Entire home

Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets

Photo gallery for Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets

the house
the upstairs living area
the fire pit at the point
the view from the balcony
one of the upstairs bedrooms/playroom

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Shelby, MI
  • Stony Lake
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Silver Lake State Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Little Sable Point Lighthouse
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Ludington, MI (LDM)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets

Why not enjoy a week of peace and tranquility on 50-acres of woods and Dunes in Michigan? Bring your kids, your dogs or just come by yourself!

You will be hard pressed to find another property for rent like this one anywhere in the Midwest. You'll be sitting back on 50-acres of woods on the dunes overlooking a beautiful valley. In fact, you'll be surrounded by several hundred acres of woods as the adjacent properties are also un-inhabited forest. At the same time, you'll feel the lake breeze (Lake Michigan is only 3/4 of a mile away) and you'll be on a beautiful public beach in a 5-minute drive. Bring your dogs, because there is a 3-acre fenced pen for them to around in. You will also be close to tons of summer time activities within 30 minutes drive: golf (nearest course 1 mile away), hiking, horse-back riding, mini-golf, go-karting, dune rides/dune buggies, tubing, fishing, fruit-picking, amusement/waterparks (Michigan's adventure), summer festivals, and petting zoos.

Just 3.5 hours drive from Chicago, 1h15mins from Grand Rapids in Shelby, MI.
You'll enter the property on a 1/4 mile driveway that winds through the woods - go slowly because at dusk you'll often see large groups of deer that frequent the area due to the many fruit orchards (including our neighboring cherry orchard). When you get to the end of the dirt drive you will find the house secluded on over 50 acres of woods and dunes. In fact, since all of the neighboring properties are also un-inhabited forest, you'll be sitting in the middle of several hundred acres of woods.

The house sits on about 1-acre of open field which at the tip drops down into a valley. Our overlook point is one of the highest spots in the immediate area, so you will have a view overlooking the forest for as far as the eye can see. We've got a fire pit set up on the point, and you can sit here in the woods and still feel the Lake Michigan breeze (which is 3/4 mile to the East).

There are walking trails throughout the property and you can take a nice stroll through the woods. In addition to deer, you will see wild turkey, porcupines, squirrels, frogs, hawks, and lots of other birds. We've got a healthy colony of hummingbirds that appear at our feeder around July.

There is also a 3-acre fenced in dog pen where your dogs can get their exercise without the worry of them disappearing into the forest. There is internet available over a cellular mifi and 5MB of internet data are included in the rental. Additional data is available for $15 per MB.

Keywords: pets
dogs
families
woods
lake Michigan
silver lake
stony lake
house
private
hiking
western Michigan
beach rental

Property manager

Darby
Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
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

Pets allowed: limit 5 total
3 acre dog pen if you want to use it
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Hi there, Thank you for choosing our home for your vacation. We hope that you have a pleasant stay. Our house is located at 2514 Scenic Drive.

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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Shelby

Located in Shelby, this holiday home is near theme parks. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Silver Lake State Park. Craig's Cruisers Family Fun Center and Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging and snowmobiling.
Map
Shelby, MI

What's nearby

  • Stony Lake - 5 min drive - 4.4 km
  • Silver Lake State Park - 8 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Craig's Cruisers Family Fun Center - 12 min drive - 10.2 km
  • Little Sable Point Lighthouse - 15 min drive - 10.6 km
  • Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area Chamber of Commerce - 21 min drive - 22.1 km

Getting around

  • Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Frickin' Chicken Shack - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Stony Lake Inn - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Whippy Dip - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Silver Scoops Cafe and Creamery - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Val-Du-Lakes Bar & Grill - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 5 total).

What time is check-in at Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded 50 acre paradise: Great for families and pets located?

Situated in Shelby, this holiday home is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Lake Michigan and 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from Stony Lake. The Fox Barn Winery and Silver Lake State Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 80 out of 88 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 88 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 88 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 88 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 88 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

mike r.

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

will be back

perfect for us, TY
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rick N.

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

2024 July 4th get away

The house is perfect for larger groups. The land and surrounding areas are very quiet and peaceful. Enjoyed the stay this year once again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dodie T.

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

Sand Dunes with family and dogs.

Beautiful property close to everything we were there for. Loved that we could bring our dogs with us. The only
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

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

Great stay - highly recommend!

We had an amazing time on the property. The house is even better in person and they have every amenity you can imagine! I highly recommend staying here and we will stay here again if we are in the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Patti B.

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

Relaxing in nature

We have stayed here twice along with our dog. It is very peaceful and quiet. Surrounded by trees and walking paths through the woods. The cabin is very welcoming and comfy. Our dog loves being able to run around unleashed for a weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

Our stay in Shelby

This property was clean, well stocked and the location was great. However, the road into it was very tight and had several large water holes. If our trailer had been any longer we would not have been able to access it. I did inquiry prior to the trip about access but did not receive a reply.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joseph J.

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

Amazing location

Property was in an amazing location, lots of fun trials in the woods and a really nice view from the fire pit. Communication was quick and easy, 10/10 recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathy T.

Privacy in a beautiful setting

Perfect setting for a Girls weekend. Plenty of space even for 11 people. House was unique and the view from the balcony was stunning. Great place for relaxing. Highly recommend and would stay again in a heartbeat.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Patti B.

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

Peaceful seclusion

Enjoyed the seclusion. Our dog loved the freedom of running and smelling everything! Felt peaceful and relaxed when our time came to come home.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary & Julie C.

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

Fantastic family and friends vacation!

We loved the space and privacy of this vacation rental. It had all the necessities for a week long stay. We spent most of our time a short drive away at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The only thing I would suggest is privacy curtains for the “kids bedroom” as we had an adult couple staying in that space.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Family and pet friendly! Fully furnished, two full kitchens with all the equipment to make home cooked meals! Water and sand toys available! A night at the fire pit making s'mores to cap off a wonderful weekend. A great family vacation and will definitely plan to return next year!!

10/10 Excellent

Tessa A.

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

Great experience!

We had a wonderful time at Darby’s place. The house was very clean and comfortable, and the property was amazing. We took a snowy walk, went sledding, and made s’mores at the fire pit. The dogs had a blast too! Darby was very kind and quick to respond to any questions we had. We’ll definitely visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ashley F.

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

Honeymooning with the Dogs

This was the perfect quiet honeymoon getaway that was much needed! Down a long and winding driveway emerges this beautiful little gem of a house! Great views and surrounded by a beautiful forest of trees! We came the second week of October and it was just PEAK for the fall foliage! So many cute farmers markets and bakeries around! Plenty of hiking trails and other things to do close by! Only minutes from Silver Lake beach and Little Sable Point Lighthouse! We are so glad we found this great home! We were able to bring both of our large breed dogs, and they had a blast! We definitely want to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca E.

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

Hidden gem for dog families

This house was in a great and very private location but still close to many attractions! We brought our dogs and the two fenced in areas were amazing for my two big dogs! They loved it and so did we! We had plenty of room for the two teenagers and us as well! The teen’s definitely played outdoor games every night with all the space to do so! We had everything we needed there! I highly recommend! Our main purpose for staying was to check out Silver Lake Dunes! It was only 15 minutes away! The Cherry Point farm was only a couple miles away and worth checking out too! Thank you
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Theresa M.

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

Great Location! Enjoyed the Home!

The property was a perfect place to stay with easy access to beautiful small towns nearby. In close proximity to Ludington, Pentwater, Silver Lake Dunes, Muskegon and Grand Haven. The walking trails on the property were very tranquil. Our favorite beach spot was only a few minutes away at Benona Township Park with a nearby ice cream shop! We normally camp in Michigan, but this was the perfect hidden spot to come too that still gave us that camping feel. Great fire pit area for making Smores and hanging out. The house was very clean, I loved the hardwood floors throughout. Had plenty of amenities available to use if needed. Great decks to sit out on. Suggestions: Add a hand rail going down first flight of steps from second floor to first floor. Also had difficulty on the long driveway into the property where water had accumulated from the earlier rains. I think a regrade on about five areas would help. we were driving through deep puddles the entire week. Just had to go slow. We would definitely stay here again if we were in the area. Well worth it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Paradise for kids and dogs

We rent a house in MI for a week every summer, and this has been our best experience yet. The house itself is comfortable and nicely modern, with a separate area downstairs that makes it perfect for two families (or teenagers!). The setting was gorgeous. We hiked the trails behind the house with the dogs and our toddler every day, and our city dogs loved have the run of the woods to chase small critters. We also went to the beach every day, mostly sticking to the Lake Michigan beach that is a quick 5 minute drive from the house and has a small creek feeding into it - perfect for little ones to wade in. Everything we wanted to do was a short drive away. One day we rented a boat on Hamlin Lake and went tubing. We also visited Michigan's Adventure, went horseback riding at Rainbow Ranch, and LOVED the adorable petting zoo in New Era. Ludington was our choice for most meals out (Eat breakfast at Old Hamlin! Order the homemade toast!) but the pizza place in Shelby impressed a bunch of Chicago pizza snobs. Overall we loved being a short drive from everything but out in the woods far enough that we had total privacy and the dogs could roam. The owner was very hospitable and communicative and kind. It's also worth noting that it was the hottest week of the summer and we were all completely comfortable in the house and on the beach. We'll be back next year!

10/10 Excellent

mike r.

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

nice and private

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R., MILFORD

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

Chilly Fall Break

The weather was not optimal during our stay but everyone had a great time. We had two families meeting our college sons there for a long weekend getaway. We had never been to the Dunes off-road park before so we made that a first-time experience for everyone. We were also able to enjoy the trails through the 50 acre property and the beautiful fall colors. We spent some time at the fire pit with a great view too.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shaun C.

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

Great Property

We had a great stay. House was clean and had plenty of amenities. Property was beautiful, especially in the fall with leaves changing color. It was just a short drive to the Silverlake Dunes. Plenty of driveway for our trucks and trailers with the RZRs.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alexandra B.

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

Forest Retreat

This property is amazing! Literally secluded in the middle woods. Driveway is long and twisty as well as has a few large holes that were filled with water when we were there that we required 4 wheel drive to get through. We had a long trailer hauling a dune vehicle and made it to the house but was a bit difficult. One thing that wasn't clear from the description is that this home is kind of like a duplex. The bottom level has a garage, bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining, and bathroom. The upper level has 2 bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, dining and living room. To go from upper level to bottom level you have to walk down the stairs, enter the garage and then enter door to downstairs from garage. This wasn't an issue for us and would make it nice when traveling with 2 families to have their own areas. The property was awesome for hiking and exploring with our 1 year old. A nice place to unplug, relax and refresh!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

diane k.

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

Perfect!

This house was perfect for all 6 of us plus two large dogs. Plenty of space inside and out. The fenced in doggie playground was a big plus for me. Very serene walking the trails. The house was well equipped with everything that we needed and very clean. Darby did a great job responding to any question that we had and we are very happy with our stay. We are already planning on going back this summer. Thank you for opening your home and spectacular acres for us! Diane K
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin L.

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

Great stay

Beautiful property Lots of you in house Fire pit was great spot
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robert D.

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

Very remote and private, peaceful

It was a neat location with a beautiful view of the valley behind the house, would be amazing view when leaves are changing I am sure.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Janine G.

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

Cabin in the woods …

The cabin in the woods was nice with large upstairs level and smaller apartment type lower level. Darby was wonderful :)
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kristen K.

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

Quiet, peaceful and relaxing!

Our stay was wonderful. The house has literally everything you could possibly need. The property was beautiful, secluded and peaceful yet close to Silver Lake, Pentwater and other tourist areas. Our host was super responsive and easy to reach. If we visit the area again, we would for sure stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Darby

Host profile image
We live in Chicago and own a company that makes customized bobblehead dolls! We have 3 kids and 3 dogs who all LOVE coming up to Michigan whenever we can! We travel all over the world but still love coming up to Shelby whenever we can!

Why they chose this property

My husband is from MI but I am from New England. The hills and woods on this property made us fall in love with it and reminded us of Vermont and its rolling hills! The beaches here were also spectacular with the lighthouse and the stony lake beach with the river there which is perfect for kids. The area was a perfect match of plenty to keep the kids entertained and the beautiful scenery we were looking for. We really wanted something secluded with no neighbors in sight when we go out of the city.

What makes this property unique

The land itself is just unparalleled in the area. It is the highest point around there and therefore it looks out over a beautiful valley. There is such a peacefulness and privacy there and yet you are still so close to so many things to do. There is just nothing better than sitting out at the point around the fire pit in the evenings. The hiking trails keep us and our kids out and about all afternoon. It is just a wonderful place for both people and dogs alike!

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests