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Secluded Lake Retreat

Family-friendly stay with in-room kitchens in Dowling

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Smart TV, table tennis
Marina
Outdoor spa tub
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 82200 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Washer
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Dowling, MI
  • Place, Bristol Lake
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Mill Lake
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Firekeepers Casino
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.)
    ‪53 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Dowling

On lake.At this Dowling vacation home, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Bristol Lake and 3 miles (5 km) of Little Mill Lake. Clear Lake and Mill Lake are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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What's nearby

  • Bristol Lake - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Mill Lake - 7 min drive - 2.7 miles
  • Gilmore Car Museum - 26 min drive - 14.4 miles
  • Kellogg Arena - 27 min drive - 15.8 miles
  • Firekeepers Casino - 36 min drive - 22.4 miles

Getting around

  • Battle Creek Transportation Center - 22 min drive
  • Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Horn Creek Pub - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Wild Mike's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Edwards - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Pub - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Waderson's - ‬20 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Secluded Lake Retreat

Our property is centrally located in southwest Michigan, within a 3-hour drive from Chicago and Detroit. The region is known for it’s rolling hills, golf courses and hundreds of lakes. It is a place where recreation awaits year-round! No matter what your outdoor pleasure, from golf to water sports, you can find it here in our beautiful natural surroundings!

Our house sits on 3.3 wooded acres, and from it’s hillside perch, enjoys broad views overlooking Bristol Lake. The property is on a quiet residential street. Bristol is a 165-acre all-sports lake and is excellent for fishing, swimming and all manner of watersports. The lake shore consists of a mix of areas of sand and loam. The water gets deep gradually and is relatively-friendly to younger children (although we recommend life jackets for non-swimmers).

We have a large grassy yard along the lake with enough trees to give some comfortable shade in the sunny summer afternoons.

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Beautiful Lakefront Home- Sleeps 20
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  • Dryer
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Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • No elevator
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Boat
  • Kayak
  • Table tennis
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 2,200 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please gather up used sheets on end of beds, and set used towels near washer
Please put all trash in large trash cans at the end of the driveway
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Noise Levels: During the day, noise should be kept to reasonable levels. After dark, noise levels should not exceed that of a close conversation.
The septic system is very effective; however, it will clog up if improper materials are flushed. DO NOT FLUSH anything other than toilet paper.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs and cats are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: $150 fee/pet

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a smoke detector and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Secluded Lake Retreat Dowling
Secluded Lake Retreat Private vacation home
Secluded Lake Retreat Private vacation home Dowling

Frequently asked questions

How close is Secluded Lake Retreat to the airport?

This vacation home is 33.1 mi (43-min drive) away from the Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Secluded Lake Retreat have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

Does Secluded Lake Retreat offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Secluded Lake Retreat?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

What time is check-in at Secluded Lake Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Secluded Lake Retreat?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Secluded Lake Retreat have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Secluded Lake Retreat have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Secluded Lake Retreat to downtown Dowling?

This vacation home is 2.5 mi away from Dowling.

Reviews

Secluded Lake Retreat Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 114 out of 135 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 135 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 135 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 135 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 135 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Kyle B.

Loved the place! Hot tub was amazing!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

John S.

Liked: Cleanliness
First off, the owners of this property are very attentive and some of the best owners I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with (and we stay at 1-2 different lake homes each year). They went above and beyond to try and right a few wrongs. Overall, this place was great, very cozy and has a rustic, woodsy, lake house feel. It is high up from the water so you do not have a clear view of the swim area and there are some uneven steps down, but there is a hand rail and my older parents (78 and 80) did not love the extra steps but managed just fine. The boat that is rented with the cottage should probably just be included in the base price. It is pretty beat up and only has 5 seats. The pier is small, so you need the boat to hang out if you want to sit over the water. It is not great for this. The engine runs a bit rough, loud and does not move much, but better than nothing for just tooling around the lake. I am sure renting a boat is no fun from an owners perspective, but a clear heads up about its condition would be suggested. Lastly
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ramona A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very spacious lake house room for big families! Lots of beach toys for the kids and adults, we had a blast!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

sara s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Overall we had a very great time. We caught plenty of fish at all times of the day. The porch was nice as well, slightly overgrown and would of been better if trimmed up more for a view.The house was spacious for the 8 of us. 1 room was in the basement, just so others know. The basement bathroom is also a full bathroom, as we were unsure with the listing. The walk down,one stair case was overgrown and unable to use it at all. The other one, it is quite a hike. There was tons of stuff in the shed down there to use if items and great to store our stuff while there. The bedrooms were pretty big as well. Having the highchair and pack and play there helped a ton. The beds also were comfortable with plenty of blanket and extra pillows around for us. It would of been nice for the 2 other bedrooms to have tv also. The kitchen had a lot of pans, griddle coffeemaker and tons there, however the stove could use an upgrade, we couldnt get one burner to work at all. The knives could also be replaced, the plastic knives we had were sharper. The basement stairs are pretty seep and smaller stairs, and could be difficult for some coming there, we had one of our guest who couldnt make it there how they were. The air hockey table air wouldnt blow the pucks, but still could play some.The basement was nice of the walk out tho once there. The hot tub i dont believe was at the temp it said it was and was a little cooler, but was still warm and needed after the hikes back and forth the stairs down.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Justin T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake stay

The house is great, tons of room. Veiw of the lake is very nice. The area down by the lake is fantastic, lots of space, easy to get in and out of the water.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Lisa C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Host

Our stay was wonderful. The house was clean and comfortable. The only downfall was the trail to the beach area and the beach itself. The trail had rocks and sticks and was washing in. It is definitely not a good area for someone with bad knees. The water itself has a fast drop off not makong it very kid friendly. But, since we were 2 adults and a teenager, it was good for us. The hot tub was nice! Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jesse W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quick Getaway

This trip was just for my spouse and I and our pet. It was a colder weekend, but we enjoyed everything. We can’t wait to rent again when the weather is warmer.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Judy A., Illinois

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful Lake House

Our family of 9 people from 3 states stayed at this house in Dowling for a wedding weekend. The house is very comfortable and the kitchen worked well for all of us. The water is a bit ‘tasty’ so bottled water is a good idea. We enjoyed the early mornings outside.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa J.

Liked: Cleanliness

A truly beautiful lake!

Pretty lake, very clean, nice house and very quiet. Had a great time enjoying the surroundings. Lake was warm, beds were comfy and house was well stocked! Thank you for sharing your house!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

6/10 Okay

James H.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Nice place, just needed cleaned

The property was great, it just was not clean.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

BENJAMIN K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Bristol Lake Stay

We had a group of 8 guys on a golf trip. The accomodations were excellent and we had a great time.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Caleb S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fall Getaway

Very nice cozy place to stay with plenty to do. Beautiful property to enjoy.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Loren T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake house

Had a wonderful time! I will definitely recommend this place.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kellie B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Lake Retreat

The property was exactly as described, nicely appointed, and clean when we arrived. Perfect lake house getaway from the city.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Patricia N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Get-Away!!

Nice place! House was clean and had comfortable beds. The beach area was fun for the little kids. Adults enjoyed the kayaks and fishing on the lake. Beautiful views of the lake from the screened in porch. Really enjoyed our time there and would recommend…except for people who have problems climbing stairs. There’s quite a few stairs to get to the lake front. (The only drawback for some people. We were fine with it.)
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Private getaway

Absolutley love this cottage!! Perfect location on the lake with privacy. Loved being able to rent the pontoon boat too! We did daily tours around the lake on the boat with many stops for swimming. Had the best time
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful secluded stay

The home is very well equipped and clean, the location wonderful on the lake with so much to do. My family and I really enjoyed ourselves and the owner is responsive! looking forward to staying again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leslie M., Grosse Pointe Farms, Mi. 48236

Liked: Cleanliness

Great House

A beautiful location with a great house!,VERY CLEAN!, the best equipped house we have ever rented.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charles G.

Liked: Cleanliness

2023 Family Vacation

This is the second year in a row we have stayed at this property and what a home and property it is. My kids and I love to connect here while enjoying the basement games, the beach, the hot tub and the boat! Beautiful sunrises from the screened in room starts each day off right! Thanks Ray!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cooper N., Indianapolis, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Memorial Day Weekend

Stayed here with some friends and our dogs. Great stay. Was very relaxing and we had a blast swimming in the lake and wearing the dogs out. Would recommend to anyone.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Haley D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Winter Weekend Visit

The property was as expected and the view was beautiful! Hot tub was perfect for the winter weekend. Loved the screened in deck, cozy living area, games, local guide binder, and spacious bedrooms. Only a few minor negative things to note—the Keurig did not work, water filter on fridge needed to be changed, and downstairs bathroom had a musty smell. Still a great space with comfortable accommodations for a family who will be spending a lot of time on the lake during summer months!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Colton G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Getaway

The house was nice with great views and Ray was accessible for any issues that arose
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicki M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome Autumn Weekend

We were able to gather our adult children and parents for a gorgeous Fall weekend and this place made our stay simply amazing! The layout is perfect for everyone to not only be able to come together for meals and games in the kitchen/dining area and on the screened-in porch but also allowed for privacy when wanting time to rest and relax with spacious and comfortable bedrooms. The only suggestion we’d offer would be to add maybe some solar stake lights along the path down to the lake as it really does get so dark! We loved our time at this place and we all agree we’d love to return again soon!!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful, peaceful retreat

We had four adults staying at this location and have to say that we had the very best time. There was ample room for all of us and it was really nice to have a full bathroom in the lower level as well. The games room was so much fun. We loved the private beach area as well. Being right on the lake was so peaceful. We would highly recommend this cottage!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022