Monson's Hoist Bay Resort

Overview

A classic North Woods time capsule, Monson's Hoist Bay Resort is a preserved historic resort site tucked into Hoist Bay on Namakan Lake. It’s water-access only, so the experience starts with a boat ride and ends with a quiet shoreline stop where the park interprets the area’s resort era.

Why it’s interesting

From 1939 to 1973 (with a brief WWII pause), Ted and Fern Monson ran a summer resort here, building 14 structures to serve guests. Today the setting is protected as a historic district, managed for day use with simple, low-key amenities and a strong sense of place.

What you’ll see

Expect a calm bay, forested shoreline, and the footprint of a former resort landscape. You’ll find interpretive information about the Monsons and the resort years, plus a picnic spot to linger and take in the water views.

Getting there and facilities

There’s no road—arrive by boat, canoe, or kayak. Facilities are minimal: a park dock for tie-up, picnic tables, and a simple privy. No food, water, or trash service, so plan to pack in and pack out.

History snapshot

• 1939: Resort established by Ted and Fern Monson
• Summers through 1973 (except three WWII years): Resort operations
• 1978: Land transferred to the National Park Service
• 2011: Listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places

Nature notes

The bay sits within the Canadian Shield landscape—rocky shorelines, conifer-fringed waters, and big lake vistas. Like much of the park, you may spot eagles or hear loons while you picnic and wander the shoreline.

Best time to visit

Pick a calm-weather window for the boat ride and a mellow midday picnic stop. Weekdays are typically quieter, and soft morning or late-day light flatters the bay for photos.

Is it worth it?

If you’re boating Namakan and enjoy a dose of human history alongside scenery, this is a rewarding, underrated stop. If you want big facilities or a restored, hands-on museum feel, you’ll find it pretty bare-bones.