Top Brainerd Lakes Family Vacations

1

Madden's on Gull Lake

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 788 - 2154

For the family constantly on the move, Madden’s is the perfect place to slow down your hectic lives and simply relax. Hit the lake for some watersports or waltz into the spa for a day of primping; if you want to... read more

For the family constantly on the move, Madden’s is the perfect place to slow down your hectic lives and simply relax. Hit the lake for some watersports or waltz into the spa for a day of primping; if you want to spend a weekend worrying about nothing but what you’re eating for dinner, Madden's is the place for you.

"Do it all, or do nothing" -Words that Madden’s (and, by extension, their guests) lives by. Madden's famous golf courses, delicious restaurants, and pristine sand beaches are only some of the options at your fingertips. While the kids are having a blast on the lake, head over to The Spa at Madden's for unparalleled relaxation. With a stunning lake view and relaxing plantation-style architecture just a few feet from Gull Lake, The Spa at Madden's will make you melt into a content pile of ooze. Try out a rejuvenating pedicure, or feeling your stress melt away with a hot stone massage. Either way, you're going to be reminiscing about it for years to come (or until you go back).

Address

11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN 56401

Highlights

There are over 35 species of aquatic life in the water of Gull Lake!

Fun facts

Of the seven Gull Lakes in Minnesota, this Gull Lake is the largest in area and shoreline.

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2

Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake Resort

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 562 - 8458

Experience all that the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer at Kavanaugh's, a Minnesota resort that values the family experience over all else. Through their warm hospitality, lavish dwellings, and beautiful scenery,... read more

Experience all that the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer at Kavanaugh's, a Minnesota resort that values the family experience over all else. Through their warm hospitality, lavish dwellings, and beautiful scenery, your family will feel right at home.

Like most family resorts, variety is the spice of life at Kavanaugh’s. Golf, boating, biking, fishing, antique shopping, and snowmobiling are not only options but pleasures. Open year round, most of these activities are as much fun in winter as they are in summer. Glorious Gull Lake stretches along the shoreline, inviting you and your family to untold hours of wet and wild fun. Of course, the immaculately manicured rooms are full of modern decor and deluxe comforts.

Address

1685 Kavanaugh Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401

Population

13,487 as of 2013

Elevation

1,217′

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3

Pine Terrace Resort

Crosslake, Minnesota

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+1 (855) 773 - 7954

What comes to mind when you hear the words “Pine” and “Terrace”? For most, rustic luxury is what immediately springs into their head. The words evoke a casual elegance and old-world modernism, a sentiment... read more

What comes to mind when you hear the words “Pine” and “Terrace”? For most, rustic luxury is what immediately springs into their head. The words evoke a casual elegance and old-world modernism, a sentiment that is personified at Pine Terrace Resort. You and your family will be loathe to leave.

Your family will be beleaguered by the multitudes of enticing activities for one or for everyone. From boating out to fish for largemouth bass, northern pike, sunfish, and crappies, to hiking along the neighboring trails, your family will be so tired at the end of the day that you’ll barely notice the amazing luxury cabins you’re staying in. Come to Star Lake, and Pine Terrace will make you feel like the star of the lake!

Address

35101 Pine Terrace Rd, Crosslake, MN 56442

Elevation

‎1,240 feet

Total area

The resort itself occupies more than 36 acres of glorious woodland habitat!

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4

Sullivan's Resort & Campground

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 850 - 1458

Between Sullivan's superb accommodations and impeccable hospitality, it's easy to lose track of time!Located in scenic Brainerd, Sullivan's Resort's nine two-bedroom deluxe cabins, one three-bedroom, and huge... read more

Between Sullivan's superb accommodations and impeccable hospitality, it's easy to lose track of time!

Located in scenic Brainerd, Sullivan's Resort's nine two-bedroom deluxe cabins, one three-bedroom, and huge Retreat Home are the perfect place for you and your family on your next vacation! Brainerd is chock full of things to do and see for families of all sizes, but perhaps the best way to spend your time is on the lake! Take a boat out for some fishing, cannonball off the dock, or just catch a tan on the shore- when you return you'll have Sullivan's bevy of amenities and cozy cabins to look awaiting you!

Address

7685 Co Rd 127, Brainerd, MN 56401

Getting there

The resort lies 13.1 miles from downtown Brainerd.

Related Onsite Offerings

Guest laundry and a fish cleaning station are also available.

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5

Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 694 - 9948

Families from all over the midwest flock to Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort for all sorts of reasons- come and find yours!Show your family the joys of fishing at Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort! Flanked by the... read more

Families from all over the midwest flock to Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort for all sorts of reasons- come and find yours!

Show your family the joys of fishing at Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort! Flanked by the majestic Brainerd Lakes area, head out on the water for a chance at some Northern Pike and Walleye. The lodge's mile of undeveloped shoreline makes for a beautiful setting for just about any activity, from water fun to a nap on the sand. What's more, Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort is only a few minutes away from Brainerd, where you can shop, eat, and experience small town charm to your heart's content!

Address

12241 Stallman Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401

Getting there

The resort is 9.3 miles from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport.

Related Onsite Offerings

Other amenities include a playground, boat launch, fishing dock, shuffleboard court and hiking trails.

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6

Galles' Upper Cullen Resort

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 694 - 9954

Resting along the eastern shore of Upper Cullen Lake awaits the Upper Cullen Resort, the perfect place for your Minnesota lake vacation.Bring together your loved ones for a memorable Minnesota vacation by the lake.... read more

Resting along the eastern shore of Upper Cullen Lake awaits the Upper Cullen Resort, the perfect place for your Minnesota lake vacation.

Bring together your loved ones for a memorable Minnesota vacation by the lake. This charming destination is surrounded by lush wooded landscapes and the tranquil wonders of the Cullen chain of lakes. You can spend quality time teaching the kids how to fish, swimming all day long, or exploring the attractions in the nearby Brainerd Lakes area. Private campfire rings let you enjoy fun cookouts to wrap up the day! An on-site game room is perfect for an unexpected rainy day.

Address

28317 Upper Cullen Rd, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Highlights

The lake is abundant with northern pike, bass, sunfish, crappie, limited walleye and much more. What are you waiting for? Take out a boat and cast your line!

Related activities

Minnesota is also known for its excellent golf courses. Ask the friendly Galles' Upper Cullen Resort staff to help you find a golf course in the area that will best fit your needs. Pack up your clubs and get ready to tee off!

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7

Grand View Lodge

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 801 - 2951

While golf, spas, and romantic walks on the beach might be more catered to newlyweds, the historic Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake has a fanatical devotion to providing quality family vacations as well.Yes, there are... read more

While golf, spas, and romantic walks on the beach might be more catered to newlyweds, the historic Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake has a fanatical devotion to providing quality family vacations as well.

Yes, there are two championship golf courses on the property. Yes, the rejuvenating Glacial Waters Spa has been pampering guests for eons. And while your children will appreciate these thing when they’re older, right now they just want to have some good clean FUN. Not to worry: this has been Grand View’s mission since 1916. Waterskiing, horseback riding, and paddleboard yoga (maybe not) will all entice and enrapture younger minds. Rooms can accommodate all sizes and tastes. Grand View succinctly puts it, “Whatever you are looking for in a Minnesota resort vacation, we have the lodging just right for you”.

Address

23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468

Population

2,004 as of 2013

Fun facts

Nisswa comes from the Ojibwe word "nessawae" (which means "in the middle" or "three")

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8

Lost Lake Lodge

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 786 - 9031

Situated between private Lost Lake and the Upper Gull Lake chain in Minnesota's Northwoods, Lost Lake Lodge is an unforgettable Brainerd escape for the whole family.For 70 years, Lost Lake Lodge has been offering... read more

Situated between private Lost Lake and the Upper Gull Lake chain in Minnesota's Northwoods, Lost Lake Lodge is an unforgettable Brainerd escape for the whole family.

For 70 years, Lost Lake Lodge has been offering guests exceptional dining and quiet serenity amidst 80 acres of woods, water, and wildlife. The lodge’s cabins and cottages range from one to four bedrooms, making them perfect for any size family. Family fun never runs out at Lost Lake Lodge. This exciting Minnesota destination welcomes you and your loved ones to reconnect in a relaxing lakeside setting. The kids will love building sandcastles on the beach or spending an afternoon swimming in the shallow end of the lake. For even more fun, you can rent a boat for a day of fishing. Family-friendly activities also extend to hiking trips, an onsite playground, and outdoor games like basketball and horseshoes. Top off your day with a relaxing campfire on the beach!

Address

7965 Lost Lake Rd., Nisswa, Minnesota 56468

Related activities

Downtown Nisswa is the perfect spot for an afternoon of leisure! Start your morning with a cup of Joe from StoneHouse Coffee & Roastery--make sure to try their delicious scones! Do some shopping at various gift shops and boutiques then grab a sandwich and a beer at Big Axe Brewing Company!

Related Onsite Offerings

Lost Lake Lodge's on-site restaurant offers gourmet dinners and hearty breakfasts to keep you and your family satisfied throughout your stay.

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9

Gull Lake Resort

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (218) 829 - 1344

Gull Lake Resort is a central point for lakeside fun and acres of wooded Minnesota beauty. The full 53 acres at Gull Lake Resort include 3,000 feet of glorious lake shore; the rest is natural woodland with plenty of... read more

Gull Lake Resort is a central point for lakeside fun and acres of wooded Minnesota beauty. The full 53 acres at Gull Lake Resort include 3,000 feet of glorious lake shore; the rest is natural woodland with plenty of room to roam.

This is your center for family fun, with a designated swimming beach and slide, plus nearly two dozen golf courses in the immediate area. Rent a boat and spend the day fishing Gull Lake's ample waters! Nearby, you'll have access to plenty of dining opportunities, sailing, horseback riding, and a Federal dam with Indian Burial grounds! With plenty of cabin options to choose from, from one to three bedrooms, there is something for everyone at Gull Lake Resort!

Address

1304 Gull Lake Lane, Brainerd, Minnesota 56401

Highlights

Gull Lake Resort is the classic "Great North Woods" family getaway. You'll find all the necessary amenities: safe, roped-off swimming beach, water slide, and a huge variety of rental boats and water toys.

Related activities

Whether you're casting from the dock or from your boat, Gull Lake creates the perfect fishing experience for you! Walleye, crappies, sunfish, northern, and bass are all plentiful in the lake, especially during May, June, and September!

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10

Wilderness Point Resort

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (855) 683 - 7288

Experience a lavish lakefront vacation with your family at Wilderness Point Resort in the Brainerd Lakes area.Situated on Middle Cullen Lake, a 450-acre superbly secluded body of water in Pequot Lakes, Wilderness... read more

Experience a lavish lakefront vacation with your family at Wilderness Point Resort in the Brainerd Lakes area.

Situated on Middle Cullen Lake, a 450-acre superbly secluded body of water in Pequot Lakes, Wilderness Resort Villas offers both indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family. Whether you're interested in renting a cabin or a luxury villa, a stay at the resort begins and ends with comfort. Your accommodation choices range from one-bedroom cabins to a luxury five-bedroom villa, perfect for even the largest families. The newly constructed villas are nestled in a wooded site with mature trees and contain a pool table, a flat screen television, a porch/deck, and more! Kid's will love the game room, located in the lodge, and swimming in the indoor pool. The Brainerd Lakes area offers a vast amount of outdoor activities for all ages including fishing, boating, and swimming. Book your stay at Wilderness Point Resort today and escape to the wilderness.

Address

6316 Wilderness Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Highlights

Middle Cullen Lake is stocked with walleye, but that's not the only species you'll reel in. Largemouth bass, northern pike and bluegill will make a great meal for your entire group!

Related activities

With eight courses located within 15 minutes of the resort and eight more within 30 minutes, there is golf nearby for every level of player.

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11

Good Ol' Days Resort

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (855) 683 - 7289

Come to the Good Ol’ Days Resort in the Brainerd Lakes area to create unforgettable memories with the whole family!Good Ol’ Days Resort is located on Lower Cullen Lake, the largest of the three lakes on the... read more

Come to the Good Ol’ Days Resort in the Brainerd Lakes area to create unforgettable memories with the whole family!

Good Ol’ Days Resort is located on Lower Cullen Lake, the largest of the three lakes on the Cullen Lake chain, with 400 acres of crystal clear water. They provide pontoons and motor rentals, a swim raft, and a central dock system for fishing and convenient boat mooring. Your family will never go without something to do at the resort, with lawn swings, a playground area, and a basketball and volleyball court on site. Enjoy access to their Wilderness Resort amenities clubhouse by swimming in the pool, playing in the game room, and breaking a sweat in the fitness room. There is also a wide variety of activities to try in the Brainerd Lakes area. Shop the eccentric stores of downtown Nisswa, hike the Paul Bunyan Trail, or try Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf for a one-of-a-kind mini golf experience. This Minnesota resort will bring your family closer together, make your reservation today!

Address

26050 Oak Ln, Nisswa, MN 56468

Highlights

Make sure to plan your trip during peak season for a chance to participate in organized activities like minnow races, worm races and even an ice cream social.

Fun facts

The resort was completely renovated in 2006 and boasts 10 new cottages and an eight-unit lodge.

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12

Campfire Bay Resort

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 618 - 1613

Since 1947 Campfire Bay Resort has been welcoming families to the secluded and rustic surroundings of Fish Trap Lake. Come and see why generations of families have been making a vacation here an annual... read more

Since 1947 Campfire Bay Resort has been welcoming families to the secluded and rustic surroundings of Fish Trap Lake. Come and see why generations of families have been making a vacation here an annual ritual.

Stunning forests and the calm cool waters of Fish Trap Lake welcome all families to the Campfire Bay Resort. They have two, three, and four bedroom cabins, perfect for almost any sized family. The cabins have amenities like air conditioning, full kitchen to easily prepare all meals, decks, comfy outdoor furniture, and a community bonfire pit. Your family will love the clean shoreline and the abundant water sports. Rent a pontoon from the resort and set out your own private family adventure. Your kids will enjoy the extensive list of on-site activities that include painting, jewelry making, nature trips, and an ice cream social. With something for everyone, Campfire Bay Resort has a rustic charm that will leave unforgettable memories for you and your family.

Address

31504 Azure Rd, Cushing, MN 56443

Related activities

Outside the resort, you will find activities like golf at Pine Ridge Golf Club, horseback riding at two local ranches, local niche shopping locations, and the Pine Grove Zoo.

Related Onsite Offerings

There is an on-site spa program that features a licensed massage therapist. Contact the resort to check availability and to schedule you massage, manicure or pedicure.

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13

Cragun's Resort and Hotel on Gull Lake