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Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat

98%
·
310 reviews
 · Stanwood, Mecosta, Michigan
100 acres hosted by Robert V.
3 lodging sites · 3 RV/tent sites · 1 tent site
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Best in Michigan: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.
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Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
My property (Lynx Run) has an amazing geological and historical background. During the last ice age, glacial waters carved out the ravine in which the Betts Creek flows.  Sometimes, the creek drops over 60 feet below the surrounding terrain as it meanders back and forth in oxbows as it flows toward the Muskegon River.  It was once the hunting, foraging and camping grounds of the Potawatami Indians.  In the late 1800's it was at the center of the Michigan Timber Industry.  Running along the edge of my property is the old railroad bed where timber was once hauled away.  Only two miles from my home, the logs were sent down the side of the hill and into the Muskegon River on log chutes and then floated to where the Muskegon empties into Lake Michigan.  Piles of field stones indicate that after the timber industry moved on, farmers moved in and attempted to tame the land.  But, fortunately for me, the land was abandoned by the farmers and has returned to a much more natural and pristine state.  My land is now a part of the Manistee National Forest and I am surrounded by thousands of acres of beautiful land (both public and private).  I am the only person who lives back here in this part of the forest, so seclusion and privacy are wonderful and the wildlife and beauty is abundant.
Activities
Biking
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Natural features
Forest
Lake
River, stream, or creek
Wetlands

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Tent sites

1 site
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Beautiful Secluded forest site

95% (11)
Tent site · Sleeps 14
This wonderful campsite sits on a small rise overlooking a marsh meadow with a beautiful trout stream and tipi. Very private. This is a walk-in site. It is just 3 minutes from where you will park your vehicle. Lots of wildlife.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
No picnic table
from
$50
/ night
for NaN guests

RV/tent sites

3 sites
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Secluded Wildlife Paradise

97% (73)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 20 ft
Come and pitch your tent and set up camp on our beautiful property, where you'll have the feeling of being in the middle of the wilderness.  The tent areas are set apart to insure lots of privacy.  Tent sites one and two are overlooking the beautiful trout stream.   Tent site three is at the end of the orchard looking into a wild meadow.  While the tent areas are primitive, all campers will have access to hot showers in really nice, easy access bathrooms.   We do have a cabin on site if you prefer to rent a cabin - you can head over to our Hipcamp cabin listing. The cabin has a gorgeous English Country garden in front with stone fences and an authentic Japanese fern and moss garden behind with two Japanese bridges and ancient stone sculptures from China.   To the north of the cabin on our property there is a small fruit orchard, and to the south is a beautiful little red barn with a covered porch and chicken coop attached.  The property is very unique with a very large art studio that the campers are welcome to use if they ask.  All facilities are completely off-the-grid.  100% solar run with an LP back-up generator for cloudy days.   The main house has Wi-Fi which reaches about 80 feet from the house. I grow most of my own food in the summer months in a raised-bed garden that the visitors are welcome to visit.  My 20 acres backs up to 80 acres of state land and about two miles away, visitors have access to thousands of acres of land that runs along the Muskegon river.  A lot of great hiking in the area.  Camp Site one and camp site three are large enough where several tents could be placed for a group of campers.  The other sites are more remote.  It's a magical place with lots of things to see and experience.  Hope you come, relax and enjoy!  The prices listed are for the camping spots only. The cabin and the guest rooms will have their own posting.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
Showers
from
$50
/ night
for NaN guests
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Wilderness Stream Magic

100% (51)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 20 ft
This camp site is remote and gorgeous overlooking a lowland meadow of grasses and wildflowers.  A beautiful trout stream flows through the middle of the meadow.  The bathroom and main house are about a three minute walk away.  You will see lots of amazing birds and wildlife.  You will fall asleep to the gurgling of the trout stream as it flows over rocks not far from your camp fire.  Wander into the low meadow to gaze at the stars at night.  You will be camped under trees for shade during the day.  This campsite is remote and has no car access.  You will have to carry your tent and belongings a short distance but that only adds to the adventure!
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
Showers
from
$50
/ night
for NaN guests
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Secluded Forest with field edge

98% (25)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 32 · Vehicles under 20 ft
This campsite is beautifully located at the end of a small orchard in a group of trees and on the edge of a beautiful field. Very private with lots of big trees and plenty of space to set up tents or campers. A small spring runs near it. There's a picnic table and fire pit. Lots of birds and wildlife. Good for big groups. You can drive right up to the site.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
Showers
from
$50
/ night
for NaN guests

Lodging

3 sites
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Cabin

98% (99)
Cabin · Sleeps 6
Arrive and immediately relax in this stunning little wilderness cabin with barn, orchard, English country garden, wilderness, Japanese garden, beautiful and pristine trout stream and natural spring with two Japanese bridges behind the cabin.  The cabin is true to the real wilderness cabins of old:  It doesn't have electricity or running water. You can come and unplug and unwind.  Read a good book and go for long walks.  Renters have easy access to two beautiful full bathrooms with warm showers only 200 feet from the cabin.  At the main house, you can connect to Wi-Fi and plug in to electrical outlets.  The cabin easily sleeps three with room for more if anyone is willing to sleep on a mattress on the floor.  It's like luxurious camping!  The cabin has a large cooler to keep food (you bring the ice!), a gas grille on the porch for cooking and even an antique claw-foot tub on the porch if you want to take a bath outdoors!  (There is a gas heater for the water right next to the tub.)  This cabin offers a relaxing and interesting experience for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle. It sits in the middle of the Manistee National Forest with plenty of bird song and sounds of nature to lull you into a relaxed mood.  
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$150
/ night
for NaN guests
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Tipi

97% (38)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 4
Welcome to Otter Lodge, a wilderness Tipi. This Tipi is surrounded by a pristine trout stream and sounds of diverse native wildlife. Located in a beautiful valley, the Otter Lodge is the perfect getaway to connect with your most natural self. Take a dip in the stream, enjoy the noises of nearby creatures, and warm up with a night time fire in the comfort of an artistic and rustic shelter. The exterior design of the Tipi was painted by a diversity of guests who have stayed on the property and generously lent a helping hand to this project. The Tipi sleeps 5 people. There is bedding, pillows, a fire pit, and artistic touches throughout. The fire must be kept low, and we kindly ask that no dogs enter the Tipi, given the proximity to the stream and natural debris.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
No picnic table
from
$90
/ night
for NaN guests
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Courtyard

95% (30)
Cabin · Sleeps 2
Check in and get ready to relax!  This gorgeous courtyard guest room is nestled in a courtyard garden between an art studio and architecturally beautiful house of contemporary Japanese design influence.  The garden has pathways and lots of flowers and stonework.  The art studio is open for viewing and use by guests as is the house.  The library is one of a kind!  The kitchen is beautiful and the house is full of artwork.  Each room is private and there are two shared bathrooms in the courtyard.  Each bathroom comes with a very nice tiled hot shower, towels and soap/shampoo.  The whole property is one garden after another and is surrounded by the Manistee National Forest.  It's stunning here every season of the year.  Guests will have full privacy in their rooms.  Most of the rest of the spaces are shared, but the grounds and home are expansive and offer lots of private areas.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$98
/ night
for NaN guests

Reviews

98% Recommend422 ratings · 310 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Amazing welcoming place to recharge
Tent · With pets ·
Secluded Wildlife Paradise
Amazing, peaceful time camping in gorgeoeus surroundings with my dog. Roberts place is beyond beautiful .
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Michelle M.
9 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Song bird paradise
Tent · With pets ·
Beautiful Secluded forest site
All I can say is wow! This site is everything and more for a long weekend in the woods! Building Bridges, lots of good cooking, baby deers, trout and an abundance of birds! We definitely will be back!
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Cayla P.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Great little cabin
With kids ·
Cabin
Great little cabin. Wonderful place to escape. The trails were well marked. The bathrooms clean and the host accommodating.
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Byron M.
10 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
A beautiful place to camp in Stanwo
Tent ·
Secluded Wildlife Paradise
My friend Kamie and I were bikpacking from Croton, and this was the closest Hipcamp to the end of our route for the day. It required an additional 5 miles of pedaling off course, but it is off some beautiful back roads down a quiet seasonal road away from traffic and noise. The grounds are gorgeous with a creek running through it, plentiful trees, and Robert's gardens. Robert was a very gracious host and responded promptly to any questions we had. There are two indoor bathrooms with showers available which is a nice feature when camping. There is also running water safe for drinking. The campsites have great views and firepits. There are also a couple of cabins and indoor lodging available for those who do not want to sleep outside. If you are in the area and want a quiet, safe place to camp, come check out Lynx Run!
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Sharon J.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Wilderness Stream Magic
We loved tent camping here! The weather wasn't great during our stay but the beautiful grounds we were able to explore, the free roaming chickens and the comfortable setting made us forget about the cloudy skies and on off rain. Great adventure! Would stay here again!
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Mandi S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Peaceful beautiful spot in Michigan
Tent · Group trip ·
Secluded Wildlife Paradise
We had a blast tent camping at Lynx Run. It was so peaceful. We heard whippoorwills, wood thrush, turkeys, owls, grouse drumming. Such a beautiful spot in the woods with a trout stream running through it. Host was very friendly and accommodating. Love that he shares his home and land with all of us so that we can enjoy it as well. His home is very cool and like a museum!
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Laura A.
6 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Cabin
Rob's retreat was a magical wilderness wonderland. There was so much to enjoy, from trails to the fascinating library to themed gardens. It was a real off-the-grid treat! Be prepared for no water or electricity, and time to unplug. This place is for those who prefer to connect, enjoy unique experiences, and don't mind a rustic stay. Rob is a wonderful host and a fascinating human being. Be prepared to sleep soundly and be awoken by the rooster's crow! So much to discover!
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Jackie K.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tipi
Very fun trip in a unique location. Robert was a great host. From the trails, to the creek and nearby river, and the art, it was a weekend to remember.
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Barry G.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
October Anniversary night away
Cabin
We had a great stay in Rob’s rustic cabin! The incredible property and the chance to see his library were worth the trip alone! The fall colors were stunning, I wish we had booked another night to explore more of the property. We met several kind folks who were also staying on the property and overall loved the laid back vibes of the company Lynx Run attracts. The wood burning stove was a super cool feature to test out but I’m not sure my sensitive lungs could handle another night in the cabin, there was smoke that hung out when the fire died down. (We aren’t experts so it could have been user error, but I think the flue swings open and closed very easily). We’d love to visit again at one of the camping sites!
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Chloe G.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Immaculate Vibes and Generous Host!
Tent · With pets ·
Beautiful Secluded forest site
Lynx Run is gorgeous, vibrant, and shows how much love and passion that Rob puts into the land and the experience here. Everyone should check out his art and the Library collection if they have a chance! Immaculate vibes. Our particular campsite had plenty of space for multiple structures & car. It's in far sight of the cabin, but very private. The merry band of chickens and the cat are likely to walk through the site, so that’s important to keep in mind if bringing a dog. We loved the site so much and would pick it again. The property has lots of benches/good little places to sit and enjoy the views and sounds of nature, plus some trails. Any trails that don't directly lead to a campsite aren’t really clear, and you may want to ask to be shown where to wander. We did enjoy some off-trail traipsing in the forest which was a delight. There are two clean and well stocked bathrooms with big showers and flush toilets and sinks. They're not heated but do have hot water. We advise you to leave them vented/screen door open so that moisture from showers can actually dry out. Rob was so generous and kind to let us wash our camp dishes in his sink and fill up water there as well. Best tasting well water ever. The road into the property might be difficult for low riding cars, especially if there has been rain. Google maps led us the wrong direction, but Waze got it right, so I recommend navigating to the intersection mentioned in the arrival directions and going from there!
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Julia K.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
Beautiful all around
With pets ·
Cabin
An amazing experience that I will always remember. The pictures do not do the property justice. We had such a wonderful time exploring the property and in awe of the fascinating and powerful artwork throughout. We cannot wait to go back and make this trip a yearly tradition.
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Natalie Ann M.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
Walking thru a Van Gogh painting!
Courtyard
Such a surreal Hipcamp and artist’s retreat! Photos don’t do it justice, you’ll need to plan a visit to take in all the beauty and serenity of this place! :) Rob is such an accommodating, open, and welcoming host. His kitty cat Indie greeted me once I found my room! I stayed in one of the 10 guest rooms in the garden. My room had a full sized bed, a vanity, bedside table with plugged in lamp, and a chair. Very simple layout but designed so creatively and intentionally. The bathrooms were separate from the rooms but still within the vicinity. Flush toilet, sink, and hot shower. It was cute to take a little scenic route headed to the potty and back lol! I would highly recommend this Hipcamp stay to anyone. More especially if you’re glamping solo! A perfect spot and just enough space to unwind and be one with nature and yourself! Inspiration and creativity and tranquility is just free flowing out here! I hope to be back in the future, and to spend more time admiring Rob’s paintings! His artwork is out of this world! :)
A
Ashley N.
14 reviews
Recommends
· August 2024
Picturesque, peaceful, fairy oasis.
Tent · With pets ·
Beautiful Secluded forest site
We had a wonderful stay at the secluded forest site! With the ambient sounds of the babbling brook, cicadas, and grasshoppers our time camping in the woods was the exact environment we were searching for. Picturesque, quiet and serene. The amenities of the bathroom, shower, and kitchen to wash dishes made the experience easy for our small party of four. We enjoyed taking a walk in the fern filled woods, cooking food over fire, and the peace and quiet this space has to offer. Robert is an excellent host and has created an oasis for nature lovers. This is my second time visiting and I will definitely be coming back.
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Augusta R.
4 reviews
Recommends
· August 2024
Paradise
With pets ·
Cabin
A beautiful surprise at the end of a dirt road. Pond, gardens, trails…peaceful. Highly recommend!
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Celeste M.
8 reviews
Recommends
· August 2024
Tent ·
Secluded Forest with field edge
Great place to stay. Have over 15 nights at Roberts. Highly recommend.
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Rod M.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
A very special place…
With kids ·
Cabin
Lynx Run is a little piece of heaven right here in Michigan. We wanted to take the kids camping but would have needed to size up all of our gear so we decided to look for something in between. Rob’s place was everything we could have hoped for. A comfortable place to unplug and spend some time as a family. Kids (9 & 12) loved the stream, the chickens, and the entire surroundings. Rob also directed us to a great swimming spot nearby. Rob has an incredibly generosity and openness and I feel like he brings that out in his guests. Chatting with others as we spent time in the kitchen reminded me of youth hostels when I was younger. I hope we have an opportunity to return soon.
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Angela N.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
Tent · Group trip ·
Secluded Wildlife Paradise
We had a wonderful time here. Rob is a lovely, welcoming host with a stunning property. This site was right above the creek. Falling asleep listening to the water, waking up and sitting on a bench by the water with coffee, and wading in the cool water in the hot afternoon were peak experiences. There is so much to see and so many other lovely sites to stay at, we will definitely be back!
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Megan E.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
With pets ·
Courtyard
Easy check in, beautiful garden, cozy rooms that you can directly walk out to the gorgous courtyard, clean fresh water, clean communal bathrooms with showers. Brought my dog and had a wonderful stay. It's nice and tucked away with a beautiful drive and location. I will highly recommend this to others and I will be back to stay again! A hidden gem.
S
Suzanne P.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Camping - on another level!
Tent ·
Wilderness Stream Magic
Very beautiful place to camp or rent a cabin. Very gracious and accommodating host. Lots of things to see and do on his land (hiking, a beautiful creek, chickens, his artwork, etc.). Not your typical or ordinary place to stay, which was a very welcoming change. Even the bathrooms areas were nice. Definitely would stay there again!
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Alecia T.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Tipi
Tipi
My husband and I absolutely loved the Tipi experience. Robert was an amazing host with a clean,beautiful, and creative compound. What an amazing way to celebrate 5 years of marriage. Thank you Robert for making our day amazing.
T
Tameka L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
With kids ·
Cabin
Exceptional experience for my whole family. I am keeping this review short and avoiding going into details to avoid any spoilers, but this location needs to be experienced. The host and assistant are wonderful and very accommodating. The cabin we stayed one was absolutely wonderful. It was cozy, clean and comfortable. The surrounding woods, animals the ambience...magical. Would love to visit again. Thanks R+E.
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Ren H.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Courtyard
I loved the openness of this property! Everything was open to guests, the main house with the kitchen and library, the gardens that the courtyard rooms open up to, to all the paths along the property. The bathrooms and showers were clean and we'll stocked. The owner wasnt home but the Hosts definitely made us feel welcome. Over all I'm planning another stay at a different time of year so I can see more of this gorgeous landscape they curated.
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Tami M.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Wonderful place to stay
Tent · With kids ·
Beautiful Secluded forest site
A great place to stay, there's access to clean bathrooms, nice campfire area, a stream and trail nearby. I got a bit confused, there were several polite different groups throughout the land, one of which was throwing a rager party (confused that they would do that knowing there's other guests). Other than that unique occurrence this is a 5/5 star location. The lady working the land there was also very friendly! Also some baby chickens to walk past
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Patrcia C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Tipi
With kids ·
Tipi
Our family loved Robert's property! We rented the tipi and spent our time wading in the stream, walking the property and viewing his Art. There are great trees near camp to hang a hammock in the shade. Robert was helpful in guiding us to nearby fishing and so kind to share his collections and personal artwork. We will definitely rent the tipi again!
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Sara W.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Retreat Oasis
With kids ·
Cabin
Inspiring, relaxing and enjoyable. Robert runs a retreat oasis in Manistee National Forest. The cabin is completely off the grid and allow you to unplug (literally) and enjoy nature. It's a short walk to the bathroom and facilities past the chickens and over Japanese bridge. Rob is an excellent host and enjoys a good chat. Top notch stay and will definitely return.
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Shaun T.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Courtyard
Incredibly serene and beautiful place. Pretty good spot if your dog is afraid of fireworks, we could hear some of the louder ones but smaller ones were extremely muffled through the walls of the courtyard room and turning on some music covered up most of the rest. Saved us some puppy panic attacks we get in the city. Rob’s a caring and attentive host and has created a calming and engaging space.
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Sara L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
10/10 recommend!
Tent · Group trip ·
Wilderness Stream Magic
Robert has created such a beautiful and welcoming space here. The sites are so visually appealing, clean, easy to maneuver, and comfortable. He is such a welcoming host with a jaw dropping home and property. I would highly recommend checking out his site through hipcamp as we will definitely be returning! If you take a visit, make sure to check out his art studio. I was astonished by his talent and style.
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Lauren H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
12 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Secluded Forest with field edge
Amazing hidden gem! Peaceful forest retreat to get away, enjoy the beautiful grounds and be out in nature.
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Jess L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Unique camping with great amenities
Tent · With kids ·
Secluded Wildlife Paradise
Beautiful gardens, hot showers and a generous host. Our group really enjoyed staying here for the weekend and plan to come back.
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Hank K.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2024
Relaxing Nature Getaway
Tent · Group trip ·
Wilderness Stream Magic
We had a great time at Lynx Run and Robert is an amazing host! He graciously had us make ourselves at home in his kitchen and we enjoyed cooking family meals and having game night at the kitchen table. I highly encourage you to book a rafting trip down the Pierre Marquette river in Baldwin, MI which is about 45 mins away. The pizza at Big Foot in Brohman, MI is amazing!
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Matt T.
1 year on Hipcamp

Location

Stanwood, Mecosta, Michigan, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Robert V.

Joined in May 2018
Response rate: 100%Response time: Within an hour

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