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The River Lodge

Photo gallery for The River Lodge

Welcome to The River Lodge with a brand new exterior!
Parking area
Back yard
Front porch
Front porch

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
7 bedrooms4+ bathroomsSleeps 22436 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Aitkin, MN
  • Place, Nelson Lake
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Place, Milford Mine Memorial Park
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Place, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Airport, Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)
    ‪44 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

7 bedrooms (sleeps 22)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 6

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 7

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

4 Single Beds

Living Room 2

2 Single Bunk Beds

4 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Basement Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo

Basement Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Main Level Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Upstairs Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Upstairs Half Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The River Lodge

WELCOME TO THE RIVER LODGE –a place to gather with friends and family! This unique home sits on a peaceful five acres on the banks of the Mississippi River. It features three levels with 7 bedrooms plus additional sleeping areas in the loft and the game room, making it possible to fit up to 24 guests (see below for details). The great room with its double height ceiling and loft balcony provides a large gathering space which is perfect for reunions and retreats. Additionally, there are 3 other living rooms all with smart TVs, 5 bathrooms, a game room with ping pong, several outdoor sitting areas, a beautiful fire pit patio and hot tub to enjoy.

THE AREA
The towns of Aitkin and Crosby are just a 15 minute drive from the lodge. Both have a wonderful variety of cafes, restaurants, antique shops and events throughout the year. Also a short drive away are the famous Cuyuna mountain biking trails! In the winter, cross country, snowshoe and snow-mobile trails are all nearby.

BEDS AND BEDROOMS
Bedroom 1: King bed (main level)
Bedroom 2: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 3: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 4: Queen bed (upstairs)
Bedroom 5: Queen bed and bunk bed (basement)
Bedroom 6: Queen bed (basement)
Bedroom 7: Queen bed (basement)
Loft: 2 daybeds with trundles (upstairs)
Game Room: 2 bunk beds (basement)

LODGE RULES & INFO
-Dogs allowed (up to 3) with pet fee - inquire for pet rules and fee questions
-No parties allowed
-Only guests who are part of the reservation may be on the property at any time. Small weddings allowed with additional fee, only up to 50 guests. Please inquire for details.
-No confetti or glitter allowed
-The Mississippi River is not easily accessible and swimming is never recommended. There is a boat launch just a couple miles down the road and several great lakes nearby with beaches as well. We would be happy to provide more details.


HOME FEATURES & AMENITIES
Kitchen
-All basic utensils and cooking tools
-Pots, pans, bakeware and dishes
-2 drip coffee makers, 2 french press, 1 chemex (pour over), 1 aeropress
-Blender
-Slow cooker
-Hand mixer
-Griddle
-Toaster
-Gas grill (propane is provided)
-Salt, pepper and olive oil
-2 refrigerators
-Pantry
-Paper towels and dish soap

Linens & Toiletries…
-100% organic cotton sheets and pillow cases
-Bed quilts and fleece layering blankets
-Towels and washcloths
-Hair dryer
-Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash and Body Lotion

Other…
-High speed WiFi
-Bluetooth speakers
-Smart or Apple TVs with soundbars in all living room areas
-Walkout basement with radiant floor heating
-Custom built extra long dining table with seating for 16 people
-Fireplace
-Pack and Play
-High chair
-DVDs, books and games
-Fire pit and roasting sticks
-Swings and Hammocks
-Outdoor tables for dining al fresco
-Lawn games

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Please beware of stairs and river bank.
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and weddings
Small events allowed with an additional fee.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 3 total)
$100 fee for 1st dog, $50 for each additional dog
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No drinks/food in bedrooms or in hot tub.
Only guests included in the reservation are allowe
No confetti or glitter allowed ever.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: Small events allowed with an additional fee.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Aitkin

Located in Aitkin, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Mississippi River and Crow Wing State Forest reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Aitkin County Fairgrounds and Northern Pacific Depot. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cabin rentals in AitkinOpens in a new window
Map
Aitkin, MN

What's nearby

  • Nelson Lake - 18 min drive - 11.4 km
  • Crow Wing State Forest - 18 min drive - 13.1 km
  • Milford Mine Memorial Park - 19 min drive - 12.4 km
  • Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area - 21 min drive - 16.4 km
  • Upper Mission Lake - 22 min drive - 20.0 km

Getting around

  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 33 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bridge Tavern - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Woodtick Inn - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪T J's On the Cove - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Wrights Quality Fresh Fruit - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The River Lodge pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at The River Lodge?

As of 29 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The River Lodge on 19 Apr 2026 start from AU$800, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at The River Lodge?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The River Lodge?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The River Lodge?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The River Lodge located?

This family-friendly Aitkin cabin is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Mississippi River and Nelson Lake. Milford Mine Memorial Park and Crow Wing State Forest are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 175 out of 183 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 183 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 183 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 183 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 183 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great trip, as always! Very responsive and accommodating. Wonderful place for a girls weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of our favorite places to stay. Perfect for a large family vacation.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bee Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent place to stay and great host!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful large home. Plenty of different areas to socialize and relax. Clean and well stocked with lots of tags everywhere so you don't have to dig for stuff. Hosts responsive. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jody C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Andrew and Joy were great hosts, they left a amazing welcome basket and easy directions for the weekend!!! Such a beautful and amazing property! We have a Group of 12 ladies going on girls weekends for 30 plus years and the lodge is definitely near the top! It had everything we needed, space, a amazing view, comfort in every corner, and truly felt like home for the weekend! Love the extras- hot tub, ping pong, (which we crowned a champion team of the group) and other games! Definitely recommend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Makayla K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a perfecr venue for my small bavkyard wedding. The hosts were flexible and easy to work with, property was gorgeous!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super easy to check in and such a lovely property!! The kitchen had everything we needed
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property that held our big family! So much sleeping space, and areas to gather together.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matt T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home was beautifully situated on a private plot of land on the Mississippi river. The house was perfect for our family. We had a snow storm while we stayed in the next morning. The parking area and the driveway were plowed. That was amazing. The home had everything we needed to have an outstanding family get together. I highly recommend this home to anybody that wants a private getaway. The hosts responded immediately to any question I had and were wonderful and gracious. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful oasis.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

T G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely stunning home on a beautiful piece of property. Quiet, peaceful, and super clean! Can’t recommend enough!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent place for family gatherings. Spacious with multiple gathering spaces within the cabin. Well stocked kitchen, large dining table, games, game table, ping pong table, etc. Deck seated our entire group of 20 people. Tasteful decor. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous property. We hosted a grooms dinner at The Lodge during our stay. The house and everything in it were perfect. One small issue but it didn’t affect our stay. Joy was available for questions and checking in throughout our stay. We are already planning our next trip!!!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Morgan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was perfect! We held a small elopement wedding here with our closest friends and family. We were very happy with the updates Andrew and Joy made to the property since we originally booked it. Everyone who attended was beyond impressed with how beautiful the view and set up was. The only bump we had was our first night it was unbearably cold when we were trying to sleep. Joy got back to me in the morning and quickly fixed the issue. Overall, Joy and Andrew were a pleasure to work with and were extremely responsive.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan B.

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

Great place!

We always have a wonderful experience here!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susanne B.

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

Perfect family vacation

This was our second stay at the Lodge. It works so perfect for our family with 7 bedrooms and numerous
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shee X.

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

Wonderful stay!

The River Lodge is such a beautiful space! Very clean and we had everything we needed for our 3 night stay. We would love to visit again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan B.

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

Great Cabin

We loved this beautiful cabin and it had plenty of space for our extended family.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

evan z.

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

Annual Family Trip

Our group had a great time at the River Lodge. We loved the large gathering spaces, both inside and out.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

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

Our summer getaway

Our family has been staying at the River Lodge for the past 4 years and we all love it. The host is extremely responsive.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Jamie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second time at The River Lodge, & my family had a wonderful time. We lost water one evening and Andrew was very responsive & helpful in getting someone out quick to fix it. The lodge was very clean & stocked well with supplies. Tons of seating & space for a large family. Beautiful yard. There were several bedroom/bathroom doors that wouldn’t fully shut/were very difficult & loud to shut. Overall a memorable & wonderful stay/ highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jordan T.

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

Beautiful Property

The River Lodge was as advertised if not better! Andrew and Joy were excellent hosts and very accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy E.

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

Perfect set up for a group

Large, nice areas to relax and have conversations, beautiful view, calming. Plus the owners communicated well with us.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

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

Great place for a get together

This is a great spot for a get together, this is our 3rd time using this location for a friends get together and are looking forward to coming back. The hosts are great with responses and working with you to make the stay easy.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Say Y.

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

It was a beautiful place huge house with lots of room for everyone.

Overall we love it got everything we need it for our group.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeremiah S.

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

Family All Together

What an amazing job they have done to this place. We had so much fun as a family staying at the River Lodge. We are already thinking about when we want to go back. It had plenty of space for the family to hang out, play games, watch movies and just enjoy time together. We highly recommend it to any larger families looking for a place to all be together.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

About the host

Hosted by Andrew and Joy Ballard

Host profile image
We are husband/wife team, Andrew & Joy, and we are passionate about creating a space where friends, family and guests can retreat to out of the hustle of life and enjoy some quality time together. We are honored and excited to provide our guests with an exceptional retreat experience!

Why they chose this property

The River Lodge provides the space for a lot of people to sleep, but also enough space to cook together, eat together, hang out and have fun together. It was important for us to create an environment where a large number of people could be comfortable and feel at home. Additionally, the secluded setting surrounded by nature is a valued factor in creating a peaceful and relaxing stay for guests.

What makes this property unique

The lodge is a large space where families will not feel crowded and there are spaces and activities for guests of all ages to enjoy.

Languages:

English, Spanish
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