Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks
Enjoy a memorable vacation at our home away from home on Dayton Lake in Galien, MI, only a 90 minute drive from Chicago. Minutes away from New Buffalo, Lake Michigan, Three Oaks, Buchanan, and the many farmers markets, wineries, distilleries, and breweries in the area. Visit Three Oaks for the Acorn Theater and attend their concerts. Enjoy the many restaurants, including The Journeyman Distillery, Oaks Eatery for breakfast, and Froehlich's for a delicious meal and great shopping. The house is a fully furnished lakefront cedar home on 6 acres of private wooded lot with total seclusion. It has 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, an open living/dining/kitchen area on the main floor, a finished recreation basement with a pool table, poker table, darts, bar, and large TV. There is also a large 2nd floor loft ( which includes the 4th open to loft bedroom) with a chess/checkers table and open area for relaxing and reading. The cottage sleeps a maximum total of 12 people.
It is fully furnished with a country-rustic décor throughout. The kitchen is fully equipped with a microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and most small appliances and kitchen gadgets. New in 2025--You have the option to prepare a home cooked meal for the whole family with PFAS-free cookware and utensils! There is a solid wood dining table for 10 in the kitchen, a large sofa and a wood-burning fireplace in the living room. There is also a small TV in the family room loft for playing video games. The personal touches in décor along with the themed bedrooms give you the feeling of being in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy beautiful lake views from the living/kitchen area and wooded views from the bedrooms. P.S. There are no neighbors in sight!
HOUSE DETAILS: The kitchen and living room have 8 foot sliding glass doors leading to a large deck for hanging out and watching the kids play out on the over 150 ft sand beach. There is a charcoal grill for your use along with patio furniture and lawn chairs. There is a large gravel circle driveway leading to the house with room for parking. ***The basement was finished in '08 and has provided an extra 1700 sq feet of living space. There are two sitting areas, one in the rear of the basement and one towards the front, for watching TV on the large screen TV. There is a pool table, electronic dart board, nice poker table, and a bar that converts to a craps, roulette, and blackjack table. There is only one security camera on the property facing the parking area. It's used to monitor garbage pickup, propane fills, and trespassing when we are not there, and equipped for insurance. The max number of guests is limited to 12 persons on the property at any time and to those listed on the rental agreement. This is something we strictly enforce, due to respect for our neighbors, permits and insurance, and septic restrictions. **A signed rental agreement is needed to complete the booking** **A dog may be allowed with owners permission during the low season months due to allergy concerns. This allows extra time to thoroughly clean and remove dander and hair. Please inquire first**
No matter the season, there is always something to do.
THINGS TO DO---SUMMER: For your use, there is a folder filled with brochures of nearby places of interest and there are also local phone books with theatres, restaurants, and shopping. There are usually festivals and fairs happening in and around the area. In the Summer enjoy swimming and sunning on the approximately 150' sandy beach. There is a canoe and boat for your use for fishing or exploring the lake. The large grassy areas near the house can be used to throw a Frisbee or ball around or to play lawn games like bocce ball, bean bags, or horseshoes...all available. Visit some nearby farmer's markets for the freshest fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and fresh baked pies and breads. Try the local wines at the three nearby wineries in the area or take the kids to the nearby Pottawatomie Zoo, go horseback riding, or to the nearby Mishawaka, IN( and civilization) for some urban shopping and dining. New Buffalo Four Winds Casino & Resort nearby.
THINGS TO DO---FALL AND WINTER: In the Fall, go apple and pumpkin picking with the kids or for a hayride. Take in a Notre Dame game in South Bend, IN, only a 15 minute drive. Niles Haunted House Scream Park---Compare With Chicago Prices , Wineries: Tabor Hill And Roundbarn Winery
Winter offers the opportunity to go ice-fishing, ice-skating, and sledding on the lake and snow-mobiling on the abundant trails in the area. There are nearby sledding hills and a ski resort an hour away. There are many tree farms nearby also to chop down your very own X-mas tree to take home. Come back and enjoy some hot chocolate by the fire with your family as you watch the snow falling through the 2 large 8' patio doors.
New Buffalo Four Winds Casino & Resort Now Open
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Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Beach view
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Dayton Lake Cottages in Southwest Michigan 90 min from Chgo Close to New Buffalo
Galien
Dayton Lake Cottages in Southwest Michigan 90 min from Chgo Close to New Buffalo
Forfeir deposit if more than 12 people at any time
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
All monies will be forfeited and immediate eviction if maximum number of guests at the house is exceeded (12) at any time and/or if pets on premises.
A signed rental agreement is mandatory. Access to the house will NOT be allowed until the agreement is signed and returned to the owner
Cancellation policy: 60 days before check in-100% refund. After that, refund only for the dates that I am able to re-book for you. Covid--n/a
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Forfeir deposit if more than 12 people at any time
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
About the area
Galien
Located in Galien, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. The Tin Shop and Vickers Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Lehman's Orchards and Hickory Creek Winery. Travelling with kids? Consider Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, or check out an event or a game at Red Bud Track-N-Trail. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
Four Winds Casino South Bend - 20 min drive - 34.0 km
University of Notre Dame - 20 min drive - 31.5 km
Notre Dame Stadium - 23 min drive - 31.8 km
Century Center Convention Center - 27 min drive - 30.7 km
Getting around
Niles Station - 18 min drive
South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 24 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 11 min drive
Ray & Al’s - 7 min drive
River Saint Joe - 13 min drive
Hilltop Cafe - 11 min drive
Lehman's Orchard Brewery & Farmhouse - 11 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks?
As of 11 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks on 24 Apr 2026 start from AU$643, 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 Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Dayton Lake Cottages Southwest Michigan on 6 acres, near New Buffalo, Three Oaks located?
Nestled on the beach, this Galien holiday home is within 3 mi (5 km) of Dayton Lake, Mud Lake Bog and Burrus Lake. Indian Lake and Pine Lake are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This lake cottage is great! The owners were SO helpful and kind, and communicated so well. The cottage has so much charm, was clean and comfortable, and its location on the lake was perfect! There is so much to offer in outdoor space- we were never bored or without something to do. The lake is clean and was never busy. Such a peaceful area!There is an abundance of space inside as well. We would love to visit again!
This was such a great stay for our family. The house was fantastic and the lake and boats provided lots of fun and relaxation for us all. Highly recommended.
The house is absolutely great with a beautiful view of the lake. The owner is extremely accommodating and you very much feel welcomed. The proce is also incredible.
One of the best VRBO experiences ive had
Stayed 7 nights and had a great time. Lots of laughs from playing in the yard. Swimming area was small but nice. Fishing was on the lighter side for catching but everyone had a great time.
We had a great time! This property is amazing and it’s a short trip to ND campus. We really should have spent an extra day to use the beautiful lake and the surroundings.
Thanks so much
Our biggest disappointment was the water. Kids played in it...but wasn't clean enough for the adults wanting to join them. All 'boats' available for the water was in very bad condition.
My family and I went to the final Notre Dame home game of the season and stayed in this amazing home. With breathtaking views over the lake to a cozy wood burning fireplace we found this home perfect. The was plenty of room throughout the 3 levels and the games on the bottom floor were perfect for entertainment the night before the game. This may, in fact, turn into an annual family trip due to the amazing time we all had and shared.
There was something for everyone. Kids ages 3-11 had the best time swimming, fishing off dock and using kayaks. Adults played pool, darts and cards. House had plenty of space for everyone and had everything we needed. We all took a short ride to Warren Dunes State Park to climb the dunes and swim at the beautiful beach there. Fun, fun, fun for a wonderful week with my family!
We had a great week at the lake. The little kids loved the beach and swim area. The lake is on the smaller side, but quiet, and we were able to tube and wakeboard. The lake was very calm. We also had fun with the paddle boat, kayaks, and paddle board. The kitchen was well stocked, but we felt the supply of towels, sheets and pillows was barely enough. We had plenty of space in the house and yard and were able to play games in the yard and on the playset. we had a great time1
This house was great for our group. We had four kids with us - two babies and two toddlers - and they loved playing with the toys in the basement and running on the nice big lawn. The swing set and slide were a little big for them but older kids would love it. The lake was pretty and quiet, the kids and dads had a blast playing in the water, which was quite warm for Labor Day weekend. We purchased firewood but never used the fire pit, which looked lovely. We did use the cornhole set - too bad they had White Sox logos on them but I won't hold that against the house or the owners.
First time staying here. The space was perfect! We had 7 adults, a 1 yr old and a 5 yr old. Plenty of space for everyone! Kitchen table was huge. We all ate together and it was great for board games. We brought toys for inside and out and we didnt need them. There was plenty for the kids. Everything listed was there! More than enough dishes and pots and pans. The mixer did not work but we only needed it 1 time and we did just fine.
We swam everyday, the canoe, kayaks and paddle board was a great addition.
One bed dipped but other than that, the rest were comfy!
Highly recommend! We talked about coming back next year. My only suggestion is bring toilet paper, paper towels and garbage bags. LOTS of water for coffee and drinking. I give the place a 5 star!
Had a great week, weather was perfect as was the water. It's a great little getaway, clean with everything you need... and we also caught a few fish, Bass, bluegill and crappie. Several nice golf courses in the area. We played the Warren, Notre Dames course. They hosted the 2019 Sr PGA MEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP, top shelf. Also lots of wineries and restaurants and your only 25 minutes from lake Michigan.
Was a great getaway. The property is remote and the lake is remote and not busy. It was awesome for floating and fun. Rural internet was spotty so I wouldn’t plan on taking work meetings while on vacation here.
I don’t even know where to start when explaining how perfect this vacation home was. The outside was amazing with all of the cozy outdoor space, beach and pier. We grilled every night and played cards downstairs in the gaming area after eating upstairs in the large dining area. We fit the entire family of 11 at their table. Plenty of space to cook and had every bit of cookware that was needed. Kids absolutely adored the loft with the huge bean bag chairs and huge trundle bed. We also enjoyed the beach very much. This house has so many beach toys, beach chairs, lovely play set for the big kids and even one for the little ones. There were kayaks, a paddle boat, fishing boat and a paddle board. We were in a great location to get to any store or to New Buffalo. My one and only complaint was that I really wish the beds were more comfortable. That’s it. The place was so fantastic that We’re already trying to book a few more trips up there. I also want to mention how wonderful Sandra has been with her communication. She was always available and answered any questions we had. This place is a must for a family seeking a trip.
The house was 21 miles from the campus but was perfect for us on a football weekend. Nice to get out of town in the evenings for some quiet after being on campus and at the game.
This place far exceeded our expectations. There was plenty of space for everyone to not only to hang out and do activities but also sleeping wise. The kitchen was stocked with every kind of pot and pan you could think of and lots of spices, even though we brought our own. The space was just overall amazing and I would 10/10 recommend this to anybody I know. There is included directions for once you get closer to the house because it is a little bit tricky and those directions were so helpful! We liked it so much we are considering re-booking again sometime in the future just to take full advantage of all of the water offerings as well!
We had a great stay. Space is large, well laid-out and well maintained, host responsive, kitchen well stocked, beds comfy, super boats (2 kayaks, canoe, paddleboard, rowboat), no neighbors in sight (though traffic noise from route 12), lake is right there. The toys/games/waterfront/playset are fantastic for toddler age, but not for older kids. Internet is very slow. Cell signal strong but many dropouts. Lake is weedy beyond the small waterfront, but you can swim/boat out past the weeds. Host has an unusual policy of providing only 2 rolls of TP per bathroom, which seems odd considering 50 cents per roll relative to rent per night. Whatever, byo. And byo soap. Giant Keurig taking up scarce counter space, but no pods (byo). Despite these drawbacks we loved our stay.
We really enjoyed the lake . The two year old grandsons loved the beach area. The paddle board was a big hit with everyone. The lake house was nice and private and not much boat traffic on the lake. The house is conveniently located to lots of attraction! We visited an ice-cream shop, winery and a zoo all very near. Very peaceful vacation!!! We would definitely rent this home again.
James K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
About the host
Hosted by Sandra Matual
We are a family from Chicago that enjoy using our Michigan home whenever we can. With busy kids and a just as busy work schedules, we do not get to go up as often as we'd like. My husband has lived part-time on Dayton Lake all of his life and has many fond memories growing up fishing and exploring the area on his bike and by small rowboat. He claims to have personally stocked the lake with its first bass fish, which he caught at other lakes by the bucket-full and released on Dayton Lake as a kid. Lol. We hope your family can also make happy memories at our home and surrounding areas.
Why they chose this property
My husband's family has had homes on Dayton Lake for over 75 years, so when the opportunity to purchase land on the same lake arose in 2000, we jumped at the chance. Careful thought was placed on the location of the house and the position it faces on the lake. The views from the house onto the lake are breathtaking.
What makes this property unique
Our home is close and minutes away from the popular areas in Harbor country, such as New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Buchanan, Niles, South Bend, the wineries, restaurants, farmers markets, etc. When you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the days activities, you can come back to relax and enjoy everything the house has to offer with your family. There is a calm lake waiting for you to explore by swimming or floating around in or by the provided boats. In the evening, start a fire pit fire and enjoy smores by the campfire. Relax on the beach while watching the kids play in the water or watch the kids play on the commercial playset in the yard. Come back inside in the evenings and hang out in the basement playing pool or poker or watching a movie on TV.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests