Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
Beach equipment
A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
5 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12
Popular amenities
Onsite parking available
Dog-friendly
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air-conditioning
Barbecue
Explore the area
Arcadia, MI
Upper Herring Lake
Place, Upper Herring Lake
1 min drive
Lower Herring Lake
Place, Lower Herring Lake
4 min drive
Inspiration Point
Place, Inspiration Point
7 min drive
Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
33 min drive
Rooms & beds
5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 3
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Double Futon and 1 Single Bunk Bed
Great Room
2 Double Futons
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room
PEACEFUL LAKEFRONT FARM HOUSE NEAR CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN WITH FREE PONTOON
We never charge host, cleaning, pet (up to 2 dogs) or extra guest fees.
This 4 bedroom, 2 bath farmhouse-style home is a thoughtfully designed recreation of a classic Northern Michigan farmhouse, built in 2006 and set on 2.5 private acres along Upper Herring Lake. With 140 feet of private water frontage and a quiet country setting, this home offers privacy, space, and a true up-north atmosphere.
Surrounded by rolling hills, woodlands, orchards, and vineyards, the Farm House Cottage sits on a peaceful country road and provides plenty of elbow room for families and multi-generation groups.
THE HOME This cozy yet spacious 2,200 square foot home features custom ceramic tile, wide plank flooring, detailed woodwork, an antique claw-foot tub, and Pottery Barn-style décor blended with antique and custom furnishings.
The main great room includes an HD TV with Roku, a DVD player, and a DVD library, making it a comfortable gathering space after a day on the lake or the slopes.
A game room with bunk beds features a foosball table, board games, an HD TV with Roku, and a PlayStation 2 with games. This space is ideal for kids, teens, and casual evening entertainment while allowing adults to enjoy quieter time in the great room.
The layout is designed with family fun in mind, offering separate areas for adults and children so everyone has space to relax.
THE LAKE AND LOCATION Upper Herring Lake is an all-sports lake that remains peaceful and uncrowded, making it ideal for boating, fishing, and relaxed lake days without heavy traffic.
The home is just minutes from Lake Michigan beaches and the town of Frankfort, and is conveniently located near Crystal Mountain, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Traverse City. It is an excellent home base for summer lake vacations, fall color tours, and winter ski trips.
WATERFRONT ACCESS AND AMENITIES A short walk along a boardwalk through a protected natural area leads to the lakefront amenities. This path typically takes about two to three minutes for healthy adults and children. The home sits on a slight grade, so the walk back may take a bit longer for guests with mobility or health concerns.
Lakefront amenities include a full dock with moorings for additional boats, a fire pit with chairs, a rope hammock, chaise lounges, and ample space to enjoy the shoreline.
INCLUDED WATERCRAFT AND SEASONAL AMENITIES Included at no extra charge, seasonally available: Pontoon boat with 10 gallons of pre-mixed fuel Available Memorial Week through early October Floating foam aqua-play mat Available Memorial Week through Labor Day Week Kayaks Available May 1 through November 1 Row boat Available April 1 through November 15 Dock Available mid-May through November 1 The lake bottom is typical Northern Michigan soft sediment (mucky) near the shoreline. It is not sandy.
ABOUT THE PONTOON BOAT As a free bonus for our summer guests, we offer the use of one of our pontoon boats. These boats are clean, well maintained, and functional. They range in size from 18 to 24 feet and are older models equipped with 25 to 35 hp two-stroke motors.
They are well suited for relaxed sunset cruises and family fishing outings. Guests with basic boating knowledge and familiarity with two-stroke motors will enjoy them most. Full instructions and technical assistance are available if needed. Please see photos for a typical example of the pontoon boat.
WHAT WE PROVIDE A starter supply of paper and soap products is provided and is typically sufficient for a two-night stay for smaller groups of two to four guests. For a complete list of what is provided and what to bring, please see “Using the Property” on your My Trip page.
SEASONAL NOTES For winter stays, an all-wheel-drive vehicle or front-wheel drive vehicle with good snow tires is strongly recommended.
IMPORTANT HOUSE NOTES This is a quiet, peaceful setting suited for families and responsible guests.
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Barn Style Lakefront with Pontoon, Kayaks and Game Room
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
1. Start first load of laundry (can be either linens or towels).
2. Wipe excessive spills on surfaces.
3. Return furniture to original places. Please leave inside furniture inside and outside furniture outside.
4. Clean and empty the BBQ grill into provided ash can only.
5. Clean up after pets (including HAIR IN HOME (and "doo-doo" in yard).
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Check out list:
-Start a load of laundry
-Wash dishes & put away
-Put back furniture that was moved
-Trash out to receptacle
-Clean all dog hair & poo
Smoking damages the the home. If smoking has occurred inside the home, there will be a $200-$500 Cleaning Repair Fee depending on the level of damage.
Quiet time: 10PM - 8AM. No parking on rd. By booking guest agrees to VRBO and host's (sent by VRBO after booking is complete) Terms and Conditions
Important information
You need to know
Property # 53087vb
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
Long-term renters welcome
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 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
About the area
Arcadia
Located in Arcadia, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts and Frankfort Light are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Crystal Mountain and Chestnut Hills Golf Course. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the snowmobiling and sledging.
Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve - 6 min drive - 7.6 km
Inspiration Point - 7 min drive - 8.6 km
Betsie Lake - 11 min drive - 13.7 km
Getting around
Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 34 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 16 min drive
A&W Restaurant - 12 min drive
Chestnut Hills Golf Course - 13 min drive
MT Plate Diner - 9 min drive
The Lighthouse Cafe - 11 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room?
As of 10 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room on 27 Oct 2026 start from AU$669, 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 Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Free PONTOON boat. Lakefront w/Kayaks & Game Room located?
This family-friendly Arcadia holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Upper Herring Lake and Lower Herring Lake. Lake Michigan is 2.2 mi (3.6 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very spacious for my dogs and I. The game room was a nice touch as well. We loved our stay. It was close to the beach and the host was very accommodating.
We had six adults and four kids, 6 and under. The pontoon boat was a big hit. We went fishing, even caught a few, the kids played on the jump pad. The kayaks also were a hit with the adults. The fire pit was great for s’mores, the playscape also kept the kids entertained. It has swings, a slide, a hanging bar, a sand box. There was a platform and the kids made up shows to perform. The kitchen had all the usual stuff. We did do a lot of cooking there. The table fit us all. The ticks were horrible, do take repellent with you, and use it. We found a lot of things to do in Frankfort. Overall it was a great trip. Be sure to go star gazing on clear nights. Buy your groceries in Frankfort, about a ten minute drive away. And if you like beer, definitely go to the Lucky Dog bar in Frankfort. I think that was the highlight of my husband’s trip!
Patricia F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug 2026
Thanks for all the kind words and your helpful advice for future guests! You guys were great and are welcome back anytime!
This place was even better than the pics! It worked out perfect for our trip and our family of 12 had more than enough room! I would definitely recommend thia place to anyone looking to stay in the area! We had to make a cpl last minute changes on our trip and the host was very accommodating. Thank you very much! We has a great time staying at the FHC!!
Would love to see this house in the summer. Great space for multiple families. Wish there was more comfortable seating in the living area but it worked. About 20 min from Crystal. Love that is is dog friendly. Would definitely book again.
The property was beautiful! 14 family members stayed here very comfortably! Great fishing with the pontoon! Something for everyone!!! Plan to return next summer 😊
Brenda M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 July 2022
Thank you, Brenda! We loved having you and I’m so glad you enjoyed you stay!! We look forward to having you again sometime soon!! ❤️
The property was exactly as described. My husband, dog and I had a very nice stay. There are many orchards and trails near by. The Arcadia bluffs were beautiful. The pontoon was so fun and a nice experience. The property is beautiful and relaxing. I only wish there had been some restaurants near by.
The house was very clean and comfortable, with lots of amenities. The location was also peaceful. This allowed for an enjoyable stay. Nice boardwalk to the water, play structure/sandbox for younger children, charcoal grill, kayaks, pontoon, fire pit. Also not far from downtown Frankfort. Would recommend.
Chris V.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Feb 2022
Thank you so much for this lovely detailed review! We love how close downtown Frankfort is too! You are welcomed back anytime! :)
We just returned from an awesome girls ski weekend getaway. The house was perfect for our group of 8. Only 15 mins to Crystal Mountain. It was clean, and well maintained. The property owner provided lots of great info in the binders that were on the table. Perfect location and property for a winter weekend getaway!
Andrea B.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Feb 2022
Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed your stay. It was wonderful having you all and you’re welcome back anytime! :)
Everything was absolutely perfect. Clean, organized, well stocked. Just like the pictures. The boat was such an added bonus. Our weather was iffy but we made the most of it. Just perfect. Many beautiful memories made.
Karla L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Feb 2022
Thank you so much! I am thrilled you had such wonderful memories made! You are always welcomed back again!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Melisa O.
15 Feb 2017
Very nice house, ideal for large families!
This a very nice decorated and furnished house. Space full environments, with indoor and outdoor games for kids and good movies available for grownups. Large kitchen and well equipped. There is a lake connected to the backyard, during winter ideal for ice fishing. Quite neighbourhood, ideal for escaping the routine and noisy cities. 100% recommended!
Our group had 4 adults and 6 children and we had plenty of room. Kitchen is big, beds are comfortable and there was lots of space to stretch out. Game room/bedroom was perfect for my 3 teen boys.
Upstairs shower isn’t the best, and I wish they had more comfortable couches and a mop available to clean up melted snow that was tracked in.
Other than that, place was great.
Sandra A.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Mar 2023
Hi Sandra! Thank you for your 5 star review! In the future, please feel free to contact us while you’re in our home so that we can help you find whatever you need. We don’t receive reviews until two weeks after you’ve checked out. This means we are unable to give you the best possible stay. Our number is in the VRBO app, the info book on the dining room table and even on the fridge for your convenience. You were great guests and I hope we can have you back for our next ski season!
This home is beautiful! It had plenty of room for our group 9(+2 dogs). I loved how clean the home was. The owners had 3 binders with information about the area, the property and the boat. Yes, there was a pontoon available. Unfortunately the weather was rather crappy so we didn't get a chance to try it out. I would 100% recommend this property.
Four adults. We each had our bedroom. Very quiet and secluded. No shower soap or dish soap. No Wifi and the TV is dish. Couldn't get any football games.
sue F.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2023
It's looking like we will finally get wifi in a few weeks! There is a new cable company in the area and they really think it will work for us. If we do, I will update our info.
About the host
Hosted by Lizzie B
We are a small, family run business. Be sure to let us know if you have any issues during your stay so we can make things right. :)
Why they chose this property
My dad built this home in 2005 because we fell in love with the quiet, country road and Upper Herring Lake.
What makes this property unique
Home was built to resemble an old farm house from 1920. All the antiques in the home are from that period. Also, this is a dedicated vacation rental which means we don't have drawers, closets and cupboards full of our personal items.
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests