Airport, Mason City, IA (MCW-Mason City Municipal)
6 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
Clear Lake
This cabin is located within a mile (2 km) of City Beach Park and Clear Lake State Park. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a refrigerator.
Central Gardens of North Iowa - 2 min drive - 1.1 miles
Clear Lake State Park - 2 min drive - 1.3 miles
Surf Ballroom and Museum - 2 min drive - 1.6 miles
Clear Lake State Park Beach - 3 min drive - 2.2 miles
Getting around
Mason City, IA (MCW-Mason City Municipal) - 10 min drive
Restaurants
Casey's General Store - 5 min drive
Lake Time Brewery - 2 min drive
McDonald's - 5 min drive
Culver's - 5 min drive
Pasta Bella - 11 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Garage: A Historic Clear Lake Tiny Cabin with Hammock!
Step Back in Time (With a Modern Twist!)
Welcome to one of the most unique stays in Clear Lake! Our "teeny-tiny" cabin is a true slice of Clear Lake history. Originally built as a garage during the golden era of Iowa lake vacations, it was lovingly converted into a cozy retreat for our family and is now ready for yours.
Freshly updated for 2026, we’ve completely refurnished the interior to blend modern comfort with that classic "sailor" charm.
A Piece of Local History
This isn't just a place to sleep; it’s a story. Our neighborhood dates back to the days of "cabin courts," where families flocked to Clear Lake for the Surf Ballroom and summer sun. In fact, the brick cabin directly behind us was the original neighborhood bath house back in the day! While you now have your own private bathroom, we love keeping that historic spirit alive.
The Space & Summer Vibes
Vintage Charm: We’ve kept the original windows to preserve the cabin’s character. One of the best ways to experience a Clear Lake summer is to leave the front door wide open and let the breeze flow through the screen door window. There’s nothing quite like the sound of the lake wind and the distant laughter from the docks to make it feel like a real vacation.
Instant Hot Water: We’ve installed a modern instant water heater so you never have to worry about a cold shower. Because this is a historic conversion, it takes about 60 seconds for the hot water to make its way through the pipes—once it arrives, it’s endless! Just a small reminder to slow down and enjoy the "lake pace."
Tiny Living, Big Fun: Our kitchen is a fun game of culinary Tetris—compact, but fully equipped with all the essentials. It’s the perfect setup for prepping lake-day snacks or a cozy dinner after a day at the beach.
Explore Clear Lake: You are perfectly positioned for the ultimate getaway:
The Lake: Just 1/2 block from the public dock. Catch a sunset that looks like a Bob Ross painting every single night.
The Surf Ballroom: A quick hop away from the legendary music venue and its rich rock 'n' roll history.
Downtown Magic: Minutes from the Sea Wall, City Beach, and the boutique shops and local eateries that make Clear Lake "Iowa’s Vacation Capital."
Guest access: You will have access to the entire home!
Other things to note: Pet Friendly Your four-legged friends are family here! We welcome dogs with a $49 fee per dog. They’ll love the breeze through the screen door just as much as you do.
Nature’s Neighbors Being so close to the water means we share the air with Iowa’s seasonal bugs. We have professional pest control on a strict schedule, but please keep in mind that the occasional spider or fly is part of the authentic lakeside experience.
Book your stay at the "Garage" and discover how big of an adventure you can have in a space so small!
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a kitchen with a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave, and a stovetop. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a fireplace and a coffee maker.
Similar properties
Lakeside 6-bdrm 4-bath with game room, golf cart & semi private dock.
Clear Lake
Lakeside 6-bdrm 4-bath with game room, golf cart & semi private dock.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total (20 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
There are no elevators.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do within easy reach of this cabin?
This cabin is located in Clear Lake, a short 16-minute walk from City Beach Park and also 19 minutes on foot from Clear Lake State Park. You'll also find Clear Lake State Park Beach and Central Gardens of North Iowa within a short drive.
Is this cabin adjacent to a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.
Does this cabin provide breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cabin.
Where is the closest airport to this cabin?
The closest major airport to this cabin is Mason City, IA (MCW-Mason City Municipal), which is 4.2 mi away (10 minutes by car).
The Garage: A Historic Clear Lake Tiny Cabin with Hammock! Reviews