$125,000 Log Cabin on 20 Wooded Acres with Creek
20 Acres of Northern Michigan Wilderness for $125,000: Wooded Land, Creek, and an Old Log Cabin in Fife Lake
Welcome to Adorable Living Spaces, where we explore unique real estate opportunities, historic properties, cabins, recreational land, and homes with plenty of character.
Today, we’re heading to Fife Lake, Michigan, to take a closer look at an unusual 20-acre property at 11712 Henschell Rd SW, Fife Lake, MI 49633.
Listed for $125,000, this property is not a conventional move-in-ready home. Instead, it offers approximately 20 acres of wooded Northern Michigan land, mature hardwoods, rolling terrain, natural clearings, a small creek, an existing old log cabin, electricity, and a private well that reportedly needs repair.
For buyers searching for Michigan hunting land, recreational acreage, a future cabin site, or a private Up North retreat, the property presents an interesting opportunity.
The existing cabin is currently in poor condition and should be considered a major restoration or rebuilding project rather than a finished residence.
Property Overview
The property combines a substantial amount of private acreage with several existing features that could be useful to a future owner.
| Property Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Asking Price | $125,000 |
| Address | 11712 Henschell Rd SW, Fife Lake, MI 49633 |
| Lot Size | Approximately 20 acres |
| Property Type | Unimproved Land |
| Setting | Wooded / Natural |
| Cabin | Existing old log cabin, poor condition |
| Electricity | Electric service to cabin reportedly functioning |
| Water | Private well, requires repair |
| Sewer | None listed / requires further verification |
| Outdoor Features | Mature hardwoods, creek, clearings, rolling terrain |
| Potential Uses | Recreation, hunting, future cabin or building project |
The property’s classification as unimproved land is important. Although a cabin exists on the acreage, buyers should not approach this as a conventional residential property with a finished dwelling.
20 Acres of Wooded Michigan Land
The biggest feature of 11712 Henschell Rd SW is undoubtedly the land itself.
The property encompasses approximately 20 acres, providing a significant amount of private outdoor space in a wooded Northern Michigan setting.
The landscape reportedly includes mature hardwood trees, natural clearings, rolling terrain, and a small creek.
For someone looking for privacy and outdoor recreation, acreage like this can offer a very different experience from a traditional suburban property.
Rather than having a small yard surrounding a finished house, the future owner would have a large wooded parcel that could potentially be enjoyed for hiking, wildlife observation, hunting, camping, recreation, or a future building project.
The listed parcel dimensions are approximately 652 x 1,333 x 659 x 1,332 feet, although prospective buyers should independently verify the exact boundaries and dimensions through current survey and deed information.
Mature Hardwood Forest Creates a Private Setting
The mature hardwoods are one of the property’s most appealing natural characteristics.
Large trees provide shade, seasonal changes, and a distinctly Northern Michigan atmosphere. Depending on the season, the landscape can offer changing colors, forest views, wildlife habitat, and opportunities to explore the acreage.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the wooded setting could also provide potential locations for private walking trails.
However, buyers interested in timber should not assume that the trees have a particular commercial value. Anyone considering timber harvesting should obtain a professional timber evaluation and verify ownership of timber rights before making decisions.
A Small Creek Runs Through the Property
Another interesting feature is the small creek that winds through the wooded acreage.
A natural creek can add visual interest and wildlife habitat while giving a recreational property a stronger connection to its surrounding landscape.
The creek should nevertheless be carefully evaluated before any development is planned.
Buyers should investigate whether the creek is seasonal or year-round, as well as whether any portions of the property are affected by wetlands, floodplain restrictions, drainage issues, erosion, or required setbacks.
These factors can be especially important if a future owner intends to build a cabin or other structure.
Rolling Terrain and Natural Clearings
The property is not simply a flat block of forest.
The listing describes rolling terrain and natural clearings, giving the 20 acres some variation in landscape.
Natural clearings can be useful when planning a recreational property because they may provide open areas within the otherwise wooded environment.
A future owner could potentially explore the land for suitable locations for recreation or future construction.
However, the presence of an attractive clearing does not necessarily mean that it is a legally or technically suitable building site.
Before construction, buyers should evaluate soil conditions, drainage, slope, septic suitability, access, setbacks, utilities, and local zoning requirements.
An Old Log Cabin Sits on the Property
Perhaps the most visually distinctive feature of the property is the old log cabin.
The cabin gives the acreage a strong Up North character, but the listing makes an important point: the structure is currently in poor condition.
That means prospective buyers should not assume the cabin can simply be renovated and occupied.
The structure should be professionally evaluated to determine the condition of its foundation, logs, framing, roof, floors, electrical system, windows, doors, and other components.
Depending on the condition, a future project could potentially involve extensive restoration, partial rebuilding, or removal and replacement.
Electricity Is Already Connected to the Cabin
One potentially useful feature is that electricity has reportedly already been run to the cabin and is currently functioning.
Having an existing electrical connection can be an advantage compared with completely undeveloped recreational land.
However, buyers should verify exactly what electrical infrastructure exists.
A professional should determine whether the electrical service is safe, current, properly permitted, and sufficient for any future building plans.
If the goal is eventually to construct a modern cabin or residence, the existing electrical service may need to be upgraded depending on the size and requirements of the future building.
Existing Private Well Requires Repair
The property also has a private well, although the listing states that it requires repair.
This is an important piece of existing infrastructure for someone considering future development.
Before relying on the well, a buyer should have it professionally inspected and determine why it is currently not functioning properly.
Water quality should also be tested after repairs.
The existence of a well does not necessarily guarantee that it can provide adequate water for a future residence. Buyers should determine the well’s condition, production capacity, depth, water quality, and compliance with applicable requirements.
Old Outhouse on the Property
An old outhouse is also reportedly located on the property.
While this may contribute to the rustic character of the land, it should not be treated as a modern wastewater system.
Anyone planning to build or establish a residential cabin should investigate the requirements for an approved septic system or other permitted wastewater solution.
Local authorities can provide information regarding soil evaluation, septic permits, setbacks, and applicable environmental requirements.
Could This Become a Future Northern Michigan Cabin?
One of the property’s most obvious potential uses is as a future Northern Michigan cabin site.
The combination of wooded acreage, natural clearings, a creek, electricity, and an existing well provides several characteristics that may appeal to someone dreaming of an Up North getaway.
A future owner could potentially envision a small cabin surrounded by hardwoods, with trails leading through the property and outdoor areas positioned to take advantage of the natural landscape.
However, this is a potential concept rather than a guaranteed development opportunity.
Before purchasing with construction in mind, buyers should confirm zoning, legal access, building setbacks, soil conditions, septic suitability, utility availability, wetlands, floodplain conditions, and all required permits.
Recreational Opportunities on 20 Acres
A 20-acre property can offer considerable room for outdoor recreation.
Depending on local rules and the owner’s plans, the land could potentially be used for activities such as:
- Hiking
- Nature observation
- Wildlife photography
- Hunting
- Camping
- Exploring wooded trails
- Seasonal recreation
- Outdoor gatherings
- Future cabin use
The combination of woods and clearings means the property could offer different experiences throughout the year.
For buyers primarily interested in recreation rather than immediate residential occupancy, the existing cabin may be less important than the acreage itself.
Potential Michigan Hunting Property
The property may also appeal to people searching for Michigan hunting land.
Twenty wooded acres with mature trees, natural clearings, and a creek can provide an interesting environment for wildlife.
However, hunting potential should always be independently investigated.
Prospective buyers should verify property boundaries, neighboring land uses, local hunting regulations, safe shooting areas, access requirements, and applicable state and local rules.
The presence of wildlife should not be assumed solely from the listing description.
Pine River Recreation Nearby
Another feature mentioned in the listing is access to the Pine River nearby.
The listing describes a public access trail located down the road, with a maintained trail and staircase leading toward a large bend in the river.
For someone who enjoys fishing, hiking, kayaking, nature observation, or simply spending time outdoors, nearby public recreational access can add to the appeal of a Northern Michigan property.
It is important to distinguish this from direct waterfront ownership, however. The property should not be described as having Pine River frontage based on the supplied information.
Instead, the attraction is the nearby public access.
Close to Fife Lake and Lake City
The property is located in the Fife Lake area, giving owners access to the broader recreational environment of Northern Michigan.
According to the listing information, Fife Lake and Lake City are within driving distance.
This can provide a useful balance between rural privacy and access to nearby communities.
For a future cabin owner, being able to reach restaurants, groceries, supplies, services, and recreational destinations can be an important consideration.
The listing also mentions Taffeltown Lodge on M-66 as another nearby destination.
Buyers unfamiliar with the area should independently verify travel times and distances before making a purchasing decision.
$125,000 for 20 Acres
The asking price is $125,000, which puts the property into a category that may attract buyers searching for recreational land rather than traditional residential real estate.
At this price, buyers should focus on the entire property rather than calculating value solely from the existence of the old cabin.
The condition of the cabin, well, electrical infrastructure, access, terrain, timber, zoning, and potential building sites can all affect the property’s practical value.
The appropriate comparison would involve other similar parcels of Northern Michigan recreational land, taking into account acreage, location, access, utilities, water features, structures, and development potential.
The Cabin Should Be Evaluated Carefully
The old cabin is arguably both an attraction and a challenge.
Its rustic appearance may appeal to buyers who dream of restoring a historic-style log structure.
But poor condition can also mean substantial repair requirements.
Before assuming that the existing structure can be saved, a buyer should have qualified professionals evaluate:
- Foundation condition
- Structural logs
- Floor framing
- Roof structure
- Water damage
- Rot
- Mold or moisture problems
- Electrical systems
- Chimney and fireplace, if present
- Windows and doors
- Drainage around the structure
- Overall structural stability
The listing’s description of a substantial foundation should be treated as information requiring professional verification rather than confirmation that the foundation is suitable for future construction.
Important Questions About the Well
The private well is another item that deserves attention.
A buyer should find out:
- Why does the well require repair?
- Is the well producing water?
- What is its estimated depth?
- What is its production capacity?
- Has the water been tested?
- Does it meet applicable requirements?
- Can it support a future residential building?
- What would repair or replacement cost?
Answers to these questions could materially affect a future development plan.
What About Septic?
The supplied property information does not identify a functioning modern septic system.
That is particularly important for anyone planning to construct a cabin or residence.
Before purchasing for future development, a buyer should determine whether the property can support an approved septic system.
Soil characteristics, groundwater conditions, lot layout, setbacks, wetlands, nearby water features, and local health regulations can all influence septic feasibility.
A beautiful wooded parcel is not necessarily a buildable parcel, which is why a professional site evaluation is important.
Verify Access and Property Boundaries
Before buying rural acreage, legal access should be confirmed.
The buyer should verify that the property has appropriate legal access from the public road and investigate any easements affecting the parcel.
The exact property boundaries should also be confirmed through current records and, where appropriate, a professional survey.
The listed dimensions provide an initial description of the parcel but should not replace official boundary documentation.
Zoning and Future Development
Anyone purchasing the property with plans for a future cabin, residence, rental property, additional structures, or other development should investigate local zoning regulations before closing.
Important questions may include:
- Is residential construction permitted?
- What minimum setbacks apply?
- Are there minimum dwelling-size requirements?
- Is a driveway permit required?
- Can the existing cabin be rebuilt?
- Can the existing foundation be reused?
- Are accessory structures permitted?
- Are short-term rentals permitted?
- Are hunting or recreational activities subject to restrictions?
- Are there wetland or floodplain limitations?
The answers should come from the appropriate local authorities rather than being assumed from the listing.
A Property for Buyers Who Value Land
The most important distinction with this property is that its appeal is primarily about land and potential, not immediate residential comfort.
There is no listed finished living area, and no bedrooms or bathrooms are identified in the supplied information.
The old cabin is in poor condition.
That makes this property fundamentally different from purchasing an ordinary Northern Michigan vacation home.
Instead, it could appeal to someone who wants to acquire a substantial piece of wooded land and potentially develop it over time.
Imagine a Future Cabin Surrounded by Woods
It is easy to imagine the possibilities.
A future owner might eventually have a small cabin tucked among mature hardwoods, with a private trail winding through the property and a natural clearing providing space for outdoor activities.
The creek could become part of the property’s natural landscape, while the surrounding woods would provide privacy and seasonal scenery.
An owner could potentially spend weekends hiking the acreage, exploring nearby public recreation areas, fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying the quiet atmosphere of Northern Michigan.
But that vision depends on what professional inspections, zoning regulations, permits, and development studies ultimately determine is feasible.
Due Diligence Is Essential
Because this is unimproved land with an older structure, due diligence should be a major part of the buying process.
Potential buyers should investigate the:
Land: boundaries, acreage, topography, drainage, wetlands, creek, soil, timber, and potential building sites.
Cabin: structural condition, foundation, roof, logs, framing, moisture, electrical system, and safety.
Well: condition, water production, water quality, repair requirements, and compliance.
Utilities: electrical service, future capacity, and availability of other necessary services.
Wastewater: septic feasibility and applicable permits.
Access: road frontage, driveway, easements, and legal access.
Zoning: residential use, recreational use, rebuilding, new construction, accessory buildings, and potential rental use.
A qualified local professional should be consulted for questions involving structural work, septic systems, wells, electrical infrastructure, and construction.
Is 11712 Henschell Rd SW a Traditional Home?
No. Based on the supplied listing information, it is more accurately described as approximately 20 acres of unimproved land with an existing old cabin in poor condition.
That distinction is important for buyers searching online.
Someone looking for a move-in-ready cabin may not find this property suitable.
Someone looking for 20 acres of wooded Michigan land with an existing structure and infrastructure may view it very differently.
The property’s primary attraction is the combination of acreage, natural surroundings, and potential.
Final Thoughts on This 20-Acre Fife Lake Property
At $125,000, 11712 Henschell Rd SW offers an interesting Northern Michigan land opportunity for buyers who are willing to take on a project.
The property features approximately 20 wooded acres, mature hardwoods, rolling terrain, natural clearings, a small creek, and an existing old log cabin.
Electricity has reportedly already been connected to the cabin and is functioning, while an existing private well could potentially be repaired.
At the same time, the cabin is currently in poor condition, the well requires attention, and the property does not have a listed finished residential living area.
For these reasons, the property should be approached as a recreational and potential future-building opportunity, rather than a conventional house purchase.
For someone searching for Michigan hunting land, wooded acreage, an Up North property, 20 acres with a creek, recreational land near Fife Lake, or a future cabin site, this parcel offers several features worth investigating.
The ultimate potential of the property will depend on factors such as structural inspections, well and septic feasibility, zoning, legal access, utilities, terrain, and the buyer’s intended use.
Property: 11712 Henschell Rd SW, Fife Lake, MI 49633
Price: $125,000
Acreage: Approximately 20 acres
Property Type: Unimproved Land
Cabin: Existing old log cabin, poor condition
Electricity: Reportedly functioning at cabin
Water: Private well requiring repair
Natural Features: Mature hardwoods, creek, rolling terrain, natural clearings
Potential Uses: Recreation, hunting, future cabin or building project
Property information in this article is based on the listing details provided. Buyers should independently verify property boundaries, zoning, utilities, well and septic conditions, building feasibility, access, taxes, and all other material information with the listing agent and appropriate local professionals before purchasing.
Listed on Zillow