Stay, Play, B.L.A. - a blog

Picture this, you’re 12 years old and on your way to summer camp for the first time. You are surrounded by the feelings of excitement for a week of freedom, nature, new experiences, and up-north vibes. It’s the first time you got the taste of independence. Now as an adult, there’s something so nostalgic about those cabin vibes and summer trips, and I truly believe it’s because it brings you back to those memories.

If you’re saying, “yes! I know exactly what you’re talking about,” I have found the cabin for you and it’s located in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes area in Minnesota.

The location

Clark Lake Cabin is located just under three hours from the Twin Cities and right in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes area in Nisswa.

The stay

Clark Lake Cabin is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin located on Clark Lake. This cabin is tastefully decorated with everything to bring the cozy cabin vibes in the winter or the summer camp memories in the summer.

We visited in January and loved cozying up around the fire under the Pendleton blanket and just enjoying the warmth and break from a long stretch of cold weather. This family cabin is designed to welcome many families year after year to make memories. From the room with two twin beds and stuffed animal “mounts” above the bed to the sunroom with games and views of the lake. There’s plenty of space to spread out but all spend time together up north. In the summer enjoy the sandy bottom lake for swimming or take out one of the many water toys (kayaks, paddle boards, three-person tube, Lilly pad, and floating dock). I’m already planning my trip because you know I’m spending my days tanning on that floating dock. Can you tell me this last week of cold temps is getting to me? Summer is calling.

In the dining room and kitchen, there is plenty of seating for your whole group to enjoy everything from a burger bar to charcuterie & a drink. Not a charcuterie expert? No worries! MN Traders Co offers take out charcuterie boxes so you can sip and snack on the deck or in the sunroom with no extra prep work — because it is vacation after all. Summer bookings are going to go fast at this camp-inspired cabin with all the activities & amenities to set the stage.

PRO TIP → Book direct with Woods to Water to save 5-10% on fees. Here’s the link.

Spend the day around Nisswa 

Nisswa is a town that reminds me a lot of Gilmore Girls. Small-town vibes, a cute town square, and an event that feels like every weekend bring the whole town together. There’s never a bad time or season to visit so don’t think summer is the only time to plan a trip. Here's a full list of the local Nisswa/Brainerd Lakes Area events.

COFFEE

I know it’s a little bit of a drive, but I promise it will be worth it - go to MN Traders Co. in Pequot Lakes grab a coffee or morning cocktail, and if you’re feeling bougie order a brunch charcuterie board to go with it. Be sure to stop by their home goods shop, as well. So many cute home goods, clothing and little treats to take home.

PRO TIP → Get there early and snag a swinging chair for your morning sip.

Climb the paul m. thiede fire tower 

While you’re in Pequot, challenge your legs and your fear of heights (oh that’s just me?) and climb up the Paul M. Thiede fire tower. Visit in the fall for the best fall color views.

Shop

Roam around Nisswa square stopping in the shops. Find a new piece of clothing or souvenir from your trip. Additional note: find a full list of downtown boutiques and shops on this Nisswa Chamber directory!

Sweets

Before you head back to the cabin, be sure to pick up some after dinner treats at The Chocolate Ox + bonus grab some extra for the car ride home, it makes leaving vacation a little more sweet.

Brews 

If you know me, you know I love a good brewery. I always find new friends to chat with and learn the local scoop from the staff and Big Axe Brewing Co. is no exception + they also have great food. Stop by in the summer and sit outside, great people-watching. 

Ready to book your stay at Clark Lake? Book here. This stay was hosted by Woods to Water + the Clark Lake Cabin but all opinions in this blog belong to Taylor. [Want to see more pictures and video from Taylor's stay in Nisswa and Clark Lake Cabin? Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Tiktok.]

*This blog has been adapted from Taylor Hildreth + taylorjohildreth.com. To view the original blog, click here. Visit www.bookthebla.com to book Clark Lake and see our full property portfolio.