Minnesota’s breathtaking landscapes and serene wilderness make it the perfect destination for large group getaways. At Up North Property Management, we’ve seen a surge in demand for spacious, luxurious cabins that can accommodate families and friends looking to reconnect in nature.
Our guide to large group cabin rentals in MN will help you find the ideal retreat, complete with high-end amenities and stunning views. We’ll explore the best locations, activities, and tips for planning an unforgettable group vacation in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
What Makes Minnesota’s Large Group Cabins Stand Out?
Minnesota vacation rentals and cabins are ideal accommodations for a family reunion, girls getaway, hunting retreat, or laid-back vacation with family and friends. These properties provide the perfect setting for unforgettable group getaways, combining spacious interiors with stunning outdoor environments.
Expansive Living Spaces for Group Bonding
The core of any large group cabin is its living area. Minnesota cabins excel in this aspect, often featuring open-concept designs that accommodate groups comfortably. Many properties showcase cathedral ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, which create an airy atmosphere and bring the outdoors inside. Cabins with multiple gathering spaces (such as a main living room and a separate den or loft) allow for simultaneous activities, ensuring everyone finds their perfect spot to relax or socialize.
Luxury Amenities for Ultimate Comfort
Modern large group rentals in Minnesota come equipped with high-end amenities that rival upscale hotels. Hot tubs offer a soothing retreat after a day of outdoor activities, while private saunas provide the perfect unwinding spot during cooler months. Game rooms with pool tables, foosball, and even indoor basketball courts ensure endless entertainment options.
Gourmet kitchens stand out as another impressive feature. These spaces cater to group cooking and dining, boasting professional-grade appliances, expansive countertops, and large islands. An increasing number of cabins now offer outdoor kitchen areas, complete with built-in grills and pizza ovens, enhancing the culinary experience.
Breathtaking Natural Surroundings
The location of Minnesota’s large group cabins is perhaps their most compelling feature. Whether situated on the shores of a pristine lake or tucked away in a dense forest, these properties provide unparalleled access to nature. Many cabins boast private docks, sandy beaches, or hiking trails right on the property. The North Shore of Lake Superior, in particular, offers stunning views.
Cabins with outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular. Features like wraparound decks, screened porches, and fire pits allow groups to fully immerse themselves in Minnesota’s natural beauty while enjoying the comforts of their accommodation.
Tailored Experiences for Every Group
Minnesota’s large group cabins cater to a wide range of preferences and needs. Some properties focus on providing a luxurious retreat with spa-like amenities, while others emphasize outdoor adventure with on-site equipment rentals and guided experiences. This diversity ensures that every group finds the perfect match for their ideal getaway.
As we explore the best locations for large group cabin rentals in Minnesota, you’ll discover how these outstanding features combine with the state’s diverse landscapes to create truly exceptional vacation experiences.
Where Are the Best Large Group Cabins in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s vast landscapes offer numerous locations for large group cabin rentals, each with its unique charm and attractions. We’ve identified three standout areas that consistently deliver exceptional experiences for group getaways.
Brainerd Lakes Area: A Year-Round Playground
The Brainerd Lakes Area, located in central Minnesota, is a premier destination for large group cabin rentals. This region boasts over 500 lakes within a 25-mile radius, which provides endless opportunities for water activities. Annual visitation to Minnesota peaked in July with 12% of the state’s trips, while February saw the lowest visitation at 6% of trips.
Large group cabins in this area often feature private lake access, spacious decks, and boat docks. Many properties can accommodate groups of 20 or more, with some luxurious options sleeping up to 30 guests. The Brainerd Lakes Area is particularly known for its golf courses (with over 20 championship courses in the region). For winter enthusiasts, the area offers excellent snowmobiling trails and ice fishing opportunities.
North Shore of Lake Superior: Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Adventure
The North Shore of Lake Superior runs from Duluth, Minnesota, at the western end of the lake, to Thunder Bay and Nipigon, Ontario, Canada, offering breathtaking views and rugged wilderness. This region is home to eight state parks, including the popular Gooseberry Falls and Tettegouche State Park.
Large group cabins along the North Shore often feature stunning lake views and easy access to hiking trails. Many properties in this area can accommodate groups of 15 to 25 people, with some larger options available. The North Shore is particularly popular for its fall colors, which typically peak in late September to early October. Winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with many cabins located near groomed trails.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: Unparalleled Natural Immersion
For groups seeking a more remote experience, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) offers unparalleled natural beauty. This vast wilderness area spans over 1 million acres and contains more than 1,000 lakes. The U.S. Forest Service reports that the BWCAW receives around 250,000 visitors annually, despite its remote location.
Large group cabins near the BWCAW tend to be more rustic but still offer comfortable accommodations for groups of 10 to 20 people. These properties often provide direct access to lakes and canoe routes, which makes them ideal for groups interested in paddling and fishing. The area is known for its excellent walleye and northern pike fishing, with many cabins offering fish cleaning stations and freezers for your catch.
When you choose a location for your large group cabin rental in Minnesota, consider the activities and amenities that are most important to your group. Each of these areas offers a unique experience, from the bustling lakes of Brainerd to the serene wilderness of the Boundary Waters. Now that we’ve explored the best locations, let’s look at the exciting activities and attractions that await large groups in Minnesota.
What Large Groups Can Do in Minnesota
Minnesota’s diverse landscapes and vibrant communities offer a wealth of activities for large groups. From thrilling water sports to serene nature walks and lively local events, there’s something for everyone in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Water Sports and Fishing Adventures
Minnesota’s abundance of lakes and rivers (over 11,800 lakes) makes it a paradise for water enthusiasts. The state provides endless opportunities for group activities on the water.
Many lakes offer jet ski and speedboat rentals for adrenaline seekers. Lake Minnetonka, just outside the Twin Cities, stands out as a hotspot for water skiing and wakeboarding. Groups can rent equipment and book lessons for beginners.
Fishing remains a quintessential Minnesota activity. The state houses over 160 species of fish, with walleye as the most popular catch. Groups can charter fishing boats on larger lakes like Mille Lacs or Leech Lake for guided fishing experiences. Many cabin rentals include private docks, perfect for a relaxed day of fishing right from your accommodation.
For a more laid-back water experience, canoeing and kayaking excel as options. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers over 1,200 miles of canoe routes. Groups can plan multi-day trips, camp on remote islands, and explore pristine wilderness.
Hiking and Nature Exploration
Minnesota’s diverse ecosystems provide ample opportunities for hiking and nature observation. The state boasts over 4,000 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks.
In Northern Minnesota, the Superior Hiking Trail stretches for 310 miles along the North Shore of Lake Superior. This trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and suits day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. Groups can choose sections based on their skill level and time constraints.
Voyageurs National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park houses diverse wildlife, including moose, wolves, and over 240 bird species. Guided tours allow groups to learn more about the park’s ecosystem and history.
In Central Minnesota, Itasca State Park (the source of the Mississippi River) offers over 32,000 acres of wilderness to explore. Groups can walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi, hike through old-growth pine forests, and learn about the area’s rich history at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.
Local Culture and Events
Minnesota’s vibrant communities host numerous festivals and events throughout the year, providing unique experiences for large groups.
The Minnesota State Fair (held annually in late August to early September) ranks as one of the largest state fairs in the United States. Groups can enjoy live music, agricultural exhibits, and a wide array of local foods.
For music lovers, the Bayfront Blues Festival in Duluth is a must-attend event. Held in August, it’s the largest outdoor blues festival in the upper Midwest, featuring both national and regional acts.
In winter, the St. Paul Winter Carnival offers a unique celebration of Minnesota’s cold season. The event includes ice sculpting competitions, parades, and the creation of an elaborate ice palace.
For a taste of local culture, groups can visit the Mall of America in Bloomington. Beyond shopping, the mall offers entertainment options like Nickelodeon Universe (an indoor theme park) and SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium.
Final Thoughts
Luxurious large group cabin rentals in Minnesota offer an unparalleled experience for families, friends, and colleagues. These spacious accommodations provide the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and access to Minnesota’s stunning natural beauty. With ample room for everyone, high-end amenities, and breathtaking locations, large group cabins create an ideal setting for bonding, relaxation, and adventure.
Successful group getaways require careful planning. Select a cabin that suits your group’s size and preferences, ensure enough space and amenities for everyone, and consider the interests of all participants when choosing activities. Plan meals in advance to take advantage of gourmet kitchens, and establish clear communication about costs, responsibilities, and schedules.
At Up North Property Management, we understand the unique needs of large groups seeking the perfect vacation rental. Our extensive portfolio of properties includes some of the finest large group cabin rentals MN has to offer. We handle every aspect of your stay (from initial booking to final checkout) and our team’s local expertise allows us to recommend the best activities tailored to your group’s interests.