If you’re looking for a cozy cabin getaway that’s close to the city but feels like you’re a million miles away, I’ve got you. Nature Shores Minnesota is a new tiny cabin resort in Pine City, just one hour from Minneapolis.
These modern tiny cabins are perfect for a solo, couple’s or friend’s trip where you want to spend quality time together in nature.
I recently had the opportunity to stay at Nature Shores Minnesota to experience these new cabin rentals myself. Here’s my honest review of Nature Shore MN and my thoughts on how it stacks up to the best places to stay in Pine City Minnesota.
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Where is Pine City, Minnesota?
Pine City is about a one hour drive north of Minneapolis, about halfway to Duluth. It’s situated just off of I-35W and between Cross and Pokegama Lakes, which are connected by the Snake River.
Pine City’s convenient location offers a great alternative to more crowded destinations in Minnesota, like the North Shore of Lake Superior. For a more scenic drive, avoid the freeway and take the St Croix Scenic Byway through the countryside instead.
Nature Shores Minnesota is located about a 10 minute drive east of Pine City.
Why is Nature Shores Minnesota a great place to stay?
As much as I love the North Shore of Minnesota, the drive can be daunting at times. Pine City is a cheat code to a quick getaway in nature just an hour from the Twin Cities.
Nature Shores Minnesota is a new tiny cabin resort (grand opening in winter 2025/spring 2026). It’s set on 50 acres of private property. As you drive into the resort after a short stretch on a dirt road, you wind through a forest, along a small lake with a screened-in gazebo before you come upon a series of tiny cabins.
Every cabin is uniquely designed so there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer farmhouse, Scandinavian, or a-frame, there are options. You could come back year after year and stay in a different one!
Nature Shores reminds us that not all cabin experiences have to be rustic. You’ll find cabins that are modern, comfortable, and have everything you need for a mini retreat. You can show up with a cooler and overnight bag and be all set.
The cabins are designed to show off the beauty of nature with tons of windows, natural light, and outdoor space. Love grilling? Imagine steaks and veggies sizzling on a new flattop grill while you relax around the firepit.
In the evening, I enjoyed walking over to the dock and watching the beavers hard at work on their dam. I can imagine how peaceful it is in winter watching the snowfall from inside next to the stove heater or snowshoeing on the lake.
The property is about a 10 minute drive from the town of Pine City where you’ll find restaurants and other things to do. This means you can relax, unwind and leave the cooking to someone else if you prefer. There’s also lots of great places to go hiking, including Minnesota State Parks nearby.
But, the cabins are so cozy that you may not want to leave at all. Settle in with a blanket on the sofa and watch a movie or sit outside and do some stargazing at night.
What I Love About Nature Shores Minnesota
All seven of the tiny cabins at Nature Shores Minnesota have a unique and modern design. In addition to cabins, the property includes shared outdoor spaces like screened-in gazebos, a sandy beach, and dock for wildlife viewing. Here are some of the things I love about it:
- Tranquil setting on 50 acres of private woodland and lake
- Cabins have private outdoor space with firepit, wood, and outdoor seating
- Outdoor gas grill
- Well-stocked modern kitchen (including olive oil, salt, pepper and k-cups)
- Lots of natural light
- Indoor stove heater and air conditioning
- Strong wifi for remote working
- Smart TV
- A selection of board games and activities to enjoy
- Dog-friendly options
I stayed in the Birchbend cabin, which is a single story one bedroom, one bathroom tiny cabin that sleeps up to four (two on a pullout couch). I enjoyed this cabin’s corner location, offering extra privacy and just a short walk to the lake.
What I don’t love about Nature Shores Minnesota
There is very little not to love about Nature Shores Minnesota, but I always aim to share things to consider before booking to help you decide if a stay here is for you.
First, the resort is made up of tiny cabins and, as such, may be tight for some families or groups, particularly in colder months where the use of the outdoor seating may be limited. In these situations, it could make sense to book multiple cabins so everyone can have the space they need or consider booking The Lodge for large groups.
Second, while each cabin faces its own private outdoor space, once the leaves have fallen the privacy between cabins is a bit less. This won’t be an issue in the warmer months when the leaves fill in between cabins. And, again, in colder months you likely won’t spend as much time outdoors so this is not a huge deal in my opinion just something to be aware of.
Third, related to privacy, the sliding glass door in the bedroom at the Birchbend cabin offers a beautiful view of the woods and outdoor space but does not have any blinds or curtains. Keep in mind that the cabins are designed to face the private outdoor space, not the driveway, so there is naturally a level of privacy for that reason. I enjoyed waking up to the view but know that some people will prefer more privacy. The Hilltop, Lakeside, Woodhaven and Fern Valley tiny cabins all are great options with more privacy for the bedroom.
Finally, the kitchen is beautifully designed and well-appointed but there is minimal counter space in some of the cabins (it is a tiny cabin, after all!). If you plan to prepare more elaborate meals, I recommend choosing a cabin with more counterspace. I tend to keep cabin meals pretty simple so this was not a big issue for me. And Nature Shores Minnesota is less than a 10 minute drive into Pine City where there are several great restaurants!
Is Nature Shores Minnesota one of the best places to stay in Pine City?
Nature Shores Minnesota is unlike anywhere else I’ve stayed in the Pine City area. It’s designed for people who appreciate the peace and quiet of the outdoors with modern comforts. Many cabins in Minnesota are too large for solo or couple’s getaways and that’s where these tiny cabins are the perfect solution, especially if you want to bring your adventure dog along.
If you are looking for a solo getaway or want to bring along one of your favorite people, Nature Shores MN is one of the best places to stay in Pine City and for a nature-focused modern getaway in Minnesota.
How does Nature Shores MN compare to alternatives?
Lodging in the Pine City area really runs the gamut from rustic off-grid tiny cabins to romantic modern luxury domes and everything in between. There are a lot of options for where to stay but they are so varied in size and purpose that it really depends on what kind of getaway you are planning.
Since I’ve visited the area several times, I put together a list of the best places to stay in Pine City to help you choose what’s right for you.
Frequently asked questions about Nature Shores MN
How many cabins are there to choose from?
There are seven tiny cabins that sleep from 2 to 4 people. Additionally, The Lodge can sleep up to 18 guests with 9 private bedrooms, perfect for large groups.
What’s included?
The tiny cabins are stocked with everything you need! Included with your stay are all bedding, towels, gas stove, oven, microwave, cooking essentials, Keurig coffee maker with k-cups, basic toiletries, TV, wifi, firewood, and gas grill. I was happy to find olive oil, salt and pepper stocked in the kitchen as well.
Is Nature Shores MN pet-friendly?
Two of the tiny cabins are pet-friendly, Birchbend and Rock Point. There is no additional pet fee.
What is there to do nearby?
There’s lots to do in Pine City and the surrounding area, including hiking, history, breweries, and more. Here are my recommendations for things to do near Pine City.
Where do I book my stay at Nature Shores MN?
Find more info and book your stay through their website.
Disclaimer: This experience was hosted by Nature Shores Minnesota. My opinions, however, are my own. I am under no obligation to write a positive review.
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Check out my Minnesota travel page for even more inspiration and tips!
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