Up North feel in Clarkston, Lake cabin with kayaks
Guest rating: 4.9 / 5
Overview
This 1950s lake cabin in Clarkston has been updated into a cozy waterfront retreat that delivers an "up north" escape without the long drive. Set on a private island shared with just six other homes, the single-story cabin spans 700 square feet with two bedrooms and one bathroom, sleeping up to six guests comfortably. It's surrounded by water and wildlife, offering a peaceful, secluded setting just a short drive from Auburn Hills.
Amenities & Recreation
Guests have access to a fully equipped kitchen, microwave, oven/stove, outdoor grill, and free Wi-Fi in a smoke-free environment. The stay includes use of three kayaks and a row boat on two private all-sports lakes, plus life jackets and beach towels for swimming, fishing, or paddling around the property. A fire pit and laundry facilities round out the home comforts, though lake activities are limited in winter months when the water freezes.
Dining & Local Flavor
The cabin is walkable to Downtown Clarkston's charming shops and restaurants, including Bologna Trattoria just 421 meters away, Clarkston Tap at 730 meters, and Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen and Union Woodshop barbecue both under a mile from the property. Other nearby options include Honcho for Latin American fare, The Fed Community, 5th Tavern Clarkston, and Alex's Gourmet Market bar & grill, giving guests a strong walkable dining scene despite the secluded lakefront setting.
Location & Surroundings
Beyond the immediate dining options, the area offers Canterbury Village, Chrysler LLC Headquarters, Shepherd's Hollow Golf Club, and Pine Knob Mansion as local landmarks and activities. Music and sports fans can catch events at the Meadow Brook Music Festival, Athletics Center O'Rena, or Pine Knob Music Theater, while families can reach Great Lakes Crossing, Legoland, Sea Life, and Mt. Holly Ski within a short drive. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and Bishop International Airport are both accessible by car for travelers flying in.
Best for
This cabin is best suited to couples, families, or small groups seeking a quiet nature retreat with on-site water recreation like kayaking, fishing, and swimming on a private all-sports lake. It also appeals strongly to concertgoers and event attendees, thanks to its easy drive to Pine Knob Music Theater and Meadow Brook Music Festival, and to travelers who want a walkable downtown dining scene paired with a secluded island setting.
Travel tips
A car is recommended for reaching the two nearby airports and attractions like Great Lakes Crossing or Mt. Holly Ski, though Downtown Clarkston's restaurants are walkable from the cabin. Guests attending Pine Knob Music Theater or Meadow Brook Music Festival should note the short, easy drive from the property, making it a convenient basecamp for concerts. Since lake access, swimming, fishing, and canoeing are weather- and season-dependent, plan water activities for warmer months, as they're limited when the lake freezes in winter.
What guests say
Guests consistently praise the peaceful, scenic setting and describe the stay as relaxing and even romantic or restorative, frequently highlighting the included kayaks and lake access as a standout feature. Several reviewers mention the charming vintage décor, including antique furnishings and a working turntable with records, adding character to the cabin. The convenient location near Pine Knob has made it a popular choice for concertgoers extending their trip into a mini vacation. On the negative side, at least one guest reported cleanliness issues, including a poorly cleaned living room and a moldy shower curtain, suggesting some inconsistency in housekeeping standards.
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