Most Popular Facilities

Kid-friendly

Welcome to Idlewilde Resort

Idlewilde Resort, nestled on the serene shores of Lake Osakis in Minnesota, offers an authentic rustic escape that harmonizes nature, comfort, and community spirit. This resort, rated at 3.5 stars, draws visitors seeking a laidback retreat perfect for families and anglers alike. With a cluster of spacious cabins, many featuring private decks, grills, and fire pits, guests experience a charming blend of basic modern conveniences and lakeside tranquility.

Visitors repeatedly praise the resort’s clean and well-maintained accommodations, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere created by owners Jim and Susie, whose commitment to hospitality shines through every interaction. Whether it is the shared excitement of sunfish fishing or the simple joy of evenings by the fire, Idlewilde fosters moments that linger well after check-out.

For families, the resort’s kid-friendly amenities—including a playground and an indoor pool—balance outdoor adventure with comfort on cooler days. While some cabins may not offer direct lake views, the proximity to the water and the peaceful environment compensate fully. The rustic charm, paired with genuine warmth from neighbors and staff, evokes a sense of timeless community and relaxation.

Idlewilde Resort’s location is another compelling draw: just minutes from downtown Osakis and accessible via I-94, it invites visitors to explore local culture and return to lakeside calm. As a dedicated fishing destination, it satisfies anglers with promising catches of sunfish, northern pike, and walleye, ensuring the essence of Minnesota’s lake life is deeply felt.

Ultimately, Idlewilde is more than a place to stay — it is a reminder of the simple pleasures found in nature, shared stories, and unhurried days. For those yearning to reconnect with the outdoors in a welcoming, modest setting, Idlewilde Resort stands as a genuine haven.

Good for visitors

Thing to do
Lake Osakis
4.6 stars 54 Reviews
Lake Le Homme Dieu
4.4 stars 16 Reviews
Serene lake offering boat launches & recreational activities such as fishing & swimming.
Legacy of The Lakes Museum
4.8 stars 203 Reviews
Exhibits of classic wooden & fiberglass boats plus landscaped gardens, open spring through fall.
Airports
Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport
Driving: 01 hour 34 minute | Transit: Loading
St. Cloud Sky Central Airport
Driving: 01 hour 10 minute | Transit: Loading

Last Reviews

Ann Wardarski
02 January 2026

I stayed in 1 of the 5 cabins on the right side of the resort. They were all connected. Very nice spacious cabins. All amenities inside. Very clean cabins. Each one had its own little deck, grill and fire pit. PLAYGROUND for kids. And the lake was gorgeous.

Ryan Vaughn
01 November 2025

Cozy cabin wasn't the one pictured when booking (amenities listed were accurate but did not have lake view - there are cabins which have a lake view, but ours did not). Family had a good time in spite of slightly rustic condition of cabins - neighbors and staff were all friendly. Indoor pool is a nice touch for small children or colder/windy days when the lake may not be as comfortable. Laid-back attitude all around was relaxing. One complaint - resort rented their only pontoon out to one family for the entire holiday week. This family of 4 also brought their own boat to the resort. Seems excessive to rent out the pontoon for the week when you own a boat as well. I understand times are tough and the resort needs to get dollars where they can, but during a holiday week I'd think it might reasonable to only rent the boat out for 1 or 2 days at a time to a single person/family. If we'd had access to a boat I'd likely give 5 stars.

Virgil Rose
27 October 2025

Diane and I have stayed at Idlewilde for the past 4 years. Jim and Susie are very friendly. They are hardworking folks who understand customer service. We have had good fishing for sunfish-very nice sunfish, as well as northern and occasional walleye. I readily recommend Idlewilde. Virgil E. Rose

Julian Kessler
25 September 2025

No longer a resort, and only a couple are still rentals. Cabin 7 is a fantastic stay that we found on VRBO! We are definitely coming back next year!

Info (Essential details)

  • Phone
    Phone Number+1 320-859-2135
  • Address811 Lake St E, Osakis, MN 56360, United States