Minnesota’s Best Lake Resorts for a Summer Family Escape

It’s time to book one of these 10 Minnesota Family Lake Resorts for your next getaway!

Nothing quite says summer in Minnesota like a beautiful lakeside getaway with kids! From waves crashing against idyllic lakeshores to fun activities like swimming and fishing, lake resorts in Minnesota are the epitome of summer fun. If you’re planning fun family weekend getaways in Minnesota this summer, consider one or two of these lake resorts. From Nisswa to Grand Marais, each resort features stunning lakeside locations, family entertainment, and much more! Imagine spending lazy summer days on the beach while kids swim. Or boating with kids giggling delightfully as they maneuver along the water on a tube! The opportunities are truly endless. Whether you want to get up north, embrace island life, or want dedicated kids’ programming, there is a Minnesota resort on this list for you.

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Please keep reading to discover our top picks for the best Minnesota Family Lake Resorts!

Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, Tofte

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Bluefin Bay offers guests the best the North Shore has to offer. From beautiful lake views to a full activities calendar, there are endless ways for families to create new memories here.

Accommodations include traditional guest rooms and suites and one-, two—, and three-bedroom townhomes with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living rooms. More options can be found at Surfside and Temperance Landing. As one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota for families, Bluefin Bay is beloved by parents for its top-notch summer activities, warm and inviting staff, and access to epic outdoor adventures on the North Shore.

Spend lazy summer days by the water, watching kids splash in the waves or collect rocks along the shore. Those wanting to get on the water can also look into the on-site guided sea kayaking tours. Or, embark on a day of adventure with a guided hike. They offer hikes suitable for all ages and skill levels. Then, Bluefin Bay also offers a kids’ program in the summer for ages 6-8 in the mornings and ages 9-12 in the afternoons. Looking for more ideas to fill your days? Try one of the nature programs led by a United States Forest Service naturalist. Of course, the area has many activities for families, from nearby hiking and biking trails to shopping in downtown Grand Marais. After a long day of adventure, cozy up near the campfire to make s’mores. Finally, on-site dining and a spa are also available.

Sandy Point Lodge & Resort, Kabetogama

Pack up your kids and escape to Sandy Point Lodge & Resort on Kabetogama Lake. In northern Minnesota, warm summer days in Voyageurs National Park include spectacular fishing, beautiful hiking trails, and fun on the water together. Plus, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in some of Minnesota’s most pristine wilderness!

As one of the best resorts in Northern Minnesota for families, accommodations include lakeside cabins and deluxe lodge rooms. Deluxe lodge rooms sleep 4, with the option to add additional children. Meanwhile, cabins range from 2- to 3-bedroom units. Cabins also include amenities like kitchens, decks or screened porches, and air conditioning.

Offering a variety of boat rentals for guests, Sandy Point Lodge & Resort ensures you have everything you need for a fun summer retreat to the lake. Whether you want to take a sunset pontoon ride or embark on a kayaking adventure, the boat you need will be right at your fingertips. Plus, they offer fishing guides for serious and novice anglers alike. Imagine the joy on your child’s face as they reel in a giant walleye! You can also add the Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary, Kettle Falls Hotel, and Historical Site to your itinerary. This secluded resort also offers an on-site restaurant and full dock service.

Ludlow’s Island Resort, Cook

Perhaps one of the most unique resorts in Minnesota, Ludlow’s Island Resort is a picture-perfect summer getaway for kids. Families can escape to their own “private island” on Lake Vermilion! Kids will be amazed as they jet across the water to their picturesque home away from home.

Accommodations range between one- to five-bedroom cabins, with the largest cabin sleeping a maximum of 10 guests. All of which feature fireplaces, decks, and screened porches. All the cabins include a fully-stocked kitchenette. Wood paneling and epic lake views complete the nostalgic lakeside resort ambiance. Notably, each cabin was handcrafted by the Ludlow family – and no two are alike!

As one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota for families, there are endless adventures on the island, too. Summer visitors will find various non-motorized watercraft, from hydrobikes and paddleboards to canoes. Plus, kids won’t be able to tear themselves away from the waterslides and inflatable towers on the water. Then, boat rentals are available for family fun, including fish, peaceful pontoon rides, and tubing. Finally, Ludlow’s Island Resort also features an on-site spa, several nearby golf courses, and a variety of nearby dining options (reachable by car or boat!).

White Eagle Resort, Cook

Also located on Lake Vermilion, White Eagle Resort was designed with families in mind. From its scenic location to its ton-notch family entertainment, kids will feel like they are in an outdoor paradise while staying here.

Cabins range from 2- to 7-bedrooms, with the largest lodge sleeping up to fourteen people. There are two cabins on an island, sleeping six and eight, respectively. The island cabins feature amenities like a cedar sauna, swimming beach and swim platform, lakeside game room, and more. No matter which cabin type you choose, you’ll be treated like family as you enjoy a woodsy getaway together.

When you’re ready to have some fun, grab a boat to explore the water. Several options are available – including one with a slide into the lake! Water skis, tubes, and kneeboards are also available to enhance your day playing on the water. When you’re not boating, spend your days lounging in the sun, hiking, or hanging out on the beach. White Eagle Resort has a game room and playground for even more family fun. In the evening, spend time laughing around the campfire while munching on gooey s’mores. Lastly, an on-site spa and private catering are also available. No wonder families find White Eagle Resort, one of the best lake resorts in Northern Minnesota, with kids!

Kohl’s Resort, Bemidji

If you’re looking for a quintessential lake resort in Northern Minnesota, Kohl’s Resort has just what you need! Located in Buena Vista State Forest on Turtle Lake, Kohl’s Resort is a hidden gem for families seeking a scenic summer retreat. Featuring a long list of summer activities and the city benefits of nearby Bemidji, you’ll quickly see why families fall in love with Kohl’s Resort.

The cabins here range from 2- to 5 bedrooms. The largest of which sleeps up to 12 guests. You can also select from various cabin styles, from traditional lakeside cabins to beautiful fishing retreats. Many cabins also provide family-friendly amenities like private campfire pits, outdoor seating, screened porches, kitchens, and air conditioning. Plus, on-site food is also available at the Liar’s Lounge.

Want to know what makes Kohl’s Resort one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota for families? It has an enormous list of complimentary summer amenities! Families can spend all day swimming, paddleboarding, or racing across the aqua park at the marina. In addition to the private beach, there is even a sandbar on the lake (just out from the resort). When you’re ready to dry off, a miniature golf course, game room, lawn games, and more are available, too. Not to mention, fat tire bikes and hiking trails are available for adventurous guests! The resort also offers fun summer activities daily to keep the kids happy. From kids’ yoga and sandcastle competitions to bingo and minnow races, you’ll never hear “I’m bored” while staying here!

Grand View Lodge, Nisswa

Are you looking for a low-stress, high-fun lake resort for all ages? You’re going to adore Grand View Lodge! Overlooking Gull Lake, this resort provides a stunning backdrop for family fun all summer long. One of the perks of staying here is the summer Kids Club for ages 3-11, featuring a variety of activities and lunch under the care of a highly-trained staff (additional daily fee/child).

The resort features several accommodation options, including a boutique hotel experience and multi-bedroom townhomes. There is a style to fit every need and budget. In particular, if you’re planning a summer trip with another family or a multigenerational family vacation, this resort is one of your best options across the state! It is truly one of the best places for fun family weekend getaways in Minnesota.

Families can spend their days outside all summer, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Or, race down the zipline course, challenge each other in a lawn game, or play a round of tennis. Banana tubing, swimming, and paddleboarding are available on the water. Then, families can also splash and play together at Northpark. It features a huge indoor pool with a waterslide. A fitness center and on-site spa allow parents to take a mini-retreat to indulge in much-needed self-care. Before you book, check their seasonal events for more family fun opportunities during your stay. Then, multiple on-site dining options complete the stress-free summer getaway experience. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love here. Finally, you can learn more about their family packages here.

Madden’s On Gull Lake, Brainerd

Families love lakeside vacations together at Madden’s On Gull Lake. Nestled along Gull Lake, this Minnesota lake resort offers more recreational amenities than any other resort in the Midwest. Not to mention miles of pristine shoreline waiting to be explored.

Madden’s On Gull Lake believes every vacation is unique. As such, they offer a splendid combination of accommodations to suit all families, including multi-bedroom houses, traditional guest rooms, villas, and more. Which one you choose will depend on how many people you’re traveling with, your budget, and your preferred style of stay.

Let the adventure begin! Engage in a little friendly competition by playing lawn bowling, pickleball, sand volleyball, horseshoes, badminton, or shuffleboard. Afterward, select from one of the three sandy beaches for a swim. Or, kids can hang out on the inflatable water park. Boat rentals are also available. Plus, more family fun can be had at the outdoor pool. Then, kids ages 4-12 can also spend their days at Adventure Cove, a supervised camp-style experience featuring a variety of activities and lunch (additional daily fee/child).

Meanwhile, if you want to relax, head to the on-site spa for some pampering. Several on-site dining options are available for every meal, each featuring a children’s menu. Offering a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure, Madden’s On Gull Lake is undoubtedly one of the best summer resorts in Minnesota for families with kids of all ages!

lakeside at maddens family lake resorts Minnesota

Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, Grand Marais

An outdoor haven for adventure families, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters is a secluded resort tucked away on Gunflint Lake. Located about an hour from downtown Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail, this historic resort has been a family tradition since 1925. It is one of the oldest resorts in the state!

Featuring a variety of accommodation types, families can choose from cabins or lake homes. The largest of which sleeps up to 14 guests. Each option includes a stone fireplace, and many also have a private sauna or hot tub. Laundry facilities and kitchens are also available in most options too. Additionally, all of the Interpretive Naturalist Programs are included with each stay.

In addition to swimming, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are also included with your stay. Plus, you can zoom along ziplines, go horseback riding, or try to reel in giant fish! Guided fishing tours with knowledgeable locals are available. Then, explore the property on one of the many scenic hiking trails. Or, embark on a nearby hike to locations like Magnetic Rock or Honeymoon Bluff. Additional summer activities include fat tire biking, watercraft rentals, pontoon cruises, and Boundary Waters Day Trips. On-site dining from breakfast to dinner is also available. There is always a dedicated children’s menu. No wonder Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters is widely considered one of the best lake resorts in Minnesota for families with kids of all ages.

Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill, Grand Marais

Located in the Superior National Forest on Devil Track Lake, Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill is a charming option for families interested in vacationing near Grand Marais. As one of the best resorts in Northern Minnesota for families, families can expect comfortable accommodations, lake views, thrilling activities, and a welcoming staff.

Accommodations at Skyport Lodge range from traditional lodge rooms to cabins. Lodge rooms include everything from a studio queen to a 2-bedroom apartment. Meanwhile, cabins boast three bedrooms, three bathrooms, full kitchens, and enchanting fireplaces. Cabins sleep a maximum of 6 people.

Start your summer getaway here on the water. While the shoreline can be a bit rocky, that won’t stop kids from splishing and splashing all day long! You can also enjoy a day out on the water with a watercraft rental. Alternatively, guests have free access to canoes, SUP boards, and kayaks. Afterward, let kids burn off even more energy at the lakeside playground. Then, a community room with board games is available for rainy days or when you’re ready to dry off. Plus, you can attend the many live music performances and other seasonal events, like Music by The Lake, held throughout the summer months. After days filled with hiking, swimming, and exploring, end each day with a campfire, ghost stories, and s’mores. Finally, on-site dining is also available at Skyport Lodge, which includes a dedicated kids’ menu.

Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort, Brainerd

Plan your next summer family getaway to Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort. Located on Sylvan Lake, this family-run, kid-friendly resort prides itself on making every guest feel like family, from babies to grandparents! From its lovely lake views to its array of activities, you’ll delight in making memories with your family here.

At Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort, lodging includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom cabins, cottages, and suites. There is even a sizeable six-bedroom house for large groups or multigenerational family trips. Then, if your kids can’t get enough of the pool while on vacation, book one of the poolside suites! Each one includes a kitchen, grill, washer/dryer, fireplace, and more family-friendly features!

As one of Minnesota’s best family weekend getaways, you’ll find endless fun in the sun at Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort. Kids can choose from two sandy beaches and an outdoor pool when they are ready to swim. You can also spend your days playing volleyball, kayaking, and lounging on the water. Boat rentals are also available here. Kids can also play at the on-site playground. An indoor pool and game room are also available for rainy days or when you need to escape the heat. A fitness center is also available for parents who want to fit in a workout. Finally, families will find plenty of fun things to do in the area, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more.

Keep Exploring Minnesota with Kids!

We hope this article featuring Minnesota Family Lake Resorts to visit this summer helps you plan your next getaway. From Nisswa to Grand Marais, there are many fantastic places to experience exciting family weekend getaways in Minnesota! Regardless of which one you choose, we know you will make unforgettable memories with your kids as you swim, make s’mores, and enjoy a little undistracted time together.