The Cutest Cabin on Lake Superior in Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness
Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s stunning Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the Cotten Cabin on Lake Superior is a perfect blend of rustic charm and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a family getaway, or a nature-filled escape, this off-grid retreat offers an unforgettable experience.
Is the Cotten Cabin on Lake Superior?
The Cotten Cabin is located on the western edge of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, right on the shores of Lake Superior and next to the serene Tiebel Creek. Guests often enjoy the tranquil sound of the creek flowing nearby, and it’s even been known to attract salmon swimming upstream to spawn—a truly magical sight.
For those exploring other ends of the park, the White Birch Cabin, featured in the first post of our Cozy Cabin series, offers a unique stay near the eastern side of the Porcupine Mountains. If you’re looking to experience the park from both perspectives, be sure to check out our post about the White Birch Cabin.
You can find the exact location of the Cotten Cabin on the Google Map below to plan your trip.
Open Season and Accessibility
The Cotten Cabin is open seasonally, welcoming visitors from May 15 to November 29. Its location, approximately a mile hike from the trailhead, ensures a peaceful and secluded experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or with loved ones, the journey is well worth it.
Reservations can be made through the DNR website or by calling 1-800-447-2757.
A Cozy Cabin with Spacious Comfort
Originally a privately-owned property, this cabin on Lake Superior is now one of the park’s largest cabins, featuring three rooms—including two separate bedrooms. The first bedroom offers a cozy queen bed ideal for couples, while the second features two bunk beds, perfect for groups or families. With ample seating in the living area and a covered front porch that overlooks the Lake Superior view, comfort is never compromised.
Rustic Amenities for a Backcountry Escape
This cabin is equipped with a wood stove, providing both heating and indoor cooking options. Outside, you’ll find two firepits for evening campfires under the stars, an outhouse for convenience, and a wood-fired sauna. While the sauna was locked during our visit, recent campers have shared that it’s now open for use, adding a relaxing touch to this backcountry stay.
Although off-grid, the cabin offers modern functionality with a small solar panel powering a USB charging station inside. Keep in mind, however, that cell service is nonexistent, making this the perfect place to unplug and recharge in nature. Drinking water is sourced from nearby streams, but it must be filtered or boiled—so plan ahead.
Wildlife Encounters
The Cotten Cabin is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. During our stay, we were lucky enough to see a mother duck swimming with her 20 ducklings and a doe grazing in the front yard—moments that felt truly magical. The cabin guest book also mentions sightings of salmon swimming upstream to spawn in Tiebel Creek, adding to the charm of this location.
Adventures at the Presque Isle Waterfall Trail
A highlight of our trip was the adventure to the Presque Isle Waterfall Trail. For those looking for a challenge, it’s a 2-mile hike along the Lake Superior Trail, which is also part of the North Country Trail, leading to the bottom of the Presque Isle Falls loop. Alternatively, you can hike back out to your vehicle and take a short 3-mile drive to the top of the waterfall loop.
The 2.3-mile loop trail itself follows the Presque Isle River and showcases three stunning waterfalls: Manabezho Falls, Manido Falls, and Nawadaha Falls. From dramatic cascades to serene forest views, this trail is a feast for the senses and an absolute must for nature lovers.
Watch Our Cotten Cabin Family Adventure
Want to see more of the Cotten Cabin and the Presque Isle Waterfalls? Check out our Tiktok reel and watch our YouTube video from our family camping trip to the cabin and visit to the falls. You’ll get an up-close look at the beauty of the waterfalls and the cabin’s unique charm. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more cozy cabin adventures!
Interested in Another Great Cabin?
If you’re curious about another fantastic getaway, don’t miss our post about the Little Presque Isle Cabins. Fun fact: they’re not even remotely close to the waterfalls mentioned in this post—but you will still need hiking boots to get there!
Why Visit the Cotten Cabin on Lake Superior?
The Cotten Cabin is more than just a place to stay—it’s an adventure in itself. From cozy indoor spaces to breathtaking lake views and nearby waterfall trails, this cabin invites you to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Have you stayed at the Cotten Cabin or another gem in Michigan’s great outdoors? Share your experience and let us know which cozy cabin you’d love to see featured next!
