4 Remote Wisconsin Cabins Perfect for Stargazing

Scientists estimate there are more than 200 billion stars in the Milky Way. But often, under the glow of cities, it’s difficult to get a good view. Luckily, Wisconsin has many secluded escapes that allow the night sky to be viewed in all its splendor. You don’t even need to worry about finding a place to watch in the dark of night–just check into one of these cabins, and look up.

Meadow House, Anaway Place – Richland Center

Nestled along the Ocooch Mountains in southwestern Wisconsin, the Meadow House at Anaway Place offers panoramic views and sleeps four, so you can bring your whole crew! Glass walls allow guests to gaze upon constellations from the comfort of this magical cottage, perched atop a hill overlooking a sprawling meadow. In addition to the stars, be on the lookout for deer, rabbits and other wildlife.

Bonus: If the Meadow House is booked, Anaway Place has three other rentals on the land (including another made of glass). All are just a short walk from wide open meadows – perfect for laying down a blanket and taking in the speckled sky.

Simple Gifts, Madeline Island Vacations – Madeline Island

Some of the darkest skies in Wisconsin can be found on Madeline Island, and there’s no shortage of cabins to relax at while you take it all in.

The Simple Gifts Cabin is located at the island’s northern point, far from any light pollution. This one-room studio-style cabin with a patio and fire pit is just steps from a private beach that overlooks Lake Superior, providing crystal clear views of the night sky.

Bonus: More Madeline Island Vacations cabins with great sky views include Next Farm Down and Shangri Lodge.

The Washington Harbor House– Washington Island

Washington Island sits six miles off the tip of the Door Peninsula and offers unobstructed views of the stars and, occasionally, the Northern Lights. Guests of the Washington Harbor House, a three-bedroom cabin that rests in the secluded woods of Figenschau Bay, only need to walk out to the shore to see the open sky. The private beach and dock provide a perfect setting to take in the show.

Bonus: You can also try Four Elements Lodging on Washington Island for an adults-only escape.

Point Beach State Forest – Two Rivers

For stargazers who can’t make it all the way up north, Point Beach State Forest offers an open night sky a little closer to Milwaukee and Chicago. Two rustic group cabins, Coenen and Ketchbaw, sleep 14 to 16 people and can be booked for just $60 a night. While guests don’t have access to electricity, each cabin has a boardwalk to six miles of white sand beach where you can seek out the Big and Little dippers, Cassiopeia and Orion. What better place to be in the dark with your favorite people?

Bonus: During the summer, the campground's concession stand puts on a classic Wisconsin fish fry every Friday night and breakfast is served on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Looking for a cabin for your whole group or just for you and your sweetheart? Either way, Wisconsin has a cabin or cottage just for you! Browse our full directory.