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Entire cabin

Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo

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Terrace/patio - Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo (Palisade)
Exterior - Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo (Palisade)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo (Palisade)
Property grounds - Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo (Palisade)
TV - Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo (Palisade)
Immerse yourself in the serene lakes and woods of Palisade, Mn at The Up North cabin. Located on Lake Waukenabo's shores, this cozy retreat offers breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets from its deck. Take advantage of free use kayaks, canoes, a paddle boat for some recreational fun or try your luck fishing with a 14’ Lund fishing row boat. Explore nearby ATV trails or relax by the private fire pit with family and friends.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue
  • Water view

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About this property

Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo

  • Welcome to our second and largest cabin, The Up North. Enjoy the sunrises and sunsets off the deck that's less than 50ft from beautiful Lake Waukenabo! We're located two hours north of the twin cities in the beautiful lakes and woods area of Palisade, Mn. The town of Palisade is an 8 mile drive away where you can find gas stations for fueling up ATV's, a couple of restaurants/bars for a bite to eat or a drink, a city park for the kids to play or picnic, and a church to attend a service. The resort itself has two docks for you to throw out a line or dock your boat. We also offer free use of a 14’ Lund fishing row boat, life vests, kayaks, canoes, and a paddle boat for some recreational fun. Lake Waukenabo is connected to tiny West Lake by boat and if you're feeling adventurous you can kayak or canoe through a channel to Sitas Lake. You can fish for Northern pike, walleye, perch, crappie, sunfish, bluegill, or bass and we have a screened in fish cleaning house for your catch of the day. We have a playground, sandbox, and tree house for the kids. Many families like to bring their bikes to take a stroll along the lake. There is a private fire pit with a removable food grate or a gas grill for your use. We have wood available so you can sit by the fire and enjoy a quiet evening on the lake! Feel free to bring the ATV's as we're near thousands of acres of state forest and ATV trails. The closest bigger town is Grand Rapids and it's a 35 minute drive north. We do not have a swimming beach, but many kids just swim off the docks. If you want a swimming beach, round lake has one down the road. Your cabin (The Up North) has been remodeled with all new pine trim, new vinyl plank flooring, new interior paint, new furnishings, ice cold central AC, and many more things for that comforting "Up North" feel. The cabin has two separate bedrooms with a large bathroom. Towels are provided. One bedroom has a queen bed and the other a full. The living room has a sleeper sofa and a recliner. We have Dish Network for TV and free fiber optic powered Wi-Fi. Our family has been in the resort hospitality business since 1958 and we take great pride in the services we provide. We love the resort and we're sure you will too! 🌲


    If you have more family and friends that would like to join you we have an additional cabin available on VRBO.
    VRBO Listing ID 1560839

    Let the memories begin and look forward to meeting you! Thanks!

    10% discount on weekly rental

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Firepit
  • Gas grill
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Outside only

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Snorkelling 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

  • Property located in a resort

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

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

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

We do have another cabin for rent if needed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Outside only

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: We do have another cabin for rent if needed
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

About the area

Located in Palisade, this cabin is on a lake. Mississippi River and Sandy River Lake reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Northern Pacific Depot and Aitkin County Fairgrounds. Jet skiing and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Palisade travel guide
View more Cabin rentals in Palisade
Map
Palisade, MN

What's nearby

  • Hill Lake
    17 min drive - 34.1 km
  • Minnesota National Golf Course
    18 min drive - 30.0 km
  • Northern Pacific Depot
    20 min drive - 36.2 km
  • Big Sandy Lake
    20 min drive - 36.1 km
  • Aitkin County Parks
    20 min drive - 37.3 km

Restaurants

  • Rustic Trail
    9 min drive
  • Gabby’s
    10 min drive
  • Municipal in palisade
    9 min drive
  • Palisade Cafe
    9 min drive
  • Kelly's Kitchen
    9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo located?

Situated on a lake, this cabin is 6.4 mi (10.3 km) from Mississippi River and within 20 miles (32 km) of Minnesota National Golf Course and Sandy River Lake. Hill Lake and Riverwood Healthcare Center Hospital are also within 20 miles (32 km).

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Up North Retreat on Lake Waukenabo Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 25 out of 26 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 26 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 26 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh A.

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

Great little cabin

Very clean and nice little cabin with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Host was welcoming and the area fishing is great. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy B.

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

Cottage on the lake.

Clean place with all the amenities. Very accommodating host. Would stay here again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

holly g.

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

Always a wonderful time

We come each year to relax and spend time together. The property is sparkling clean, easy to find. We love the location, the quiet and the beautiful views.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alica R.

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

Wonderful

We definitely will be back:-) clean and great location. Happy Family
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael J.

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

Fantastic Cabin

It’s a wonderful place. Good fishing clean cabins and the host is wonderful. This is are second time and we will be back. 👍
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

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

Tranquility on the lake!

Arlene was a lovely host. The property was modern and cozy. I loved how clean it was and that i could see the lake through all the front windows. We enjoyed fishing and paddling around on the paddle boat. It was so peaceful and quiet. We would definitely come back.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

holly g.

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

Wonderful as Always!

My family stays here at least once a year. The property is clean, quiet, and there is a variety of things to do depending on your interests. Fishing, shopping, hiking, resting, puzzling and game playing are just some of the things we enjoy. We appreciate the care that Arlene and family show to us and the property. Thanks!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marty B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to catch up with friends and enjoy the lake.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Korey D.

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

Nice Cabin on a Quiet Lake

Very relaxing and quiet place to stay.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Super cool location, lake access, nice fire pit, very nice and neat cabin. Super nice host.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Audrey D.

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

Great Getaway

Great place to relax and enjoy being by the lake. Great places to eat and visit within a half hour as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was very clean snd exactly as pictured! Arlene was a joy to work with.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sydney M.

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

Little Family Getaway!

We loved staying here! It was the perfect spot for my husband & I with our 2 kids. We loved having access to a dock & the use of all the other outdoor amenities so that we didn’t have to travel with them. The area was very peaceful & we loved the ease of the entire weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kyle T.

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

Excellent spot for canoeing, kayaking, etc

The cabin was really nice. Lots of space for myself and 4 kids (12-17). Spent a lot of time kayaking, canoeing, rowing, fishing, and swimming. Nice spot to sit around a fire at night for s’mores and dinner. Hosts were great!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

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

Peaceful cabin

This is such a cute little updated cabin. Arlene was great to work with and she made sure we had what we needed. We spent a few days before and during the 4th of July and it was perfect for some down time. They had many lake "toys" to use, which was really nice. Very peaceful lake and grounds but we were able to see fireworks over the lake during our stay as well. Kitchen is fully stocked, beds were comfortable, no complaints! Thank you Arlene!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

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

"The Old Guys

It was perfect! On the lake, close to the river, great host, fish cleaning shack was a god send, easy parking, nice kitchen area, spacious bedrooms, HEAT for the cold mornings, Hot water for a nice relaxing shower, great deck with an awesome view of the sun setting. Summary-It doesn't get any better than this!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

holly g.

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

Good clean fun!

We always have a blast here. The cabin is spotless, as are all the many amenities (boat, kayak, paddle boat, dock, grill etc.). This is a fun place to getaway and quiet. We love that the lake isn't teaming with jetskis and chaos. One can play or just enjoy the solitude.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stacie M.

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

Absolutely wonderful!!

This was one of our favorite trips!! Everything was as described and wonderful!! We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

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

Fishing was "Awesome Baby"!

A great location with lots of lakes and rivers to explore. The host was a hoot with her dog Ruby suppling lots of antics. If you like to fish go in the early fall as this is the best time to catch the elusive crappie, walleye and bass.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Luke R.

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

Great Place

This was a great place to unwind for a long weekend. Close to the ATV trails and a great view of the lake. The cabin is totally updated on the inside and the owner is great. We will be back!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

richard c.

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

Relaxing break

Very clean cabin and right on the edge of the lake. We all enjoyed the kayaks on the lake at night with the sun set over the trees!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

holly g.

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

Always wonderful

Our first time staying in this cabin but one of many visits to the property. We love it here . Great location, tons of things to do and so clean! You could eat off the floor of the fishing boat that they let you use! It's nice to be able to come back after a day of hiking and fishing and be comfortable and cozy! It feels like a home away from home. Arlene and her family are wonderful to work with.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Great place!

We really enjoyed our long weekend at the Up North cabin. We took advantage of the kayaks at the resort and enjoyed the peaceful lake. The cabin was just like the pictures; clean and organized. Close to Savanna Portage State Park for some hiking and restaurants are about 20 minutes away if you don’t feel like cooking. Arlene was great and even baked us some homemade cookies! Would recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda H.

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

Nice place, the owner was awesome

The only thing we would have loved was a swimming beach; other than that we had a blast!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Mikayla L.

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

Calm retreat

The Up North Cabin was very relaxing to view the lake and feel the stress fall away. Very clean and comfortable for when the mosquitoes chased us inside. The lake was great to canoe and do some fishing out on and enjoy the beautiful weather.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021