Summary:
Escape to Van Der Mullen Trail Camp, a secluded 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath Northern Michigan retreat in Fife Lake. Open seasonally from mid-May through hunting season, weather permitting. Enjoy a peaceful wooded setting, large decks, fire pit, and easy access to outdoor recreation. This is an off-grid-style getaway with no WiFi, no trash service, and limited GPS/cell reception, making it the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.
The Space:
Van DerMullen Trail Camp is a classic Northern Michigan getaway tucked among the pines in Fife Lake near Smithville Landing and directly adjacent to thousands of acres of state land. Whether you're here for hunting, hiking, mushroom foraging, ORV riding, or simply escaping the hustle of everyday life, this seasonal retreat puts Northern Michigan's outdoors right at your doorstep.
The home features an open-concept living area with comfortable seating, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining area with plenty of space for family meals, card games, and planning the next day's adventures.
The cabin comfortably sleeps up to six guests. The primary bedroom features a queen bed with direct access to the main full bathroom and laundry room. Bedroom two offers a queen bed and an attached half bath. The living room includes a futon for additional sleeping space.
Step outside to enjoy spacious decks, gather around the fire pit under the stars, and watch for the abundant wildlife that regularly visits the area. In the spring, the surrounding forests offer excellent morel mushroom hunting opportunities. With direct access to state land, guests can spend their days exploring miles of woods, trails, and natural beauty without ever leaving the area. This seasonal property is typically open from mid-May through hunting season, weather permitting.
Please note: WiFi is not provided, and cell/GPS service will be limited depending on your carrier. (AT&T works great!) Guests are required to dispose of all trash before checkout. A $100 trash removal fee will apply after check-out if trash is left behind. The property offers ample parking for vehicles, trailers, and ORVs. Guests should also be aware that there is a mild tobacco smoke odor inside the home. Home is located on a seasonal access-only road,
If you're looking for a true Northern Michigan trail camp experience with campfires, fresh air, outdoor recreation, and room to unplug, Van Der Mullen Trail Camp is the perfect place to make lasting memories.
Rental Policy:
- No smoking permitted inside the home.
- No fireworks permitted.
- No events, parties, or large gatherings permitted.
- Minimum booking age is 25.
- One dog permitted with prior approval.
- We have partnered with Safely to provide rental property damage protection for all reservations. Coverage for stays up to 120 nights is included with your reservation.
- A valid photo ID is required after booking.
Guest Access:
Seasonal road access. Sand, dirt, and gravel roads. Expect washout after rain. This property features self-check-in. Check-in after 10 pm is not permitted. Check-in instructions are sent after completing our guest check-in form. The home's property address will also be sent separately 72 hours prior to check-in.
The Neighborhood:
Garfield Township, Kalkaska County
Getting Around:
Vehicle recommended.
Other Things to Note:
Guests are provided with a small amount of essentials, including paper towels, toilet paper in each bathroom, laundry pods, dish pods, dish soap, hand soap, and basic cleaning supplies. There is no trash service provided. The guest must dispose of all trash before checking out. $100 trash fee will be assessed after check-out for trash left behind for the cleaner to dispose of. This property has a noticeable tobacco smoke odor inside the home.
Interaction with Guests:
Rental Management One is available to assist via email, phone, or directly through OTA messages. Detailed contact information will be provided with the check-in instructions.