Shady Rest Acres

100%

229 reviews

· Brownsville, Houston, Minnesota

23 acres hosted by Patty & Michelle B.

1 lodging site · 2 tent sites

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best in Minnesota: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.

Staff verified

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

Patty & Michelle is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.

Activities

Biking

Boating

Fishing

Hiking

Natural features

Beach

Cave

Forest

Lake

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Lodging 1 site

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Bee Relaxed Studio

100% (131)

Cabin · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 toilet

Bee Relaxed Studio has been recently updated with a bathroom. There is now a shower, toilet and bathroom sink to give your family the privacy it deserves. Please be sure to bring your own towels and amenities. Also added this year is a kitchen sink.The studio has an open floor plan with 616 square feet of tranquil heavenly views. Every window provides a spectacular view of the pasture and forest that surround and embrace the Studio. A queen and full size bed can accommodate four adults. Some of the amenities included are air conditioning, coffee maker, apartment size fridge, microwave, toaster oven, electric fry pan, slow cooker, instant pot, ricemaker, coffee cups, wine glasses and turn table with classic vinyl records. Also included is a charcoal grill. You provide the charcoal. Step out the door and relax on the covered porch or take a stroll down to the community fire ring located by the pond . A swivel cooking grate is available if you desire to cook over an open fire. There you will enjoy the relaxing sound of water flowing and all that nature has to offer. If privacy is what you seek take a walk into the woods to do some Forest Bathing. If you have ever wanted to do a winter get away this is the place to come. A small wood stove stove with glass door warms the space and creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Wood is free of charge for the wood stove when you stay in the Studio. Don't worry if wood stoves are a little to scary we also have electric wall heaters that will keep you cozy as well. Wondering if Hipcamp can change the booking screen. We have had two groups in the last four days that have booked their reservation according to what the booking screen says but are not including extra people in their reservation. It is very awkward to request more money when they show up with more than what the reservation stated. When making reservations please include in your reservation children over 2 years old.

Tent sites 2 sites

Pitch your tent in the walnut grove situated a short distance above the trout pond. Here you will have complete privacy compliments of mother nature creating a wall of vegetation that locks you out from the outside world. Wake up to the sweet sounds of songbirds welcoming the new day. Be lulled to sleep with the soft sound of the babbling brook and the beautiful night sky towering above the canopy. Bring a hammock to enjoy a relaxing lounging experience by your personal fire ring with a cooking grate.Free firewood provided for studio guests. watch for wildlife with the A+ view of woodlands. When making reservations please include in your total any person over the age of two.

Pitch your tent in the grove of Red pines or out in the wide open pasture. By day you will have a beautiful view of nature and all the farm animals, and by night you will have a spectacular view of the Milky Way. Don't worry, if you're from the big city we have our own set of night lights that will help you forget you left the city. During the summer season fire flies light up the entire landscape giving it the appearance of a remote city in the country. Enjoy the fresh smell of country air filled with the sweetness of flowers, crispness of night air and earthiness of all the wilderness around you.Enjoy evenings around your own personal fire ring with cooking grate. When making reservations please include in your total any person over the age of two.

100 ft

Reviews

100% Recommend297 ratings · 229 reviews

The Bee Relaxed Studio offers a welcoming retreat for those looking to enjoy the beauty of nature with the comforts of home. Guests frequently mention the warmth and hospitality of the hosts, Patty and Michelle, who go out of their way to make visitors feel at ease. The studio itself is described as spacious, clean, and well-equipped, making it a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding area. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to interact with the farm animals and enjoy peaceful moments in the scenic landscape.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· November 2024

Group trip ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

This was our 4th stay here and it has become a beloved family tradition. We love the space, the animals, and of course the wonderful hosts. Thanks again Patty and Michelle and hopefully we'll see you again next year!

Nicole L.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Perfection

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Nice quiet, tucked in campsite up a bit above the valley. I saw the highland cows on the listing and they did not disappoint. Patty was super friendly in greeting me and making me feel welcome when I arrived. I was on a 5 day cycling trip passing through the area and Patty gave me great ideas for good and coffee on down the road. Great spot, great host.

Brent S.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent ·

Heart's Content

I enjoyed staying at Patty and Michelle’s site. Great location, nestled on a flat spot in the trees with the beautiful hills on both sides and sound of water below. Would certainly stay again.

Ryan W.

5 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Bee Relaxed Studio

Patty and Michelle are excellent hosts and we enjoyed the Bee Relaxed Studio very much. Beautiful area by Mississippi river well worth visiting.

Mike F.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Very accommodating hosts in an entertaining environment. Heart’s Content was a nice site with privacy. The fire ring, available fire wood and Adirondack chairs made for a nice stay.

Chris B.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent ·

Heart's Content

We had a wonderful time camping at Heart’s Content! Patty and Michelle are great hosts, kind and responsive with a great set up for guests. We loved having all the animals around! The view from the site in the morning is a beautiful way to start the day.

Thomas B.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Great location and hosts!

Heart's Content

Went here a few summers ago (must have forgotten to upload a review). We loved it here. Patty and Michelle helped us set up a tarp, as there was weather coming in. The trout pond was amazing -- I could have sat there all day! It was fun to roam around on the property. We felt safe, respected, and in love with the natural area. Would love to return sometime in the future. Thank you Patty and Michelle!

Asha S.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Living the Dream

Tent · Group trip ·

Heart's Content

Patty and Michelle and their property were more than wonderful than we could have ever imagined! The land is lush and rolling tucked into the valley and has so much incredible history. They have miniature donkeys, chickens, goats, cows, dogs galore, and cats roaming the property, so you’re sure to be greeted by lots of furry faces upon your arrival and while you walk the property. The view of the stars above the pasture at night is a marvelous sight! Patty and Michelle were incredibly kind and accommodating during our stay, we would 100% stay here again and plan to! It was truly a dream getaway 🫶🏻

Kyle C.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Bee Relaxed Studio

A perfect getaway from the city. We wanted a couple nights around a little nature and this was the perfect setting. Patty and Michelle are very accommodating and generous with sharing their land and animals. They gave us lots of food recommendations for my friend’s special dietary needs and a really great opportunity to meet all of their animals. The studio is huge and has everything you need to unwind. I loved the little record player, it helped add to the atmosphere for our afternoon reading. I hope to come back and enjoy the land during a white winter and to use that beautiful fireplace!

Adam M.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Cozy and clean studio

Bee Relaxed Studio

Cozy and clean studio. Comfortable firm mattress.

Antonia L.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · With kids ·

Heart's Content

Magical tent site close to so many cute small towns. Love all the local recommendations, wish we could have stayed longer.

Jessica C.

10 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Bee Relaxed Studio

We absolutely loved our stay with Patty and Michelle! Great spot, wonderful hosts, beautiful land.

Margot S.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

Anniversary Getaway

Bee Relaxed Studio

Bee Relaxed Studio was super comfortable and clean. We had a pleasant stay and the hosts were very easy to work with. Thanks for a great weekend!

Brandon L.

10 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

With kids ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

The studio was perfect for the three of us. We made the most of all the beautiful land and well-cared for animals. Patty and Michell are true stewards of the land. It’s just a quick drive to LaCrosse, but the real draw is the sunset over the cow pasture.

Carrie R.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Amazing campsite & such friendly hosts! The site was private and very peaceful. Firewood is for purchase (and it’s great wood that actually burns!) and the portapotty was very clean. Patty & michelle made me feel very welcome and it’s obvious they take pride in hosting on their beautiful plot of land. I really can’t say enough good things. I will definitely be back and would recommend this Hipcamp to anyone. Their land is magical-don’t miss out!

Deziree E.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Patty & Michelle's land was absolutely beautiful and easy to find. It was a nice surprise to see that there was a duck and several donkeys on the premises. Our campsite felt private and secluded from the others on the property which was exactly what we were looking for. I would absolutely recommend staying here!

Marcus R.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

With kids ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

It was super easy to stay here with our two kids. A beautiful space for us to sleep in, very clean, and a really fun hobby farm to enjoy.

Craig G.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

Absolutely amazing place

With kids ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

It was just to perfect and charming. It was wonderful to have family time away from technology and just be outside. The hosts are amazing and I would recommend this place to anyone looking to get away from the world and be at peace in the hills in nature. The bond firepit is amazing and the studio has so many charms that are just out of this world. We loved the record player and did some dancing with the kids. Theres everything from books, to record to family games all to bring family together or just cozy up with your significant other. We hope to visit again.

Jennifer P.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

Biking Packing the Minnelowisco

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Patty & Michelle were greats hosts. Would definitely stay again if we are biking in that area again. Highly recommend.

Michael C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

A wonderful camping experience

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Great hospitality. Fantastic campsite. Unique experience with a beautiful hobby farm setting.

Kevin P.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

Beautiful, quiet & relaxed

With kids ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

We were very pleased with our 2-night stay at “Bee Relaxed” cabin!! We were in town for our niece’s high school graduation party and it was nice to have our own space to relax, sleep & get ready leisurely for our adventures & family time. It was very clean, had just what we needed and fun to be able to play cards and make coffee. Quiet & beautiful location, fun to look out the windows at the farm, nature, hearing the roosters & watching the chickens, goats, cats & dogs from a distance. Would love to check out the rest of the farm next time, timing & weather didn’t allow, all the more reason to stay again sometime! Thank you for your hospitality & accommodations! We would recommend and would definitely stay again! Great location, close to our local family!

Martha M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

Tent ·

Life is Good

Wonderful stay. Patty and Michelle were welcoming and introduced us to the animals. Quiet and beautiful countryside.

Nick C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

Girls trip!

Bee Relaxed Studio

We went for a girls weekend and had the absolute best time! Patty and Michelle were so welcoming and kind. The cabin was clean and we loved the space and decor. The property was beautiful we loved waking up and walking in the pasture saying good morning to all the farm animals! We had such a good time we want to make it a annual trip. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home and land with us!!!

Haley T.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

Relaxing stay

With kids ·

Bee Relaxed Studio

Loved the stay at the guest home, it was perfect amount of comfort and a beautiful location. Would had loved to stay longer but hope to be back!

Elizabeth K.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

A quick overnighter

Tent ·

Heart's Content

My two friends and I were on a bicycle trip through the area and were looking for a camping location that wasn't the larger RV park down by the river. Patty & Michelle's location is great, our camp spot was plenty secluded, had a nice fire ring, box of firewood for sale was plenty for a nice camp fire. Having the animals around made the experience much more charming, I even hopped in the flat bottom boat to check out the cave. We didn't spend a lot of time there but the time we did was perfectly described in the listing. If you are in the Brownsville area I would certainly recommend camping here.

Scott H.

3 reviews

Recommends

· September 2023

Charming Farm-Style Getaway

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Amazing getaway amidst a charming hobby farm. The campsite was beautiful and private, complete with matching Adirondack chairs for relaxing and taking in the view, fire ring, and handy pegs to hang a hammock from. The options to canoe into the cave and meet the farm animals were unique and fun extras to the experience. We enjoyed waking up to the sounds of the farm animals too! Patty and Michelle were incredibly accommodating with our last-minute changes and truly wonderful hosts. You can just tell that they cherish the animals and the land with all the thoughtful personal touches throughout. Because there’s only two campsites and the studio, it’s a super private location. We were lucky enough to be the only guests and given free reign to explore. Truly special camping experience! We definitely intend to come back.

Jacki S.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2023

Tent · With kids ·

Life is Good

Great time camping with the family!! Thanks would recommend.

Justin C.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2023

Bee Relaxed Studio

Patty & Michelle have an absolutely gorgeous location in the SE Minnesota Driftless. Originally we wanted to tent camp but when the forecast called for more extreme heat we decided to go with their Bee Relaxed Studio. It was a great spot (with A/C!) perfect for a quick getaway for the two of us. The Studio was spacious and lovely with views of the pastures. We had a great time chatting with Patty & Michelle and they even let us meet their baby goats and Highland cattle! If we're ever back in the area we will definitely be visiting again.

Joe C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent ·

Heart's Content

Camping on this land felt special! Patty, Michelle, and all their animals absolutely add to the magic of it. If you crave the serenity and peacefulness that regular camp grounds just can't offer, this place is for you..I very much enjoyed the rustic shower. It was cold and refreshing, but the best part - had views of chickens and donkeys, something you just won't find anywhere else! I will be back!

Courtney Y.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent ·

Life is Good

Great spot. Beautiful location. Tons of really fun farm animals roaming all over the place. Hosts were very nice.

Brian K.

10 reviews

Location

Brownsville, Houston, Minnesota, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking