Fred Thomas Resort

For generations of Wisconsin families, the Northwoods has been a place of tradition, a landscape where cherished memories are made. In the charming town of Birchwood, a resort stands as a testament to this enduring legacy: Fred Thomas Resort. Situated on the shores of Big Chetac Lake, this resort is more than just a collection of cabins; it is a piece of Wisconsin history with a story rooted in professional baseball and a commitment to hospitality that has spanned nearly a century. This article will provide an in-depth look at what makes Fred Thomas Resort a special and often-loved destination, from its historical roots to its reputation for exceptional service and its beautiful, well-maintained grounds.

The story of Fred Thomas Resort begins in the early 1900s with its founder, Fred Thomas, a professional baseball player for the Boston Red Sox. After his career, Fred and his wife, Connie, chose the wilderness of northern Wisconsin to build their dream: a modern-day resort. The resort's enduring slogan, "Perpetually New," reflects their commitment to continually upgrading the facilities, a tradition that has been carried on by the Thomas family's fourth generation of management. This dedication to maintenance and modernization is a key part of the resort’s identity, ensuring that while the resort retains its historical charm, it also provides the comfort and amenities that today's guests expect. This commitment is evident in the many positive reviews from guests who feel treated like family, a hallmark of the resort's hospitality.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the resort has a very specific way of doing business, which has led to some mixed feedback. While many guests rave about the incredible service and personal touches, some have pointed out that communication regarding cabin reservations and deposits could be improved. This detailed overview will present both sides of the guest experience, helping locals make a fully informed decision. For Wisconsin residents, Fred Thomas Resort is a place they can recommend to friends and family with a certain understanding of its character, knowing that the experience is truly unique and often leads to long-lasting connections and traditions.

Fred Thomas Resort is conveniently located at 2086 N County Rd F, Birchwood, WI 54817, USA. This address places it directly on the western shore of Big Chetac Lake, a prime spot that offers stunning lakeside sunrises over the water. The resort is situated in a private bay, which contributes to a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Its location on a county road makes it easy to find for those driving into the area, whether they are coming from within Wisconsin or from another state. The resort is only four miles from the charming town of Birchwood, where guests can find local restaurants, shops, and other services, providing a perfect blend of seclusion and convenience.

The resort’s accessibility to Big Chetac Lake is a major highlight. The lake is part of a chain with Big and Little Birch Lakes, offering over nine miles of water for boating, fishing, and waterskiing. The resort’s location in a private bay provides a great starting point for all these activities. The property is also situated in Washburn County, which is known for its excellent trail systems for snowmobiling and ATV/UTV riding, making the resort a destination for year-round recreation. The resort's careful planning and upkeep of its grounds, including its boat launch and dock spaces, ensure that guests have easy and safe access to the lake.

Fred Thomas Resort offers a comprehensive list of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and engaging vacation experience. The resort’s philosophy of being "Perpetually New" means that many facilities and accommodations are modern and well-maintained.

Services and amenities offered include:

• A variety of accommodations including cozy lake homes and condo units, all of which are situated lakeside and feature beautiful views. The units are immaculate and equipped with modern amenities.
• All accommodations come with HD cable TV, wireless high-speed internet access, DVD players, air conditioning, and complete kitchens with microwave ovens. Most units also have two full bathrooms and dishwashers.
• The resort provides bed linens for all units, although guests are asked to bring their own kitchen and bath towels.
• On-site recreational facilities include an exercise room, game room with air hockey, pool table, foosball, and ping pong, as well as outdoor options like volleyball and horseshoes.
• For children, there is a large playground with swings, slides, and a covered sandbox, as well as a shallow swimming area with a swim raft.
• The resort provides free wireless high-speed internet access, with a guest computer available for use in the lodge.
• Other convenient services include a resort laundromat with soap provided, and a medical bag available for minor injuries, a service that has been noted and praised by guests.
• The resort also offers boat rentals and has a boat launch on the grounds, making it easy for guests to get on the water.
• The staff is known for their exceptional level of helpfulness, going above and beyond to assist guests with things like boat troubles or other unexpected issues.

These services, combined with the comfortable accommodations, create a self-sufficient and activity-rich environment that is perfect for families and groups.

Fred Thomas Resort is celebrated for several key features and highlights that are often mentioned in guest feedback. These are the elements that contribute to its strong, long-standing reputation.

Key features and highlights of the resort include:

• The resort’s history and long-standing family management are a major highlight, giving it a sense of tradition and permanence that many guests appreciate. The slogan "Perpetually New" is not just a phrase but a mission statement that guests say the resort lives up to.
• The accommodations are consistently described as beautifully decorated, clean, and modern. Guests note that the units, whether lake homes or condos, are well-maintained and have all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
• The exceptional staff is a significant highlight. Guests report being treated like family, with staff members remembering them by name and offering assistance with everything from boat issues to minor medical needs. This personal touch is a major reason for the resort's loyal following.
• The resort's grounds are immaculate, featuring well-kept lawns and beautiful flower beds. This attention to detail creates a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
• The variety of on-site activities for all ages is a key feature. With a game room, playground, swimming area, and a variety of outdoor games, there is always something to do, ensuring that no one in the family gets bored.
• The location on a private bay of Big Chetac Lake is a prime highlight, offering stunning views and a peaceful environment that is perfect for a relaxing vacation.
• The resort’s ability to accommodate both short-term and long-term guests, and its appeal for multi-generational family vacations, are strong features. The existence of a game room, for example, makes it a destination that caters to everyone.

These features, from the personal hospitality to the physical upkeep of the property, are what make Fred Thomas Resort a cherished part of the Wisconsin Northwoods experience.

For those who wish to book a stay or get more information, Fred Thomas Resort can be reached with the following contact information:

Address: 2086, 2086 N County Rd F, Birchwood, WI 54817, USA

Phone: (715) 354-3761

Mobile Phone: +1 715-354-3761

It is important to note that, as a family-run business with a high demand for its cabins, communication may sometimes be handled differently than at a large chain hotel. Guests are advised to be proactive in their communication to ensure their needs are met, especially when it comes to booking specific units.

In conclusion, Fred Thomas Resort is a wonderful destination for locals in Wisconsin, offering an authentic and high-quality Northwoods vacation with a rich history. It is a resort that locals can confidently recommend to friends and family, with the understanding that they are recommending a place with character, history, and a strong sense of community. The resort’s commitment to being "Perpetually New" ensures that while the atmosphere is rustic and traditional, the accommodations are clean, comfortable, and well-equipped.

For a Wisconsin resident, this resort is an ideal choice for a family reunion, a fishing trip, or a peaceful retreat. The personal hospitality of the staff, the immaculate grounds, and the prime location on Big Chetac Lake create an experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying. While a potential guest should be mindful of the communication dynamics of a small, family-owned business, the rewards of a stay at Fred Thomas Resort—feeling at home and being treated like family—are well worth it. It is a resort that truly embodies the best of what a Wisconsin Northwoods vacation has to offer.