Northwest of Gull Lake, and away from most of the area’s vacation crowds, 81 acres of pine woods hide a spring-fed jewel : Lost Lake and this small, relaxed retreat. Nature programs tailored to younger guests and a better-than-home cooking in the vintage lodge make it a favorite with a loyal family following.

About 16 miles north of Brainerd, Lost Lake Lodge spreads across a narrow spit between the two lakes. Some of the 10 remodeled cabins (one to three bedrooms) front on Lost Lake ; others face Gull Lake. All have decks ; two have full kitchens (each has a small refrigerator).

Families spend their days on the beach, swimming and taking turns with the resort’s paddleboats. Two staff naturalists lead hikes and other programs.

Aromas from the dinning room make you eager for the next meal. Chef Kieran Moore, who owns the resort with his brother, Tim, and his sister-in-law, Cindy Moore, bakes bread and muffins from wheat ground in the resort’s own gristmill. Other facilities/activities : boat rentals, canoes, water bikes, lawn games, supervised children’s programs.