Water Camp

11/05/2024

Another amazing review ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

We stayed at the Blue Spruce Cottage for our girls trip in October. Alison truly thought of everything for the cottage :) We loved our stay— it was such a cozy oasis for us to enjoy while we explored the area. Would definitely recommend and want to start planning our next trip already!

10/28/2024

This week last year 🤍

Birch Cottage is open all this week, come and experience it for yourself. Link to book direct and save on Airbnb fees is in our bio.

10/22/2024

Recent Review ✨

Alison was a wonderful host. She was super responsive and willing to go out of her way to ensure my family had a great stay. The cottage was beautiful and tastefully decorated... the photos truly do not do it justice.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a personalized welcome basket filled with local treats and helpful recommendations for nearby attractions. Her attention to detail was evident everywhere—from the kitchen to the linens in the bedrooms. We loved the spacious backyard stretching to the lake, where we spent our mornings sipping coffee on the patio while the kids played in the sun.

Every day, we explored something new nearby and returned to the cottage to unwind by the serene waters of Torch Lake. It was the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, and Alison’s thoughtful touches made our stay truly unforgettable. We left feeling rejuvenated and grateful for such a memorable experience, already planning our return visit.

10/01/2024

Welcoming in one of our favorite months at the cabin. Yellow leaves falling, plenty of views but with a quieter lake, and lots of cozy time near the fireplace.

What are you most looking forward to in October?

09/26/2024

Fall is in the air and we have only a few select dates left to come and stay. ✨

Interested in a last minute getaway? Comment “Fall” and we’ll send you the open dates!

09/07/2024

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

“This has been one of our best vacation rental experiences. Alison has provided all the thoughtful touches to the cottage. There was never a moment during our stay that we thought “if we only had…”, it was all perfectly provisioned. The lake and deck provided hours of relaxing entertainment. And our evenings were cozy in the cottage. Beds and linens were also as good as home.

Also provided were great local recommendations for local amenities. We hope to come back!!”

08/24/2024

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

“Think of a picturesque and idyllic summer camp vibe where kids roam and explore the beach, the trees, and spend all their time connecting with nature. Now imagine it set along the crystal clear turquoise waters of Northern Michigan, in the coziest cabin stocked full of charm and open space and VIEWS. Alison has created something very special on Torch Lake that allowed us to fully disconnect in peace. We have decided to come back every year because our kids truly never wanted to leave. Fantastic amenities, great community feel with neighboring cabins, awesome location... just magical. Alison and her team went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. She sent a new tea kettle and vacuum when the ones on site wouldn’t work. She was responsive to all our communication during our stay, even though she was on her OWN vacation. Great hosts, great spot, great vibes. Thank you so much!!”

07/18/2024

“The cottage felt like home away from home. The lake took our breath away. The location was perfect for day trips to Mackinac Island, to Boyne Falls, or to Traverse City. Alison was a thoughtful host. She made the stay special, like cleanliness, personal touches, convenience, and amazing coffee.”

📸 x

06/28/2024

Recent Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Birch cottage was such a wonderful place to stay and an absolutely stunning location. We got to enjoy Torch Lake and had such a peaceful, relaxing time. The guide provided was so helpful and we found new places to make wonderful memories at. We loved it all, thanks Alison!

05/28/2024

Crafting the perfect getaway isn’t just about the big picture; it’s about those tiny, thoughtful touches that make all the difference.

From kayaks to paddle and explore to the softness of plush towels, every detail counts in creating a haven that feels like home, even when you’re miles away.

As a vacation rental host, it’s our commitment to those little details that transforms a stay into an unforgettable escape. It’s our joy making guests feel truly at home on their adventures.



Photos by Avery Phillips Photo at the Blue Spruce Cottage

11/16/2023

There are lots of new friends around here so I thought I’d take a minute to introduce myself!😊

I’m Alison.👋🏼 My husband, Jon, and I have been married for 12 years. We have 3 amazing elementary aged kids and a mini golden doodle Rudy. 🐕. For those who like personality tests, I am an ENFP and Enneagram 3️⃣.

A few things I love…
Interior design
Turquoise
Jumping in the water at the lake
Lattes
Spending time with family and friends
Long conversations
Golf
Running
Turning the music all the way up

Most importantly, I am a sinner saved by grace, living for Jesus my savior and king.

Jon and I met as marketing interns in college (think Jim and Pam😂) and got married the year after. I worked in corporate marketing out of college but once we had kids, I decided to stay at home to care for our littles. Jon works in the building products industry and has played a huge part in “making it happen” when it comes to house projects at our properties. 🔨

🏡Though we call West Michigan home, we try to get up north as much as we can to take a deep breath and soak in the incredible natural beauty of Northern Michigan (when we aren’t tackling the “to do” list, that is).

💙Water Camp was born in 2020 when we fell in love with Torch Lake and bought what is now the Cedar Cabin. The following year (2021) we bought and renovated the Birch Cottage. It was a ton of work (and actually a little insane looking back 🤪) but so worth it! In 2022 we updated and launched the Blue Spruce Cottage, a neighboring home that we manage. All 3 of our properties are located in the same community on Torch Lake in Alden, Michigan. ✨It has been an absolute dream come true to share this magical place with guests for over 3 years. We feel so grateful!

We are learning as we go through trial and error, books, podcasts and advice from experts, but our heart remains the same. We envision these homes being a place of rest and connection for people, a place where they can reignite their sense of wonder and gratitude. We continue to try to put the guest experience first and treat every person with genuine care and kindness.

🙏🏼Thanks for following along with us! So glad to have you here!

11/09/2023

❄️Ingredients for the perfect winter getaway:

✅Cozy fire with a view of Torch Lake🔥

✅A hot cup of coffee ☕️

✅Good conversation🫶🏼

✅Warm blankets to snuggle up with your favorite people 🥰

What would you add to this list?

Winter stays are all about togetherness with the ones you love. Take advantage of this special season to make cherished memories with your family and friends. ❤️

photography //

11/08/2023

So excited Ruthann’s is expanding their space! ☕️🧁

Wedding Cakes, Cookie Art, Cupcakes, Muffins, Pastries, Bagels, Coffee & Specially Espresso Drinks