Off Grid Lakeside Yurt

92%

36 reviews

· Sandstone, Pine, Minnesota · 24 acres

Hosted by Zac And Maddy F.

Yurt

· 2 guests max

Off-leash friendly

Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.

Your yurt overlooks Tamarack Lake. You will have privacy tucked away in the pines with your own setup of kitchen, picnic area, fire pit, and wood fire tub. A hand pump well with delicious clean water is available as well as a personal composting toilet within view of your yurt, through the trees. Our cabin is about 80 yards away and we are always happy to answer questions and lend a hand. Your yurt comes with a small kitchen that includes a two burner stove, grey water sink, pots, pans, dish ware, and utensils. French press, kettle, coffee and tea are provided. You are also welcome to use the outdoor wood fired cooking set up. The yurt has a wood fire stove that keeps the space toasty year round. Firewood is included for your stay. There is no electricity or running water but we provide a lantern and water inside the cabin. We have a small cast iron wood fired tub that overlooks the lake just outside your yurt! If interested let us know and we can assist. This is a great location for each season. With your booking you will have access to the canoes and our dock. Tamarack Lake is wonderful for fishing panfish, pike, and smallmouth. Come fish any season! You can enjoy yourself exploring via canoe or relaxing with a book at our dock! With nearly 10,000 acres of state land out the backdoor and many trails, adventuring can always be done no matter the season. We enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry xxsking, and hunting depending on the time of year. It is a big property, but sometimes there are crafting classes, such as basketry, wild food education, hide tanning, etc. While most weekends are quiet around here if you’re looking for privacy feel free to check in with us to make sure we are not hosting classes during your stay. We are looking forward to having you at the lake! Also there are more pics on Instagram @hex_and_strand Thanks =)Your yurt overlooks Tamarack Lake. Our cabin is about 80 yards away and we are always happy to answer questions and lend a hand. That being said, you will have privacy tucked away in the pines with your own setup of kitchen, picnic area, and wood fire tub. A hand pump well with delicious clean water is available as well as a personal composting toilet within view of your yurt, through the trees. Your yurt comes with a small kitchen that includes a two burner stove, grey water sink, pots, pans, dish ware, and utensils. French press, kettle, coffee and tea are provided. You are also welcome to use the outdoor wood fired cooking set up. We have a small cast iron wood fired tub that overlooks the lake just outside your yurt! If interested let us know and we can assist. **IMPORTANT** Most phone providers do it work here! Download offline maps for a stress free time! Also please throughly read the directions, Google and Apple Maps do not take you to the right location. WE DON’T WANT YOU TO GET LOST :) This is a great location for each season. With your booking you will have access to the canoes and our dock. Tamarack Lake is wonderful for fishing panfish, pike, and smallmouth. Come fish any season! You can enjoy yourself exploring via canoe or relaxing with a book at our dock! With nearly 10,000 acres of state land out the backdoor and many trails, adventuring can always be done no matter the season. We enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry xxsking, and hunting depending on the time of year. It is a big property, but sometimes there are crafting classes, such as basketry, wild food education, hide tanning, etc. While most weekends are quiet around here if you’re looking for privacy feel free to check in with us to make sure we are not hosting classes during your stay. We are looking forward to having you in the lake! Also there are more pics on Instagram @hex_and_strand Thanks =)

What to expect

Yurt

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

2 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit

Toilet available

Composting toilet

Pets allowed

Off leash. Off leash, if your dog listens to you =)

Potable water available

Pump or well

Cooking equipment present

Grill over firepit, communal

Picnic table present

In the communal area

No showers

Bathe in lake. Also have a wood fired claw foot tub. Fits two

Pack it out

No wifi

Laundry absent

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 12:00 PM

Check out: Before 10:00 AM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Moderate

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 3 months out

Short walk

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

2WD accessible

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

92% Recommend43 ratings · 36 reviews

This campsite offers a tranquil escape with its cozy yurts and serene lakeside views. Most campers appreciate the peacefulness and privacy, enjoying activities like canoeing and fishing. However, some visitors have noted a lack of clear views of the lake and disturbances from nearby noises. While many find the rustic setting charming, a few have mentioned the presence of mosquitoes and unclear directions as minor inconveniences.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

The spot is beautiful and the yurt well equipped. Zac and Maddy were very responsive.

Martha L.

1 month on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· June 2025

Very beautiful place! The lake was gorgeous but you could not really see the lake through the trees. Unfortunately, the only view we had was of the owners yard and house.

Bonnie S.

2 reviews

Mixed feelings

· June 2025

True off-grid

With pets

We enjoyed our privacy with being the only people on the property. I’ve been fascinated with some concepts of living off the grid and I feel like this stay really put me closer to that lifestyle than I’ve ever experienced. It really had me thinking about self-sufficiency and also simple conveniences I take for granted at home. The dock area was nice and I waded into the water waste deep on the last day of May. I was surprised the water was pretty warm and I tolerated the mucky bottom. I imagine that area probably grows heavily as summer nears and might not be the ideal swim area for many, but I wanted the experience. The road getting to the yurt(s)/property is a thin winding road that runs very close to the lake at some parts and we weren’t exactly sure if we’d understood the directions at first. There were other people pulled off the road fishing and we thought we encountered some potentially dirty looks from them. We persisted and made it to the property, which includes 2 yurts and a small cabin, among other structures. We did not use the tub but took in some ideas on how to setup our own. The sleeping was surprisingly not peaceful, as there was a barking dog and a vehicle horn echoing across the lake and we imagined someone nearby was trying to scare an animal from their camp. I’m sure other nights are more quiet there though, without the weekend traffic. Overall I am happy with this experience.

Jenna H.

8 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Amazing stay!

The work the hosts have put into the land really shows. It’s a beautiful property with stunning views. I will definitely be wanting to come back!

Samuel C.

17 reviews

Recommends

· February 2025

With pets

My girlfriend, dog and I had a fantastic winter weekend in the yurt. Skiing was fantastic. The hot tub was a highlight — definitely recommend. I’d be happy to book again.

Jake S.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2025

The yurt was such a sweet little place to spend a night. My cozy sleeping bag was very much necessary for a freezing February night. The stars at night were bright and beautiful. Thank you Zac and Maddy!

Jessica L.

4 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Wonderful yurt experience

This was a great stay, first time using Hipcamp. The yurt is amazing and removed enough for privacy. Zac and maddy are amazing hosts, and I can’t really imagine how it could have been better. It’s rustic, but that’s the point. Put in the work and have a bath, it’s worth it. Planning on going back!

Graham F.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

Had a great time! The yurt was very comfortable and private.

Gage H.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

You gotta check it out!

What a gem of a place and a people! 11/10 would recommend! For starters, Zac and Maddy are so hospitable and friendly and just seem like incredible people who choose to live intentionally on the land, the type of people you walk away from wondering: "how can I be more like them?". We went fishing (using their canoe) during our stay and they shared their fishing knowledge (including how to clean fish). That was such a gift! The yurt was incredibly cozy and had a nice window view of the lake. Perfect for a partially rainy weekend too! What are you waiting for? Make that reservation!

Kristina H.

3 reviews

Recommends

· April 2024

The yurt was amazing, it stayed nice and warm in there with the wood stove. The views of the lake were beautiful. We ran out of time to make it down to the canoes. I was a little leery about the compost toilet, but it was clean and well maintained. It took some work to get the fire going for the cast iron tub but once we got it going, it worked well. There were public trails just up the road. The hosts’ house was a little closer to the yurt than I expected but probably would feel more private in the summer when all the trees filled in. Overall it was nice and peaceful.

Kim B.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2024

With pets

May not be correct to rate the stay as we didn’t actually make it. That being said, zac and maddy were incredibly gracious in their efforts to set us up and give good directions to get to their location. No doubt in my mind the stay would have been everything expected, probably more.

Brian K.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2024

Gorgeous Lakeside Retreat

We had a beautiful stay at Zac and Maddy's place! The yurt is amazing -- tidy, cute, well-stocked, one-of-kind. The wood stove kept it warm even on a frigid January day. Water from the hand-pump well was pristine. We even fired up the outdoor bathtub and had an incredible relaxing bath under the tall pines and bright moon. Zac and Maddy are wonderful hosts -- warm, generous, and helpful. Staying here was such a breath of fresh air. We'll definitely be back!

Micah J. M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2024

magical spot

Wow, this place is amazing! We had a blast. The yurt is super comfortable, clean, well-built, and cute! It heats up fast and stays warm through the night, no problem. We watched the moon through the skylight and woke up to gaze at the lake right outside our front door. Zac and Maddy are wonderful people - generous, kind, and fun. We hiked in the endless forest all around us and on the frozen lake, watched wildlife, did a little ice fishing, and cozied up around the woodstove. If you're looking for a beautiful remote lake in the woods to retreat to, this is the spot!

Thane M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2024

Ideal place for slow-down time

The lakeside yurt was such a treat! Staying in a remote place with simple accommodations allowed me the opportunity to slow down and connect with nature. The yurt is home-made from saplings, very cute and comfy, and has the basics needed for a low-tech retreat.

Abby C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· October 2023

Not clear marked area- kinda junky

Tent · Group trip

Easy booking, arrived to a a home with unclear marking of where to camp( due to discription there was cooking gear in main area) was hard to find the water spout and bathroom, junk was around and when we came back for the night after hiking there were two cars that were new to the property ( I think the host lives there?) Wasent clear and no one communicated anything. As 4 women camping alone we were a little creeped. But beautiful lake and property is cleaned up! Super cool it offers use of a canoe there!

Carolyn M.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

Kind and welcoming host

Tent · Group trip

We really enjoyed our weekend on this property it has a beautiful view of the lake with the leaves just changing colors. There was a good amount of space to let our dogs run around but still stay in sight. The host was super kind and even shot some archery with us while we were there.

Connor H.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2023

Tent

Great piece of land to camp on!! The space is even better than the pictures. It was nice having the lake access and the canoe. We loved seeing the innovation incorporated in the space, the compostable toilet was awesome, and the water pump had great quality water. We had no pets and loved getting to pet the two dogs that roamed around the place. We couldn’t care less but there were 4 people total that seemed to live there, other people might care so I just thought I’d add that info. They were all EXTREMELY nice and they gave me some ibuprofen one night so we were fortunate that they were there, really. They also paid no mind to us really and let us do as we did. The water was really clear and I swam in it, seemed like a Great Lake to swim it to me.

Alecia M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent · Group trip

The space had everything we needed for a great 2 night tent / car camp trip! Awesome view of the lake, having the dock with seating and canoe access was a huge plus. Easy to book and great communication from Zac. Nice secluded site, yet felt the community from one particular neighbor that rode by on his arc to make sure everything was alright. On our way out we had gotten a flat just outside the property and the neighbor (wish I remember his name) happened to ride by and offered to help. Left and came back a few minutes later with his truck and everything we would need to repair the flat. Overall great site, would definitely make this a regular spot!

Shawn T.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent

Beautiful campsite! Amazing location. Hummingbirds, gardens, canoes, campfire site, and a well! What more could you want? We will definitely be interested in coming back.

Alexander S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Not recommend

· July 2023

Tent · With pets

The photos posted do not reflect the site accurately. The surrounding property was overgrown, which contributed to the swarms of mosquitoes. The lake wasn’t swimmable and that was my main goal…to swim and relax by the lake. The tent pad looked nice and was tucked in the trees. I ultimately decided not to camp and left. Maybe with different expectations this would’ve been a better experience.

Heidi M.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent · With pets

Awesome private spot with accommodations if you need them. Firewood available (cash). My dog, Prince, and I loved the actual alone time, contrary to what you get with a number of state park campsites where you're situated next to each other and it's never quite fully silent. My dog loved all of his off-leash time. Took the canoe out on Saturday morning before shooting further up north to spend the day hiking and oh man, those loon calls combined with the misty lake were magical. Plenty of mosquitoes, but that's nothing some smoke from a fire won't help with. We'll be back in the fall for sure. 10/10 would recommend.

Annika L.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent · With pets

We had a great time on Zacs land! Very private. Could add there's a gate to the driveway. My GPS took me to the opposite side of the lake several times. There are bees under the table held up with barrels, once we found that out the hard way, they left us alone. Bring bug spray, the mosquitoes are heavy at night. Would definitely stay here again. Very unique.

Carrie H.

5 reviews

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent

The land is beautiful and no neighbors insight. The lake was really nice to relax on. We brought some floaties. It was perfect for our getaway. We brought our pop up camper knowing the bugs would be bad. However they didn’t touch us on the dock or lake. My only complaint would be the toilet. Zac, you gotta make sure no bugs can get in there. I kept thinking something was going to fly up my butt the entire time lol. I appreciate you sharing your space. I could see how you should definitely check if ppl are going to be there. I wouldn’t have wanted to share my space. I would definitely go back!

Rachel D.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2023

Tent

Greta spot to camp and Zac was so friendly! Definitely recommend!

Alissa G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2023

Gorgeous. Quiet. Excellent Host

Tent · With pets

An incredible location on the lake and in the woods. The drive in was stunning right alongside the lake- right alongside! We had privacy but also the opportunity to learn about Zac and they were also very accommodating to some last minute guests. I will be back again. Do not miss the evening loon song from the lake! I want to leave Zac a great review but I’m also torn because I dont want to have to compete for future weekends if the word gets out!

Jesse D.

4 reviews

Mixed feelings

· September 2022

Not the right fit for us,but unique

Tent · With pets

Beautiful location, stayed for two nights. Pros; lake was awesome, dock access, good set up for camping, hiking trails within drivable distance. Cons; unaware that this weekend was a “rice-ing weekend” until we arrived, gravel work done during our stay- also not mentioned until we arrived. Camp spot not very secluded from host house. Rowboat operable however had leaks, one canoe non operable. Not made aware that there would be multiple dogs on premises-which lead to several dog fights. (Thankfully our dog is very mellow and stayed closed to us at all times) Overall unique stay just wasn’t the right fit for us. If privacy is a concern might want to look elsewhere.

Ethan P.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2022

Tent · Group trip

Zac is a wonderful host, super accommodating with firewood, canoe and paddles, plenty of space and even let us take shelter when it rained. Don’t forget bug repellent if you go to this beautiful serene lake getaway! We’ll be back again!

Sarah L.

5 reviews

Recommends

· May 2022

Tent · Group trip

Zac was a great host accommodating for any questions or concerns you have. Beautiful place and great fishing on the lake. If your thinking about staying here i would definitely recommend it.

Andrew M.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2022

Kind host exemplified care. Divine!

Tent · With pets

Phenomenal site! His GPS directions + written instructions made arriving to the property & knowing where to park so easy. My trip was booked last minute; dog & I didn't arrive until ~1230am. I communicated this to him as far in advance as I could, & he kindly placed out multiple lawn flags to mark a clear path to the tent site. The walk from parking to site was ~90 secs, part gravel, part grassy, mostly level w/a slow gradual downward as you get closer to the tent site (just stating this for potential future accessibility questions) making it a breeze by flashlight alone (moon 90% full, clear skies). Two comfortable woven chairs, an iron table, & a fire pit stand were available to me (or, that I first noticed in the dark). When Zac and I met next morning, he showed me around. Massive garden spaces, 2 dedicated hammock spaces, composting area, firewood (available for purchase! Super dry and convenient!), outdoor toilet, water pump (looks pretty recent/modern & has license tag on it), & path down a slope to the dock (life vests and water things [canoes, etc] were offered as available). My city-slicker chocolate lab had no hesitations about jumping right into the water that morning! Later in the afternoon my dog and I ventured down to the water again. He paddled and snortled in the water like the happiest of hippos, & I saw 2 loons swim not 60 yards off the dock. Night brought few bugs & many owl, loon calls, & bright stars! Hummingbirds! 💙

Ethan G.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2022

Tent

Wow. Very remote feel, despite being only 90 minutes from the twin cities. The topography is more like the terrain around Hayward Wisconsin, really doesn't feel like minnesota. Zac was helpful and responsive despite not being on site this weekend. It really really was mud season, the lake still had ice on it but not safe to walk on. Still, it was nice to hang around the fire and watch the sun go down. thanks for making this spot available zac!