About
The Woodlands Resort has been a passion for our family for three generations. My father (Hillerian Hess) was a guest at the resort in 1982, and after discussing with his wife Karel Hess, they decided to purchase the Woodlands in 1983. Hillerian and Karel were gracious hosts who stayed at the resort June through August every summer, and truly enjoyed spending time and getting to know their guests. Families came as guests and left as friends. Many of our customers have been coming to the Woodlands for 50+ years and are close family friends. Karel passed in 2003, and Hillerian Hess continued to run the resort until his passing in 2017.
In 2017 resort ownership was transferred to Hillerian and Karel’s children. We are blessed to be able to continue their legacy and run the family business. Every year we continue what Hillerian and Karel started, as well as make improvements along the way. Recent improvements include a new cabin (Hillery II), new cabinets, remodeled bathrooms, a deck on the beach, new appliances, and new piers. Historically, the Woodlands has been a summer destination, but upon Hillerian and Karel’s passing, our goal is to expand and make the Woodlands a year round destination. The Woodlands offers spring fishing, summer boating, hiking, ATVing, fall colors, fall fishing, duck hunting, snowmobiling, snow shoeing, ice fishing, skiing, hiking, and much more.
You will find that we offer amenities such as a play area for the children, sandy beach, clean / comfortable cabins, boat rental, firewood, patio / deck furniture that will make your vacation to the Northwoods a memorable experience. While staying at our cabins, we ask that you make suggestions that would make your stay more enjoyable. Our goal is to ensure that you experience everything that the Northwoods has to offer.
If you’re looking for a Vilas County get away, give us a chance, you’ll find that we are fairly priced, and truly desire your stay in the Northwoods to be the best that it can be. We can recommend fishing guides, area attractions, fishing spots, canoe / kayaking treks, hiking trails, snowmobile routes, and much more.
Thank you for considering staying with us!