Ilex Forest Retreat: Blackthorn

Top rated by guests
Miscellaneous
Private kitchen
Living area
Outdoor spa tub
Exterior
review stars
9.4Outstanding
(3 Ratings)
"Site was pretty great. As far as glamping goes. Hot tub was amazing. Property was very clean. We could not find the cows to save our own lives. Message. The host was zero response but it wasn’t emerge..."
Danie D.
Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
9.4 / 10
Outstanding(3 Ratings)

Apartment in Michigan

5 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
High-end valueWell priced for this area

About this apartment rental

Unique 40' Shipping Container Experience!

Welcome to the Blackthorn, our version of a tiny home nestled in a serene setting, including access to 168 private acres. Our container features an efficiently designed interior, with pillowtop mattresses and air conditioning. Booking includes a 6-seated hot tub and a separate washroom, with an interior & exterior shower.

We're located 1 hour North of Grand Rapids and steps away from the Manistee National Forest. Your luxury camping experience awaits!

Welcome to the Ilex Forest Retreat!

The Blackthorn is one of the available rentals on this property. It's a 40' high-cube shipping container that was converted into a tiny home. There's electricity, air conditioning, and heat in this unit. There's NO running water. There's a king-sized bed, and a full & twin-sized bunk bed. Each bed has a high-quality mattress from Jonathan Stevens Mattress Co. There's a 83" lounge couch from Crate & Barrel, a mini-fridge, and microwave.

Separate from the shipping container is a washroom, that has running water, a toilet, a wash sink, and an interior & exterior shower, with instant hot water. The washroom is exclusive to the Blackthorn’s booking. You'll have access to a 6-seated Nordic hot tub, an outdoor fire pit, and grill.

Our property contains 5+ miles of hiking trails on our 168 acres. This private & serene setting is a place where you can disconnect from your every day hustle, and reconnect with nature. You can also meet our Miniature Highland Cows, Silas & Tess.

Across the street from our property is the Manistee National Forest, that has hundreds of miles of ORV trails. You are welcome to park your ORV on our property, but you cannot ride them on our trails.

Amenities

Non-smoking
Pets allowed
Family friendly

Map of Michigan


Ratings and reviews

9.4 / 10
Outstanding(3 Ratings)
8 / 10Excellent·Jun 2026
Site was pretty great. As far as glamping goes. Hot tub was amazing. Property was very clean. We could not find the cows to save our own lives. Message. The host was zero response but it wasn’t emergency. We just wanted to see the cows. but we didn’t get a response.

$$$$
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FAQs

Is parking included with this apartment?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Ilex Forest Retreat: Blackthorn. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this apartment?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this apartment. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is Ilex Forest Retreat: Blackthorn pet friendly?

Yes! This apartment is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.

What amenities are available at Ilex Forest Retreat: Blackthorn?

We found 3 amenities for this rental. This includes non-smoking, pets allowed, and family friendly.


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