LakeStar Lodge

I was once a big fan of Lake Star Lodge having stayed there with friends last year. Because we had such a nice experience, we decided to return hoping to make our trip an annual event. We booked well in advance and ended up picking the weekend of snowpocalypse also known as the blizzard of 2016. We suspected bad weather leading up to the weekend and called the lodge several times to express our concern and attempt to reschedule. We were told that we could not reschedule because we had purchased a Groupon and «Groupon had our money». Given my skepticism about this logic, I asked to speak with the manager and was told that he was not available. Shocker. I left my contact information but never heard back. Unlike the Lodge, Groupon was very friendly, understanding and accommodating. They offered to contact the Lodge on our behalf. And they did. Unfortunately, Lake Star Lodge refused to reschedule us or refund or money despite the fact that we were under a state of emergency, in the middle of a blizzard and, in our city, prohibited from driving. Apparently, we were expected to risk our safety to make it to the Lodge. I think not. Ultimately, we were extremely disappointed in the poor communication and poor management of the Lodge and even more so in an institution that seems to be more concerned about making money than about the safety of their guests. Needless to say that we will not be returning. Ever.

I came across this lodge on Groupon when looking for a place to stay for a little birthday getaway. As soon as I saw the picture of the view from the balcony, I became very interested. I was a bit skeptical of traveling so far for only a couple of days, but I’m really glad I did. I traveled about 300 miles from a small town in South Jersey to come to a place I’ve never been, and boy was it worth it! From start to finish, I was very pleased with my experience here at LakeStar as well as McHenry in general. The location of the lodge is hard to beat for the price as you are right on the water with a nice mountain view in the back. It’s really not hard to find, either. Check in was a breeze, and the man at the front counter was very welcoming and helpful when explaining what activities and restaurants are around the area as well as other tips. My boyfriend and I ended up staying in room 202. The view from the room is beautiful! If it wasn’t 30 degrees outside, I would have loved to sit on the balcony in the morning and evening and drink coffee. The room was just the right size for two people, and truly, immaculately clean. Seriously — this is (hands down) the cleanest place I’ve ever stayed at. I don’t think I saw even a spec of dirt anywhere. The bedsheets were clean, the towels were clean, heck you could even almost see your own reflection in the bathtub because it was so clean and shiny. The cleanliness of the room was really appreciated, honestly. The fireplace was nice and cozy — but note that only DuraFlame logs can be burned. LakeStar provides one log and a pack of matches for free, but any additional ones can be purchased. The heater in the room worked very well, as did the microwave and mini fridge. The bed was pretty comfortable. I also appreciated the flatscreen tv with Comcast cable — something that is hard to come by at other hotels. I love the décor in the room and how it has a very rustic and «homey» feel. They provide free coffee and hot chocolate for their guests — although I didn’t have any during my stay. Checkout was also a breeze and we were wished a safe travel home and an invitation to return whenever from the same man who checked us in. The ONLY negative thing I have to say is that you can hear your neighbors pretty well through the walls. We heard a lot of footsteps, faint voices, and showers turning on and off at random times. It didn’t hinder our trip whatsoever, but I’m sure this might be bothersome to certain people. All in all, LakeStar provided us with a spectacular room and memorable mini vacation. Their kindness and cleanliness was truly appreciated, and for the price of the room with Groupon, it really can’t be beat. Without a doubt, I would come back. I just got home from my stay and I’m already wanting to return, probably in the summer when there are more outdoor activities, or in the early fall when the leaves are starting to change colors. Thank you LakeStar! I’m sure I’ll be back!

Being one of only a few pet-​friendly lodging options in the area, our first stay was one born of necessity. Since our first stay almost a year ago, we’ve been back several times as a matter of choice. We love it. The recently renovated rooms have an authentic rustic lodge feel. The staff is always super friendly and helpful. The rates have always been reasonable. The only negative has been that it’s a small place, only 20 or so rooms, and we called before only to find they were fully committed. When we’re in Garrett County, we stay here. When we can’t, it’s a bummer.

Super cute and cozy. It has all basic amenities plus some more including a small backyard for roasting s’mores and open kitchen in the lobby area.
The facility went under renovations about 3 years ago and looks well kept since then. They are continuing renovations, don’t be fooled by its exterior!

My husband and I stayed here with our dog and it was perfect! The staff was so kind and helpful with giving us tips about places to go in the area and they knew the trails well. We will defiantly be back! The rooms were cozy and perfect for a lakeside getaway.

Great place to stay. No pretentious just plain cozy and comfy. Great bargain.
Love the «make your own camp fire» by the lake front. Really, they provide everything.
You just have to light and feed the fire. Then snug up with the one (s) you come with. The front have nice local wine too if you didn’t bring one.
For the outdoorsy type, they have kayak for rent to.

Excellent stop for us on our road trip.
Super clean and great furnishings. Pet friendly and you are ON the water! Nice fire pit, free K-​cup coffee in the morning and early AM Kayak rentals if you so desire!
Really pleasant and helpful staff. Looking forward to coming back

Heading to LakeStar my boyfriend and I noticed that we were making great time. We called and asked for an early check-​in and they allowed us to check-​in around 1:30PM. The outside of the building does the gorgeous rooms no justice. It was both rustic and romantic and we absolutely loved it. The staff member who greeted us was very welcoming and also helped with directions to a nearby establishment. The proximity to Wisp Resort as well as other amentites was also great. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the lodge and would comeback.
*The only issue we had were: 1) The temperature of the room was wonky, either too hot or too cold.
**TIP: Although you can get cheaper wood elsewhere, LakeStar has Duraflame which provided a better longlasting flame.

Warm greetings from every staff member. Clean bright room with obviously new furnishings opens in back to a small porch with steps leading to the lawn beside the lake. Water a mountain views from beside a roaring fire in the stone firepit. Doesn’t get much better.

LakeStar Lodge has apparently undergone some major renovations. My family and I stayed in a Queen double and were very happy with the brand new wooden floors, quality antique lumber furniture, cleanliness, and friendly service. Did I mention it is directly on the water? You really can’t beat its location. They have all the free Kuerig coffee you can drink, though unfortunately did not offer anything for breakfast. It was a little noisy at night, but for it’s convenience and surprising cleanliness I’m definitely a fan.