Nature Shores - Pine City, Minnesota
Located approximately one hour north of Minneapolis in the St. Croix River Valley, Nature Shores is a boutique resort that blends the seclusion of a state park with modern, upscale amenities. Set on 50 private acres of woodland in Pine City, the property offers a "soft adventure" experience designed for those who want to disconnect in nature without sacrificing comfort.
The resort features two distinct types of lodging:
The Tiny Cabin Collection: Multiple uniquely designed modern cabins (with styles ranging from Scandinavian to A-frame) are scattered throughout the forest for privacy. Ideal for couples or solo travelers, each cabin includes a full kitchenette, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi, and a private outdoor fire pit and patio.
The Lodge: A massive, commercial-grade rental designed for large groups, reunions, or retreats. It sleeps up to 18 guests and features nine bedrooms—each with its own private ensuite bathroom—along with a sprawling common area and a 26-foot kitchen island.
What We Loved:
Setting: Guests have access to private hiking trails, a man-made swimming pond with a sandy beach, and a small private lake. The property borders thousands of acres of protected public land, ensuring a quiet, immersive forest atmosphere.
Modern Comfort: Unlike rustic camping, these units are fully climate-controlled and come stocked with essentials like olive oil, coffee, and linens.
Firewood Included: Unlike many campsites that charge for bundles, the host provides complimentary firewood for your private fire pit.
Outdoor Cooking: Each unit has its own gas grill (often a flattop style) and a private outdoor patio.
Important Considerations:
Pet Policy: Select cabins (like "Birchbend" and "Rock Point") are pet-friendly.
Note on Watercraft: While the property is near the St. Croix and Snake Rivers, guests typically bring their own kayaks or paddleboards if they intend to explore the riverways, as the on-site water amenities focus on the swimming pond and wildlife lake.