Ruttger's Birchmont Lodge

Spacious, clean room, friendly staff, yummy breakfast

We stayed in Cabin 34 while attending Bemidji State University graduation, and this was easily one of the worst lodging experiences we’ve ever had. Do not stay here unless you are prepared for filthy conditions, broken amenities, and complete lack of quality control. The pull-out couch bedding was stuffed behind the Murphy bed, and the area behind it was absolutely disgusting — peeling walls, heavy dust buildup, and obvious lack of cleaning. It was so unsanitary that I went out and purchased my own sheets and blankets rather than use what was provided. The maintenance issues were unacceptable. The toilet partially sank into the floor when you sat down, and then stopped flushing entirely in the middle of the night because the handle jammed. The fireplace did not work. The ceiling fan/light fixture was missing its cover and was caked in dust. We also had to turn the heat off overnight because a strong burning or “hot electrical” smell started coming through the vents. The bathroom was equally frustrating. The shower only produced scalding hot water, making it impossible to shower properly, so we ended up washing our hair in the sink. The bathroom door also would not lock. By the end of the stay, the room felt so dirty and poorly maintained that we avoided touching most surfaces altogether. Breakfast was no better. One of the yogurts available to guests had expired the previous month, which only reinforced the complete lack of attention to cleanliness and guest safety.

Always a beautiful view overlooking the lake!

A great historic place to stay. Not far from town. Great amenities, very clean and neat! A great staff!

Staff was very nice. Large rooms. I thing I noticed was the showers were VERY quiet! Nice for when you get up early but don't want to wake anyone else.