If you read our Spring Preview post back on March 8th, you already know that March through May brings a special kind of magic to Stone Lake and our lakefront cabins. Right now — late March — we’re sitting right in the middle of that beautiful transition.
Lower Holly Lake is still mostly frozen over, but open water is beginning to form along the shorelines. The snow on the ground has mostly melted, with just a few remaining piles from the plow. The days are stretching longer, the sun feels warmer, and you can feel the Northwoods slowly waking up. This “in-between” season is one of our favorite times to be here — quiet, peaceful, and full of possibility.
Here’s what early spring (March–May) really looks like at O’Connell Cabin Co. right now, and why it might be the sweet spot for your next getaway.
The Peaceful Late-Winter to Spring Transition
- Mostly frozen lakes with emerging open water — Lower Holly Lake is still largely covered in ice, but you can see open water starting to appear along the shorelines. It creates a beautiful contrast and that peaceful “just us” feeling on the water.
- Mostly clear ground — The big snow piles are gone, leaving room for early exploration. The woods feel open and fresh, with brighter light filtering through the pines.
- Signs of spring activity — The beavers are back and busy! We recently spotted a fresh birch tree they chewed and tipped over right next to the Cattail Cottage dock — nature doing its thing.
This is the time when you get the best of both seasons: cozy cabin time when it’s still chilly, and the promise of warmer days just around the corner.
Cabin Life During the Thaw
This transition season makes our cabins feel especially restorative:
- Cattail Chalet — The wood-burning sauna is getting heavy use right now. There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a hot sauna into the cool air with the mostly frozen lake stretching out in front of you.
- Cattail Cabin — The big yard is mostly clear and ready for play as the last snow melts. The arcade room is still a favorite for those cooler, damp days.
- Cattail Cottage — The stone-faced gas fireplace on the main floor creates the perfect cozy glow for relaxing while you watch the lake slowly wake up. (And yes, the beavers are putting on quite a show right next to the dock!)
- Little Sand Lodge — The double fireplaces and calm bay views make it ideal for quiet evenings as the ice begins to recede.
All four cabins still offer private docks (great for watching the thaw or early fishing), fire pits with free firewood, full kitchens, and pet-friendly spaces (up to 2 dogs, $150 fee).
What’s Starting to Open Up Nearby
- Trails — CAMBA’s Hayward Cluster is becoming more accessible as the ground firms up. Hunt Hill Nature Center and Nordic Woods are beautiful right now with early spring light.
- Fishing — Early catch-and-release is open, and as open water expands along the shore, shore fishing or kayak sessions become more inviting.
- Local Eats — Pine Ridge, Coop’s Pizza, Angler’s, Summers on Long, and Red Schoolhouse Wines are all open and much less crowded than they will be in peak summer.
Availability Right Now
A good number of March–May dates are still open, especially mid-week. This is one of the best times to book if you want a peaceful, restorative escape before the summer rush begins.
Ready to experience the lakes as they wake up? Check real-time availability at oconnellcabinco.com and let’s get your early spring reset on the calendar.
Pro Tip: Book a mid-week stay in April or early May and you’ll have the trails and lakes practically to yourself, plus the best chance at flexible dates and value. Those spots are still wide open right now — grab one at oconnellcabinco.com before they fill up!