Places to stay this winter
By Your Inner Otter
Otter Tail County, MN is a super popular travel destination in the summer months. With over 1,000 lakes, folks flock to the area to enjoy their favorite warm weather activities. Most resorts are very busy in the summer, and reservations can fill up years in advance. Winter, on the other hand, is considerably quieter around these parts. There is still a ton of fun to be had and off-peak rates make a winter getaway a great family vacation. Here are some lodging options for you to enjoy a winter adventure.
Lakeside Resorts
One of the more popular types of lodging here in Otter Tail County, MN are resorts. Most properties are locally owned and operated by families. In some cases, these places have been a tradition for over 100 years. Here is a list of our members who are ready to welcome you this winter. (in alphabetical order)
Vacationland Resort – Otter Tail Lake
Along State HWY 78 on the south side of Otter Tail Lake sits a resort that specializes in ice fishing. Vacationland Resort has cabins open year round and if/when the ice gets thick enough they offer fish houses to rent. If you are looking to catch walleyes in the winter, Otter Tail Lake should be on the top of your list and so should Vacationland Resort. Give Trevor a call at 1-800-495-5826 or visit their website here.
Barky’s Resort – Otter Tail Lake
Located on the west side of Otter Tail Lake, Barky’s Resort is an angler’s favorite. During the winter season (Sept – April) they offer stay-and-play packages for ice fishing, snowmobiling, or just getting away. Barky’s offers day and sleeper fish house rentals too. They even have a heated fish cleaning house to make preparing your catch more enjoyable. Click here to learn more.
East Silent Lake Resort
Winters at East Silent Resort offer the perfect place to rest, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet beauty of lakeside living. Grab a book and a glass of wine and snuggle into a comfy chair in front of the fireplace. Or you can head outdoors and experience all that winter in Otter Tail County has to offer. Maplewood State Park is just five miles away. There are some on-site trails for hiking or snowshoeing and there are plenty of ways to enjoy East Silent Lake even when it is frozen. Ice skating, hockey and ice fishing are a few of the ways you can make memories. Click here to check availability.
Holly’s Resort – Otter Tail Lake
Located on Otter Tail Lake, Holly’s Resort has 5 newly built villas that are open year-round. Established in 1941 and originally known as “Holly’s Camp”. Otter Tail Lake is very well known for its walleye fishing. With a little homework and a little luck, you can catch a handful of Minnesota’s state fish for the frying pan. Click here to learn more.
Northern Lights Resort – Dead Lake
During the summer months, Northern Lights Resort on Dead Lake is buzzing with activity, but you can feel like you have the whole place to yourself in the winter. Cabin 10 is available year-round. This cozy warm cabin features four bedrooms, sleeps up to 16 and has two full bathrooms, one is a handicapped bathroom. It may be rented as a 2, 3 or 4 bedroom unit during the winter season. Click here to learn more.
Shady Grove Resort – Rush Lake
Shady Grove Resort is a great place to stay for your next ice fishing adventure. Their 3-bedroom condos are perfect for a large group or family. The ground floor features a spacious living & dining room, fully equipped kitchen, 1/2 bathroom, and laundry closet. Upstairs are three bedrooms, a full bathroom with a shower & tub, and a walkout balcony overlooking the resort and Rush Lake. These units are a great place for your lakes country vacation. The condos have special winter rates from October through April. Shady Grove Resort also has a heated fish cleaning shack. Click here for contact info.
Sunset Bay Resort – Dead Lake
Imagine waking up on a crisp winter morning in a house on a hill tucked away in the woods. Sunset Bay Resort offers a year-round retreat where you can relax with family and friends. Dead Lake is over 7,000 acres and features great bluegill and crappie ice fishing opportunities as well as walleye and pike. Click here for more info.
Ten Mile Lake Resort
This resort has been owned and operated by the same family since 1906 and is located 10 minutes south of Fergus Falls just off I-94. Their three larger cabins are available to rent all year round with the option of renting a fish house during the winter. Click here to learn more.
Bladow Beach Resort – Rush Lake
Bladow Beach Resort & Campground is located on the west end of Rush Lake. Cabin #10 has two bedrooms, sleeps eight and offers extra privacy as it sits back off the resort. Click here to learn more.
Bonnie Beach Resort – Clitherall Lake
Come enjoy Clitherall Lake in the heart of Otter Tail County for your Minnesota vacation. Experience the family-run, family-fun Minnesota lake resort. Bonnie Beach Resort is one of the oldest running resorts in the area and has been in operation continuously since 1882. Click here to learn more.
Hotels – Motels – Inns
If you aren’t looking for the “resort” experience, we have a number of hotels, motels and inns that offer the perfect get-away with some fun amenities.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
Stay in the heart of Fergus Falls, MN at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. Attached to the Bigwood Event Center, this a great venue for gatherings, parties, weddings and more. The Minnesota-shaped pool makes any stay a memorable one. Learn more by clicking here.
AmericInn by Wyndham – Fergus Falls
AmericInn by Wyndham Fergus Falls-Conference Center gives you access to all that Otter Tail County has to offer. With more than 1,000 lakes in a one-hour driving radius, Fergus Falls is the perfect location to explore beautiful scenery and discover endless winter activities. This hotel is conveniently situated near I-94 and Highway 210, as well as the historic downtown area, picturesque tree-lined streets, and a plethora of local parks. Click here for more info.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites – Parkers Prairie
Next door to the Parkers Prairie Event Center and steps away from Lake Adley, GrandStay® Hotel & Suites is perfectly situated for all your group and recreation needs. The Prairie Event Center, attached to the hotel is the perfect venue for wedding receptions, private parties, anniversary and birthday celebrations, banquets, meetings, galas and association events. With 7,200 sq. ft., a full-service kitchen, built-in stage, and bars, the Prairie Event Center and attached hotel allow you to have the perfect event in one perfect location. The pool and complimentary breakfast make GrandStay® Hotel & Suites a great weekend retreat. Click here for more info.
Lakes Inn at Dunvilla
Located in the heart of the Pelican, Lizzie, and Lida lakes area, the Lakes Inn at Dunvilla welcomes guests with casual modern-style rooms and suites. Each room is equipped with wood headboards, warm neutral colors, and light wood furnishings, providing a comfortable and relaxing feel for our guests. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast and work out in our fitness rooms. Other amenities include an indoor saltwater pool, hot tub, and a business room. Pet-friendly rooms are also available for an additional fee. Learn more by clicking here.
Thumper Pond Resort
Thumper Pond Resort in the City of Ottertail is ideal for a mid-winter break. They have a restaurant, great rooms and an indoor water park. Willy T’s Tavern & Grill is open 7 days a week and features great pizza, farm-to-table specials and great breakfast on the weekend. An indoor water park allows kids to have some fun while the grownups relax poolside. Click here to learn more.
Whistle Stop Bed & Breakfast – New York Mills
Whether you’re planning a business trip, a honeymoon, a slumber party, observing an anniversary, or just an “escape” from the ordinary, the Whistle Stop is at your service. Click here to learn more about this unique lodging opportunity.
Pelican Motel – Pelican Rapids
The Pelican Motel was established in the late 1950s and it has become a lodging tradition in Pelican Rapids, MN. This motel has hosted travelers from all over the country looking for a place to stay with a small-town charm. From fishermen, to hunting parties, to family reunions, they have the place for you. Click here to learn more.
Located in the heart of the lakes country, the Pelican Motel offers 16 newly renovated rooms that are unique, safe and relaxing. Choose from single or double rooms or stay in our cozy cabin. Bring your furry friends, they are always welcome here!
Battle Lake Inn
Make yourself at home in one of Battle Lake Inn 13 charming rooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided daily. There is a heated fish cleaning facility on site. A two-level suite is available for larger groups. Click here for more information.
