Entire cabin

Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private

Photo gallery for Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private

Exterior
Property grounds
Interior
Interior
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6172 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor Space

About this property

Entire place

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

Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private

Shadowland River Lodge is located approx. 12 miles South East of downtown Traverse City. It is nestled on 33 acres of private land with 650 feet of frontage along the Boardman River. The original log home structure was built in 1929 and in later years added on to including a kitchen, dining area, full bathroom, walk-in closet, utility room, and a riverside main bedroom.

Shadowland River Lodge currently sleeps up to 6 guests with a queen bed in the one “ conventional “ bedroom with direct river views. (red bedspread) A set of “twin” size bunk beds are in the main room (red checkered) of the cabin structure along with a “double” size futon. (Cream w/ multi-color stripes)

The property has become a retreat for those looking to be a little off the beaten path of the busy hustle and bustle of Traverse City. Step back in time and enjoy the privacy and sense of nature that envelops this log home along the Boardman River. Also enjoy endless amounts of free firewood for use inside and out!

We are dog friendly - this means all dogs! (Sorry, we only allow dogs, no cats, etc.) There is no size limit. We love to have guests experience Shadowland River Lodge with their K9 family members! We see no need to charge a pet fee, so there isn’t one!

** 2021 UPDATE! Shadowland River Lodge now has A/C!
** 2022 UPDATE! Custom LARGE picnic table near fire pit!
** 2022 UPDATE! New High Efficiency propane boiler heating!
** 2023 UPDATE! New Kucht gas range now in kitchen!
** 2023 UPDATE! Custom LARGE picnic table on back porch! ** 2024 UPDATE! Kitchen is complete walls-in remodel. Walls, cabinets, granite countertops, etc!

VRBO is the “Only” website that we advertise on - we do not post Shadowland River Lodge on craigslist, or any third-party site, not organically populated by VRBO itself.

Property manager

Jason & Nicole Hulet

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car required

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Paper towels
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Hair dryer

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite service
  • Stereo
  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Work spaces

  • Desk

Climate control

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 4 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • On the waterfront
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near outlet shopping

Things to do

  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Water tubing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Unit size: 1849 sq ft (172 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

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

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
4 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadbolt lock
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 transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Shadowland River Lodge in Traverse City
Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River
Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River Pet Friendly

About the neighborhood

Map
Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

  • Turtle Creek Casino - 16 min drive - 13.5 km
  • Spider Lake - 17 min drive - 10.7 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 17 min drive - 18.0 km
  • Centre Ice Arena - 20 min drive - 16.0 km
  • Front Street - 27 min drive - 22.4 km

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Peegeo's - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Yankee Boy Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪VASA Singletrack Trailhead - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Lake George Electric - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Marni's Cheesecake - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 4 total).

What time is check-in at Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private ?

Check-out is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Twin Lake and within 3 mi (5 km) of Forest Lakes and South Branch Nature Preserve. Twin Lakes is 2.6 mi (4.3 km) away.

Shadowland River Lodge on Boardman River - Pet Friendly - Acreage - Private Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 129 out of 130 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 130 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 130 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 130 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 130 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bryan R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Late fall at Shadowland Lodge
We have been coming here for the past several years. Fall can always be a difficult time, but Shadowland Lodge has never failed us. This has become a place where my wife, two dogs and I can come to hit the reset button. Love the property and the lodge all together.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

AnnMarie G.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect getaway!
We had an amazing stay at Shadowland River Lodge! The cabin was immaculate and well stocked. There wasn't anything that the host didn't think of, anything you could possibly need for your stay was there. The dogs loved playing in the river! We had a wonderful week and cannot wait to stay here again!! Thank you Jason & Nicole!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy M., Chicago, IL

Liked: Cleanliness
Best Fall Getaway
I just returned from my 4th year in a row at Shadowland River Lodge and it could not have been a more perfect stay! The property itself is so beautiful and peaceful. Sipping coffee by the river in the morning and wine by the fire pit at night is just the best! My dogs love being able to roam freely in the yard and we sleep well every night. There are tons of things to do in the area with wineries, shopping and restuarants being just a short drive away. Jason and Nicole are the best hosts and are a big part of why I return every year. I am always sad to leave but will be counting the days until my visit next October!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aaron F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect place for fall getaway
Shadowland River Lodge has the perfect rustic charm with all the amenities to make our stay with a 6 month old and dog very relaxing. I honestly don't think that pictures do the setting justice, it's the idyllic scene of cabin on a wooded river. Jason and Nicole have put a lot of thought and care into this place and they were excellent to communicate with. We hope to stay again soon!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl N.

Liked: Cleanliness
River Paradise!
Loved, loved, loved this cabin. Absolute perfection. Cozy, clean, unique. The best equipped rental we have ever stayed in! OSuchaccompanying
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautifully kept riverside cabin
We spent a fantastic week with our two Akitas at Jason and Nicole’s charming cabin on the Boardman River outside the hustle and bustle of Traverse City. The property is equipped with every amenity imaginable for outdoor activities and fun. It even has an outdoor outlet that the owners generously allowed us to use to keep our EV charged! They keep the cabin fully stocked with split firewood to enjoy the rustic charm of the indoor fireplace and the outdoor fire circle on the riverbank. Lots of comfy Adirondack chairs on the river to enjoy your morning coffee. Our only beef has nothing to do at all with the owners or the property. Depending on how sensitive you are to it, there is a constant background traffic noise coming from the adjacent busy road. Thank you Jason and Nicole for sharing your beautiful cabin with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful log home
Thank you for opening up your lovely log home to our family. We enjoyed our stay and everything exceeded our expectations.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

CYNTHIA D., CYPRESS

Liked: Cleanliness
Terrific Escape From The Texas Heat!
All the reviews are accurate! Having coffee while sitting next to the river with a blanket on in the mornings and evenings in August was just what we needed! My husband tried to fly fish but not successful even though I saw fish jumping in the river. We spotted 2 deer jumping across river one night! The cabin is tastefully decorated and has everything you need - lots and lots of games and books if you want to stay inside. Secluded property so no close neighbors. We could not bring our dogs but if you have dogs that love water, this is the perfect place! We only slept in main bedroom and the bed was comfortable. Didn't cook at all but kitchen is well stocked - coffee, tea kettle, lots of spices, hot cocoa and Jason and Nicole left us a nice bottle of wine at check in. You will love it!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelley P., Union City

Liked: Cleanliness
Outstanding Hospitality
We recently stayed at Shadowland Lodge and loved its perfect location—close to Traverse City but far enough to escape the congestion. The lodge is nestled in a serene setting, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to the city's attractions. We enjoyed fishing and, since we pulled our boat, the property’s circle drive made it convenient. The cabin was clean and comfortable, and Jason and Nicole were friendly and helpful. A great spot for a relaxing getaway!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Honeymoon
We stayed at Shadowland River Lodge for our honeymoon. We chose this, as we have an elderly dog we couldn’t leave at home, and so few places allow pets. The hosts are wonderful, cabin stocked and spotless. There was a problem with the air conditioning, which was promptly taken care of. The property is very private, beautiful, with lots of areas to enjoy. It is on the Boardman River, which had beautiful views. My husband enjoyed fly fishing on the property, as well.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Getaway
Jason was a great host and the property is well kept. Decor is very well done and blends the cabin history with thoughtful modern touches. They've also thought of many details, from plenty of board/card game options, available Bluetooth speakers (that blend into the old school vibe of the cabin and you’ll miss it if you're not paying attention) to really good firewood (those that know, know). The chairs placed just feet from the Boardman river offer a cozy place to relax. My only ding against the place isn't even about the cabin - it's the proximity to County Road 605 and the curve of the road - listening to the river flow and water rushing over the rocks is occasionally overtaken by a semi engine breaking for the curve or a loud exhaust bike/car punching it out of the corner (I can relate to that). Jason and Nicole's property is a special retreat that we loved. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful escape.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sara jane N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Love ShadowLand Lodge
This place checks all the boxes! We loved the river side seating, the attention to detail (thank you for chilled wine glasses and a great bottle), the indoor fireplace, the outdoor firepit, the red chair with the best view to start my day. The game table…. It goes on. This cabin is very special, thank you for sharing. We didn’t want to leave
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Savannah M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Memories made
We have stayed at the cabin several times and it never disappoints. The scene alone is beautiful being on the river and having the tranquility of The privacy that the property offers is so nice yet stones throw away from being in the heart of Traverse City. Updates have been made to the cabin that just enhance the features. We have always loved about it and it is always well stocked and ready for your trip to be successful. Highly recommend.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous Lodge on the River
This was our family’s third time at Shadowlands and we love it there! The hosts were so kind to squeeze us in over the 4th of July week and it was just what we needed. The surroundings are stunning and even though it feels worlds away, it’s a quick and pleasant drive into TC. We absolutely love the huge indoor fireplace on a cool evening. The place has such a wonderful, warm ambiance with the string lights. We can’t wait to come back! Thank you, Jason and Nicole!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Benito

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This piece is great to enjoy and relax inside and outside, sit by the river and the fire pit play horse shoe lay in the hammock and many other things.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful get away!
My husband and I were looking for a quiet get-away with our Golden Retreiver to celebrate 40 years of marriage. We were greeted upon our arrival by Jason (the owner) to show us around the place. Jason was very thorough and even left us a bottle of chilled wine to celebrate our 40th. The cabin along the shallow river was perfect for us to unwind to settle in and enjoy nature. Everything was considered and the place was very clean and well equipped. The cabin itself is beautiful and cozy. Our dog loved the river and we loved watching him enjoy himself. Thank you Jason (and Nicole) for sharing your lovely place.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
A beautiful cabin, such a relaxing peaceful place. Plenty of items present to make your stay memorable. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Abbas K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Favorite place
Beautiful perfect peaceful fun and everything in between.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric B., St Charles

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful cottage and property
We had another terrific time at Shadowland. The cottage is cozy, clean and has a classic up north charm and feel. Jason and Nicole have thought of everything to make our stay comfortable. The fireplace was loaded with wood ready for our first fire when we arrived. They also were quick to answer any question we had prior to our stay. The property is beautiful and secluded. We loved having fires in the fire pit while listening to and exploring the river. We loved the seclusion yet also enjoyed being only 20 minutes to Traverse City. We definitely will be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
The host met us, had a fire set to be lit, showed us the place. Truly a comfy, beautiful setting. Kitchen had everything we needed. Nice big shower, comfortable bed. Many books, games and puzzles. Very warm and relaxing. Couple of excellent blue tooth speakers! Only problem....do we watch the fire or the river? One of the best places we've stayed.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway!
This was our fourth stay at Shadowland, and it was once again a wonderful experience! Jason and Nicole are always gracious hosts, and the property is perfect. The cabin is secluded in the wood, but only 20 to 25 minutes from downtown Traverse City. The property affords many outdoor activities and areas to decompress and listen to the river. Our family can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy M., Chicago, IL

Liked: Cleanliness
The Best Fall Getaway!
This was my third year in a row staying at Shadowland River Lodge and somehow, it just gets better every year! The property is so beautiful and relaxing and you just feel your stress melt away as soon as you arrive. Plus there are so many fun things to do in the area with the wine peninsulas and great restaurants. Jason and Nicole are the best hosts and just make the experience all the better. Already looking forward to my visit next Fall
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful retreat
This was our second stay at Shadowland. We love the tranquil setting and classic cabin feel. We really enjoyed relaxing by the huge fire as autumn descended this week. Jason is so responsive but we really had everything we needed for a fun, relaxing weekend away. Thanks for another wonderful stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

lyssa a.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
Its always relaxing and a pleasure to stay at Jason and Nicole's property. Being able to let our toddler and dogs run safely makes us very happy. There is no stress with Jason and Nicole. Thanks again and see you for year 3! Appreciative, Rob, Lyssa, toddler B, and pups
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gina S., Flat Rock, MI

Liked: Cleanliness
Our Favorite Vrbo Stay
Our overall experience at Shadowland River Lodge was perfect. I can’t say enough good things about this vrbo stay—the log cabin is amazing and the hosts were very warm, welcoming and responsive. First, we were really impressed with how well the grounds are kept. Several Adirondack chairs and picnic tables are tastefully placed throughout the property, giving it a true resort feel. Then the log cabin itself—it is a gem, beautifully decorated with comfortable leather furniture and a large television with access to Netflix & Prime—it’s all there without an extra fee. Everything, inside and out, is clean. Good Wi-Fi. Good beds. And a gorgeous, huge fireplace. My fisherman husband, dog, grandson and I had a blast. It’s so relaxing and beautiful here and we just wanted to stay forever! We also really appreciated and thank the hosts for the many thoughtful touches never before experienced in a vrbo rental—wood set in the fire pit for a bonfire with extra wood nearby, a sign in the cabin welcomed us, a bottle of wine with 2 chilled glasses placed in the fridge, and a very unexpected touch—no checkout instructions. Just like in a hotel, we could simply leave and lock the door behind us without having a list of cleanup chores. Our time spent at this riverside cabin was our favorite vrbo stay. We were so happy with our decision to stay here and will absolutely return! Thank you so much to Jason and Nicole for sharing this magical retreat!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023