Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
7 bedrooms4+ bathroomsSleeps 22436 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Aitkin, MN
- Place, Nelson Lake18 min drive
- Place, Milford Mine Memorial Park19 min drive
- Place, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area21 min drive
- Airport, Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)44 min drive
Rooms & beds
7 bedrooms (sleeps 22)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 3
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 5
1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed
Bedroom 6
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 7
1 Queen Bed
Living Room 1
4 Single Beds
Living Room 2
2 Single Bunk Beds
4 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom
Basement Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo
Basement Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo
Main Level Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Upstairs Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo
Upstairs Half Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The River Lodge
WELCOME TO THE RIVER LODGE –a place to gather with friends and family! This unique home sits on a peaceful five acres on the banks of the Mississippi River. It features three levels with 7 bedrooms plus additional sleeping areas in the loft and the game room, making it possible to fit up to 24 guests (see below for details). The great room with its double height ceiling and loft balcony provides a large gathering space which is perfect for reunions and retreats. Additionally, there are 3 other living rooms all with smart TVs, 5 bathrooms, a game room with ping pong, several outdoor sitting areas, a beautiful fire pit patio and hot tub to enjoy.
THE AREA
The towns of Aitkin and Crosby are just a 15 minute drive from the lodge. Both have a wonderful variety of cafes, restaurants, antique shops and events throughout the year. Also a short drive away are the famous Cuyuna mountain biking trails! In the winter, cross country, snowshoe and snow-mobile trails are all nearby.
BEDS AND BEDROOMS
Bedroom 1: King bed (main level)
Bedroom 2: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 3: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 4: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 5: Queen bed and bunk bed (basement)
Bedroom 6: Queen bed (basement)
Bedroom 7: Queen bed (basement)
Loft: 2 daybeds with trundles (upstairs)
Game Room: 2 bunk beds (basement)
LODGE RULES & INFO
-Dogs allowed (up to 3) with pet fee - inquire for pet rules and fee questions
-No parties allowed
-Only guests who are part of the reservation may be on the property at any time. Small weddings allowed with additional fee, only up to 50 guests. Please inquire for details.
-No confetti or glitter allowed
-The Mississippi River is not easily accessible and swimming is never recommended. There is a boat launch just a couple miles down the road and several great lakes nearby with beaches as well. We would be happy to provide more details.
HOME FEATURES & AMENITIES
Kitchen
-All basic utensils and cooking tools
-Pots, pans, bakeware and dishes
-2 drip coffee makers, 2 french press, 1 chemex (pour over), 1 aeropress
-Blender
-Slow cooker
-Hand mixer
-Griddle
-Toaster
-Gas grill (propane is provided)
-Salt, pepper and olive oil
-2 refrigerators
-Pantry
-Paper towels and dish soap
Linens & Toiletries…
-100% organic cotton sheets and pillow cases
-Bed quilts and fleece layering blankets
-Towels and washcloths
-Hair dryer
-Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash and Body Lotion
Other…
-High speed WiFi
-Bluetooth speakers
-Smart or Apple TVs with soundbars in all living room areas
-Walkout basement with radiant floor heating
-Custom built extra long dining table with seating for 16 people
-Fireplace
-Pack and Play
-High chair
-DVDs, books and games
-Fire pit and roasting sticks
-Swings and Hammocks
-Outdoor tables for dining al fresco
-Lawn games
THE AREA
The towns of Aitkin and Crosby are just a 15 minute drive from the lodge. Both have a wonderful variety of cafes, restaurants, antique shops and events throughout the year. Also a short drive away are the famous Cuyuna mountain biking trails! In the winter, cross country, snowshoe and snow-mobile trails are all nearby.
BEDS AND BEDROOMS
Bedroom 1: King bed (main level)
Bedroom 2: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 3: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 4: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 5: Queen bed and bunk bed (basement)
Bedroom 6: Queen bed (basement)
Bedroom 7: Queen bed (basement)
Loft: 2 daybeds with trundles (upstairs)
Game Room: 2 bunk beds (basement)
LODGE RULES & INFO
-Dogs allowed (up to 3) with pet fee - inquire for pet rules and fee questions
-No parties allowed
-Only guests who are part of the reservation may be on the property at any time. Small weddings allowed with additional fee, only up to 50 guests. Please inquire for details.
-No confetti or glitter allowed
-The Mississippi River is not easily accessible and swimming is never recommended. There is a boat launch just a couple miles down the road and several great lakes nearby with beaches as well. We would be happy to provide more details.
HOME FEATURES & AMENITIES
Kitchen
-All basic utensils and cooking tools
-Pots, pans, bakeware and dishes
-2 drip coffee makers, 2 french press, 1 chemex (pour over), 1 aeropress
-Blender
-Slow cooker
-Hand mixer
-Griddle
-Toaster
-Gas grill (propane is provided)
-Salt, pepper and olive oil
-2 refrigerators
-Pantry
-Paper towels and dish soap
Linens & Toiletries…
-100% organic cotton sheets and pillow cases
-Bed quilts and fleece layering blankets
-Towels and washcloths
-Hair dryer
-Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash and Body Lotion
Other…
-High speed WiFi
-Bluetooth speakers
-Smart or Apple TVs with soundbars in all living room areas
-Walkout basement with radiant floor heating
-Custom built extra long dining table with seating for 16 people
-Fireplace
-Pack and Play
-High chair
-DVDs, books and games
-Fire pit and roasting sticks
-Swings and Hammocks
-Outdoor tables for dining al fresco
-Lawn games
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- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning
- Games room
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (43 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Please beware of stairs and river bank.
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings and weddings
Small events allowed with an additional fee.
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 3 total)
$100 fee for 1st dog, $50 for each additional dog
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: Small events allowed with an additional fee.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
We should mention
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Aitkin
Located in Aitkin, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Mississippi River and Crow Wing State Forest reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Aitkin County Fairgrounds and Northern Pacific Depot. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Aitkin, MN
What's nearby
- Nelson Lake - 18 min drive - 11.4 km
- Milford Mine Memorial Park - 19 min drive - 12.4 km
- Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area - 21 min drive - 16.4 km
- Upper Mission Lake - 22 min drive - 20.0 km
- Crosby Memorial Park - 24 min drive - 18.8 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Bridge Tavern - 10 min drive
- Woodtick Inn - 15 min drive
- T J's On the Cove - 21 min drive
- Wrights Quality Fresh Fruit - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
11 February 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer M.
23 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jennifer M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer H.
2 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jennifer H.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jody C.
1 February 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jody C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Bee Y.
14 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bee Y.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Makayla K.
2 September 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Makayla K.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Matthew B.
12 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Matthew B.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brooke D.
4 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brooke D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Matt T.
12 December 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Matt T.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
T G.
13 June 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
T G.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Michelle L.
31 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Michelle L.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Nancy E.
25 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nancy E.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Morgan W.
17 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Morgan W.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Susanne B.
28 November 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect family vacation
Susanne B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Dan B.
5 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place!
Dan B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Shee X.
14 November 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay!
Shee X.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
8/10 Good
Jamie G.
1 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jamie G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Dan B.
6 July 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Cabin
Dan B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer M.
19 October 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our summer getaway
Jennifer M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
evan z.
13 August 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Annual Family Trip
evan z.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019
10/10 Excellent
Sandy E.
20 August 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect set up for a group
Sandy E.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jordan T.
10 July 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Property
Jordan T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
10/10 Excellent
Jessica L.
7 February 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for a get together
Jessica L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
10/10 Excellent
Say Y.
24 September 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a beautiful place huge house with lots of room for everyone.
Say Y.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Jeremiah S.
1 February 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family All Together
Jeremiah S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
About the host
Hosted by Andrew and Joy Ballard
We are husband/wife team, Andrew & Joy, and we are passionate about creating a space where friends, family and guests can retreat to out of the hustle of life and enjoy some quality time together. We are honored and excited to provide our guests with an exceptional retreat experience!
Why they chose this property
The River Lodge provides the space for a lot of people to sleep, but also enough space to cook together, eat together, hang out and have fun together. It was important for us to create an environment where a large number of people could be comfortable and feel at home. Additionally, the secluded setting surrounded by nature is a valued factor in creating a peaceful and relaxing stay for guests.
What makes this property unique
The lodge is a large space where families will not feel crowded and there are spaces and activities for guests of all ages to enjoy.
Languages:
English, Spanish
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