Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat

98%

303 reviews

· Stanwood, Mecosta, Michigan

100 acres hosted by Robert V.

3 lodging sites · 3 RV/tent sites · 1 tent site

Best in Michigan: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.

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Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

robert is a Star Host

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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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Reviews

98% Recommend415 ratings · 303 reviews

Lynx Run offers a unique and rustic camping experience that many campers find delightful. The property is celebrated for its stunning art, vibrant gardens, and serene natural surroundings, making it a memorable retreat. Guests appreciate the hospitality of the host, Robert, and the amenities provided, such as clean bathrooms and communal areas. While the majority of feedback is positive, a few visitors noted challenges with amenities like smoke in the cabin and unclear trails, but these did not overshadow the overall enjoyment of the stay.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Barry G.

4 years on Hipcamp

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.

Chloe G.

8 months 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!

Julia K.

2 reviews

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!

Natalie Ann M.

2 years on Hipcamp

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.

Ashley N.

14 reviews

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! :)

Augusta R.

4 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.

Location

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