Entire cabin·Private host

Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat

Lakefront cabin with kitchen and fireplace

Photo gallery for Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat

TV, fireplace, DVD player
TV, fireplace, DVD player
Property grounds
Interior
Outdoor dining
On the shores of Lake O'Brien, this quintessential cabin in the pines offers a serene lakeside retreat. Enjoy panoramic views from the screen porch, sitting area with gas fireplace, and dining room. Take advantage of a pontoon boat and paddleboat to explore the lake or relax by the fire pit on your private patio.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 695 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat

If you are looking for the 'cabin experience', this quintessential cabin in the pines won't disappoint. The property was originally purchased and built by my grandparents in 1958 and has been in our family ever since; it was completely renovated by my wife and I in 2011. A small but efficient layout, the cabin has a wonderful screen porch, sitting area with gas fireplace, and dining room; all with panoramic views of the lake, which is only steps away. It has one bedroom on the main level (king), and a semi-private loft with two queen size beds. There is one 3/4 bath, and a great outdoor shower with views of the lake for those true Minnesotan's. The inside space flows seamlessly to a large lakeside patio with grill, outdoor dining area, fire pit and coffee sitting area. The rental comes complete with a pontoon boat (2023 Bennington), a 4-person paddleboat, a canoe, and of course a hammock in the yard. For those that can't disconnect, the cabin also includes two high-definition TVs with Cable (DVD/Blu-Ray on main TV) and free Wi-Fi! And don't worry, you won't be roughing it, the 2011 renovation also brought all new mechanical systems including air conditioning, new appliances, and a new Kinetico softened water system!!

Situated 5 miles east of the town of Crosslake, crystal clear Lake O'Brien is spring fed with a water clarity of 24', the cleanest lake in the entire watershed district. The lake itself is surrounded by mature pines. There is approximately 5 miles of shoreline, of which about a quarter of the lake is undeveloped state-owned property. During the summer, this recreational lake is perfect for fishing, skiing, wake boarding, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and any other water-based activities, including floating on an air mattress!! There is a sandbar where you can walk across the lake which is a favorite gathering spot for 'kids of all ages'!! It's location on a quiet tar township road make it perfect for a morning walk or bike ride. During the winter months the lake is perfect for ice fishing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and is a perfect base camp to access the endless miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Our property is perfect for a family of up to 6 or a few couples. We have a strict limit of 6 due to the size of the cabin and the single bathroom. We do keep our calendar updated and so if you are seeing availability then it's likely available. Upon reservation confirmation you'll receive a complete 'what to bring' list so you are prepared for your time up north. Feel free to inquire with any questions you may have and we’ll be prompt to reply! We pride ourselves on keeping our property and structures/equipment pristine and are certain we'll exceed your expectations in that regard. And further, since we also live on this lake, should any questions or problems arise we can respond quickly. In fact, your only disappointment will be when you have to leave!!

The pontoon boat is typically in the water and available for use from mid-May to late September.

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Canoeing nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Unit size: 1,020 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Map
Crosslake, MN

What's nearby

  • Cross Lake Recreation Area - 16 min drive - 11.1 km
  • Crosslake Town Square - 16 min drive - 11.1 km
  • Crosswoods Golf Course - 16 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Kicks on Route 66 - 17 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Crosslake Community Center - 22 min drive - 15.4 km

Getting around

  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪The Wharf - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪50 Lakes Bar & Bottle Shop - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Chest - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Maucieri's Italian Bistro & Deli - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat located?

Situated on a lake, this cabin is steps from Crow Wing State Forest and within 6 mi (10 km) of Pine Lake and Adney Lake. Crosslake Town Square and Cross Lake Recreation Area are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Classic Minnesota Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'Brien - Includes Pontoon Boat Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 316 out of 320 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 320 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 320 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 320 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 320 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Marla H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Repeat visitors to Mort’s Shangri-La

Everything is top notch…from the pontoon to the sunroom to all of the cozy sitting areas, and oh those comfy beds and linens. Wonderful hosts as well!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zachary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Romantic getaway

Cozy comfortable cabin in the woods perfect for a romantic getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Derek H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing MN Cabin

This cabin is a must stay, wonderful experience.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andy T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Does not disappoint

This is the second time we have stayed here and loved it even more. Perfect relaxing week with the kids.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

awesome

really enjoyed the quiet and the wildlife
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ideal Cabin Retreat

We continue to come back to this paradise! The cabin is perfection in every way. The lake is relaxing and fun. The hosts are super responsive and take pride in their property. This is truly a special place.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rich K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our stay at The Cabin

The Cabin was wonderful in every way! We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Frank and S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing stay

Everything was great. We were able to relax, read, watch the Vikings and Wild games. Just what we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Patrick L., Maple Grove

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect winter getaway

Was perfect. Great location for snowmobile trails and ice fishing. Property had everything we needed, was very clean and the owners were very responsive of anything we needed. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it!

We had a fabulous time at the cabin. It was cozy and clean. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hannah L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed a week and the lake was perfect and quiet! We caught so many fish including pike off the dock! The sand bar was a fun activity for my youngest. We did have a rainy week so luckily the cabin was heavenly! Everything was cozy and felt like home. A lot of time was spent on a lovely screened in porch. The outdoor shower was a feature I never knew I needed in my life and now showering without a roof of pine trees will feel like a huge disappointment. We were provided with everything we needed and the town of Crosslake was a quick trip for groceries, etc. The beds were so comfortable and my kids were thrilled to have a loft space all to themselves! Daily boat trips were a highlight and part of making some core memories for our family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angie S., Walford, Iowa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely cabin, lovely location

This cabin is perfect. In every way. They've thought of everything and the mid-century Scandinavian charm makes it feel like home. Highly recommend. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anita J., Saint Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, Charming, Best hospitality!

Jeff and Lindsay are amazing people! The cabin was so comfortable. My husband and I had the best sleep in the comfortable beds and pillows! Listening to the loons all night long! The campfire and pontoon were wonderful touches. We didn’t want to leave!!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

ashley k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little slice of Heaven

We loved staying here. We traveled with our two boys- 7 and 3. We had some cold days and rain, but even then, loved our days. The cabin was so clean and cozy. We took the pontoon boat out several times a day. We didn’t have much luck catching many fish, but everything else was absolutely perfect! Jeff and Lindsey were amazing with communication as well! Such a cute area, cabin and town! We would love to come back!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

David Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Winter Retreat

We're so glad to have come across this gem. My wife and I enjoyed a 3-night winter getaway. Loved the cozy stove, a light-filled cabin with lots of windows to view the frozen lake, really enjoyed the rustic touches along with all the modern amenities. Super well thought out use of space, nice furniture and super cozy beds. We especially loved the rustic-renovated kitchen. We hope to come back for a summer stay sometime!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location and wonderful cabin

This cabin is just as lovely as it looks in the photos both inside and out. The landscaping is great for having dinners outside and relaxing while enjoying the lovely outdoors. The bedding was comfortable and clean and the cabin had everything one would need. Having access to the pontoon boat was so much fun and the lake was clean and beautiful. I cannot say enough good things about this place. Th hosts provided us with all the info and everything we needed so we didn't have to reach out during our stay, but I'm sure if we needed anything they would have accommodated us.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Don M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Cabin Stay

This was our second visit within 18 months. We enjoy the peace and quiet. Take a pontoon drive when it's hot and float on an innertube. Enjoy a wood fire when it cools off. Clean and comfortable accommodations once you figure out how everything works (showers, light switches television etc.) Plenty of walking on the roads around the lake and Paul Bunyon Trail out of Nisswa Minnesota. Plenty of good restaurants in town or 10–20-minute drive. Saw plenty of wildlife on our adventures.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Patty D., Cannon Falls, MN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to celebrate our anniversary

We were so impressed with the whole place, the charming cabin that has everything you need and want, as well as the beautiful clear lake O'Brien that the cabin is on. We woke up and went to sleep listening to the loons, swans, and other birds. We were visited by a baby fox kit twice, from a distance but close enough to enjoy its presence. We took a lot of walks, enjoying the water, woods and the friendly nieghbors that we came across. There is plenty of cute little shops and good places to eat if you choose too. Last but not least, Jeff and Lindsay were wonderful hosts. They were easy to get hold of, responding quickly, though we didn't have any needs or issues. We wanted to share with them the video and picture of the fox kit we took. They have taken great care in making sure everything is in good shape, ready for guests to have the experience they desire when renting a cabin in Northern Minnesota!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I think this is our third time staying at this property, and we loved it just like every time. It is so relaxing!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Classic MN

We had a wonderful and relaxing stay at Lake O’Brien! The cabin was a perfect fit for our family of four. The fire pit, paddle boat, and pontoon were perfect for a MN lake week. The lake community was friendly and the location was perfect for getting away, but still having close access to restaurants, ice cream, and shopping.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfy, cute, clean cabin!

Me, my husband, 2 kids, my 2 parents and dogs comfortably slept in the cabin after spending hours on the pontoon. The beds and furniture are comfortable and clean. This is a peaceful and relaxing location.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everything you want to get away and relax.

Everything met that was as expect and more based on the cabin add. The owners are always in contact with you or available if needed. Based on our stay I hope to see you next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Family Time

We had a wonderful stay enjoying the lake and making memories with our grandson . This VRBO has all the amenities and comforts. Very comfortable beds! Such a charming place. Was so nice to be able to jump on pontoon and go fishing all day and enjoy bonfires at night. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ross P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Five Star Escape

Book it. Super charming and comfy.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maisy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cabin in Crosslake

We loved our cozy Crosslake getaway over new years! It was the best lil vrbo we could hope for.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024