Entire home

Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access

Photo gallery for Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access

Welcome to the newly constructed Riverbend Lodge!
Outdoor firepit
Spacious outdoor living and dining spaces
The home is nestled on 11 private acres with 1100 feet of Betsie River frontage.
Open concept living/dining/family room with fireplace and 26' cathedral ceiling

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 20278.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Thompsonville, MI
  • Crystal Mountain
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Interlochen Center for the Arts
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Kresge Auditorium
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 20)

Bunk Room #1 (second floor)

2 Single Beds and 2 Queen Beds

Bunk Room #2 (second floor)

2 Double Beds and 1 Queen Bed

King Bedroom w/ en suite bath (second floor)

1 King Bed

Living Room 1

1 King Bed

Primary King Bedroom (main floor)

1 King Bed and 1 Single Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bunkroom Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

En suite bathroom (shared access from family room)

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Half bath (main floor)

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Primary bathroom (main floor)

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access

Welcome to your perfect northern Michigan getaway! Situated on 11 private acres with 1,200 feet of picturesque Betsie River frontage, our property offers a unique blend of space, seclusion, and adventure. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a weekend of outdoor exploration, this is the place to make lasting memories.

Located just 8 miles from Crystal Mountain, you’ll have easy access to world-class skiing, golf, and hiking. For the adventurers, our property is directly adjacent to Trail 39, giving you seamless entry to countless miles of snowmobile, UTV/ATV, and dirt bike trails. Hop on your machine and explore the best of northern Michigan without ever leaving the property!

Our home is designed to accommodate large families or groups, with plenty of room for everyone to gather, relax, and enjoy their stay. Nestled in a serene rural setting, you’ll love the peace and privacy—no neighbors in sight, just the beauty of nature all around.

After a day of skiing, trail riding, or exploring nearby attractions like Traverse City, the wineries of Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, Lake Michigan, or the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, come back to unwind by the river or share stories under the stars.

With its unbeatable location, private acreage, and direct access to adventure, our property offers a truly unique northern Michigan experience. Book your stay and discover why we fell in love with this special place!

More about the property:
The Riverbend Lodge is designed to comfortably accommodate large groups or multiple families, offering space, privacy, and thoughtful amenities. It features two primary king-sized bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for your stay. The main floor primary bedroom includes an optional folding bed and a travel crib for toddlers or babies, neatly tucked away in the closet.

The second floor boasts a spacious family room with extra soundproofing in the walls and a pocket door, creating two separate living areas. It’s an ideal setup for kids to play or watch TV while adults relax in the main-level living room. Upstairs, you’ll find the second king-sized bedroom along with two versatile bunk rooms. The first bunk room includes two queen beds and two twin bunks, while the second bunk room features a queen bed and a full-over-full built-in bunk. A convertible daybed in the family room can be configured into a third king-sized bed or two adjoined twins, with bedding provided for both setups.

The fully equipped kitchen is ready for any meal preparation, and the spacious covered outdoor patio offers a perfect gathering space with dining and lounging areas, along with an outdoor grill. On warmer evenings, enjoy roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around the large fire pit.

Want a closer look? Check out our YouTube video [https://youtu.be/RAjOvRaNHbo?si=iFncbWxALkx3yfjM] to experience the seclusion and beauty of Riverbend Lodge. The video highlights the serenely secluded natural surroundings and stunning Betsie River frontage, giving you a preview of the unforgettable experience that awaits.

For added convenience, the extra-large U-shaped driveway provides ample parking for multiple vehicles and trailers, making it easy to bring along all your gear for a memorable northern Michigan adventure.

The Riverbend Lodge provides direct access to the Betsie River, which is part of Michigan's Natural River Program, which protects the natural habitat and leaves the river largely untouched from human interference and is ideal for kayaking. It is home to lots of wildlife, including deer, eagles, and the occasional bear. The salmon fishing in the fall is unparalleled. In the summer months, the river is slow, shallow, and wide for kids to float in tubes, fish, or catch crayfish. This secluded country setting provides expansive views of the starlit night sky, and offers a glimpse of paradise.

Property manager

Blake & Rachel Spooner

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No helium balloons allowed. A fee of $50/ balloon will be assessed for removal. Additional fees may apply if balloon(s) are wrapped in ceiling fan.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Thompsonville

Located in Thompsonville, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Michigan Legacy Art Park and Kresge Auditorium are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Misty Acres Preserve and Lower Woodcock Lake Nature Preserve. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and snowmobiling.
Map
Thompsonville, MI

What's nearby

  • Turtle Lake - 16 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Crystal Mountain - 18 min drive - 13.8 km
  • Interlochen Center for the Arts - 27 min drive - 22.0 km
  • Kresge Auditorium - 31 min drive - 25.3 km
  • Interlochen State Park - 32 min drive - 26.1 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Geno's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Rosie's Country Cafe - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Laughing Horse Saloon - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Mikowski's Meat Market & Deli - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪The 231 Bar & Grill - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Crystal Mountain Retreat: Private Betsie Riverfront & Recreational Trail Access located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 4.5 mi (7.3 km) from Turtle Lake and within 12 miles (20 km) of Crystal Mountain and Michigan Legacy Art Park. Crimson King Commons Area and Inland Township Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 10 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

sandi g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excited to return!

Our Family had a great weekend away! The size was perfect with all the conveniences of Home!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marko J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Escape!

An overall great property with plenty of room for everyone to enjoy either a nature walk, fishing, or just sit by the fire pit! The owners were phenomenal and excellent communicators. Whenever we had a question they responded immediately and appreciate their hospitality.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

REBEKAH K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Planning our next visit!

Perfect for a family/friends late summer getaway! Really enjoyed the stay in this new family-oriented home!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeff M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet, peaceful, beautiful!!

We had a wonderful time. Beautiful property, nicely decorated. You won’t be disappointed if you chose to stay here.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Keith S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ski Weekend

Beautiful property, easily accommodated three families for a ski weekend. Hosts are responsive, communicative and organized. Recommended, would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding Property!!!

I have stayed in many properties over the years, but this is certainly near the top of the list. Great style, very clean, excellent location close to Crystal Mountain. We will definitely return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian S., Livonia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Blake and Rachael are wonderful communicators. Our large golf group of twelve really enjoyed this property. Plenty of space and sleeping accommodations for our large group. The house is absolutely amazing. Highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Long Weekend Getaway

Overall, we had a great time staying at RiverBend Lodge! Clean, modern, and spacious home on a beautiful plot of land. The hosts communicated well. :)
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Evan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Annual friends ski trip

Everything was wonderful. A little hiccup at check in that was easily remedied with communication with the owner. Clean, good quality everything. Will be looking to be back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barry F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent stay in an excellent, really perfect, property.

I felt very much like the owners of this property knew what they were doing when they built it (a very new property). Isolated along the Betsy River where a number a family members went fishing, not too far from the little town of Frankfort on Lake MI (where we went to the beach). Everything worked in the house, and everything was laid out very nicely.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Blake & Rachel Spooner

Host profile image
Hi, we’re Blake and Rachel Spooner, proud short-term rental hosts from Michigan! As avid outdoor enthusiasts, we’ve built our lives around the natural beauty and adventure opportunities that northern Michigan has to offer. Whether it’s skiing down snowy slopes at Crystal Mountain, kayaking or tubing the untouched and protected beauty of the Betsie River, snowmobiling through frosty trails, dirt biking across rugged terrain, or hiking in sandy dunes and lush woods, we’ve found our home away from home in this incredible region.

We understand what makes a getaway truly special—comfort, convenience, and unforgettable experiences. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing welcoming and thoughtfully designed accommodations for our guests. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend of adventure or a peaceful escape, we aim to make your stay as enjoyable and seamless as possible.

As Michigan locals, we’re happy to share our insider knowledge about the best trails, hidden gems, and local dining spots to help you make the most of your time here. Hosting is not just a side project for us—it’s a way to share the love we have for this beautiful region with others. We look forward to hosting you and helping you create your own memorable northern Michigan adventure!

Why they chose this property

We chose Thompsonville because it perfectly embodies everything we love about northern Michigan. Nestled in the heart of outdoor adventure, Thompsonville offers year-round activities that align with our passions for skiing, snowmobiling, kayaking, hiking, and dirt biking. Its close proximity to Crystal Mountain provides world-class skiing in the winter and fantastic golf and hiking in the summer, making it an ideal location for adventurers like us.

Thompsonville also boasts an incredible location near some of northern Michigan's most iconic destinations. It's just a short drive to Traverse City, a vibrant city with excellent dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. The wineries of the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas are nearby, offering stunning views and exceptional wine-tasting experiences. Plus, Thompsonville is close to Lake Michigan and the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can explore pristine beaches, hike spectacular trails, and soak in incredible sunsets.

We wanted a location that reflects our active lifestyle and gives our guests access to both outdoor adventures and northern Michigan's rich cultural and natural offerings. Thompsonville was the perfect choice to create unforgettable stays for ourselves and our guests!

What makes this property unique

What makes our property unique is its perfect combination of space, privacy, and adventure. Designed to accommodate large families or groups, our home provides plenty of room for everyone to gather, relax, and create lasting memories together. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends, or a group retreat, our property is thoughtfully equipped to meet your needs.

Located in a peaceful rural setting, you’ll enjoy complete privacy surrounded by northern Michigan’s natural beauty. Here, you won’t see neighbors—just open skies, tranquil woods, and the serene sounds of nature. It’s the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

What truly sets our property apart is its direct access to adventure. From the driveway, you can hop onto snowmobile and UTV trails, making it easy to explore northern Michigan’s vast trail systems without ever needing to load up or travel elsewhere. In the winter, the snowy trails beckon for snowmobile enthusiasts, while the rest of the year offers incredible opportunities for off-road exploration.

Whether you’re here for relaxation or adventure, our property is a destination in itself—offering the perfect blend of seclusion, comfort, and outdoor excitement.

Languages:

English