Every year around Labor Day, my wife and I start talking about how fast the summer flew by. It's actually pretty crazy how fast it goes. We’ll sit on the dock at one of the cabins as the sun goes down and it always hits me...this is one of the best times to be up here. The water gets cooler, the air is cooling off too, and there’s this perfect mix of summer energy and that first hint of fall in the air. We’ve had some of our favorite memories right around Labor Day weekend, and it’s become one of those special times we look forward to every year. Here are 5 great reasons to make this Labor Day weekend your next Northwoods escape.
1. Excellent Fishing as the Season Transitions
Early September is often one of the best times for fishing on Lower Holly Lake and Little Sand Lake. As the water starts to cool, walleye, bass, and musky become more active. Many guests report strong catches right off the private docks or during short boat trips. The quieter water (with fewer boats than peak summer) makes for more peaceful and productive fishing sessions.
Back in 2023, I took this photo of our daughter fishing off the dock at Cattail Cabin during Labor Day weekend. I submitted the pic to our dock supplier’s photo contest at the time, and it actually took runner-up! That moment perfectly captures the kind of simple, memorable experiences that make Labor Day weekend so special.
2. Fewer Crowds, More Space to Relax
Labor Day marks the unofficial end of peak summer. Many families have already headed back to school routines, which means quieter trails, easier restaurant reservations, and more room to spread out at the cabin. You get the best of summer without the July/August intensity.
3. Local Events & Late-Summer Energy
The Hayward area still has plenty going on:
- Many local spots (Wilderness Walk Zoo, farmer’s markets, and restaurants like Tamarack Farms) are still in full summer mode before they start winding down.
- Community gatherings and end-of-summer events are common — a great way to cap off the season.
The photo below is Tamarack Farms right outside of Hayward. They have a great outdoor seating area and also provide yard games while you wait for your food!
4. Better Availability, Lower Rates & Shorter Minimum Stay
This is one of the biggest reasons to book Labor Day weekend:
- More availability than peak July and early August weekends.
- Noticeably better rates.
- We’re reducing our minimum stay requirement from 4 nights to 3 nights specifically for Labor Day weekend 2026.
This makes it much easier and more affordable to squeeze in one last summer getaway.
5. The Perfect “One Last Summer Hurrah” Memory
If your kids go back to school in late August, the 3 night minimum allows for a Friday to Monday stay, and they won't have to miss anything. Perfect for one more long weekend. There’s something special about that final big weekend of summer — bonfires that last longer into the cooler evenings, stargazing that feels extra clear, and the satisfaction of squeezing every last drop out of the season before fall fully arrives. Many of our returning guests say Labor Day stays create some of their favorite family memories.
All four cabins (Cattail Chalet, Cattail Cabin, Cattail Cottage, and Little Sand Lodge) are pet-friendly, come with private docks, kayaks, fire pits with free firewood, and everything you need for a memorable long weekend. By the way, if your kids have homework to finish up, all 4 cabins have high speed internet too.
Good news: We still have availability for Labor Day weekend 2026 at all 4 of our cabins — with the new 3-night minimum. If you’ve been thinking about one last summer escape, now is the time to book.
Check real-time dates at oconnellcabinco.com and let’s make this Labor Day one to remember.