On river.Stay at this Traverse City lodge and you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Twin Lake and 2 miles (3 km) of Forest Lakes. Twin Lakes and South Branch Nature Preserve are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Traverse City State Park - 24 min drive - 14.4 miles
Front Street - 28 min drive - 16.9 miles
Getting around
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 24 min drive
Restaurants
Peegeo's - 15 min drive
Old Lady Vicki's Birthday - 7 min drive
budd lake bar - 11 min drive
Ricos Cafe & Pizzeria - 15 min drive
Dr. Jekyll's - 16 min drive
About this property
🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly
THE TRUE NORTH presents... FORKS RIVER LODGE! Nestled on 10 acres at the forks of the Boardman River, this historic log lodge has been lovingly maintained by one owner for over 20 years. A peaceful escape with a deep connection to nature, it offers rare privacy, timeless charm, and easy access to Traverse City just 20 min away. Whether you fish, paddle, or simply relax by the fire—this retreat is unforgettable inside out! Learn more below... 👇
🌟 HIGHLIGHTS 🌟
🌊 Forks of the Boardman River – Direct access to both branches, perfect for kayaking & fishing 🔥 Game Room – Ping Pong, Foosball, Dome Hockey & cozy lounge vibes 🐾 Pet-Friendly – Well-behaved dogs welcome (fees apply) 🏡 Lodge + Guest House – Sleeps up to 13 with unique layouts 🎯 Off-site Trail & Nature Access – Great for hiking, ORVs (off-site only), and wildlife watching 🚗 Trailer-Friendly Parking – Space for toy haulers (no riding on-site) 🎁 True North Perks – Wine, snacks, concierge upgrades & VIP discounts
🌲🔥 OUTDOOR HEAVEN
When you're ready to embrace the outdoors, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, immersing yourself in the natural splendor and observing the abundant wildlife that graces the area. With each passing season, you'll witness the ever-changing beauty of this serene forest setting.
☀ Firepit with Adirondack chairs overlooking the stream ☀ Screened-in porch with rustic rockers and views of the trees ☀ Outdoor dining and BBQ grill setup ☀ Parking available for cars and trailers ☀ Trailers welcome for off-site use only — no ATVs/ORVs allowed on the lawn
🏡 LODGE LIVING & GAME ROOM
Indoors, the lodge exudes warmth and comfort, with a grand stone fireplace serving as the heart of the home. Curl up with a good book or enjoy a cozy evening surrounded by rich log architecture and vintage touches. The massive game room offers space for kids and grown-ups alike to relax and play.
☀ Soaring timber beams and open-concept layout ☀ Stone fireplace + deep armchairs for ultimate relaxation ☀ Smart TVs, Wi-Fi, board games, and vintage décor ☀ Ping Pong, Foosball, Dome Hockey + more in the game room ☀ Unique extras like a vintage pump organ and cabin signage
🍽 KITCHEN & DINING
This fully equipped kitchen has everything needed for group meals and shared moments. A long dining table anchors the space, ideal for post-hike dinners or holiday feasts.
☀ Full-size appliances + microwave and dishwasher ☀ Cookware, utensils, serving dishes, toaster & coffee maker ☀ Large log-style dining table + breakfast nook ☀ Outdoor grill for BBQ nights under the stars
🛏 BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS
Spacious, rustic, and flexible—perfect for families and groups.
Main House: ☀ Bedroom 1 – Queen bed (ground floor) ☀ Loft (optional add-on for an extra charge) – 6 Twin beds + 2 Bunk Beds (Twin over Double)
Guest House: ☀ Queen bed + 1 Bunk Bed (Twin over Double) + 3 Twin beds
Bathrooms: ☀ 2 Full bathrooms + 1 Half Bath ☀ Fresh towels, linens, and basic toiletries provided
👉 Loft space is not included by default due to renovation and maintenance. To add the loft to your stay, please request in advance. Additional fee: $250/night + $150 cleaning.
🐾 PET FRIENDLY
We welcome your well-behaved furry companions! Please notify us in advance. Pet fee: $100 flat fee per dog (2 dogs max). Please note that the yard is not fenced.
📍 LOCATION
Despite its idyllic seclusion, Forks River Lodge is just 20 minutes from Traverse City. This allows easy access to vibrant dining, events, beaches, and golf—while still feeling worlds away.
☀ 20 mins to Downtown Traverse City ☀ 10 mins to Horse Shows by the Bay ☀ 30–40 mins to Sleeping Bear Dunes, Torch Lake, Elk Rapids ☀ Nearby hiking, golf courses, trail access, and scenic drives
🎁 EXCLUSIVE TRUE NORTH EXTRAS
🍾 A bottle of Chateau Chantal sparkling wine 🎁 Gift basket with local chips, cherry salsa, chocolates & stag hat 💼 Concierge add-ons: Chef, massage, mobile sauna, yoga, photographers & more
📋 THINGS TO KNOW
☀ Loft space is not included by default due to renovation and maintenance. To add the loft to your stay, please request in advance. Additional fee: $250/night + $150 cleaning. ☀ Bring your own beach towels and firewood ☀ ORV/ATV use not allowed to use on property – $500 fine applies ☀ Please input accurate guest count at booking – $50 per unlisted guest auto-charged
🏡 HOUSE RULES
☀ Minimum age to book: 25 ☀ Max occupancy: 13 guests (adults + kids) ☀ Pets allowed with approval ($100 flat fee per pet, 2 max) ☀ No parties or events ☀ No smoking indoors – $1,000 fine ☀ Quiet hours enforced 10 PM – 8 AM
👉 READY TO UNPLUG & RECHARGE?
Book your stay at FORKS RIVER LODGE and experience the timeless magic of Michigan's Boardman River. Whether you're fishing, reading by the fire, or simply taking in the stars—this unforgettable lodge and our TRUE NORTH Team are waiting to welcome you.
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If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Wheelchair accessibility
Room amenities
Entertainment
TV with cable/satellite channels
Bedroom
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
Shower
Towels provided
Food and drink
Chef service
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dining table
Dishwasher
Kitchen
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster
More
Air conditioning
Dryer
Fireplace
Heating
Living room
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
Pets are welcome
Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
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 professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Parties and events are allowed on site. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.
Property is also known as
759324
Frequently asked questions
How close is 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly to the airport?
This lodge is 12.5 mi (24-min drive) away from the Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly?
As of Sep 9, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly on Sep 19, 2025 start from $1,177.05, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this lodge.
How close is 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly to the beach?
This lodge is 10.9 mi (17-min drive) from Traverse City Beach.
Does 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly offer free breakfast?
This lodge does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly?
No, there is no casino at this lodge, but Turtle Creek Casino (15-min drive) is nearby.
What time is check-in at 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
Is there free parking at 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly?
Free parking is not available at this lodge.
Does 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly have a pool?
This lodge does not have a pool.
Does 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly have a spa?
This lodge doesn't have a spa, but it does offer massages.
How close is 🦌 Forks River Lodge – Private Boardman Riverfront | Game Room | Pet-Friendly to downtown Traverse City?