from all the craziness of life! We loved the secluded location, just far enough away, but still close to general stores for any necessities. The cabin was very clean and comfortable. The kids never got bored. Fishing and sight seeing were great! A bald eagle flew right by my son! Very peaceful place to reconnect with family. The property owner was in touch to check if we needed anything and was very helpful! We are already planning our next trip back 😊
We loved the cabin and the setting on the lake. It was a great time to unplug and have family time. The owners are very responsive to messages and willing to help. We are very glad we decided to stay here, despite an initial hesitation about not having electricity. The gas lights and stove/refrigerator were great. The boats were great that come with the cabin to enjoy time on the lake!
Beth N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Jul, 2020
Thanks Beth,
We really appreciate your great review and hope you will come again. We enjoyed sharing our cabin with you and hope you will be back soon.
Take care,
Lisa
Great communication with owners. Very clean comfy house. The upstairs gets a little steamy at night in the summer months but overall a great experience. Don’t let the composting toilet worry you you will miss out on a great experience. We loved the screened in patio and the use of kayaks and a row boat on the lake. Kitchen is well equipped, we cooked every night . Swimming beach right down the road. We would rent again if in the area.
Jennifer F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept, 2021
Thanks for the lovely review Jennifer. We are happy you enjoyed the cabin as much as we do. Let us know when you are ready for another stay.
Take care,
Lisa and Tom
Owners
Verified
10/10 Excellent
penny r.
24 Oct, 2018
Baldy Lake Cabin
From start to finish we had an incredible vaca on Baldy Lake! The owners were readily available from the time of sign up till refund check was issued. We fished, we hiked, we found Yooperlites, went sightseeing and just had a relaxing time. The cabin has pretty much everything you need. Toilet and shower were easy to use. Thank you for sharing your beloved space with us. We will be back!
penny r.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar, 2020
Thanks Penny,
We are happy you enjoy the cabin and area. You are welcome to come back anytime.
Lisa
Really a terrific place. Just a fantastic location, quite secluded. Cabin was immaculate with all the amenities, especially for something described as rustic. Great area for bonfires, nice dock and fishing boat.
Things I was concerned about before the trip were non-issues. The composting toilet was actually great, shower was super easy to use (never knew I could shower thoroughly with only 3 gallons of water!). The hand pump in the kitchen for water was a little tedious but worked flawlessly. We had plenty of "juice" in the battery powered Wifi for hopping on the internet for texts/emails. There were a few minor things that I would point out as suggestions, while still rating this property 5*. Maybe one more outdoor trash can available. Recommend purchasing either more firewood from the owner, or buying your own somewhere nearby. The $63 in wood we bought that we thought would last the week only lasted 2 nights. And if fishing is your main thing, not the best lake for it. You'll catch plenty of rock bass and crappie, but zero pike, perch or "eating fish" to be found. Still fun to catch them but we bought fresh Lake Superior fish in Munising! Again, all in all a really great place and we highly recommend it.
Remote is the key word but this property delivered. If I didn't want to leave I could find so many things to do but it was also I nice get away home to come back to after long adventure days. If you want a very private get away to have the off the grid feeling this is the place. Would stay again.
We had a great time staying the cottage, fishing and kayaking. The weather was very good and we enjoyed the pictures rocks national lakeshore a lot! Will definitely come back again.
This is a must stay! We booked the cabin for our Honeymoon and could not be happier with our decision! The cabin and entire experience exceeded our expectations! The cabin in nestled in the woods on a quiet semi private lake. It was my first time using a composting toilet, we have been doing a lot of research on "off grid" living and we were intrigued to try the toilet out. I was surprised that it has absolutely no odor, and I was expecting a bucket and saw dust, however the composting toilet is really nice, we even looked up the model and made note for the future, for when we get a cabin someday! So if the toilet is something that may discourage your stay! I would urge you to give it a try! Lisa and Tom were great hosts and were available to answer any questions we had! I definitely hope to return again! My husband and I both fell in love with the cabin!
It was our first time in the UP and this location was just amazing. It took our breath away, pretty secluded, very peaceful, we also rented a boat which added an additional entertainment. I was pregnant at the time and underestimated the bathroom situation but other than that it was a great trip. Our 5 year old also caught a lot of fish and it was very exciting for her.
We wanted to get away from it all and this property offered quiet, privacy and what some might call, "glamping." A comfortable bed, working kitchen with all that you need to prepare meals, shower and toilet (yes, manual in nature, but worked perfectly).
Instead of watching TV, we watched our campfire every night. We visited Sable Falls, Hurricane and Miner's Beach and hiked Bruno's Run and another trail in Hiawatha Forest. Hiawatha is a pristine forest, Lake Superior is beautiful and water was swimmable for us.
We have stayed in the UP several times, but this area was a new one to explore. There are many areas to go kayakying and we talked about coming back with our kayaks another time.
Our stay was perfect as can be. Unfortunately, we had a small misunderstanding about the firewood with the owner. I want to say that we read the owners paperwork several times before we visited and after. We are landlords ourselves and are very respectful of someone's property. We ordered wood and were told it would be there for us. We, being city-dwellers, have no clue what a "cord of wood" is. We mistakenly thought all the wood was ours and we used a bit more wood than we were allotted (we were told). The owner wanted to bill us another $50 for using a small amount of the 2nd slot of wood.
We felt that was not fair and raised the issue to the owner. The response was not gracious or understanding. Basically, we were blamed for not asking the question and told we disappointed the owner. That was disappointing for us, and we are sorry that the owner can't see it from our POV. The language in the contract is not really clear, whether the owner will admit it or not.
That said, this was a minor issue and they did agree to "eat" the few pieces of wood we used over our amount. Sadly, If not for this issue, the review would have been 5 stars.
Great view, beautiful cottage. Beds were super comfy but upstairs loft was so hot for sleep!
We rented a motor for the boat from the owners but it didn't work and we did not get a refund.
The self-composting toilet was really nice, no smell and wonderful that it uses no water!
Beautiful, rustic lakeside cabin to get away and enjoy the UP
We highly recommend this cabin for anyone hoping to get away, disconnect a bit, and enjoy family and nature time in a beautiful, rustic way. I wasn’t sure how we would do without screens and the usual comforts but it didn’t take long for my three children, husband and me to adapt to this more simple and peaceful pace. We enjoyed relaxing lakeside, playing games and reading on the screened porch, beautiful sunsets, and canoes and kayaks on the lake. It was nice to have a lot of time to talk, make meals together (kitchen has everything you need), see some wildlife, and being close to Munising lead to lots of adventurous day trips including swimming at beautiful beaches, hiking by waterfalls, biking on Grand Island, Pictured Rocks Boat cruise, and we enjoyed a great coffee shop in town for when we needed to connect up. We look forward to coming back!
Lindsay A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept, 2021
Thank you for the lovely review Lindsay!
Take care,
Lisa and Tom
owners
About the host
Hosted by Lisa
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests