Welcome to Bigwater Cove! At our cozy log cabin you can escape the cities, enjoy some peace and quiet, and experience everything Northern MN has to offer at your own pace—snuggle up by the campfire to stargaze, go for an early morning kayak ride or relaxing sauna session, or explore the local trails by mountain bike, horseback, or snowmobile.
Located on Lake Placid with access to the Crow Wing River, our property sits on a private acre lot surrounded by mature white oak trees, perfect for your next up north getaway!
There is a living and dining room with vaulted ceilings and wood-burning fire place, kitchen, bathroom, and two bedrooms located on the main level. Upstairs, there is a spacious loft bedroom with a king bed overlooking the waterfront.
The space is equipped with everything you'll need and more to relax and unwind—high speed fiber internet, smart TV, Bluetooth sound bar, outdoor gas grill with grilling utensils, and a full kitchen stocked with the basics: pots and pans, french press, coffee, tea, spices, and more.
NEW THIS SEASON: Enjoy our handcrafted cedar barrel sauna just steps from the cabin, designed for you to relax and unwind year-round.
NOTE: We require a $250.00 security deposit to book Bigwater Cove. This is not a charge against your credit card, just a hold! It will be released 5 days after your departure if no damage is observed.
NOTE: Dogs under 25lbs are welcome with a non-refundable pet fee ($50/dog per stay). Maximum of 2 dogs allowed.
NOTE: To comply with local noise ordinances and respect our neighbors we use Minut technology (inside and outside) to ensure sound levels do not become excessive or disruptive.
Guests have access to our private lakeshore, barrel sauna, dock, and two kayaks (stored for winter season). We do not have any motorized boats included in the cabin rental. If you're looking to get out on the water, the Lake Placid Public Water Access + Boat Landing is located 5 minutes from the property, where you can drop in your boat (wake boats are not allowed). Otherwise, several boat rental companies are located in Brainerd.
NOTE: Our shoreline can get a bit mucky with more algae arriving in the late summer months. For swimming, take the kayaks out to the larger part of Lake Placid or explore the public Pillager Beach less than 8 min away.
We do have a fire pit on the property! Firewood is not provided on site, but can be purchased at a gas station nearby.
5 min --> Downtown Pillager (The Shante Coffee + Bistro, Casey's Gas, Dollar General, KC's Saloon, Bjerga's Cafe, Corner Store Depot) 5 min --> Lake Placid Public Water Access + Boat Landing 15 min --> Baxter/Brainerd area (Groceries - Costco, Cub, Target, Walmart, Restaurants, Coffee, Golf, Mini Golf, Antiques, Etc.) 15 min --> Lake Alexander (Restaurants - Anchor North, The Landing)
Near Pillsbury State Forest trails for mountain biking, horseback, and cross-country skiing.
Winter guests: Crow Wing County has over 700 miles of groomed snowmobile trails maintained by area clubs. These are easily accessible from our property!
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Guest Must Sign Rental Agreement. Security Deposit Required of $250. No Pets. No Parties. No Smoking.
Maximum Occupancy is 8 Guests - that includes all adults and children.
Quiet Hours are 10pm-7am - excessive noise is prohibited at all times.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 3039563vb
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 and a first aid kit
About the area
Pillager
Located in Pillager, this cabin is on the waterfront. Gull Lake and Bay Lake reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Northland Arboretum and WonderTrek Children's Museum. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Brainerd International Raceway or North Central Speedway. Kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and horse riding nearby.
The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 21 min drive - 25.1 km
Getting around
Staples Station - 18 min drive
Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 29 min drive
Restaurants
The Huntin’ Shack Bar and Grill - 7 min drive
Bjerga’s Cafe - 6 min drive
Northwoods Cafe - 6 min drive
Subway - 7 min drive
KC's Saloon - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?
As of 19 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd on 28 September 2026 start from NZ$685, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Bigwater Cove - Lakefront cabin near Brainerd located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 5.6 mi (8.9 km) from Bay Lake and within 12 miles (20 km) of Gull Lake and Beauty Lake. Cragun's Legacy Courses is 11.7 mi (18.8 km) away.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We really enjoyed our stay at this place. The property is beautiful. The cabin is a nice and very comfortable place. The views are great and there was plenty of seating and space for 5 of us and a dog. The barrel sauna worked perfectly in -10 degree winter. I will stay here again!
this is such a cozy cabin with all the amenities you need to stay put and relax and close enough to shopping, restaurants and entertainment that you don't have to venture far. it was a perfect place to have a girls weekend with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy our time. we will definitely be coming back again in the future!
Nice relaxing cabin with spacious backyard overlooking the lake. Comfortable bed and couch.
Jon S.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Mark C.
9 December 2025
Just excellent; very clean quiet in a beautiful home and setting.
Bigwater Cove is an excellent home rental; it especially would suit a couple or family that love the outdoors and a more “woodsy” serene setting. It is in an excellent central location within 10 miles of town(s) but yet feels very remote as well. The home is very well kept and in wonderful condition with everything in perfect working condition. It is very comfy and has the option of a real wood inside fireplace as well as a sauna..
We enjoyed our time at Bigwater Cove. It is cozy, yet roomy, and the attention to guest's comfort is exceptional. I highly recommend choosing Bigwater Cove for your next visit to the Brainerd Lakes area.
We had a nice stay here, peaceful ,cabin was cozy ,nice back yard. Would recommend to people that want some downtime and quiet time. Thank You for the wonderful stay!
We had a great getaway in this charming cabin with all the comforts of home! Reservations, check in and check out were easy and hastle free. The hosts had lots of information for us about local food and attractions as well as managing the air conditioning and wifi. The only regret we have was that we were unable to utilize the sauna because we ran out of time.
Really enjoyed how private and peaceful it was. Had a great feel and very relaxing.
Joel S.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Amy O.
17 November 2025
Perfect last-minute couples retreat!
We booked Callie's place last minute for a quick couples retreat and it was exactly what we needed! The setup is perfect for a relaxing getaway – we used the sauna, grilled steaks, and went for runs through the beautiful neighborhood.
The bed deserves special mention – so incredibly cozy that I scored a 90 on my Oura ring (a personal best!). Everything was spotless and ready for us when we arrived, and Callie was so responsive and gracious throughout our stay.
If you're looking for a peaceful escape with all the right amenities, this is your spot. We'll definitely be back!
Cabin was clean, comfy, beautiful well taken care of property. Would recommend.
Debra S.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 April 2023
Thanks Debra! We’re happy you enjoyed your ladies trip at Bigwater Cove and would love to host you again anytime :)
About the host
Hosted by Callie Karlen
My husband Bob and I are Midwest natives that love exploring the world together—immersing ourselves in new cultures, meeting new people, and of course staying in new and exciting spaces. As hosts, we are committed to providing our guests experiences that they will remember forever and properties they will want to revisit again and again.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests