ABOUT - Canoe Bay

Our Story
Who We Are
Who We Are
Get to know us...
Mackenzie • Guest Services
I grew up in the Twin Cities and achieved my bachelors degree in communications at UW Superior. So grateful this opportunity led me to Canoe Bay, where I've spent over 4 blissful years. I've loved getting to meet so many wonderful people. You'll know me as the designer loving, iced coffee connoisseur who enjoys outdoor adventures with my wonderful husband, Ryan, and adorable pup Ollie.
Kristin • Guest Services
Beginning with behind the scenes in housekeeping, to now helping you at the front desk, I'm honored to be a part of the Canoe Bay family. You'll often see me photographing around property or creating content for our socials. I keep busy achieving a degree, training horses, spending time with family, and of course photographing.
Johanna • Guest Services
My roots are out east where I first learned of my passion for hospitality. My life has been growing here in Wisconsin where my husband and I are now raising our precious little one. Canoe Bay has become the perfect second family for the past 6 years and has truly made Wisconsin feel like home.
Natalie & Tallie • Head Housekeepers
Natalie (pictured left), Tallie (pictured right)
John • Chief Gardener
Hello. I was born in Denmark and have been a professional gardener my entire life. Plants and I have a special relationship. Stop and see me; we'll talk shop!
Joy • Executive Chef
I love the satisfaction of plating a meal harvested locally and from our organic garden. Cooking & baking have always been passions of mine from a young age. When I'm not in the kitchen, you'll find me enjoying family time with my four beautiful daughters and loving husband.
Paisley Dining Room Manager
My love of our Lakeside Dining Room and the joy it brings to our guests is everlasting. Serving others is something I always enjoy. As a mother to my young daughter, I understand the comfort of conversations and sharing around the dining table. I am honored to be able to help provide these special moments for others, with the assistance of the kitchen team and Chef Joy. I hope we get the chance to meet!
Renee General Manager
I grew up in the mountains but now my family and I reside in the country of the Wisconsin Northwoods. When I'm not at this piece of heaven, I'm likely in my garden, on the lake, snowmobiling, or adventuring out west. Quality time with my son, daughter, and husband is of utmost importance to me. I'm eager to help you experience your own restorative quality time here at Canoe Bay.
Lisa Dobrowolski Co-Founder
My husband Dan and I designed Canoe Bay to give couples the perfect getaway. Having lived the high pressure life in Chicago, we "get it." What an amazing blessing to live here. Welcome!
People are Saying...
"The cottage was beautiful inside and out. The view from each balcony was splendid. Everything was super clean. The grounds made for pleasant walks. The meals—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—were excellent and delivered on schedule. We will definitely be back."
" My husband and I both work too much and a weekend away was exactly what we needed. Thank you Canoe Bay!"
"This is probably the 12th (roughly) time we have stayed in Canoe Bay - it takes us 3 days to get there from Canada, but it's worth every minute."
"A great escape from big city living. This place has amazing accommodations wholesome and tasty food with superb service. We celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary in a luxurious but homey cabin."
Our History
How did we get where we are?
Fence Posts Made Of Sausage

Stan & Mary with chubby little Dan
Over a century ago, Dan’s grandfather, Stan, was floating logs logs down the Danube River in eastern Europe when he heard that in America the fence posts were made of sausage! Not exactly 'the streets are paved with gold', but for a dirt-poor youth, the mere thought of sausage fence posts was enough to get him on a ship for America.
Not many years later, Stan and his wife Mary settled just a bit east of Canoe Bay. Their family grew to include 10 children, and life on their small farm wasn't easy. The lake and wildlife of Canoe Bay were critical to the family’s survival, providing fish, berries, and game year-'round. While they did not own the Canoe Bay property, they loved and cared for it.
Seventh Son

That's George
The seventh of Stan & Mary’s children was George—Dan’s father. (One of Dan’s earliest memories is fishing with his father and uncle on Canoe Bay's main lake, when, for the first and only time, he actually caught a turtle!) In the 1960’s, a church group acquired the property and developed a summer camp that they operated here for some 20 years before relocating the facility to southeast Wisconsin.

In 1991, George brought to his son's attention that this very special place was for sale, and...18 months later—on May 1, 1993—Dan & Lisa welcomed their first guests to the revamped Lodge at Canoe Bay.

The Inn and the Lodge, with their massive beams and fieldstone fireplaces, are among those original camp buildings.
The BUZZ
Voted Best in the Midwest...thank you!
Canoe Bay® is the only Lodging Member in the Midwest
A must see.
"I would definitely come back"
"Frank Lloyd Wright on Golden Pond"
Just Great
Order a bottle to enjoy al fresco on your private deck!
"Canoe Bay is the Premiere Hideaway in the Midwest"
"elegant atmosphere, friendly staff...and romantic setting"
#1 Resort in the Midwest!
...and one of the best in the USA
Perfect Adult Summer Camp.
"A cozy-chic spot where couples can relax."
"It's like running away."
Canoe Bay is the perfect secluded getaway.
Canoe Bay is the place you Dream about when you're stuck at your desk or fighting traffic.