Guest Book

Christmas week - Just Us and Grandma Donahoe

A quiet week with just the family (including Grandma, Matt, and Zach). Brian had COVID and was so was a little fatigued/slow (no other real symptoms no one else got it). We went snowmobiling 3-4 times out on the trails pretty far (they had just opened). Otherwise just kind of hunkered down for the week. Grandma and Katie left a couple days early (Katie wanted to work) -- Brian

Thanksgiving - just us

We had Thanksgiving dinner a week before on Saturday, with Matt and Zach (Zach was going back to Camp Pendleton on Monday, and Matt was going back to ASU on Sunday), afterwhich on Thurday... myself, Debbie, Danny, and Tommy went north for a quiet few days. We cleared the area for the yurt and did a few other close-up chores, but otherwise had fun. Went also for a hike with Shawn and Sally. -- Brian

Oct 17 - Kevin and Brendan

It was such a blast to get back up to camp Donahoe again. And the weather was absolutely perfect up here this weekend which made it even better. When I came up here Friday night we played spikeball and some serious games of Pickle which led to a couple of really nice tournaments. I never imagined playing Pickle ball this hard and competitive and I'm still sore and exhausted. And we played so many games of spikeball and some Goofball which was super fun. When you're ready to get back at it we'll practice spikeball out here on the tennis court and get your ass whooped for sure (;   --Kevin    [editor note: this was completely OpenAI generated by Kevin]

It was an undeniably beautiful weekend at Camp Donahoe. I got many good headshots of Apollo. The sun was shining making it a surprisingly warm weekend, which made for a lot of pickle ball (which I'm getting better at) and some spikeball. Danny and I concocted a massive leaf pile that Apollo surely enjoyed and Max destroyed. Fall up here is a sight to see and I hope the sun shines just as bright the next time I find myself visiting.  --Brendan

Sep 24, 2021 - The ladies (Debbie, Andrea, Athena, Jody, and Tam)

No men on this trip. We made four stops on the way up north for hiking and sight seeing fun!  Took a perfect boat ride to end the year. Went hiking east of Eagle River. Trail was not marked very well, but the trees were pretty. Did some shopping and had a nice lunch. Then we went to a really good restaurant for supper called the Craftsman. Definitely want to go there again.

Drove up to Porcupine Mountains. Stopped at Bond Falls on the way up. It is definitely worth the drive. Did a few hikes. On the way home we stopped at a Supper club - playing cribbage, breaking the toilet, no waitress for us, holding Debbie back from accosting the waitress, Tam telling the waitress they are slow and to bring two drinks instead of one. Hit the brand new quilting store on the way home. Athena loved it!!  Made her super happy!   Andrea is going to learn wool applique!

Hot tub fun - a daily must. Then Tam hurts her shoulder.  Oh dear.  Fortunately, it was a fast turnaround for her. She did not join the ranks of Athena and Jody. 

No internet for 2 days - very refreshing.  Made our time together ‘just us’ and the gorgeous scenery!! Puzzling - started a new thrift store puzzle.  Three CLEAR puzzles that stack on top of each other.  Started it.  Next day Tam and Athena worked ‘til midnight or so. Jody was up working on it from 1-4.  Debbie up at 5 to puzzle and it’s ALL FINISHED.  Kind of like an elf in the middle of the night.. -- Debbie, Andrea, Athena, Jody, and Tam

Sep 18, 2021 - Just Brian, Danny, and Tommy

Tried out an efoil which was a lot of fun. Did it for a few hours near Eagle River. Did a lot of pickleball too (2 on 1, which is why there are no pictures!). Otherwise, just relaxed appropriately. -- Brian

Labor Day Weekend - Bill and Janine Kowalke, Anna, Ike, Kevin, Olivia, Emily

Bill and I came up for the long weekend. Bill always has to prepare himself for Brian's non-stop activities. Thankfully, we had a crew of people which made volleyball entertaining. Dinner at Bonnie's was delicious as usual. Sunday night we made dreamsicles for everyone and they were a hit. Gorgeous weather and wonderful people. Thank you for letting us join your family this weekend. -- Janine and Bill

Thank you for having us this weekend! We had a blast playing lots and lots of spikeball, volleyball and Kuub. We'll keep practicing spikeball so that next time we play together you're going to have a run for your money. :) Thanks again -- Anna & Ike

Another great weekend up north! Even though the Saturday was a bit overcast, it was nice to play games and just relax for the last hoorah before summer ends. I loved learning to play spikeball for the first time and being able to ~kinda~ hold my own while playing in our mini tournament. I am for sure going to practice up for next time! Thank you always for a great time! -- Olivia (: 

A little late to the party coming in on Sunday from Summerfest, had a blast this weekend! I got to go on the spinning tube for the first time, it was ridiculously fun and definitely an adrenaline rush. My hands were shaking for hours after either from either gripping the tube so tight, the adrenaline, or both. Spent the afternoon playing volleyball and watching Silicon Valley for the first time, looking forward to binging this show again now in the future. Thanks again for opening your home, I have a blast every time at Camp Donahoe. -- Emily

Last summer weekend at camp Donahoe and we (Danny, Katie and I) decided to ditch to go to Summer fest. Worth it. We saw 21 pilots perform for the first time in years. What an awesome experience. Spending a day at camp Donahoe was okay too I guess. The party didn't start till we got up anyway. Katie is an excellent boat driver and I regret challenging her driving skills. Wouldn't be a good time without a couple tubes flipped and a couple scars to talk about later. Spending 24 hours up here was definitely worth the trip. -- Kevin

Aug 22, 2021 - Talia Ross

I had a great time this weekend! It was a beautiful weekend filled with spike ball, jet skiing, and relaxing. It was fun going to a different part of the lake a looking at all different houses. Of course, we had to take a trip to Bonnie's and as Danny said "It always hits different at Bonnie's". He is not wrong. Max had an electric weekend especially after licking one of the outlets in the barn. As always, he never wanted to spot playing. It is always a blast up north! Thank you again for everything!  -- Talia

Aug 1, 2021 - Olivia, Brad, and Matt Moscatello (and Zach's last visit for a while)

This weekend was one of my last for a while before I go to marine boot camp. While we did not do much it was still a very fun weekend. Time was well spent relaxing in the hammocks, having a bonfire, and going for boat rides. It was also a treat that Olivia and Brad could make the trip up. The tree that fell down was strenuous work, but we managed to still have fun using the new log splitter. everyone was a big help and overall a very peaceful relaxing weekend.. -- Zach Moscatello 

I was glad to see my first airshow in a long time this weekend. Even better, the EAA airshow is perhaps the biggest airshow in the world. We saw some really cool planes and I saw stuff I didn't know was possible! When we got to the lodge we were able to assess the damage of a fallen tree that fell this past Sunday. We had our work cut out for us. Fortunately, Uncle Brian recently purchased a log splitter which made for a quick and otherwise painless removal of the tree. The work was very rewarding and allowed time for us to go on the water. Had a lot of fun this weekend, can't wait for next time! -- Matt Mosacatello

I had a great time up here this weekend. We started out by going to the EAA airshow which was so cool. I thought that some of the planes were a bit too crazy with stunts for my comfort, but they were still amazing to watch. Also, who doesn't like to watch some stunts mixed with explosions?? While at the house it's always a good time playing volleyball and watching people wipe out during water-sports. I loved learning Koob even though I think I was better at barely touching the blocks rather than hitting them down! Also, the Bonnie's cheeseburger is a 10/10, would recommend. Thank you for everything! -- Olivia

Jul 19, 2021 - Tamara and Jim Heffernan

Thank you for letting us stay at the cabin. It was fantastic!! Got in a couple swims, a walk to the chapel in the woods, hiked to show Jim the BBall courts, shopping in townand Eagle River, dinner @ Black Forest. Our favorite was swimming. Just beautiful up here, is a slice of heaven. -- Tamara and Jim

4th of July week - All of us and a lot of people (new record). Also stopped by was Scott Keane & family, Penny, and Aunt Karin was with us the whole time too. 

We (Nicholas and Darren) came up on Saturday morning and left Sunday.  We had fun riding the new spinning tube with Debbie behind the boat. We all fell off and Nicholas was done with that then. Cut down a dying pine tree and tried out the new log splitter.  Spent some time doing a difficult puzzle and played a game of cribbage with Deb. Nicholas had fun playing and spending time with the three dogs. Apollo still likes Nicholas too much (if you know what I mean).  The three of us (Deb, Nick, and me) of us took a canoe trip on Sunday. All in all, a good experience. -- Darren

This was the worst week ever, friggen fireworks, too many people, too much noise and those awful TV shows "the office" yikes, how the hell do they think they'll get me out of here, is beyond me, I'm not leaving, period! thanks for the memories, back to friggen Texas, yikes! -- Aunt Karin 

It was another great trip to Camp Donahoe. We went wakeboarding, tubing, and boating. The new spinning tube was amazing and hopefully I can talk my dad into getting one for home. This was by far the longest time I have spent at Camp Donohoe, and it was fantastic. I really enjoyed trying out my new wakeboard bindings, which makes wakeboarding so much more enjoyable. I can finally get some big air. The 4th was a very explosive day, especially in the boat house. Watching fireworks in the baseball field was amazing, one of the highlights of the week. I couldn’t have asked for a better time at Camp Donahoe, from Matt breaking the silver jet ski and Danny having to tow me back to the house, to Danny’s magical illusions, all of it was wonderful. I can’t wait to see what my next adventure at Camp Donahoe holds. If you ever need a tree that needs felled, or a cabin that needs a building, I’m there. Thanks for an amazing time. -- Zach S.

It was a pretty explosive weekend at Camp Donahoe. The record number of campers made all the boys sleep in "Tent City" for a few nights. The new spinning tube is a game changer. On the 4th we went to the parade and fireworks and then back to camp to watch Danny attempt to make the boat house disappear. We lost phones, forgot to knock, wandered off, started fires, created drama, pranked everyone, ate everything, drank 17 cases of soda, and are still looking to be invited back next year.... My only goal this weekend was to catch a fish, I didn't even touch a pole. That about sums up how crazy this trip was. Till next time. -- Kevin Coda

Thank you for the invite to "Camp Donahoe" this busy July 4th weekend! We felt honored that even at fully capacity you thought to include us and we truly appreciated your generosity. Much to my own unawareness, I can't tell how much I/we both needed to get away. We so appreciated being able to go on a canoe ride and attempt to fish. Also being able to enjoy the lake, the venetian parade and playing ball with Max. We even manage to go on a scenic moped ride and enjoy the beauty Three Lakes has to offer. We also felt very patriotic celebrating independence day with the whole gang. I really felt bad for my volley ball team mates given they were stuck with me as I "attempted"  to play volley ball..my arm still hurts, and it was fun! Meeting grandma Liz and aunt Karen was a hoot and we enjoyed meeting your brother and his family. Being around all the boys and girls was so therapeutic and was just what we needed. Again, Thank you both so much for your hospitality, generosity and friendship. With sincere gratitude. -- Maritza & Jeff 

I had such a fantastic time at Camp Donahoe for the holiday weekend. I loved swimming, tubing (more like getting wiped off), volleyball, and just hanging out by the lake. The hammock was my go-to place to just enjoy the scenery and recharge. Everyone was so enjoyable to be around and I laughed a lot. To conclude, this weekend was definitely fur da girls!! Thank you so much for being welcoming and opening up your home to me! Until next time. -- Olivia Torrey 

It always feels amazing at Camp Donahoe and thank you for inviting me to spend the independence weekend with the people I missed. I never thought I would miss the midwest water and air so badly, and this vacation is like an antidote to my strange midwest homesickness. I had great fun doing tubing and playing volleyball (who guessed that I remember how to play this sport 10 years after my high school P.E. class). Besides all other crazy and funny moments, the best part is to spend my quiet morning with Oma and other early risers with a cup of black coffee. As the rumours continue to circulate and grow, I am certain that one day the police will find my body in the woods and a purple poop shovel nearby. No doubt, it was Katie who did it. I just hope the Camp Donahoe doesn’t happen to have a wood chipper at that time…… -- Angela

Camp Donahoe was full of interesting events. I had a good talk with aunt Karin, played volleyball, went on a jet ski with Katie, and you can’t forget about tubing. The new spinning donut was extremely fun. I also got a dad hat when we went out for lunch. Overall, it was a nice relaxing time. Thanks for having me! Kind Regards. -- Gladys Ramirez

It was another fun and eventful weekend up north with beautiful weather. I enjoyed my time spent with the Donahoe family and friends. I loved hanging out with Annabel, Shannah, and Dillon as well as helping them learn how to ski. It also was nice to meet Aunt Karin. The Fourth of July was a blast! The day started off with a parade where everyone got pelted with candy and ended with a great firework show as always! The long weekend was filled with boating, tubing, volleyball, swimming, canoeing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, skiing, relaxing, and so much more. Fun is always had up in Three Lakes at Camp Donahoe. I am grateful to be a part of such an amazing family. Thank you again for having me!  Thank you,  -- Talia Ross 

Thanks for the amazing trip!!! We all had an amazing time. Boating, skiing, celebrating the 4th, tubing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, canoeing, fishing, and playing with the dogs and visiting. Very memorable. Good indoor fireworks too!!!. Love -- Patrick, Jessica, & family

It was a wonderful Independence Day weekend  at Camp Donahoe! It was a great chance to unplug, get out of town, and spend an active weekend outdoors. I had never gone tubing before, and while it was somewhat embarrassing to struggle to get back on the tube or the boat after falling off, I had never experience an adrenaline rush like that! I am not one of Katie’s sportier friends, so Volleyball was a bit of a struggle, but it’s always nice to get a little athletic activity and get the heart rate up! Big thanks to the Donahoes for hosting all of us this weekend, and thanks for a great holiday weekend in the Wisconsin Northwoods! --Kat (Katie’s college roommate)

If Brendan is on a jetski with his phone and his phone falls into the water, will the water level go up or down assuming his phone sinks. -- Ricky Blaha

Another fourth of straight aces! It felt like simultaneous waterfalls of fun. Everything was so hot: the trees, sand, water, and even grass. It made for great tubing, although I feel like I almost died (thanks, Brendan)! I had fun with all the guys throughout all of the days and nights. The Three Lakes fireworks show was explosive as always! Thanks for another poggers weekend at Camp Donahoe! -- Allen M

I had another amazing 4th of July week at Camp Donahoe. Couldn't have asked for better weather. I loved catching sick air on the tubes, while serving up aces on the volleyball court. Me and Brendan were flying like silver bullets on the jetskis this week, even though the air was as cold as the Rockies on Thursday. On the volleyball/spikeball courts, I was diving all over the place, so I had to check for missing nails every once in a while.  There was so much going on, that I'm shocked nothing exploded, except for the fact that WE BLEW UP AN ENTIRE BOATHOUSE! --Eric M

What an absolutely mental weekend at camp Donahoe. I enjoyed snowmobiling across the lake while Mr. Donahoe was asleep. It was also zonkers raking up all those leaves and being swallowed by the pile. Truthfully though, tubing was epic with the new spinning tube and Danny's bumpy driving. I had a great time scooting and spiking in more ways than one. There was also much fun to be had getting back at the bitch at the parade that cut my forehead with an airhead. -- Chase Collins

What a 4th of July week that this turned out to be. Splooshing and splashing all aboat. I burned tons of oil on the jetskis and in the cabin. I got slammed by some blue mountains out on the jetski that almost took me out, but ultimately stole my phone and vit pipers :'(, but I made a POGGERS trade for my lobster shirt back. I also got both super high and pretty dizzy while hitting the tubes. I played too much spikeball and volleyball because it seemed someone always wanted to play. Overall this was an epic week that could be made into a youtube video. -- Bing Bong Collins

Had a great time this weekend on the lake. Some of my buddys came up after the fourth to boat, atv. swim, and fish. We spent most of our time on the atvs violently ripping up the trails. We also got to know some of Danny and Tommys friends a little better which was fun. Volleyball was also a good time playing with everybody that came up. Can't wait till next year@ -- Matt M

Thank you for another amazing weekend at Camp Donahoe, the boys and I never were sitting around but instead constantly on the go whether it was on the water or shredding the Atvs. Every meal I had was fantastic and the people were vibing. Thank you again for having me up at the house and making it a memorable experience! -- Lukas Lorusso 

It is always an a great time getting away from technology for the weekend, I had such a great time on the water and on the ATV's. The board games every night were a fantastic touch to a wonderful couples of days. The food was fantastic and needed. I had a really fun time and I am grateful for the experience. I'd give my time here a 9/10.  -- Alex Schuchardt. 

I'm extremely grateful for being invited out to Camp Danahoe for the second year in a row. It truly is always a great time out here! There is so much to do here, whether it be on the water or off. Always love ripping the little dirt bike around the property and although its not super powerful it's got the spunk that you need. Thank you for allowing us to have the summer getaway time that everyone needs but not always gets. Making Memories!!! Love this place, a little slice of heaven! -- Pierson Merritt

Everything I was told about Camp Donahoe was spot on. I had a very fun time on the volleyball courts, jetskis, atv's and more. I'm very grateful for being invited for such a fun weekend. I think my favorite activity was the tubing on our last day I had a really great time. It was nice meeting some new people and being included on such a fun weekend! -- Mike Paprota

Memorial Day weekend 2021 - Just us and Grandma Donahoe

Just the whole family and Grandma. Set up volleyball, played spikeball, got the boats in, and the lift cover. Did a lot of tree trimming. A quiet weekend (except for the shooting). -- Brian

Apr 3, 2021 - Kevin Coda

Easter weekend. Just us and Kevin. Mostly just hung out, played spikeball, and did some shooting. -- Brian

Awesome weekend! Thank you so much for letting me come spike, shoot, atv, and buy crypto with you all. -- Kevin

Mar 6, 2021 - The Coda's

Debbie & Brian - thank you so much for the invitation to Camp Donahoe. It was the perfect way to hit the reset button and enjoy the beauty and nature that surrounds you here Three Lakes. I especially appreciated being able to check off snowmobiling off my bucket list! Not sure its my sport but I got a good bicep workout. Debbie - I truly enjoyed chatting with you and the opportunity for us to learn more about each other. Thanks much! Again, thank you both so much for having, we truly enjoyed the quick getaway and can't wait to visit again. 

Sincerely -- The Coda's

Feb 20, 2021 - Just Brian, Debbie, and Danny

Just the 3 of us. Quiet weekend. Penny stopped by for a few hours. Friday was Debbie's birthday. Didn't do much. But a nice quiet weekend. Brian and Danny went on some really long snowmobile rides (maybe 75-100 miles). That was a lot of fun. -- Brian

Jan 31, 2021 - Emily, Kevin Coda, Eric Machamer, Chase Collins, Allen Mons, Talia Ross

This was my first weekend at Camp Donahoe during the winter time. It completely lived up to the hype. You could even say it was a cake-grabbing experience. I rode a snowmobile for the first time in 10 years and it was a ton of fun. Even though we almost lost Katie because she can't drive a snowmobile. I can certainly say my experience this weekend was straight cash.  -- Eric Machamer

This weekend was my first time snowmobiling at Camp Donahoe during the winter time. We were straight up shredding and I can't wait to go again. I also enjoyed the hot tub experience with the boys. Also happy birthday to Danny and Tommy and I'm severely disappointed in Katie for destroying the cake.  -- Chase Collins   

It was once again a great weekend up north. This weekend we celebrated Danny and Tommy's birthday. For some random reason, Katie decided it would be nice to take a handful of cake. Yikes. Katie and Emily had a drawing contest of everyone in the house. They are all hung up on the fridge for everyone to see. Also, we went snowmobiling again and was extra bumpy on one trail. Thank you again for having me up north. It was a blast! -- Talia

Wow, what an interesting weekend! There was more than enough ice for everyone. Luckily, no one took too much of a tumble. After we serenaded Danny and Tommy, the cake was great (although I don't have any idea why Katie grabbed a piece with her bare hands). The one thing we should do next time is ice fishing. Maybe we can put some chum in the water so that we won't have to be out in the cold for as long! Thanks for an epic weekend. -- Allen

Wow this weekend sucked.  -- Kevin 

The weekend of January 29-31st marked my fourth time at Camp Donahoe, and my first time up in winter. Visiting in winter was a little different than my visits in summer to say the least! I enjoyed hours in the snow, learning how to snow mobile on the property, Little Fork Lake, and tagging along as a passenger on the trails. I had a great time and am looking into getting my snow mobile license after the fun from this weekend. Next time, maybe I’ll be a little more adventurous and try skiing behind the snowmobile. 

I also recharged my batteries this weekend, relaxing in the hot tub, watching plenty of Seinfeld and movies, and celebrating Danny and Tommy’s birthdays. 

Thanks again for opening up your home, can’t wait to visit again in the future! -- Emily

Christmas week 2020 - Penny & Steve

As usual, the whole family was up (Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy) and Zach, Matt, and Grandma. As well. Penny and Steve stopped by for a couple of days, and stayed in the cabin. We also stopped by Grandma Kell's, Darren's, and Lynn's on the way up.

Thanksgiving 2020 - Grandma Donahoe and Angela Tan

Just us, and Grandma Donahoe. Also Katie's friend Angela stopped by on Thanksgiving day and also spent the night. Sun didn't really come out too much. Cut up the wood leftover from the lodge, and did other miscellaneous fun things (puzzles, chess, etc.). -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, Zach, Grandma D, and Angela

Oct 18, 2020 - Bill Kowalke and Talia Ross

Debbie and Brian, 

Thank you so much for the great weekend. It is always nice to get away and spend time with you and your family in such a beautiful setting. You've both done such an amazing job with the property. It was an added treat to go off grid all weekend and forget all the clutter and distractions of the crazy world beyond your serene borders. As an added bonus you allowed me to use your 4 wheeler with out any loss of life or limb. Brian, thanks for always looking out for my health and well being.

Until next time!

Auf Wiedersehen,

-- Bill Kowalke

Oct 4, 2020 - Debbie, Andrea, Athena, Tamara

The ladies and I enjoyed a fabulous fall getaway to three lakes, Bayfield and the Apostle islands. The fall colors were spectacular. We enjoyed hiking, lots of shopping and exploring, despite a bit of a cold snap. It was a little cold for a boat ride at camp Donahoe, so we passed the time reading, doing a puzzle, watching cheesy chick flicks, hot tubbing and had a delicious meal at my favorite, the Black Forest Inn. I went for a crisp fall run one of the mornings and along with taking in the beauty of all the foliage came across colorful rocks by the water that had hand painted sweet sayings and quotes on. I’m assuming it was left to be uplifting to others in this crazy time of COVID, and this wonderful getaway with my awesome gal pals was just that to me as well.  -- Andrea

What wonderful friends I have!  You all took such great care of me after my shoulder surgery.  I love you, my gal pals!! Super fun as well as relaxing-  even got some sight seeing at the Apostle Islands!  (And some shopping! ) Can’t wait for our winter wonderland trip to the cottage next!  -- Athena

Sep 27, 2020 - Kat

I had such a great weekend here up north! Katie and I have been friends since college and this was my first time visiting the cabin. I had never been on a jet ski before and it was so exciting! The weather was perfectly crisp for an Autumn weekend, the the trees were beautiful this time of year! -- Kat

Labor Day weekend, 2020 - Liz and Talia and Kevin

I had a lovely weekend with the Donahoes. Our weekend consisted of volleyball, jet skiing, and relaxing at the lake. It was my first time visiting the new lake house and it looks beautiful. I can't wait until I came back. -- Liz

I had a relaxing weekend at Camp Donahoe. It was filled with volleyball, spike ball, and just hanging out. The weather was a little bit chilly, but fun was still had. I was glad to be apart of anther weekend up north. Thank you for everything!  -- Talia 

Pretty lame-o weekend down at camp Donahoe. Two hour drive from school just to have my underwear and socks frozen. That's all I have to say about that. I can wait to come back.  -- Kevin 

Aug 23, 2020 - Ricky, Kevin, Allen, Eric, and Brendan

It was a very fun weekend trip. I feel like I improved a lot at spikeball in the 2 days that we were here. I started trying out a new serve and have been getting better at spiking.  -- Ricky

Another great weekend at Camp Donahoe. Although the RV tire blew up a few days prior, the quick repair seemed to be a sign that it would be a great weekend. Even though we were unable to go to town, do any water sports, or go tubing, this was a great weekend that will be remembered. So many great Spikeball and night volleyball games, and even an eagle right outside as I'm typing this. Thanks for having me up! -- Allen

Another dazzling weekend at CD. Really enjoyed playing spikeball and volleyball. Glad me and Brendan got a chance to take the jetskis out on big fork. Also enjoyed devouring the thicc glizzys. The icing on the cake was the eagle sighting by the boathouse as we were leaving. -- ERIC

It was a short weekend at Camp Donahoe, but we did so much it felt much longer. Breakfast was epic after we made a deep fryer out of bacon grease and the end of a griddle to make some delicious mozzarella sticks and too many fried pickels.  We had plenty of insane spikeball points and especially one volleyball point that lasted a good 1-2 minutes. Yeah we need a camera to be recording out there. Once the rain cleared out on Saturday Eric and I ripped on the waverunners across a glassy Big Fork Lake. Started Sunday with some more spikeball but I found myself very tired after the first day. We washed off on the raft and closed out an amazing weekend. -- Brendan

Aug 1, 2020 - Talia Ross and Brad Boxrud

This weekend was the definition of relaxation. It was nice to simply get away for a short while. Playing with the glow in the dark volleyball was interesting because you never knew when you were going to get sand in your face. It was super fun riding in the jeep and eating out at Bonnie's! The weekend was fun just hanging by the lake with everyone. Thank you again for including me. I thoroughly enjoyed my time up north! --Talia

My Drive up to Camp Donahoe was a delightful drive. I had just started listening to the Harry Potter books (yes yes yes I know they're kids books but they're well written and a good way to pass a 4 hour drive) and had stopped for culvers for dinner. I Had packed my homemade longboard and was very excited to ride the roads that climbed up and down the rolling hills outside of Camp Donahoe. I got in at around 10 friday night and as per usual late at night, the Donahoe family was huddled up watching an old movie. As it was late, not much time had passed before we hit the hay and crashed for the night. There was some joking and small talk, but before I knew it it was already 9 am the next morning. Katie and I had some time to catch up, and she tried to convince everyone that would listen that my mustache was the worst thing to happen to me. Lucky for me though, Debbie came to my aid and said that my mustache made me look like Tom Selleck and that I look like "a sex Icon of the 80's"!! Yes those are real words that came out of her mouth and that compliment has single handedly blasted my ego through the stratosphere... much to Katie's disapproval XD. After her failure to keep my ego In check Katie decided she'd try a different approach by asking each of her family members if they agreed with my philosophy that it's wrong to support actors and artists who are horrible people by watching/ reading their material. In the end she had some good points, and I did get to question what I believed, but the most important part of that discussion was being able to imply that Katie was a pedophile for supporting pedophile writers. Yes, it's begging the question, but part of the fun of being in a stable relationship is being able to push each other's buttons once in a while :). After that I went on a quick longboard ride while the rest of the fam watched seinfeld, and returned to people hanging out, and Katie and I went on a jetski ride together. It was also around this time where we all played volleyball for a couple of rounds. Brian was easily the MVP of our team, and i'm not just saying that because he's Katie's dad and I want him to like me, he's actually pretty good. We all went to dinner at the local restaurant and  I was so worn out from the day I nearly passed out at the table right there! but I managed to stay conscious long enough to get home where I took a 3 hour nap until 9. I came down and attempted to help with the puzzles on the table for about an hour then went back to bed once again. Sadly the day was rainy and gloomy all day which limited the available activities. Katie spent some time coding, and I passed the time with her listening to some more Harry Potter which is actually a load of fun, even if the plot and vocabulary are a bit simple. Eventually one oclock came around and it was time for Us all to head out. Thanks so much to Debbie and Brian for letting me stay with them that weekend, they were incredible hosts and made me feel very welcome to the family :)  -- Brad 

Jun 5, 2020 - Brendan Collins and Matt Mosctatello

It was cold and even a little rainy at Camp Donahoe this weekend, but that didn't stop us from getting some work done and playing plenty of spikeball of course. The weekend kicked off with evening spikeball in the sand pit, which I had to get used to. The next day we started working on laying concrete for the volleyball court. They said it was impossible, but nothing a couple of engineers can't handle. A lot more spikeball was played on Saturday, and the sand made for some intense rallies. I'm still a bit sore from diving all over the place. Later that day Danny, Tommy, Zach, and I swam out to the raft to try out the water with the dogs which ended with Tommy getting slashed by Apollo after the raft tipped. Nothing a visit to the hot tub can't fix. We ended the weekend mixing and pouring more concrete. Overall I had a fun weekend and the new jet ski, ATV, volleyball court, and the absence of quarantine point to a great summer at Camp Donahoe. Thanks for a great weekend! 

-- Brendan

Memorial Day weekend, 2020 - Kevin Coda and Talia Ross and Brad Boxrud

"Spikeball"? the common phrase of the weekend, along with the office and ironman two quotes. Camp donahoe would not be the same without constant jokes and references all weekend long. I has an amazing time with all of you this memorial day weekend. I am so thankful to be included in trips like this. I feel like part of the family. This weekend we got a little closer on our goal to ski a paddle and we even fully skiied a lawn chair. This won't be the last of our fictional character William Skiiman.  We also played vollyball, went on jeep rides, created mega beds, played a long game of fugitive, and blazed new ATV trails. Thanks for an amazing weekend packed with fun activities, good food, and lots of laughs. - Kevin

This weekend was the perfect way to start off the summer! I loved playing vollyball and finally won one game on the last day. I enjoyed watching Kevin, Tommy, and Danny try to ski with different objects. I thought there was no way that someone would be able to ski with plastic lawn chair. It was a shock to me that it worked! Who knows what the boys will try to ski next. It is always an adventure at the lake house. I am thankful to be apart of trips like these. They make for wonderful memories!  -- Talia Ross 

After nearly three months of quarantine, I finally got to spend time with friends and people I love. I spent memorial day weekend with the Donahoes in their cabin up north. I drove up Friday night just in time to catch Back to the future part 1. The most unbelievable part in the movie being that a 17 year old somehow became best friends with a 60-70 year old scientist... such an 80's plot line. The next morning I spent some time with Katie catching up, and throwing tennis balls off of the dock for Max to jump in after. I assumed that Max would tire eventually, but no, it turns out the secret for infinite energy lies not in nuclear fission, but in that dog's energy to play fetch. After lunch, Brian taught me the basics of Spike ball (thanks again!). I believe it was around this time when I found out about Danny, Tommy, and Kevin's plan to start a youtube channel called "Will it ski?" in which they would see if various household objects would "ski". from that point on, the weekend was filled with dozen's of puns along the lines of "we'll ski about that" and "are you sure about that? it seems pretty risk-ski" and "hey guy, this is my friend Will Skiman". That night we spent some time in the hot tub and learned the hard way that the walls are much thinner than expected... The next morning Brian had made everyone some awesome sandwiches for breakfast and with a full belly, we hit the volleyball court! Although I didn't play as well as i would have hoped to have, I still had a blast. By the afternoon we we on the water and Will Skiman, Will Skiman jr and Will Skiman jr II were attempting to ski a canoe paddle. Unfortunately none of them were from Tenneski because no one was able to do it :( That night after Debbie and Brian went to bed, the rest of us went out to watch the stars for a couple hours. I always forget how beautiful the night sky is with so little light pollution. Monday morning Katie and I spent packing our things up and left after a delicious breakfast made by Debbie. All in all, this was a fantastic trip and I wait to go back!  -- Brad

Feb 21, 2020 - Just us (and water damage)

Just us, going up to see the  recent water damage from our upstairs water heater leak that messed up 3 floors.  Also spent some time with Shawn and Sally. Took Shawn out on the trails. -- Brian, Debbie, Danny, and Zach

Christmas week, 2019 - Just us and Matt Moscatallo and Grandma Donahoe

It was a quiet week. We went up Monday, 2 days before Christmas (a first time we were ever here on Christmas Day). There was maybe 2 ft of snow. However, the lakes were not considered safe for snowmobiles (too slushy). We measured 4" of ice on top, then a couple inches of water, then 6" of ice. Although it was highly variable (some really slushy parts). So... safe from falling thru, but not safe from getting stuck. Trails were not marked. So we went to the state trails by using the road and the non-lake portions of local trails. It was still fun. Otherwise, just hung out, did a lot of reading, puzzles, and games. -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, Matt, Zach, Grandma D

Oct 12, 2019 - Brad Boxrud

I first heard about the trip from Katie the week before, she had a long weekend that she was planning on spending with the family, and I was generously invited along with! I got back from cleaning apartments early that Saturday morning and no less than 30 seconds after I had stepped foot into my apartment, I had a text from Katie saying that she was here. After a much needed bear hug, I piled into the passenger seat of Katie's van that Zach had so graciously let me have. On the road trip up we caught up with each other's busy lives and talked about the protests going on in Hong Kong (It's absolutely insane!) and the different billion dollar corporation's reaction to the protests (it got political, but good political). We did take a small pit stop at Texas Jay's (formerly Northern Exposure) to experience the "northern lifestyle"  and even got to talk to a local. When we finally arrived to the northern cabin, we were greeted with the familiar big BOOFS of Apollo and Max. After the dogs and I exchanged our greetings and slobber (their's, not mine), I got to say hi to the Donahoe family once again. Brian and Debbie took us all out to dinner and the usual "Pink squirrels" were brought to Brian and Katie. For those of you who aren't familiar, a Pink Squirrel is essentially a cherry milk shake with burbon (?) added. It has the appearance of chicken nugget goo but don't let the looks fool you: hot dang is it good! They must have made too much because a metal dish was brought out with all of the extras, which I happily took! I did feel a little like a dog eating out of a dog bowl, but I'd happily do it again. We got back to the cabin and all watched the directors cut of Amadeus, the three hours of which are made much more fun after several glasses of wine 😄. In all seriousness though, Amadeus is a pretty great movie, it just has too many notes...  The next morning after a home cooked breakfast, Katie and I went on an adventure around the area. We walked to a tiny church in the woods called "Preacher's Point" and explored the woods looking at different cool leaves that had fallen on the ground. I couldn't think of a more beautiful place to catch up with a loved one than during a snowfall in the multicolored fall woods that is CampDonahoe®. By the time we got back, our toes were cold and our noses were red. Never before has a hot tub felt so good. warming up after being half frozen was super relaxing and would definitely do it again. The water jets were also fun to play around with, but maybe that's just me. Shortly after that, we got out and made ourselves some lunch. Katie, Debbie, Zach, Danny, and I all played a game of apples to apples followed by a game of B.S. The latter of which I played the winning move by placing down half of my hand at once and claiming "one 6". No one realized that I had actually placed down like 5 cards and won! (if you were in that game, I'm sorry you had to find out this way, but a master never reveals his strategies during a game). I had to leave shortly afterwards due to a class the following morning, but I wished that I could have stayed for another day. Every time I'm able to go to CampDonahoe® I have such a blast and this trip was no exception. Thank you so much to Brian and Debbie for allowing me to stay in their home, and for buying me diner and providing me food for the trip. It's truly great to know such awesome people. They welcomed me into their family as if I was their own and for that I will be forever thankful. I can't wait to go again!! Thanks for reading my novel.   -- Brad

Sep 29,  2019 - Carol, Warren, Chris, and Peter

After Jennifer's wedding, Aunt Carol and Uncle Warren came to the cabin, along with daughter Chris and boyfriend. They just stayed the night, and so the visit was short. Nice time though.

Labor Day weekend , 2019 - Bill & Janine Kowalke

Came up from Beach Park to hang out with the Donahoe family. Sorry we missed you Katie! Bill played hours of spike ball with Brian and the boys. We trudged to the basketball court in the dark to rest there and star gaze. The boys had a deep discussion about God, the origin of the universe and Chuck E Cheese. Debbie and I rode our bikes to Eagle River and there were street vendors all over. Bill brought Liz up and we all shopped. Brian didn't want to come. Time was spent on a frustrating puzzle. Watched movies and ate delicious food. And we made a new ice cream drink with our Bourbon Maple syrup. Thanks so much. I have to come back soon so I can actually fish.  -- Janine and Bill

Aug 17, 2019 - Ricky, Talia, Angela, Emily, Gladys

I had a great time. We went tubing and I’m finally part of the clean elbow club. -- Ricky 

The trip started with a 4 hour ride in Katie's Toyota where we talked about our career and life choices. I missed having deep conversations like those. Once we got to three lakes, we went on the boat and I tried tubing. I fell once but then I reajusted and created a strategy. The idea was to pull myself up and stay down as much as possible. It honestly looked like a military crawl 😂. I gave knee boarding a try but I could not keep my balance for the life of me. We also had to go in since the boat was out of gas. Later we went to dinner and I ate some smores. We also learned hoe to play spike ball and it was funny to watch the guys argue during their game. Later that night, we watched a movie (although I slept through most of it). Sunday morning we went jet skiing and I had the best time. Katie went up to 50 mph and my cheeks flapped (face not butt). Katie did two donuts and we went fast on some waves for a bumpy but fun ride. Before heading in, Katie and I floated together 💙. 

-- Gladys

Thanks for inviting me to the Three Little Lakes and spend a weekend with you. It was wonderful to enjoy the last bit of summer weather in water doing tubing, kneeboarding and jet-skiing. Playing spikeball and making s’more highlighted the evening, if ignoring the fact that I fed at least 11 mama mosquitoes. I cannot thank you enough for making my summer memorable again :)  -- Angela Tan      P.S. R.I.P. little froggie.

I had fun being able to enjoy the nice weather on saturday and spend time on the lake. I had a great time tubing and trying knee boarding for the first time. I was nervous, but it ended up being really fun. My last weekend of summer was well spent up in Three Lakes. Thank you for inviting me up north again. It was a great way to end my summer and I had another amazing time.  Thank you,  -- Talia Ross 

This was my third trip to camp Donahoe, and first stay in the new cabin! Like the other two times, I had an awesome stay. Over the two days I was there, we spent a lot of time on the lake and went tubing, swimming, and jet skiing. Katie only tried to kill us a few times while driving the boat, so I’d say it was a successful weekend ;)  We had a tasty dinner at Bonnie’s, ate a bunch of s’mores, and I learned how to play spike ball which I haven’t played before and really enjoyed. We went jet skiing which was both fun and terrifying at the same time. It had just finished raining when we went out so the water was very choppy and wavy. Standing next to the lake initially I didn’t think it was so scary, but actually riding on it was! I didn’t fall off though and made it back to shore in one piece, so watch out MMA, I’m a big tough guy.  Overall, it was a very fun weekend, and I’m missing the north woods already! Thanks for a great stay. -- Emily

Aug 3, 2019 - Just Us

We came up the day after Adam's wedding. Brian had a "meet the artist" event at the Open Armoire from 12:00 to 2:00 on Saturday. Fun having everybody up. Fairly uneventful otherwise. Brian als did a photoshoot of the Open Armoire. It can be seen here. 

-- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, Zach

4th of July week. 2019 Matt Moscatello, Collins family, Ricky Blaha, Scott Keane & family, Darren Bucksa & family, Eric Machamer, Talia Ross

I had an exhilarating time on the lake coupled with a quintessential log cabin experience. The rain on the 4th of July failed to halt our explosive ambition, as we launched fireworks the following night with great pleasure and satisfaction. Our 4-legged friends continually caused distraction among the campers (especially the newest addition to the bunch) with relentless attention hogging. When it dwindled down to closing time, myself and few others enjoyed one of my personal favorite TV shows House. In conclusion, I had a sensational visit and I can't wait to go up again! -- Matt Moscatello

Went up for the 4th and 5th of July. The six of us stayed at the guest cabin Darren, Karen, Nicholas, Jenifer, Adam, and Jess. Debbie and I canoed to the end of the  marsh (farther than we have ever gone). Jen and I tried wake boarding with no success. Adam, Jess, and Jenifer enjoyed swimming and playing volleyball.  We all enjoyed relaxing and working on our tans.  Apollo was a pain and kept bothering me and Nicholas (Nicholas got knocked down a few times), but overall it was a fun time for all.    -- Darren 

I had a lot of fun playing Spike-Ball with everyone; it was definitely a highlight. The Xtreme tubing was also a lot of fun, thanks Mr. Donohoe and Danny for pulling me. Had a great time, thanks for having me! -- Allen Mons

Fireworks. ATV. Wakeboarding. Drove manual for the first time and I’m already better than Tommy 🙃. -- Ricky Blaha

I had a very long but fun week at camp Donahoe. I had lots of fun trying some new tricks kneeboarding that Tommy has shown me, and it was fun to try wake boarding again because I hadn’t done it in a while. Tubing was pretty extreme though whether it was Mr. Donahoe whipping us or Danny making the biggest waves on the lake, one that sent me 10 feet in the air! Allen, Ricky, Tommy, and I took the ATVs around the property. Zach and I biked around town and explored Three Lakes’ only school and a bunch of parks in the area. I dropped my phone in the lake but it is still working very well surprisingly. Us boys also crushed the girls from across the lake in volleyball. I played tons of spikeball, mostly against Mr. Donahoe who was always hitting it back at me. Ricky and I caught some sizable bass and then killed and gutted them with Mrs. Donahoe all while listening to goodbye stranger. Overall it was a crazy long week filled with lots of sporting, exploring, board games, and fun that I’m sure I won’t forget. -- Brendan Collins

Overall, I really enjoyed my time spent up north. Playing volleyball and being on the boat were just a couple of the activities that I had fun doing. I really liked the downtown area. It was fun to explore the little shops. My favorite part of my time up north was being able to relax and spend time with everyone who was there. Thank you so much for inviting me. I had a great time with you and your family. Thank you -- Talia 

Another great trip to Three Lakes! My favorite part was taking the scooters out with Danny to the town. I had a little trouble adjusting to them at first but I got the hang of it as we rode along. I also enjoyed watching our own fireworks display (the second time, not the first time when I was getting eaten alive by mosquitos). It was really cool having everyone outside watching them and hearing the echoes in the distance. I also enjoyed fishing with Brendan and Ricky, where we were very successful, catching 11 fish in a short time. I also enjoyed the night where we went to Bonnies and the ski show after. Those are always good times. I also enjoyed all the boating activities, including tubing and wakeboarding (even though I couldn't get up to save my life). I also just enjoyed cruising along in the boats, whether it was going to the dam or just going across the lake to get gas. I can't wait for my next adventure at Camp Donahoe! -- Eric Machamer

Thanks for the great time at the Donahoe’s lake house!  Never would have thought a vacation home could be so beautiful but more striking was the warm, inviting environment that filled that home and spilled into the wonderful Northwoods.  The boys had a great time on the lake and it was a pleasure to see what a nice group that Jonny has had the opportunity to work with at DDC this summer.  Jackie took her first spin on a wave runner and was thrilled to meet Apollo, Maxwell and Buster.  The “older” boys were very competitive at Spike Ball and almost beat the champs. The time was cut too short because we had to leave early, but we have great memories!! -- The Keane’s

Jun 9, 2019 - Matt Moscatello and Allen Mons

We came up on Friday after work at around 9:00pm. Watched a, some what, peculiar episode of Black Mirror. Saturday the boys and I went tubing after having to retrieve a failed boat launch attempt. At night we gathered at Bonnie's for prime rib night. We came home and had smores in tandem with watching an episode of House. All in all, terrific time can't wait to come up again! -- Brian

Yee Haw what an exciting adventure. Had fun playing Spike-ball with y'all and playing with the doggos. Thanks for inviting me up! -- Allen

May 11, 2019 - Just Us

Picked up Danny from school, visited Myles Memorial at dragstrip, up north, then Grandma Kells visit for Mothers day.

Mar 9, 2019 - Just Us

Crazy amount of snow. Most we have ever seen. Had to carve out deep paths for entryways to house, cabin, doghouse, and barn. Had to blaze a trail to the snowmobile trails. Snow was 3-4 deep everywhere. Crazy. Best snowmobiling ever though. We all went to Eagle River and down thru Sugar Camp. Then Danny, Zach, and Brian went the back way to Eagle River. All in all, maybe 60 miles. Great conditions. -- Brian, Debbie, Danny, Tommy, Zach

Christmas week 2018 - Matt Moscatello

Here at Campdonahoe I was able to snowmobile through beautiful terrain and trek stretches of frozen ice. When we werent travelling with the snowmobiles, we were using them to drag each other across the ice on tubes or sleds. Plus, we decided to spend a day at Ski Brule ski resort where  almost broke all of my bones in the name of Xsports. All in all Im very satisfied with my stay and although it came to a close I find that my time here actually went by pretty fast. -- Matthew Moscatello

Thanksgiving 2018 - Kevin Coda

Couldn't think of a better place to spend my 20th birthday. I had a great time ice skating, snowmobiling, and playing the Nintendo. I guess we will have to pass level 8-2 next time. I had an awesome thanksgiving and birthday weekend with all of you at camp Donahoe.  -- Kevin Coda

Oct 7, 2018 - Amanda Cole photoshoot and Michigan Tech visit

Brian did Amanda's senior picture photoshoot on Sunday, and we went to Michigan Tech on Monday where Tommy is considering for college, and where Kevin goes and graciously showed us around. Other than that, did some fall cleanup, etc. -- Debbie, Brian, Tommy, Zach      (Penny's voicemail is below)

Sep 16, 2018 - Andrea, Athena Butler, Debbie, Jodie, and Tamara

The cabin was full of nuts this weekend!  Ha!  (The gal pals) Your majestic scenery was at its full glory!  On the way up, Deb took us to Slide Rock where we lazed on river rocks and enjoyed rushing water massages. Following that, a thigh-burning climb up the Fire Tower in Mountain rewarded us with a vast view of the  Great Up North.  Jewelry shopping.  We took in miniature squirrel sightings, orange mushrooms and the earthy scent of pine on our daily walks to Preachers Point as well as courageous cool swims in the lake (Yes, I know its September 16!!), boat rides and shopping in town.  Jewelry shopping.  Relaxing with the help of Wisconsin and lavender martinis, dinner was followed by a charming and informative Rag Time show by pianist Bob Milne in the quaint Three Lakes theater. Did I mention jewelry shopping?  We certainly need to plan our vacation meetings here again--Portugal details are underway!  Thanks especially to Deb!!  She was johnny on the spot with towels when Athena and Andrea jumped in the lake and preheated the hot tub for them and more!  XXOO  Love our gals!!  

-- Athena, Andrea, Jody and Tamara

Labor Day 2018 - Brad Boxrud, Jackie Moscatello, Zach & Matt Moscatello, Darren Bucksa & family, and Chase & Brendan Collins

It was good to be back at the new camp Donahoe again. It was especially fun to see Apollo up there and play on the raft with him. Both nights we were there, we all looked at the stars for a while and it was stunning even though I’ve seen it so many times. For the short time we were on the boat, Brendan and I went tubing. It’s a lot more difficult and painful to go tubing when you’re older I realized. All in all, it was good to see everyone after my first week of school and I’m excited to go back when I can. -- Chase Collins

I had a fantastic Labor Day weekend at Camp Donahoe even though we had some questionable weather on Sunday. I had tons of fun fishing, playing Spikeball and Kan-Jam, kneeboarding, and tubing. For the first time I also stood up on the kneeboard, and I was even able to get back down on my first try. Spikeball was a lot of fun as well and was a bit tough trying to combat Mr. Donahoe's speedy serve. When fishing I only caught small fish, catching a bluegill, sunfish, and tiny bass in total which wasn't too bad. Tommy, Danny, Matt Chase, Zach and I also went to the sandbar, which wasn't very eventful but visiting the island there was interesting. Tubing was a great way to top it all off. Chase and I got whipped on the tube and it was quite the workout. Overall I had a great time this weekend and I hope that the rest of everybody there did as well. -- Brendan Collins

Hi Brian + Debbie. Just a cheery little note intended to express a really happy thank-you for all your thoughtfulness! You're the best. Thank you for the nice weekend in Wisconsin. It was very relaxing. Your place is beautiful. I'm happy Zack is with you. He loves you both. -- Jackie + Matt

I was invited up to CampDonahoe™ for memorial day weekend by Katie and stayed all day Saturday, Sunday morning, and left sunday afternoon. I drove up with Katie in my 2000 maroon jeep Cherokee Saturday morning. The drive started out on track until we missed an exit and after 25 minutes of navigating back roads and ending up in a park, we realized that one of us had accidentally added an extra destination onto the GPS pathway! (I secretly blame Katie)  After a quick reset we were on our way listening to the hit murder mystery podcast Serial for the next four and a half hours. An obsession quickly grew and the discussion of murder and motive became a common topic of conversation between us for the duration of the weekend. 

Upon arrival at CampDonahoe™ The boys (Tommy, Danny, Zack, Matt, Brendan, Chris(?)) and the small bear that is Apollo were playing a version of King of the hill that amazed me; the "hill" was a small square floating platform covered in gray sun faded carpet about 30' off shore. The platform could only support 4 people before tipping near vertical, dumping everyone off into the lake in laughter and shouts. Katie and I changed into our bathing suits and joined the boys for hours playing king of the hill and swimming. The pushing, laughing, and fun that we had brought back memories of playing similar games with my friends when I was a young kid. For dinner we drove out to the local diner and the Donahoes very generously bought me dinner (thanks so much guys if you're reading this!). I sat with grandma Moscatello, Grandma Donahoe, Brian, Debby, and Katie at the 'adult' table, which in all honesty I still don't entirely feel qualified to sit at lol :P.  We all made jokes, had fun, and enjoyed each other's company. Katie and Brian ordered a drink called the pink squirrel that looked as if it might actually be blended squirrels and ice cream (Grandma Ds comparison, not mine). After dinner I rode home in the back of a cherry red open top jeep wrangler with my arm around Katie in the setting sun with the cool late afternoon air blowing through our hair. If this sounds like it's from a movie set it's because that's exactly what it felt like! It really was such a great moment, maybe i'll write the next hit country song in a couple years who knows. Back at the cabin, as the boys were setting up the fire for tonight, Katie, Brian, Debbie and I played Spike ball which is actually a lot more difficult than I was expecting. It was my first time ever playing, and Brian and Debbie offered to show me the ropes. Despite loosing all three games, they were great teachers and I did improve a little, but the high light was seeing Katie get flustered with loosing and whipping the ball at her parents in defiance. It's really funny to see her get so competitive sometimes. After three games, the deep blue sky faded into darkness and the amber glow of the fire was beginning to be the dominating source of light in the back yard. Marshmallows were brought and just as the last of sunlight disappeared behind the trees on the horizon, the first of many s'mores was consumed. Between the lapping of water on the gravel shore, the crackle of fire, and jovial conversation i didn't even notice the stars emerge from the blackening sky. The one thing that I miss most about my time at CampDonahoe™ is the absolutely breath taking view of the night sky. I've always lived in well populated areas where the dull orange glow of distant city lights is a sight so familiar it becomes invisible. It isn't until you can see the sky as it is naturally without civilization nearby that the expanse of the universe is made so abundantly clear. Tommy and Zack pointed out the big and little dipper, Danny pointed out the Bright star in the direct middle of the sky that he refereed to as "reference star" on account that this was the star used to identify the location of other interesting stars in the sky. someone might say "do you see that bright star 3 inches down and 2 inches right of reference star?" and despite using inches to describe what must be thousands of light years, you immediately knew which star they were talking about. Katie pointed out a particularly bright star on the horizon to actually be mars! I'm not sure if my eyes were playing tricks on me, but i'm pretty sure that i could make out curiosity rolling over an empty, dusty, red landscape alone, sending pictures for an engineer far far away to put together into some pretty kick ass panoramic photos. But like i said, maybe my eyes were just playing tricks on me. Some time later, and after the boys had gone to bed, I found myself talking to Brian with Katie about the process about taking photos of stars. I find it fascinating how your eyes have such a hard time seeing the detail that is there, but a camera can see it all. It's like an entire world of beauty is hidden just out of our view, but no matter how hard you try, our eyes just aren't good enough to see more than the faintest impression of it. Only we can see it, we just nee a camera with a long exposure and BAM! there it is! suddenly what appears initially as a cloud of dim white speckles in the sky becomes the miasma of colors and complex shapes that is our milky way. Super cool. 

I woke up early sunday morning before the boys did and met katie in the cabin to listen to another episode of Serial. At this point the story is getting juicy and i can tell that she's hooked. we listen to two episodes and ate a delicious breakfast consisting of homemade McMuffins, donuts and orange juice. We finished the episode we were listening to on a hammock suspended between two trees that overlooks the lake 30 feet below you. Mr. and Mrs.Buksa (katie's aunt and uncle) arrived with Jen and Nick. Jen being Katie's 21 (i think) year old cousin and Nick being the most adorable 5 year old I've ever seen. Before I had to leave, katie and I took Nick on a walk through the woods to which we showed him the joy of throwing pieces of wood off of the hill and making a splash as it lands in the water. Once returned, he led me into the kitchen and asked what every 'robot' in the house did (fridge, sink, microwave, dishwasher, ect....) like i said, the most adorable 5 year old I've ever seen. I left after saying goodbye to a very similar sight that i saw when i arrived: The boys were playing King of the hill in the lake again, and the rest of the family was catching up with one another indoors. As usual this ended up being such a great time for me and i can't thank the Donahoes enough for not only letting me stay, but treating me as if i was family. all I could think about when driving home was "man, I hope i get to go back soon".

--Brad "the Chad" Boxrud

Aug 19, 2018 - Ricky Blaha and Graham & Bill Kowalke

I got to knee board, tube, and wake surf for the first time. I caught a MONSTER large mouth. I had a great time. -- Ricky

Thank you for hosting another world famous Camp Donahoe weekend. We had a wonderful stay and were blown away by the new digs! 

-- Bill and Graham

Jul 28, 2018 - Just Us

Just Brian,. Debbie, Danny, Tommy, and Zach. Squeezed into Debbie's SUV, since only us (and 3 dogs). Quiet weekend. Did some watersports. Lake was very calm. Did a lot of waverunning. And Brian did a bunch of photography, testing out his new cleaned sensor.

4th of July week - Jeff Coda & family, and Brendan, Allen, Peyton, Eric, and Jake

4th of July weekend at Camp Donahoe was outstanding. We had a great time riding wave runners, ATVs, and doing water sports. We will be practicing up for the next years spike ball tournament. It was quite exciting to be a part of the most amount of people to ever occupy Camp Donahoe. Thanks for an awesome vacation, can't wait to do it again soon! -- The Coda's (Jeff, Mia, and Kevin)

P.S. Kevin failed to mention the "human skis" we did with him and Danny on bottom and Tommy on top. Also he ski'd on a paddle. Both were quite interesting... -- Brian

Thank you for a great fun filled weekend up in the north woods. I enjoyed hanging out and bring on the lake and wake-boarding. The aqua-devils ski show was amazing. Thank you again for a great weekend.  -- Jake Tripp

Thank you for making my experience up north so amazing. I really enjoyed extreme tubing, especially flipping over 7 times the the last day. I also enjoyed fishing even though I caught nothing. I also really liked the ski show. Those tricks were sick.  -- Eric Machamer

This trip here was definitely one of the highlights of my summer.  I really liked ATVing, tubing, and jet-skiing.  I also really enjoyed watching Kevin, Danny, and Tommy try the human skiing.  They were so close and with another few hours of practice could have easily won the ski show.  I really appreciate Danny teaching me how to drive stick and the Donahoe's for inviting me up here. Thank you!  -- Allen Mons

Thank you for an amazing weekend up north. I went ATVing, tubing, wakesurfing, and jetskiing. Tommy and I also went out with a few others on multiple occasions for fishing which was really fun and made us realize we should take the fishing boat out more. Fireworks were great and eventually helped us pick up some girls. Overall this was an amazing and fast weekend, but I'll remember it for a long time. Thank you Donahoes. --  Brendan Collins

Thank you for a great weekend. I have never experienced most of the activities before coming here, and I am grateful I was able to learn how to water ski. I really enjoyed the water skiing, ATVing, Tubing, and jet skiing. I also really enjoyed pushing Eric off the tubes, when we went extreme tubing, and telling those girls that I am a lifeguard. Overall, this is a weekend I wont forget, and I am thankful that you allowed this to happen because I missed my squad up in college.-- Peyton Romanek

Memorial Day weekend, 2018 - Just Us

Brian, Danny and Zach came up Friday early afternoon, and Debbie and Tommy stopped by Grandma Kells, and also visited a fire tower and Penny (although Penny wasn't home). Fun was had by all. Zach learned to wakesurf, and to wakeboard. He did well at both. Brian had a the sebaceous cyst on his neck double in size, and he had surgery the day after he returned (ouch). 

Apr 2, 2018 - Eric Butler

Spending Spring Break and Easter Weekend weekend at campdonahoe was an extremely enjoyable experience. The weather afforded several inches of snow which we optimized in snowmobiling and sledding. Good company manifested itself in outbursts of humor and superlative conversation. Moreover, this weekend resulted in an allotment of time to meet Apollo, the newest edition to the family, which my report is of the highest praise. In seriousness, I had a very relaxing and enjoyable week at campdonahoe. -- Eric Butler

Christmas week, 2017 - Just Us

Went up a little early, and left early too, since John Moscatello died Dec 23rd, and wanted to be back for the wake and funeral on 12/28 and 12/29, respectively. On the way up, visited Grandma Kells, and Lyyn. While there, Darren, Karren and Nicholas visited for 2 days. And Penny, Steve and Amanda came for a few hours too.  Somber mood with John passing, and pondering the fate of Matt and Zach. Also dealing with buyers of Bridget's house. Fun, fun :( Trails opened the day we left :( -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Oct 9, 2017 - Debbie, Athena, Jody, Andrea, and Tamara

The "Ice Queens" had 2 wonderful days at the new lodge. The leaves were turning and the weather was perfect. We crammed a lot into those 2 days: Cranberry fest, winery, dinner at Black Forest Pub, star watching. The next morning we shopped and hiked the Sam Campbell trail. Next time we need to stay longer!  Laughing in the leaves and logs! lovely lodge! loons on the lake! luscious ladies! -- Athena

Oct 2, 2017 - Allen Mons

ATV's are cool

Boats are nice

There was also a mini pool

We didn't eat rice

-- Allen Mons

[bjd: this poem style was a reference to a story Brian told about a poem/hack he did at Heurikon back in the day]

Labor Day weekend, 2017 - The Collins family

Thanks for a wonderful Labor Day weekend at Camp Donahoe! We enjoyed a nice ride up in the RV, stopping along the way in Milwaukee and DePere to pick up all of our college kids, except for Shea as she had to work that weekend. 

The new cabin is awesome! Tons of room for everyone and a huge kitchen to easily cook for a crowd. The weather was beautiful and Liz, Debbie, Katie and Andrea went on nature walks both mornings. The guys enjoyed playing Spikeball. 

Everyone enjoyed tubing and watching Debbie, Danny and Brendan wake surf! It was a relaxing, beautiful weekend. 

Thank you so much for having us Brian and Debbie!

-- Tony, Andrea, Chase & Brendan Collins 

Aug 12, 2017 - Jeff Coda & family, Angela Tan, Zach Schneider, and Brendan Collins

Amazing time at Camp Donahoe.. Went fishing, wake surfing, canoeing and much more. Even took in a fish fry.  Not enough time in this beautiful place. Can't wait to return! Thank you! -- Jeff

Thank you so much for letting me stay here for the entire week! It was the best week I have ever experienced! The water sports were brand new to me; I really enjoyed them even though I drank a lot of the lake water (tasted not bad thou). Scooter driving and ATV driving were my favourite activities. The seven days let me know more about your family, and especially Katie who now has a pervert tag on her along with her disgusting pimples on her torso (ewww). -- Angela

Well, I had another great time at camp Donahoe. I had fun trying to wake surf, and I have never seen a wake that big in my life! It was amazing learning to play spike ball, and I really enjoyed playing kick the can with everyone. I might need to work on seeing in the dark because I walked into about three different trees. Danny and I enjoyed getting pulled over by the DNR guy for a ridiculous reason (driving 195 ft away from the shore instead of 200, and Danny not having a "proper" life jacket). All in all, I had an amazing time and cant wait to see what fun lies ahead for me next time I visit. -- Zach Schneider

I had an exciting time at Camp Donahoe this week. Danny, Tommy and I went what we called Xtreme Tubing(trademark pending), where we would go crazy fast on the tubes and have to jump from tube to tube whenever we were up next to each other. I also got to try wake surfing for the first time which was very fun and I'd say easier done then said. Later in the week Kevin, Mr. Coda, his sister Mia, and Zach Schneider showed up and we did some Xtreme Tubing with them and proceeded to play some Spikeball. Kevin, Zach, Danny and played an intense 3 game series. Then Mr. Donahoe decided to join in and used his tennis arm to destroy Danny and I. Later that night we played some kick the can with a campfire going. That next day Tommy and I did some kneeboarding and some more spikeball, and that just about wrapped up my fantastic week at Camp Donahoe. -- Brendan Collins 

Jul 23, 2017 - Darren Bucksa & family, Eric Machamer, Zach Schneider, Aunt Carol and Uncle Don

Darren, Karen, Stephanie, Jennifer, Jason, and Nicholas all came up on Saturday Morning and left Sunday afternoon.  We all had fun visiting with Don, Carol, Debbie and family and enjoying the peace and tranquility of this beautiful place.  Nicholas got to go fishing with grandpa and Steph and the boys.  Darren stood up on the wake board for the first time and repeated it before doing a face plant in the water.  Karen had fun visiting and talking with aunt Carol.  -- Darren  

This trip was a blast! I especially enjoyed tubing and attempting to wake board. This area is beautiful and I hope to be back soon! I will never forget how high I got on the tubes and nearly catching a fish. I will also remember how funny it was when Danny kept yelling at his mom to idle the boat. Although I felt sore and burnt from all the time on the tubes and in the sun, this was a fantastic weekend trip! -- Eric

This was my second time up at the cabin. I had so much fun. I enjoyed wake boarding, tubing, riding the ATVs, and taking the mopeds to dinner. I have never been so sore in my life, maybe due to the fact that I face planted trying to jump the wake on the wake board, but now I know to lean back. Riding the mopeds to dinner was a blast. Also, dinner was eventful because my legs kept cramping up due to tubing earlier, and because I threw up in the bushes. All in all it was one of the best weekends of my life (so far), and I can't wait until next time so I can hear all of Mr. Donahoe's science and religion. -- Zach

Outstanding! Fantastic time. Enjoyed every minute of it. Facilities are positively outstanding, and enjoyed every aspect of it.  -- Don

They treated me like a queen. -- Carol

4th of July week, 2017 - Zach Moscatello, Grandma Donahoe & sister Karin, and Darren Bucksa & family

I had a lot of fun ATVing and i really love the new cabin and the new boat. Jet skiing was a lot of fun, I can't wait to come up here again, and see the house in its finished form. i love my new bed. -- Zach

Your new cabin is just gorgeous, loved the entire week.  Please let me come back?   -- Mom

What can I say? This was the experience of a life time for me, I loved every single minute of my time here, Debbie and Brian, you are the greatest hosts ever, love you all and will never forget this time I spent with your entire family. You  have the greatest kids , so kind and sweet. Any time you need kitchen patrol or help cleaning anything, just call me. I'll be here in a minute................Love you all so much -- Aunt Karin

Had fun canoeing and knee boarding.  I saw baby birds with my sister when canoeing.  Love the new house ! -- Darren

Haven't been here in over a year.  I really like the new house.  We went canoeing and saw the baby birds in a stump in the lake.  My favorite place is the lake!! -- Steph 

Loved spending the weekend here with everyone. It was my first time watching wake boarding and knee boarding. I also enjoyed riding around the trails on the ATV. Glad I was able to join the party!    -- Jessica

Went knee-boarding for the first time and didn't drown, so I'd say it was a good day. -- Jason

Love the new cabin! Definitely a lot more sunshine! Beautiful weather went knee boarding, canoeing and saw some baby birds. Didn't flip our canoe so that was a bonus! Until the next adventure at the cabin.  -- Adam

Jun 10, 2017 - Brendan Collins

I had a great time at Camp Donahoe this weekend. Saturday ended up being a very, very windy day so I spent my time riding the ATVs and then making a kite, which happened to take awhile. But Tommy and I lost the kite and had to retrieve it in a canoe that we could not get back to the dock because of the intense wind. I overall had a simply fun time. -- Brendan

Freaky windy. Didn't get to do too much. Tommy and Brendan made homemade kites, and did a bunch of ATVing. -- Brian, Danny, Tommy

Memorial Day weekend, 2017 - Emily Casale

Just getting a few things ready (boars, scooters, etc.). Fun was had by all. -- Debbie, Brian, Tommy, and Katie

I went up to Camp Donahoe for the second time during Memorial Day Weekend. It was a slightly different experience than the first time-the old main cabin had been torn down, and the new main cabin was under construction, so the five of us (me, Katie, Tommy, Mr. and Mrs. Donahoe) stayed in the guest cabin. During the three days I was there, we went boating, made a bonfire and smores, killed a few mo-ped batteries, and watched almost a whole season of Seinfeld. One of my favorite activities I did during this trip was riding on the mo-ped. It took a few minutes to get used to riding, but after I got the hang of it, it was honestly one of the most exhilarating experiences I’ve had being on the road. Overall I had a great weekend, and I really enjoyed getting to spend time with each of you and getting to know you better. Thank you for an awesome weekend!!  -- Emily Casale

May 6, 2017 - Debbie, Katie, Mom/Bob, and Darren

Went to inspect house progress. Mom and Bob came, as well as Darren. They didn't stay too long though. -- Debbie and Katie

Apr 10, 2017 - Just Brian & Debbie

Went up to pick wall materials, flooring, and inspect house progress. Spent most of the time in Rhinelander/Minocqua area looking at things. -- Brian and Debbie

Mar 19, 2017 - Just Debbie & Katie

Inspecting the lodge project. Stopped by Penny's on the way up. -- Debbie and Katie

Mar 4, 2017 - Athena and Andrea

Minocqua's winter Park is awesome-- just like every year on this Gal Pal's trip.  Maybe we should shoot for two ski trips next year, just preferably not the final day of the season!!  The new house is looking awesome and we​ can't wait to see it finished!!  Lovely time!! 

-- Athena & Andrea

Christmas week, 2016 - Just Us

2 kids almost died (not). Katie woke us up at 3:30am one night with severe abdomen pain. Trip to ER (in Rhinelander) in middle of night revealed nothing, after blood tests and ultrasound... not appendix, not gall bladder... doc said probably related to virus/infection she had (she had cold/flu leading up to this). She lived. Tommy had upper chest pain that has been plaguing him for a while. And so we did nothing. Didn't get out of the house and came home early. At its peak, Debbie thought it o.k. that her, Brian and Danny go out to eat "and Katie and Tommy can stay home and call 911 if necessary". Huh? -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Dec 4, 2016 - Just Us

We demolished the house today. Fun, fun. Lots of cool videos. House gets totally taken down tomorrow... -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Oct 30, 2016 - Just Us

Moved out of main house, in prep for building a replacement. Long weekend. Beautiful weather on Sunday though.  

-- Brian, Debbie, Danny, Tommy

Oct 8, 2016 - Brendan Collins, Bridget Moscatello and Zach

I had a great time at camp Donahoe this weekend. When we got there, we raked up a leaf pile. We played around in that for a bit. The next day we rode the ATVs, two of us took them out on the road for a bit, we also checked out the beaver dam under the bridge over the marsh. Later, we had a bonfire and made some s'mores. On the day we left we decided to make a Bear Grylls parody. That ended up being hilarious. Overall I had an awesome time at camp Donahoe this weekend. -- Brendan

I had fun time atving and climbing the big tree! I especially enjoyed sitting out on dock late at nite looking at the stars. I really loved going out to dinner at Bonnie and relaxing in the RV! I love hanging with Danny and tommy....best cousins ever! -- Zach

Love my private cabin and personal Doc! Thx for letting me and Zach catch a ride and go deep into northern woods in Vegas style! Movie nite selections....ok...well that was interesting! Good family time always...luckiest sister ever! -- Bridget

Labor Day weekend, 2016 - Kevin Coda, Jake Tripp, and Liz Uko

Once again I had an outstanding time up here at camp Donahoe. At a minimum I found it a great place to sit back relax and just read, but since I was at Camp Donahoe, you know the weekend was packed with wake boarding, boats, ATV's, volleyball, and campfires. This labor day weekend was nothing short of exciting and thrilling. Thanks for all the memories. -- Kevin

    I had a great time up at Camp Donahoe!! Everyday was filled with adventures such as wake-boarding, knee-boarding, tubing, ATV's volleyball, jet-skiing, and many more fun things to do at Camp Donahoe. Thank you so much for an awesome exciting weekend. Thank you so much again.  -- Tripp

    It is always fun coming up here! Its a relaxing break before starting school. We had a lot of fun on the jet skis. We had a blast exploring the area on the scooter. We ended the trip playing volleyball and I won two games. Katie is pretty abusive though. -- Liz

Aug 21, 2016 - Eric Butler and Maddy Seveska

It was raining on the first day so we went into town and got some hot chocolate at the cafe. Then afterwards we went jet skying, and it was really fun. The next day we went jet skying again, and the weather was slightly better but the wind made it cold. After that we went tubing. Katie fell off three times, but that was probably my fault. (It was still funny though). I had a pretty fun weekend. I just wish it could have lasted longer. -- Maddy

This weekend at The Three Lakes was a chilly one to say the least. It was raining and cold all Saturday in the high fifties, so we had a pretty calm day playing board games and watching the Olympics. Sunday warmed up a bit and the weather permitted a short time on the water for some tubing and knee boarding, it still was a cold but not to bad. Overall just a nice relaxing time at Camp Donahoe. --  Eric Butler

Aug 20, 2016 - Dan Kiernan & Ivy

Had a great time. Didn't want to leave. Water pump and heater off. Air is set to 88. The place is spotless due to Ivy. Sheets washed and garbage removed. Unopened ice cream in freezer. Ha. Thanks so much.  -- Dan

Thank you for so graciously sharing your lovely lake home with us. Little Fork lake is so beautiful and serene, it was definitely the highlight of our trip. Best Regards.  -- Ivy

4th of July week, 2016 - Bridget Moscatello & family, Darren Bucksa & family, and Brad Boxrud

I stayed the weekend of July 2nd through July 5th. It was such a fun time. Katie was always telling me how fun her Wisconsin cabin was, but I never knew how right she was until this trip. The Donahoes were such a great family and crowd to share the weekend with, they were always kind, and generally awesome people. We went canoeing, tubing, knee boarding, and ATVing. I can't elaborate enough how much of a fun time I had, Thanks to all of the Donahoes for letting me spend time with them. I hope to return some day!  -- Brad

I only have one thing to say, in famous last words of Arnold', "I'll be back!" Angel One, Out. -- Bridget

I had so much fun double tubing and trying to jump the wake. I also had a lot of fun knee-boarding and learning tricks. I had fun atv-ing and finding new trails. Thank you for inviting me and i hope to come up soon.  -- Zach

I stayed up here on July 4th weekend and I had a lot of fun tubing using the ATV's. I cant wait to come back next year! -- Matt

Jun 19, 2016 - Brendan Collins

I had a great time at camp Donahoe this weekend. Double tubing and knee-boarding were very enjoyable, just like the weather.  It was a great, warm weekend up at camp Donahoe. -- Brendan

Memorial Day weekend, 2016 - Kevin Coda and Liz Uko

Coming up on Memorial Day weekend was a great time to relax! It was the perfect way to start the summer! This weekend started off a little chilly, but that did not stop Katie and I from going jet skiing and saving civilians lol, the rain hurt our faces, but we worked through it! We also watched a few good movies and it was the perfect weekend!! -- Liz

I had by far the best time at camp Donahoe, In my time up here I enjoyed tubing, ATVing, and climbing trees. This adventure was thrilling, exciting, adventurous, and at the same time relaxing. Its funny how you can relax while doing all these heart racing things. There is much to be said about the kind of getaway this is for me, but now all I could possibly say is thank you! -- Kevin Coda

Mar 6, 2016 - Debbie, Athena, Jodi, and Andrea

We arrived Sunday evening for a few days of skiing. Unfortunately, the weather had warmed up to the 40's the day before, so much of the snow was gone. We decided to spend Monday on the Three Lakes trail because the conditions at the ski part weren't good. We had a very nice day of skiing, no jackets required. We went all the way to the end and were hoping for a ride, but the trail ended up in the middle of nowhere and there were no taxis, so we made the trek back the Three Lakes. It was really beautiful and fun, but the snow was pretty sticky, so it was a lot of work. Tuesday morning we went for a walk from Reed Rd. to Watercraft. All of the other roads were too icy to walk on. Our driveway was solid ice too and we almost hit a tree going down the hill to get out. It was a very nice time with good friends! -- Debbie, Athena, Jodi, and Andrea

Christmas week 2015 - Just Us

Came up after Christmas, and left before New Years. Although lakes frozen, not good enough for snowmobiling. Trails were closed. First time this has happened since we have lived here. The trails have always been open during Christmas break, in the past. Ice wasn't that thick. Still a nice time. Did a little ATV'ing. Just us.

Nov 22, 2015 - Just Katie and Brian

Spent Sunday and Monday in Wisconsin, doing some upkeep and prepping the cabin for winter. Also got to ride the ATVs a bit, go out for Bonnie's, and watch Titanic!  A good several day break. -- Katie

Oct 12, 2015 - Brendan Collins

I had lots of fun in the fall weather here at Camp Donahoe. The weather was nice, but the water was cold. I had a very fun time tubing, but falling off was very, very cold. We made a giant leaf pile over the course if two days. We had fun jumping in it, and eventually riding ATVs through it. Overall, I had a great time, an I think the Fall is a great time to be there.   -- Brendan

Labor Day Weekend, 2015 - Chase & Brendan Collins

This Labor Day weekend I saw some of the biggest tubing waves I've ever seen. I loved "double tubing" which is jumping from tube to tube and I had a lot of fun doing this. I also went knee boarding and almost stood up and hit some tubing waves doing this. This was one of the greatest times I've had. -- Brendan

This weekend I went tubing, knee-boarding, and jet skiing. Tubing was especially fun because we hit a lot of waves, which kinda hurt. For the first time I went jet skiing alone and that was a blast. Also I found my wallet that I had lost the last time I came here about two months ago. So I guess this turned out to be a "profitable" trip.  -- Chase

Aug 23, 2015 - Dan Mahn & family

We had fun on the tubes, and just hanging out.  The windy weather was actually not too bad, and we found some quiet places on a different lake; it was a great taste of Fall at the end of Summer. -- Caleb (and Dan and Eric)

Jul 25, 2015 - Tony & Andrea Collins & family

Thank you Donahoes for a fabulous weekend! We enjoyed the best weather of the summer while skiing, tubing and wave running. A trip up north is never complete without a great night out to Bonnie's. We also caught a little of the world famous Three Lakes water ski team show. Wild life sightings included seeing a porcupine up in a tree!

Andrea also found a comfy rv ride and camp Donahoe was a good place to recover from a nasty bout of food poisoning she had before she left. It was so fun to see all six kids play and frolic just as they always have since they were little ones. Hard to believe Katie and Shea will be heading off to college in a couple weeks! 

Thank you for a great weekend!!!       -- Andrea, Tony, Shea, Chase and Brendan Collins

4th of July week 2015 - John Butler & family, Darren & Jen, Jane & Gina & Mary & Riley, Bridget Moscatello & family

Thanks again for excellent time with kids!  Always the best creating memories with our kid that will last a life time.  They will never forget hanging with their cousins!  I am never eating smores again! -- Bridgey

I loved trying wake surfing for the first time!  Something new to try!  Always have a fun time up north at Camp Donahoe!  . -- Ethan B.

Tommy and I did the very first double dock start on the wake board.  Got up on the first try!!. -- Eric B.

The other day

we saw a bear

a great big bear

a way up there.

Buster saw him first

and then he ran

right towards that bear

but he din' get there

We called that dog

right back to us

loudly we did

men heard the fuss

Deb ran to him

crazy girl she is

to save him from 

that big black bear

Guys ran to us

we were safe by then

Deb saved the dog

and held on tight

And so it ends

our 6pm

quick encounter

with a big black bear!!!!!..........

-- Athena and John Butler

Jun 21, 2015 - Liz Uko and Eric Butler

like always it was another fantastic weekend up north. The highlight of the trip for me was knee boarding Saturday, despite the unexpected weather. What made it so special was the sun was setting and the water was as smooth as a baby's skin which made for the most perfect knee boarding conditions. Also Sunday we went wake boarding and I started from the dock and for my first try low and behold I got up. Coming up here is always a good time, and I cannot be more grateful to the Donahoe family for having me up at their cabin. -- Eric

Our little trip  started off cold and rainy, but that didn't stop Katie and I! We went jet skiing and after that we proceeded to go swimming in the treacherous waters. We then decided to warm up inside. It eventually got warmer so we went on the banana boat raft, which was quite the excitement.  The last day did not disappoint! We went on the boat again and I was flung around the place on the tube! The wonderful day ended with Katie Donahoe sitting on me and throwing my America sunglasses overboard. Hahaha even with that I had a great time at Camp Donahoe!!   -- Liz

Memorial Day weekend, 2015 - Cassidy Smith

A very adventurous and eventful weekend at Camp Donahoe this weekend! After we arrived on Saturday, Katie and I went for a walk to the bridge and exploring through the forest.  We climbed up on the old deerstand and shuffled through the hobo tent.  Later in the day, we took the jet-skis out for a spin around the three surrounding lakes.  Then, before dinner we took the Gator to the chapel and looked around up there.  The following day, Sunday, was jam-packed full of exciting activities! I got to try wakeboarding, shortly finding out after three faceplants that it wasn't the water sport for me.  So, Katie and I kneeboarded and had a blast!  Katie even stood up on her kneeboard and looked like she was waking on water (much like Jesus).  After the water sports, we went ATVing through the property's trails.  Before a delicious Wisconsin bratwurst dinner, we went tubing! It was a wonderful weekend! :)   -- Cassidy

Mar 2, 2015 - Athena Butler and Andrea Collins

Three lakes has phenomenal trails for xcountry skiing and skate skiing, we had a blast this monring, even though it was only 1 degree outside.  Debbie loves to go to the coffee shop, Dejabrew, after a skiing run followed by a little shopping across the street.  We all came out with a shopping bag! 

Our wonderful day yesterday was spent at the Minocqua Winter Park, where we visited two years ago.  Blizzard cond itions on our drive there made for fresh powder, beautiful vistas, and fun! We gave skate skiing a try!  We liked it but found it to be taxing during our first adventures out trying the new ski motions.

The town was closed up after five pm and Bonnies is closed on Mon/Tues.  We ate dunner at the Village Inn and much to Debbies surprise, we all had a great meal! Pool after was a blast.  We played three games of pool and we each won one--too tired for a shoot out.  We'll leave it as a tie.  Athena did run the table to pull out her win against Debbie at the final moments. Please note that draft beer in Wisconsin is really inexpensive--no charge for the frosty mug! We gave up on paying the jukebox after a while and relied upon iphone music.  Then home and crash with an evening movie.

Next time we want t o try the Three Lakes trail, all 16 kilometers.  We want to pack a big lunch and ski to the trail end, relax, and ski back.  We might need to bring the guys on that trip in case a rescue is necessary! And the guys could pull out the snowmobiles for us to play with, too. 

Even in the cold great white north, we were treated to a taste of the tropics in our loft beds every night. You can't get that everywhere.  

Thanks, can't wait for next time! -- Athena and Andrea

Christmas week 2014 - Just Us and Grandma Donahoe

The five of us plus Grandma Donahoe came. A nice week. Went skiing/snow-boarding (Darren, Adam, and Jennifer met us there). Trying out the new snowboards the boys got for Christmas. Fun, fun. Did a lot of snowmobiling. Debbie, while trying to avoid some open water, went up on land and hit a tree stump, which tipped her and Tommy back over upside down into the open water. A fluke accident since the open water was only 9" deep (it was near shore). Her sled was broke. Brian and Danny fixed it the next day (jammed throttle cable mechanism as part of the TORS system). Brian took a lot of crystal pictures on the windows.

Oct 5, 2014 - Kevin Coda

Had fun ATVing and climbing trees, thanks for the experience! Can' wait to come back. The fishing boat was cool. too bad it was cold, but we had a great time any way. Danny needs a little more practice at chess but that's a great goal for next time! Thank you for the weekend. 

-- Kevin Coda

Labor Day weekend, 2014 - Darren & Jennifer, Dad Bucksa &Lynn, and Grandma Donahoe

Fun was had by all. We all stayed in the main cabin. Weather was marginal, but we got on the lake anyway... Bought the Yamaha 300 ATV and the Yamaha Zuma scooter. Fun, fun

Aug 17, 2014 - Bill Kowalke & family

Bill took the long scenic drive on 45, took forever! The cabin was beautiful and relaxing. Love hearing the loon call out at night. Yoga up here was perfect. Bike riding on the hilly, windy highway; Bill always passed us on the downhills. Thanks so much for having us. -- Janine

Aug 2, 2014 - Zach Schneider & Andrea, Brendan, and Chase Collins

Everything was great. I really enjoyed riding the ATV's and wake boarding.  i cant wait till another time to make more awesome adventures and memories.  -- Zach

Those are beautiful pictures, wow!! Thanks again for a wonderfully relaxing getaway and letting us join you. It's truly your slice of heaven up there. I had such a great time! Thank you! -- Andrea, Brendan, and Chase

Jul 19, 2014 - Eric and Ethan Butler

this weekend was a fun and memorable weekend up at the cabin. it was a very typical weekend until i hit a pothole riding the ATV and flew 50 ft. I am probably the luckiest man alive only suffering bad road burns... -- Eric

A great weekend here at the cabin, I learned a few more tricks for the wake board and I didn't fall... -- Ethan

4th of July week - Liz Uko, Bridget Moscatello & family, Darren Bucksa & family

I spent a wonderful week with the Donahoe family! We were never bored and there was always something to do! I got to try all the water sports things they had and although I did not succeed at all of them, it was still very fun! It was an exhilarating week, and I even taught Katie to fish, Woohoo! -- Liz AKA #1 Donahoe daughter

I wont say the obvious, like thanks,so I will stick with sarcasm instead.  Why couldn't you make the wind go away, it interfered with my sunning?.  Why cant you section off your part of the lake so the fisherman don't stare at us in our swimsuits?  I think you should consider these options on a go forward basis.  Well back to reality, or at least my own!  Always love the boat rides and the company of course was excellent!  Happy summer! -- Bridgey

Jun 9, 2014 - Sami Price and Chase & Brendan Collins

Me and Katie went tubing and jet skiing over the weekend :) We had lots of fun! -- Sami

I had a great time at Camp Donahoe this week. We went tubing, knee boarding, made a fire, roasted marshmallows, and rode the ATV's. The boys and I also went out and found a deer spine in the woods. We also found a vintage can of gasoline. It's always an adventure here. Can't wait to go again.-- Chase

Camp Donahoe was great this weekend, we did some stuff in the woods and across the lake. We went tubing, knee boarding, roasted marshmallows, and went to our secret islands, and found a vertebrae on one of them. We rode the golf cart around and the ATV's. We found a 1968 can of gasoline from the old camp, it was filled with gasoline, that we poured slowly on the fire so there wouldn't be an explosion. It was so cool. -- Brendan 

Memorial Day weekend, 2014 - Eric Butler

This Memorial Day weekend was so awesome and fun at the donahoe's cabin I enjoyed every second of it from insane tubing to amazing kneeboarding and just relaxing it was an overall amazing weekend with wonderful weather an exciting moments. -- Eric Butler

Feb 15, 2014 - Eric Butler and Jeri Prybell & Ethan Kofman

This week up north was especially fun because we went on the snowmobiles and we went skiing. Skiing at ski brule was so exiting, Tommy, Danny, and I went on this one run which was in the woods so many times, it was awesome! When we went on the snowmobiles, it was equally as fun. overall it was an awesome weekend! I had so much fun maybe to much fun.  -- Eric Butler

My first trip up north and we went snowmobiling!!  So much fun...we might have to invest in some of our own!  Thanks guys! -- Jeri and Ethan

Christmas week, 2013 - Darren & Jen, and Grandma Donahoe

Uncle Darren and Jen, and Mom Donahoe. Fun was had by all. Came up via Darren's Christmas Day, then Dad Bucksa's for dinner, then to the cabin by 10:30pm Christmas night, then a few days later Darren and Jen came and visited. On way back, stopped at Penny's. Fun week. 

-- Brian

Oct 14, 2013 - Eric Butler

I had a bunch of fun up at the cabin this weekend. Tommy, Danny, and I made a huge leaf pile and we played around in it all day. we also went ATV-ING  on the trails.  -- Eric Butler

Sep 14, 2013 - Just us and Grandma Donahoe

Just us and Mom. Came up Saturday morning, and left Sunday afternoon. Drove the RV home, and Katie drove the Expedition all the way home for first time. Did a little ATVing and using Waverunners. And put the boat away. 

-- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, and Mom Donahoe

Labor Day weekend, 2013 - Eric Butler

This week was a lot of fun. I had the best time knee boarding with Tommy and Danny. Us three went all at once for the first time, and we all stood up on the knee board. and we had an excellent time tubing. and of course wake boarding! that was fun but i got sore after awhile. This weekend was a boat load of fun "literally". -- Eric

Had an exquisite time as always. The company was not a bore, and they were not un-exciting. A pleasant time for all, I will be recalling this weekend to my dear children in the near future. -- Katherine E Donahue IV

Aug 18, 2013 - Warren & Carol Race, Darren & family, Kelly & Amy Dora (Race), Chris Martinez (Race)

We had a wonderful time. It's awesome here. -- Chris, Hondo, Alex & Jilese Martinez and Nathan Pichette

Spectacular weather to match the views.  The weekend was a delight.  Thank you for sharing with us. Up before sunrise the morning fog steamed off the lake.  4:45am yields incredible views. "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and tired." ~Ben Franklin. 

-- Kelly and Amy

We had a wonderful time in near heaven. -- Carol

Had a great time seeing the family.  The weather was great and had fun kneeboarding. Went to the  Chapel in the pines with Mom, Carol, Warren, Amy, Debbie, Jennifer, and Katie. -- Darren

Jul 15, 2013 - Zach Moscatello

I had a fun time at the lake house we went calming and I went kneeboarding for the first time and it was fun I hope I can come back again sincerely -- Zachary Moscatello

4th of July week 2013 - Ashley Skrypek, Patrick & family, Darren & family

This week I tried wake boarding with the boom and then was able to get up on the rope after that. I did knee boarding, tubing, road on the banana tube, boat ride, jet skiing, made a bracelet, and much more. This week was a ton of fun. I got to meet cousins of yours and other family members. This will be a trip to remember! Thank you!  -- Ashley S. 

Thanks for the exciting time at the new cabin.   The kids really enjoyed boating, swimming, seeing the fireworks, fishing and smores.   Annabel got to wakeboard on her knees for the first time and Dillon and Shannah also really enjoyed their ride on the banana boat.   The new cabin was really comfortable and a pleasure to stay in.   Thanks as well to your kids for being so helpful.  Thanks again! -- The Donahoe family of Antioch 

Jun 9, 2013 - Emily Casale

My time at Camp Donahoe was an interesting and exciting adventure to have all weekend. Almost everything I did was a new experience for me, and each activity was very enjoyable. I loved the jet skis-they made traveling on water feel as if you were riding a motorcycle on land. Kneeboarding was challenging for me-but after I got the hang of it, I found it to be thrilling. Riding an ATV was not as easy as I expected it to be, but not less fun. It was cool to travel through the woods and not have to trip on branches. (Sorry about getting the ATV stuck Katie-you can see why I won't be getting my license for many more months!) Anyway, I had an awesome time in Three Lakes, Wisconsin. Thanks for taking me with :P  -- Emily 

Memorial Day weekend, 2013 - Mary Vanco, Brendan Collins, and Grandma Donahoe

This weekend was really fun and I tried a lot of new things. It was my first time on a wave runner and riding an ATV. They were both really exciting. We went tubing even though it was super cold, but luckily I didn't fall in. We rode a canoe for miles and we wanted to go through the tunnel, but it was too clogged so we carried it over the road. The last night we sat around the campfire and made HUGE smores. They were super delicious. To close the trip we woke up at 5:15 am to watch the sunrise. It was beautiful.  -- Mary Vanco

The really fun thing was tubing. We went on what we call a hot dog tube. It's shaped like a hot dog and on the waves and turns you have to lean certain ways. We also made a lot of fires. Me and Tommy built our own fire. We had really messy s'mores. Danny, Tommy and I went snorkeling for quarts in the water. I found so many that I threw multiple away. We all went on the ATV's and rode them around the yard. The last thing I did was climb trees with Danny and Tommy. I wasn't that good but Danny and Tommy climbed all the way to the top of two trees. This was probably the best time I've ever had up here! -- Brendan Collins

Mar 10, 2013 - Dan & Caleb Mahn, and Bill & Graham Kowalke

A north-woods adventure for the guys ... What more could you ask for?  Although Caleb's boots were soaked from day one and never dried out, we both had a lot of fun.  And we eventually found a couple spare rolls to replenish the toilet paper.  :-) -- Dan

I loved it hear! It was very fun riding snowmobiles, going sledding, watching movies, and falling asleep to the sound of the cool night. This truly was a wonderful experience for me and I think everyone enjoyed this trip and it was awesome. :-) -- Caleb

Thank you Mr. Donahoe, for the fun weekend and the option to be lazy and sleep through everything. : P  -- Graham Kowalke

Thanks Brian, had a blast hanging out and basking in your coolness! It's always a bonus to leave Camp Donahoe with no major injuries. -- Bill Kowalke 

Feb 27, 2013 - Athena Butler and Andrea Collins

I am just thrilled to have stayed in your new cabin! It is very cute and comfortable. Love, love, love the cross country skiing park! And the public trail, too! What a way to spend a day! Beautiful woods, silent snowfall, and the swoosh of our skis make for more memories to add of our 'gal pal' trips. You plan them well, Deb. Home run once again! -- Athena

Feb 17, 2013 - Eric Butler and Darren, Adam, and Jennifer

this weekend was a lot of fun i went snowmobiling and sledding. my favorite part was riding on the back of the snowmobile. and i also liked sledding behind the snowmobile. -- Eric

Christmas week 2012 - Just Us and Grandma Donahoe

Came up between Christmas and New Years as usual. Went skiing at Brule, fun, fun. And also did a bit of cross country skiing on the lake. Did a bit of snowmobiling on the trails too. As usual, lake was frozen enough. Trails had just been open for a day or 2. Interestingly, Brian discovered that the painting on the cabin wall was painted by a semi-famous artist, and was worth something. See here for more details. Brian gave Bonnie 2 framed pictures (Canoe and 10 Steps Forward). -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Thanksgiving 2012 - Uncle Warren & Aunt Carol, and Grandma Kells, Darren & family

Thank you so much for a great Thanksgiving. Food was great, the cabin wonderful, and the family together wonderful. -- Aunt Carol

(here is this entry she filled out in the cabin)

We came for a few days before Thanksgiving. Just the family, and then Darren and family visited as well. -- Brian

Sep 23, 2012 - Mary Johnson

What a wonderful cabin- Just beautiful. Love all the furniture & pictures. Thank you for a great get-away. Always fun to be with your family + my buddy Liz! Love -- Mary 

(here is this entry she filled out in the cabin)

Labor Day weekend, 2012 - Eric Butler and Joe Duffy

i had a great time up north. i leard to wakebored for the frist time. the tubing and keeenboreding  was exelent. -- Eric

i had a great time. the cabin was great and the lake looked lovely. i had lots of fun tubing and knee boarding. we flew pretty high on the tube. i cant wait till next time. -- Joe

Aug 5, 2012 - Jennifer Bucksa

We had just finished our RV trip thru Michigan. We stopped along the way at Debbies Dad's and picked up Jennifer, who learned to wakeboard on the new boom we had just installed. -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, and Jennifer

Jul 22, 2012 - Bridget Moscatello & family

Absolutely beautiful cabin- feels like house-living in the beautiful north woods. You outdid yourselves and all of the fixtures are perfect! We created great memories again as a family with the kids hanging wherever their bodies fell. Love you -- Bridgey & Johnny (here is this entry she filled out in the cabin)

As usual we had a wonderful time during this torcher of a summer!  Next time, we will try and keep the kids quiet when they are playing on the raft outside on a 80 degree day.  You are  probably right about, kids should be quiet when they are giggling and schreeching with laughter with their awesome cousins!  Next time we will muzzle them!!!!!!!! I want to see Katie, Danny and Tommy in the ski show next time!  Get to work! Your one and only sis!! Bridgey and the family... We really wanted to thank you again for the great time we had this weekend.  We really appreciated the ride in the RV and super nice brand new cabin!  What a traveling experience we all had.  I know the kids cannot stop talking about their favorite cousins and how lucky they are to have great cousins!  It is really exciting to see they really enjoy themselves and truly love to hang with each other.  The memories they are creating will last  a life time! Zach has cried a few times because he misses his Aunt Debbie, Tommy, Uncle Brian, Danny and Katie.  He misses the walk back to cabin where John shined his flashlight on all of so we would look like huge monsters in the woods, looking at the sky and the stars , playing with the dogs, etc.  He really takes in the entire experience and truly appreciates his ‘family’. Matt kept saying that it was ‘tradition’ for him and Danny to do the tube together and he did not want to break any tradition and have Danny feel left out…..so he skipped it this year.  He loved the knee boarding, boat rides  and ‘talking all night’ long with Danny.  We are lucky to have such nice kids, who really enjoy each other and can hang with each other yelping in laughter. Thanks again or including us as we really did enjoy ourselves. Loved how Katie kept all the boys in line! -- Bridget

4th of July week 2012 - Darren & family, Mom Donahoe

A great week with beautiful weather. Visiting Bill & family in Minocqua. Also enjoyed the company of the Bucksa family. Went tubing, enjoyed that also. Kids are getting really good on all the water sports too. Just fun. Great fireworks in town. -- Liz 

Spent the week pretty quiet, with Grandma Donahoe, who hung out with the kids in the new cabin. The kids did lots of wake jumping and slaloming this week. Tommy and Danny starting on 1 ski no problem. Darren, Karen, and family stayed a couple of days in the middle and Darren and Adam did watersports too. Three days at 103 back home, it was about 95 here. Also made several visits to the sandbar on Island Lake. Also, Grandma Donahoe went tubing... "faster" she said... Went to Minocqua 1 day (when the power was out) to visit Uncle Bill. Billy, Gina, and Jane, were also there with their kids (no spouses). -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, Mom Donahoe

Jun 23, 2012 - Liz Uko, Dan Mahn & family

I enjoyed tubing and wake boarding. The jet skis were very fun as well. A leach was very big and on my leg. Most of all i enjoyed hanging with my best friend Katie.  -- Liz

Thanks for a wonderful weekend! We love the new cabin, but mostly we love hanging out with old friends. We'll try not to wait 3yrs next time! :) -- Marlene

Old King Cole was a merry old soul and a merry old soul was he. Well, he must have passed by Camp Donahoe, as it's sure to make anyone merry, and the water washes away the doldrums.  As Confucius says: Lather, Rinse, Repeat. A hearty thanks to the Donahoe's for this weekend. -- Dan

Jun 9, 2012 - Chase Collins

I had a fun time. This fifth or sixth time coming here up North. I liked tubing  and knee boarding. I am happy that I was invited.  -- Chase Collins

May 22, 2012 - Grandpa Bucksa, Lynn and Grandma Donahoe

Thank you for letting us use your "new" cabin for our 5th Anniversary vacation. Went fishing and got 27 bluegills and sunfish! We love the cabin. Very beautiful. We might have to come every weekend. Ha Ha Relatives have to make an appointment! [that was a funny sign inside the cabin... "friends always welcome... relatives by appointment only"] 

-- Grandpa Bucksa (5/22)

A fun time had by all. Water was a bit nip (high 60's)., but kids tubed and wakeboarded. -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy (5/26)

Wow, what a beautiful cabin. I could move in, but noticed other relative also have an interest. Hmmmmm, what to do? Loved my roomy [Katie], she is just such a pleasant young lady. Had my first boat ride of the season, that was also great. Thanks, you generous Donahoe's. 

-- Liz Donahoe (5/30)

Feb 20, 2012 - Eric and Ethan Butler

I give a thumbs up for snowmobiling.  I had a blast up north!  It was my first time up there in winter.  -- Ethan Butler

It was so much fun up north. Snowmobiling was awesome!  I loved every second of it.  Sledding was a lot of fun especially behind the snowmobile.  The ride up was long but, it was worth it!  -- Eric Butler

Jan 16, 2012 - Sabrina

It was a lot of fun going to Wisconsin and snow mobiling. Thank you Katie and your family for inviting me.  -- Sabrina Kabakov

Nov 8, 2021 - Eric Butler and Mom Donahoe

Thank you for inviting me up once again. I had a divine time with the multiple activities I participated in. The cooking was exquisite except for the turkey bacon; it was somewhat quirky. I hope you continue to invite me up, for I really enjoy your guys' presence. Most sincerely yours 

-- Katherine Donahoe

Woopty dee doo, beat Katie and Deb at Scrabble.  I'm happy!!!!!!!  New Cabin looks great so far.   -- Mom

Oct 8, 2011 - Just Us (more pics)

What a beautiful fall weekend! The weather was upper 70s and sunny for our 3-day weekend. Work has begun on our new cabin, footings are in and the kids had a great time climbing in and out of the 'Grand Canyon' and playing in the leaves. Although the water was only 65 degrees, we did tubing, knee boarding and Debbie did a dock start on the wake board (attempting not to get wet).  We also hiked and rode ATVs and the dirt bikes. Also did fall cleanup and got the boat out, etc. Brian did lots of HDR photography. -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Labor Day weekend, 2011 - Mary & Rune Johnson, Karen Kortge, Chase & Brendan Collins

Where the Hell are we????    Seriously, thanks for sharing your wonderful home in the north woods..... the ride up was so comfortable and relaxing......and the hospitality the best....fun and easy....  we will always now be able to visualize the property and how expansive and beautiful it is.... Thanks again for a great week-end..... Love -- Mary and Rune

This was fun! Had a great time. I love the new tubes and knee boarding was a blast. The lake is beautiful! I wish it was a bit warmer here, though. Thanks for taking me! -- Karen

I had fun here. I tried new tubes when we went tubing. I also tried new tricks while knee boarding. We went on the ATV again. There was new trails for the ATVs too. We went hiking far out in the woods and explored. I can't wait to go again. -- Chase

Aug 14, 2011 - Darren, Adam, and Jennifer Bucksa... Bill, Brandon, and Graham Kowalke... Eric Butler and Matt Moscatello

We enjoyed our day here and are sad to go. It was fun knee boarding, water skiing, and tubing. We are happy that Adam got up on the skis while we were here and can't wait until next time he gets a chance to try again.   -- Jennifer

What she said. Thanks for the spaghetti  !! -- Darren

Well we got here and instantly went out on the water.  We had fun tubing and flying over the waves.  I tried water skiing today and stood up but wasn't able to really go to far, I got the basics down though.  Then we came inside and played Apples to Apples and ate some yummy spaghetti.  cant wait for next time hopefully we will be up here one more time before the summer ends.  until next time. -- Adam

Thanks for having us. We had a blast on the lake. Looking forward to the snow - hint, hint. -- bill

After displaying my complete ineptitude at wake-boarding as well as knee-boarding I was able to display physical prowess while tubing. I also had a quite enjoyable time speeding on the jet-ski; as it was akin to riding a motorcycle on the water. Breaking my diet was also fantastic as well as euphoric. Playing with dogs and getting sun burnt also required my time and attention while up North. Overall it was a good trip and I will perhaps sign into this guest log again. Yipyip huray!!! -- Brandon

It was nice of you to have us and it was pretty fun to go on the lake as well as denying wake boarding since i would have most likely been worse than brandon. Skimming on the surface of the water on the tube was also exhiliarting for me while I wouldn't know if brandon was going to tip us over the whole time. All in all i had a great time spending time up here and i hope to come again. -- Graham

camp Donahoe was a fun place To go tubing,ATV,hang out by the fire etc, my   favorite part was tubing in the lake with my cousin Danny. I hope I can come here again next summer because it was fun! -- Matt

coming up north was lots of fun i loved the tubing,quads,knee boarding. and my favorite part was doing a face plant from six feet off the tube. and we when to a secret fort.  -- Eric

Aug 7, 2011 - Ethan Kofman, Ethan Butler, and Danielle Tretyak

I had a fun time with Tommy and Danny up north :) -- Ethan kofman

learned how to slalom  ski and had a great time with it very fun. got picked up from the whites house and stayed at the donahoes for a day and a half and also made the new record for getting air on the tube -- Ethan Butler

I had so much fun coming up and visiting my best friend, Katie and her lovely family to Swissconsin... Besides the fact that Katie tried to kill me on the tube we were using by rolling over me, taking hold of my life vest and flinging me into the water.. I almost drowned... JK ;)... However, I learned how to Wakeboard and get some pretty nasty face-plants along the way.... Thanks for the amazing adventure!! -- Danielle T. :)

4th of July week 2011 - Darren, Adam, Steph, & Jen... Bob, Janet, and Dave McDermott, and Mom Donahoe

We had a great time on the 3rd and 4th. Wish time wouldn't go by so fast when we're here :(  :C  : {  We will be back soon, hopefully ! 

-- Darren, Steph, & Jen

Well we got here around 2 p.m. and got to see our cousins.  We went water skiing and i wasn't able to do it, but i was starting to stand up.  Next time we are here however i will be able to do it.  :) We also went tubing and had lots of fun.  Danny and me didn't beat our world record of how high we flew in the air, but we still had fun and still have the record to beat.  We also were going to go ATV riding but they were out of fuel, oh well maybe next time.  Also got a campfire started and shot off a few fireworks they were really cool.  My dad and me were the last ones by the fire just enjoying some father son time and it was great to come here and get my mind off things and it really relieved a lot of stress.  Kinda sad that i have to wake up early tomorrow morning and leave to be in a parade, but ill be back here for sure thats a promise.  :D -- Adam Bucksa

Another beautiful week at Camp Donahoe.  The beautiful nymphaea adorata,s (otherwise known as water lilies) are beautiful this time of year, if I could paint like Claude Monet, I would try and paint them.  The kidlets enthusiasm for learning new  water sports is just wonderful.  Loved all your guests and their children, also enjoyed our trip to Minocqua visiting and eating dinner with both of your uncles and Andy Donahoe. Weather could not have been better. -- Mom

Jun 19, 2011 - Karen Kortge and Chase and Brendan Collins

This is my third time going here. I had fun in the lake. We also stayed in tents this year. I knee boarded, tubed, tried wake boarding a little bit. I went to the ski show but it got rained out but it was cool. Its fun to come out here with a friend and enjoy the lake. -- Chase

This is my second time going. I had lots of fun knee boarding, wake boarding, tubing. I also went to the ski show. the jumpers were awesome, but then a driver was driving to close and hit a girl with a handle fish. Then it rained and we went home. The next day we tubed and went home home. -- Brendan

I had tons of fun up here! I got many bumps, bruises, and scratches, but it was worth it! Danny scratched my leg and my elbows and arm got bruised from tubing. I tried wake-boarding for the first time ever and failed...it was awesome, though! Harder than it looks. Katie and I went to her cousin's graduation party and had a blast. We also spent our nights in a tent. Overall, this was a weekend I really enjoyed thanks to Katie and everyone else!  -- Karen 

Memorial Day weekend, 2011 - Danielle Tretyak

Goodbye cruel world, hello Swissconsin! it was a lot of fun hanging with my bestest buddy in the world. From card games to clinging on for dear life on the tubes, I was never bored. Thanks for taking me up here again, it was a lot of fun! -- Danielle

Feb 21, 2011 - Just Us

We spent president's day weekend up north. Not enough snow to snowmobile since it had been in the 40's the week before. We ended up skiing/snowboarding at Granite Peak in Wausau. And then sledding, ATVing on the lake, and ice skating (a rare occurrence for the lake to be skatable in February). -- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny & Tommy

Oct 10, 2010 - Just Us and Mom Donahoe

Last days on the water before fall. Brian did a lot of photgraphy this weekend, making some beautiful HDR images of the fog over the lake. 

-- Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy, and Mom Donahoe

Labor Day weekend, 2010 - Darren Bucksa & family

Had a great time! Adam almost got up on the wake board. Darren did good water skiing. Jenn and Steph had fun on the tube. Quinton stood up on the skis for almost 6 seconds. Saying happy birthday to Adam. Cake and ice cream was yummy. -- Darren, Karen, Adam, Stephanie, and Jennifer. And Quinton.

Aug 22, 2010 - Geoff and Jody Butler family

We had a lot of fun tubing, wake boarding, water skiing, and knee boarding. In conclusion, the Donahoes were wonderful hosts. -- Michael, Eliza, Geoff, and Jody Butler

Aug 14, 2010 - John and Athena Butler & family

So much fun in the woods and the water for all of us! Thank you Donahoes. We are all sad to leave. The John Butler family -- Athena, John, Evan, Ethan, and Eric

Today I am leaving in the RV to go back to Illinois. I have had a lot of fun with the Donahoes. I have driven ATVs and waverunners. This is the best weekend ever! -- Ethan Butler

Aug 2, 2010 - Bridget Moscatello & family, Sabrina

Hey bro and sista - We had an excellent time as usual. Especially seeing sista Deb ski at her age is exciting and disturbing. -- Bridget and John

I had a really nice time with my cousins this year. I hope I can come next year. -- Matt

I had the best fun time here. -- Zach

Thank you for inviting me. It was so much fun. -- Sabrina

Jul 25, 2010 - Brendan and Chase Collins

We had lots of fun tubing, riding ATVs, and knee boarding. We can't wait to go again. -- Brendan and Chase Collins

4th of July week 2010 - Joe Duffy and Danielle Tretyak

I'm Joe. I love coming up here and had a great time wake boarding and tubing. One small wave rotated us 90 degrees. I well, but anyone would have. I really enjoyed coming up and I feel very thankful. -- Joe Duffy

3 Lakes Wisconsin. Bah! What a misnomer. If I could be here all summer, I would be. Tubing, wake boarding knee boarding, and skiing. Oh and I could never forgot Katie and her awesome family. I could never thank you guys enough for all the fun. These memories of a million laughs and a billion faceplants will last forever. Sincerely -- Danielle Tretyak 

P.S. I don't write this bad... The RV is shaky.

Jun 26, 2010 - Ben Roselle

Did a lot of ATVing and tubing

Jun 12, 2009 - Sami Price and Eric Butler

Hi, I'm Eric. I stayed t the Donahoe house. It is my first time! My favorite part was jet-ski and tubing. I had fun. -- Eric Butler

Memorial Day weekend, 2010 - Danielle and Harry

Danielle and Harry were here. They did a lot of ATVing, BB guns, and tubing.

This was the first time that I had gone up to Wisconsin :) I had a lot of fun, and never felt left out. I had the best time of my life being able to spend some time with my best friend Katie. I will never forget all of the knee boarding, tubing, ATVing and shooting I did. Thanks! 

-- Danielle Tretyak

Christmas week, 2009 - Just Us

Last week in December, 2009. Lots of skiing and snowmobiling.

Nov 24, 2009 - Sabrina Kabakov

Thank you so much. I had an awesome time here. Riding the ATVs were a lot of fun. It might be more fun if I came in the summer, but I had fund.. Thank you. -- Sabrina Kabakov

Oct 25, 2009 - Jim and Gail Manz

Thanks for sharing this beautiful time with us. -- Jim and Gail Manz

Labor Day weekend, 2009 - Bill and Graham Kowalke

Thanks for not letting me do the dishes.. -- Bill and Graham Kowalke

Jul 19, 2009 - Dan Mahn & family, Shea Collins

Awesome time! Thanks so much for having us -- Caleb turned into such a daredevil! Of course, Dan is going to have to make more money so Dan can buy the kids all the new things they want :) Thanks for the memories! -- Dan, Marlene, Caleb, and Eric Mahn

Thanks so much! I had an awesome time -- who doesn't love tubing! But I hope that next time there's no mice! -- Shea Collins :)

4th of July week 2009 - Parker Black, Darren & family, Mom Donahoe, Patrick & family, Sami Price

It was fun. I liked BB guns, tubing, and being with my friends. -- Parker

We were here for the weekend. The kids got to go tubing and water skiing. We all had a lot of fun. Thanks for inviting us. -- Darren and Karen and family

Dear Bri and Deb and grandkids, Thanks for inviting me up to see the grandkid progress in all the water sports. Love your new boat and pier. Weather was just wonderful and so was your company. Love -- Mom D

Jun 12, 2009 - Just Us

No record of this, except just pictures. Looked like it was just us.

May 16, 2009 - Dad Bucksa and Lynn

Thanks for letting us use your place for our anniversary. And happy anniversary to you also! It was cold and windy but the fish were biting. We caught a meal of bluegills and sunfish! There was a little snow Sat. morning! The lake and woods are beautiful. Thanks for sharing them with us! Love, Dad and Lynn

April 14, 2009 - Karen Kortge

I had fun. Thanks for inviting me to come. -- Karen

Christmas week 2008 - Just Us

Dec 25th 2008 - Jan 2, 2009. Lost of snowshoeing and skiing and snowmobiling. Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, and Tommy

Oct 10, 2008 - Dad Bucksa, Lynn, and Mom D.

I thought the changing of the leaves here  - at Porcupine Mtn in Michigan - were fantastic. Liked that restaurant in Eagle River was also a good call (Riverside Restaurant). You guys are great hosts. Love always. -- Mom D

Aug 2, 2008 - Darren and Family, Ethan Butler,  and Mom D.

Great company, great kids - beautiful. Just love it -- Mom D.

Thank you for having me. I would like to come back. -- Ethan Butler

4th of July week 2008 - Moscatellos, Penny, Patrick, Darren,  and Karen Kortge

Lots of visitors this week

Jun 2008 - Chase Collins

ATVing was fun, just riding around. Tubing was the best, especially all the waves. -- Chase

Jun 2008 - Sami Price

:) It was really fun tubing!  --Sami

Jun 13, 2008 - Dad Bucksa and Lynn

Lots of fishing!

Christmas week, 2007 - Moscatellos

Very first winter trip. Bridget, John, Matt, Zack, Brian, Debbie, Katie, Danny, Tommy

Sep 30, 2007 - Darren and Family

Very first visit right after we bought it.