Blackswamp North: Private Up North Cabin Near Higgins Lake State Park

We are a busy family of four from Northwest Ohio — mom, dad, and our two daughters — who fell in love with the beauty and peacefulness of Higgins Lake. Between work, school, sports, and everyday life, our time here is never long enough, but every visit helps us slow down, reconnect, and make lasting memories together.

We purchased and updated this chalet to create a cozy, welcoming getaway where families and friends can relax, unwind, and enjoy everything Northern Michigan has to offer. Whether it’s mornings on the deck with coffee, afternoons on the lake, evenings around the fire pit, or exploring the nearby trails and state park, this little slice of “Up North” has become a special place for our family.

Since we can’t be here as often as we’d like, we’re excited to share our home with others looking for a relaxing escape, outdoor adventure, or quality time with loved ones. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do and create wonderful memories during your stay!

We chose this neighborhood because it truly offers the best of Northern Michigan in every season. Tucked among the trees in Higgins Lake Forest Estates, the location gives us the peaceful “Up North” cabin feel while still being close to everything we love to do as a family.

One of the things that drew us here most was how centrally located it is. Within minutes, you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Higgins Lake, explore beautiful Marl Lake, or head to Houghton Lake for even more dining, shopping, and outdoor fun. We love being close to South Higgins Lake State Park, local restaurants, hiking and ORV trails, and charming small towns that make perfect day trips.

No matter the time of year, there is always something to enjoy. Summers are perfect for beach days, boating, kayaking, biking, and relaxing around the fire pit. In the winter, the area transforms into a snowy getaway with snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing nearby.

For us, this cabin became the perfect place to slow down, reconnect, and escape the busy pace of everyday life — and we hope it becomes that place for you too.

What makes our property unique is the perfect combination of privacy, location, and true “Up North” charm. While the cabin is located in a quiet neighborhood, the wooded vacant lots surrounding the property on all sides make it feel like your own private retreat in the forest. You can relax on the deck or around the fire pit and feel completely tucked away in nature while still being close to all the area attractions and conveniences.

Wildlife sightings are one of our favorite parts of staying here. Deer frequently wander through the property, squirrels play throughout the trees, and every once in a while, you may even spot a bear passing through the side yard — a true Northern Michigan experience! Guests love enjoying their morning coffee while watching nature right outside the cabin windows.

Another thing that makes this location so special is how close it is to everything. Higgins Lake — often ranked among the most beautiful lakes in the United States — is just minutes away, along with Marl Lake, Houghton Lake, hiking trails, ORV and snowmobile trails, local restaurants, shopping, and year-round outdoor activities.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply a peaceful place to unwind, our cabin offers the best of both worlds: a cozy private setting surrounded by nature, with endless things to do nearby in every season.