Cabins near Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin sit among the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest at approximately 1,600 feet elevation. The area receives about 55 inches of snowfall annually, making winter rentals popular alongside summer options. Most cabin rental properties in the region operate from early May through mid-October with limited winter availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Patricia Lake Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "Fishing is good. 100 sites, most with full hookup," reports Gary M. The small lake has a designated swimming area alongside fishing spots.
Wildlife viewing trails: Nearby West Bay Camping Resort provides access to nature trails. "Has wildlife school across the road with free trails you can walk," notes Stephen M. These trails connect to broader Northwoods hiking systems.
Water recreation: Cabin renters often visit Chain O'Lakes Campground for boat rentals. "Tons of lake activities like renting boats to fish (like we did)," mentions Nova O. Daily rental rates for fishing boats start around $75 with pontoons costing $225-300 per day.
What campers like
Lakefront locations: Many cabin guests prefer waterfront accommodations. "We had a site in the shade, directly on the lake," explains Stacia R. about nearby Lake Gogebic options. These sites typically command $15-20 more per night than standard cabin rentals.
Pet-friendly options: Arbor Vitae Campground permits pets at their cabin sites. "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer," notes Linda C. The campground maintains a small lake for swimming and fishing.
Privacy between sites: Cabin spacing varies significantly between properties. "The sites are nice and big," Amanda C. says about Hi-Pines Campground. Expect more privacy at properties bordering state forest land than at lake-centered resorts.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most cabin rentals close by mid-October. "We stayed from May 1 to Oct 15," mentions one visitor to Arbor Vitae Campground. Winter cabin options remain limited to a few year-round operations.
Bedding requirements: Cabins typically provide beds without linens. Guests must bring their own sheets, pillows, towels and toiletries. Some premium cabins include basic cookware, while budget options provide only minimal furnishings.
Reservation timing: Summer weekends book 4-6 months in advance, particularly for lakefront properties. Indian Shores has "a good mix of seasonal and weekend campsites," according to Mike W., with weekend sites located "near the prime activity locations; the pool, playground and lake areas."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Select cabins near recreational facilities. "The pond has inflatables that are very fun. The sites are nice and big," according to Amanda C. about Hi-Pines Campground, which also provides "great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball," adds Amanda D.
Consider cabin proximity to bathrooms: Many families prefer units closer to restroom facilities. "Our campground was next to nice bathrooms and a sand volleyball court. Good privacy from neighboring campsites," notes Nova O. about Chain O'Lakes.
Budget for additional activities: Peaceful Pines Resort offers easy lake access for children. "The lake is right there steps away that is crystal clear and sandy bottom!!" writes Chris W. Most cabin resorts charge extra for boat rentals, mini-golf, and other activities beyond basic accommodation fees.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup considerations: Check utility details when comparing cabin options to RV camping. "Electricity has no breakers to shut the juice off before hook up which is very dangerous. Water is good pressure," warns Wayne O. about older electrical systems at some properties.
Size limitations: Larger family cabins typically sleep 6-8 people maximum. "Sites are relatively spaced apart for a private campground and offer FHU's for those needing to stay a night or two to dump tanks, etc.," notes Rick G. about Patricia Lake Campground, which caters to both RV and cabin guests.
Seasonal rental alternatives: Some campgrounds offer seasonal cabin rentals alongside RV options. "We stayed in a rental trailer here and were very impressed! There is a good mix of open and wooded sites," reports Garrett O. about Hi-Pines. Weekly cabin rentals typically cost $400-800 depending on size and amenities.
