Which Water Camp Cabin is Right for You? Where to Stay on Torch Lake

We know the feeling: you’ve decided it’s time for a trip to the crystal clear waters of Northern Michigan, but now you’re asking yourself where to stay on Torch Lake. The good news? We have 3 cabins designed to make the most of your trip to Torch Lake. All that’s left for you is to pick which one is best for you. Here’s the breakdown to help you decide.

The Cedar Cabin: Best for Families & First-Timers

The Cedar Cabin is the quintessential Northern Michigan lake cabin — vintage modern meets genuine charm, with breathtaking turquoise views of Torch Lake right outside the door. It sleeps up to 5 guests across 2 bedrooms, including a room with 2 double beds that kids absolutely love.

• Sleeps 5 | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bath
• 2 Stand-Up Paddleboards + Kayak included
• Art by local Northern Michigan artists throughout
• Seasonal availability: mid-April through early November
• Located close to hiking trails, wineries, and downtown Bellaire

The Cedar is a guest favorite year after year. If this is your first Water Camp trip, or you’re traveling with kids who need that extra sleeping space, this one is calling your name.

The Birch Cottage: Best for Groups & Year-Round Getaways

The Birch Cottage is our largest and most versatile property, sleeping up to 6 guests with 3 bedrooms — making it ideal for a group of friends, two couples traveling together, or a larger family. It sits in a prime Torch Lake location close to Traverse City, Charlevoix, and Bellaire.

• Sleeps 6 | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | Available year-round
• 2 SUPs + 2 Kayaks + Fire Table on patio
• Travel crib and high chair available — great for families with little ones
• Designed with a luxurious, vintage modern aesthetic and beautiful lake views
• Partial accessibility features available (see FAQ for details)

The Birch is the one guests rebook again and again. Open year-round, it’s a dream for fall foliage trips, holiday escapes, or any time you want the full Water Camp experience.

The Blue Spruce Cottage: Best for Nature Lovers & Winter Stays

The Blue Spruce Cottage is nestled in the trees with a private, cozy feel that nature lovers and off-season travelers adore. Also sleeping up to 6 guests across 3 bedrooms, it has a stunning deck overlooking the water, a fire pit with Adirondack chairs, and the most peaceful setting in the collection.

• Sleeps 6 | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | Available year-round
• SUP + 2 Kayaks + Bathtub (a fan favorite!) + Premium Bluetooth Sound System
• Fire pit and outdoor deck overlooking Torch Lake — perfect for winter stargazing
• Short drive to Schuss Mountain for skiing and snowboarding
• Close to Charlevoix, Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Traverse City

If you want to feel like you’ve truly escaped — tucked into the woods with the lake just steps away — the Blue Spruce is your cabin. It’s especially magical in winter when the trees are frosted and the fire is going.

Quick Comparison: Which One is Right for You?

	The Cedar	The Birch	Blue Spruce
Max Guests	5	6	6
Bedrooms	2	3	3
Year-Round	No (Apr–Nov)	Yes	Yes
Best For	Families, first visits	Groups, couples	Nature lovers, winter
Kayaks / SUPs	1 kayak, 2 SUPs	2 kayaks, 2 SUPs	2 kayaks, 1 SUP
Bathtub	No	No	Yes
Skiing Nearby	No	No	Yes (Schuss Mtn)

Ready to Find Your Cabin?

Whichever one speaks to you, we promise it will feel like home from the moment you arrive. Browse all three properties and check availability — we can’t wait to welcome you to Water Camp.