5 Lakefront Rentals in the Northern US for a Relaxing Reunion

Discover stress-free Northern lakefront reunion homes for ample space, stunning views and all-ages activities.

By Makenzie Smith, Contributing Writer

Just as the water meets the shore, creating one of the most calming natural scenes, different generations are all drawn to an abundance of lakeshore fun and adventure, creating a current of new memories. Whether on land or in water, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities to bond over at top lakefront rentals in the Northern US. Picture a day that begins by kicking back with a cup of coffee, flows into a laughter-filled kayaking adventure splashing across the water, and winds down with your senses filled by a smoky, crackling campfire and tasty s’mores. No matter what your family gravitates towards, a sheet of stars will lull everyone to sleep, and dreams will be taken over by a reminiscence of the unforgettable stories made from the day before.

Every generation, including parents, children, cousins, grandparents, aunts, and uncles, is taken into consideration. We promise to provide the best curated picks across the northern tier for your singular or multigenerational family reunion, big or small. If the sound of a Great Lakes vacation piques your interest, one of the following Northern lakefront reunion homes will surely be the perfect match for the upcoming family celebration.

Discover inspiring destinations and expert tips for your next reunion. Download the Destination Reunions magazine today—it’s completely free!

Why Consider Northern Lakefront Reunion Homes

A trip to the lakeshore offers many advantages in general, but lakefront rentals in the Northern US have the upper hand. Mild summers offer comfortable weather, with the sun shining on your face, minus the exhausting heat and sweat. Fiery fall foliage creates an atmosphere that matches the heart and excitement of a family reunion, not to mention the surrounding beauty that serves as a perfect backdrop for an updated family portrait. Finally, the North lakeshores are relatively easy to access, especially for families coming from big cities.

Here is our lake-to-lake round-up of five choices providing Great Lakes vacation rentals for groups, cozy waterfront cabin rentals, family villas, and more.

Lake Superior, MN

You can’t go wrong with choosing the largest of the Great Lakes to be the location of your waterfront reunion. Odyssey Resorts offers a wide range of cottages and suites to suit your family’s needs and preferences. One tip to keep in mind is to find pet-friendly accommodation options so that you can bring your furry family members to your reunion. Odyssey offers a range of options to suit every vacation budget, making this a top choice for Great Lakes vacation rentals for groups.

• Wilderness Expeditions: Hike or bike the forest terrain and paved trails that encompass the North Shore of Lake Superior in the summer or venture to Lutsen Mountain to hit the slopes during the winter.
• Shoreline Activities: Kayak or canoe in calm waters close to the shore to experience sights not as easily enjoyed on land. Paddlers may opt for a guided kayak tour to enjoy an enhanced experience of exploring the lake. Cast a line with the hopes of reeling in the next big catch or tee off at one of the nearby golf courses with a view of the lake. One of them is deemed the “Cadillac of Minnesota Golf Courses.”
• Relaxation: Remind yourself that taking time off for a family reunion should still include some downtime–run away to a relaxing spa day to get your rejuvenation fix. Or simply sit under the night sky to stargaze around a bonfire. Pools and hot tubs are also available alternatives to swimming in the lake.

Gull Lake, MN

Embark on a classic Midwest get-together and surround yourself with thousands of acres of nature to block out any distractions to your long-awaited family reunion. You and every member of your family will feel pampered at Madden’s on Gull Lake with reunion planners on staff ready to help you with everything from accommodation options to activities. Waterfront cabin rentals are ready and waiting for large families to come along with the capability to house 8-16 people, making this one of the top lakefront rentals in the Northern US for reunion groups.

• Water Activities: Whether you’re cruising on a pontoon or gliding over the water with your water skis, this location splashes your family reunion with fun right off the bat.
• Non-water Activities: Adventures range from up in the air to down on earth, including ziplining, horseback riding, go-karting, pickleball, and more. These activities are perfect for a dash of family competition and enjoyment while taking in the beautiful views.
• Relaxation: Spas and golf await you for some much-needed downtime. The Adventure Cove Day Camp for kids aged 4-12 allows parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles time to explore these options at their own pace. While you’re getting a massage or swinging a club, the kids are enjoying things like fishing, archery and arts and crafts.

Lake Geneva, WI

With the motto to ‘Meet, Eat, Retreat!’ Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark at Lake Geneva guarantees a family-friendly getaway filled with fun. Midwestern families from near and far will have an easy time meeting up at the lodge, as it is only an hour’s commute from Milwaukee and a 90-minute commute from Chicago. This location is perfect for hosting large families in a grand affair with its Cascades Ballroom that can hold up to 200 family members. After a welcome party planned by meeting professionals, guests then retire to their relaxing suites, which have a maximum capacity of seven guests. The next day is full of possibilities–one of which allows kids to disappear into the 50,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor waterpark while adults unwind lakeside.

• Activities: This location has no shortage of new and fun things to do, allowing you to soak up as much family time as possible. Splash around at the waterpark, challenge cousins at the Arcade, play tennis, volleyball or basketball, gather for a scenic hike on foot, by bike or horseback, and climb new heights at the 35-foot climbing wall.
• Winter Activities: There are activities for each day of the year, including hay, sleigh and carriage rides, skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
• Relaxation: Have some quiet time at the lodge’s WELL Spa + Salon or work out at the Fitness Center, as well as enjoy a full 36 holes of golf.

Lake George, NY

A multitude of accommodations on 15 acres in the Adirondack “Queen of American Lakes” is available at The Inn at Erlowest, formerly Sun Castle Resort & Friends near Lake George. From townhouses for bigger clans to villas and castle suites for smaller families, this waterfront reunion location can fit any family, no matter which style they choose. Top perks for the townhouses include private decks with a jacuzzi to match; however, the villas also feature wrap-around porches to enjoy the stunning views. This location offers panoramic views of the calm waters of Lake George, as well as the peaks of the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Choosing a Northern lakefront reunion home at Sun Castle Resort is best for those looking to spend their days on the water. There is dock space day and night for both personal vessels and rental boats.

• Amenities: The resort has it all, including private sandy beaches, a jacuzzi, in-ground heated pools, outdoor fireplaces, dock space, and a fine dining restaurant.

Lake Champlain, VT/NY

This region is ideal for a family of learners, as historic accommodations are found on every corner, ranging from chateaus to cottages, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts. These waterfront cabin rentals and rustic camps, available on numerous well-known vacation rental websites, overlook the blue waters of Lake Champlain. The family sailboat can accompany the journey, as there are plenty of public moorings available at many Northern lakefront reunion homes. The area is littered with museums and historic sites spanning multiple eras from Native Americans to the Revolutionary War, so there are plenty of things to pique each family member’s interest as you learn more about the country’s history together.

• Summer Activities: Soak in the region’s astounding beauty on leisure hiking trails or adventurous mountain biking paths. Summertime sunshine allows for long days on the boat and swimming in cooling waters.
• Fall Activities: Vermont and Northern New York State are renowned for their stunning fall foliage, which peaks in September and October. Known as “Leaf-Peeping Season,” groups from all over the country travel here to witness Mother Nature’s impressive abilities. Many farms are open for apple-picking, and foliage tours are available throughout the region.
• Winter Activities: Strap on some snowshoes or glide down a breathtaking mountain with your skis. Enjoying the water is not limited to just swimming during the summer. Go out on an ice-fishing escapade with the family for a memorable experience.

 Why Venture North?

Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a little splash of both, you can’t go wrong with venturing out into the beauty and wilderness of the North’s lakefront regions. There are activities for everyone to enjoy, helping to optimize bonding time with the family. To get even more advice and guidance on booking the best waterfront reunion cabin and the most incredible family reunion possible, visit Destination Reunions today.

Don’t miss out on expert advice and exclusive updates! Sign up for the Destination Reunions newsletter today.