Sunset and Kickball
2023 Wait Staff
Waterfront Sunset
Grounds Crew
Dining Room
Lodge Mantel
Still Lake
Sailboat
4th of July Lodge

Experience the 2026 season at our historic, family-owned lodge in Wisconsin's Northwoods—welcoming guests since 1892!

Coon's Franklin Lodge

Currently recruiting for the season from June 11th, 2026 to September 21st, 2026.

Coon’s Franklin Lodge, a historic gem on the shores of Trout Lake, offers a perfect blend of charm and adventure. Enjoy cozy accommodations, all-inclusive dining, and exciting activities, or relax and soak in the natural beauty.

Set in the heart of Wisconsin's stunning Northwoods, our resort spans 250 acres of lush forest and crystal-clear waters.

Location
Wisconsin
Season
Summer
Staff size
55
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Dorm Style
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
No
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Provided
Cell phone service
Some, ask for details
Internet access
Good

About Coon's Franklin Lodge

Our Lodge has been in the Coons family since 1892.  We still utilize some of the original buildings including our main lodge which has four rooms.  We have a total of 28 cabins.  We have generations of families who vacation here every summer. 

We are located on Trout Lake which is around 3,900 acres and well known for muskie and lake trout. We offer all types of watersport activities like kayaking, waterskiing, and boat rental. Coon's is an American Plan resort meaning all meals are included with a guest's stay.  Our guests keep coming back every year for the pristine water, gourmet cuisine, and the Coons family as your host.  We also are a destination wedding location.

As an employee, you get the opportunity to utilize watersport equipment, hike on our trails, attend yoga, and play tennis.  There are also lots of local bike trails (paved and mountain) and music venues around the area. 

The Employee Experience

One of the best parts of working at Coons is that we offer dorm-style housing.  Some of our rooms are right on the water with breathtaking views of the lake.

Mornings are busy for our staff with our wood and ice service to each cabin, breakfast and lunch service, waterfront and housekeeping.  Most staff is off in the afternoons before dinner service.  This is the best time to be off work and either sitting on the dock, waterskiing or hitting the bike trails. Our most successful employees return year after year because of the hospitality and respect they are shown by the Coons family.

Ideal Candidate

An ideal candidate is someone who can take ownership over their job duties and operates with integrity and respect for themselves and their co-workers.  The Coons family wants you to enjoy this little slice of heaven as much as our guests do. 

Room and Board

We provide dorm-style housing.  We provide 3 meals a day at $65 per week deducted from your paycheck. We can accommodate most dietary requests.  

Employee Perks

Fun Things to Do at Coons When Off Duty

We highly encourage all our staff to make use of the beautiful Northwoods and the resort activities available while not working.  How often do you get to live at a resort?

Activities:

There is a beautiful trail winding throughout the resort property.  Biking, jogging, and hiking are very popular.  Everyone is welcome to explore.  Basketball is a favorite. 

Tennis Courts:

There are four courts on the premises.  During the time the courts are not in use, all employees are welcome to take advantage of the courts.  We ask the following things:  Permission is needed, proper tennis attire is required (whites), tennis shoes only, no running shoes.  Should any guest want to come and use the courts, vacate the court promptly and courteously.

Waterfront:

Trout Lake is one of Wisconsin’s finest.  There are two docks located on the waterfront.  The swimming dock is for guest use only.  All employees are welcome to use the boat dock.  Employees are welcome to use the following equipment: sailing, water-skiing, canoes, rowboats, and kayaks.  No motor boats.  You must check out all equipment with the proper resort personnel.  Once again, guests have first preference.

Golf:

Trout Lake Golf Course is located 2 miles north of the resort off HWY 51.  We get a 20% discount!  For more information see: http://www.troutlakegolf.com/main.html

Yoga: Staff can join in our guest Yoga class In the Lodge, on Tuesdays at 10 am.  You must pre-register with Emily or Sarah due to the limited spots available.

Getting Here and Getting Around

We are located about 10 miles from the towns of Woodruff and Minocqua.  I would say about 50% of our bring an automobile with them.  There is minimal public transportation and biking on the highway is discouraged. 

For Fun

Fun Things to Do in the Area

Music in The Park- Sunday Nights in Manitowish

https://manitowishwaters.org/things-to-do/music-in-the-park/

Big Top Chautauqua- Although a little bit faraway, but world-renowned musical venue:

https://www.bigtop.org/

Hiking

Map it Vilas County. Great app to find hiking spots to meet your needs:

 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/map-it-vilas-county/id881933385

Biking

Current Job Openings

    Culinary

    Dishwasher

    $12.00 - $14.00 / hour + tips
    Minocqua

    The Kitchen Staff will prepare meal ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and other items as directed by senior culinary staff. 

    Supervisory Responsibilities:

    • None.

    Duties/Responsibilities:

    • Prepares meal ingredients as directed by the head chef, senior chef, or other staff.
    • Washes all dish items either by hand or machine including washing equipment, floors, and walls
    • Maintains compliance with applicable health, safety, food handling, and hygiene codes and standards.
    • Assists with unloading, inspection, and storage of raw ingredients and supplies.
    • Performs other duties as assigned.

    Required Skills/Abilities:

    • Basic understanding of or the ability to learn basic sanitation and regulations for workplace safety.
    • Basic understanding of or the ability to learn food handling techniques, preparation, and cooking procedures.
    • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
    • Ability to work quickly and efficiently.
    • Ability to work well as part of a team.
    • Ability to maintain personal hygiene.

    Education and Experience:

    • Prior related experience preferred.

    Physical Requirements:

    • Prolonged periods of standing and working in a kitchen.
    • Exposure to extreme heat, steam, and cold present in a kitchen environment.
    • Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds at times.
    • Must be able to work late nights and unpredictable hours.
    • Manual dexterity to cut and chop foods and perform other related tasks.

     

    Culinary

    Kitchen Staff

    $17.00 - $20.00 / hour + tips
    Minocqua

    Kitchen Staff- August 15-September 22, 2024

    • Previous experience in a kitchen environment is preferred but not required.
    • Basic knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques.
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
    • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
    • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
    • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
    • Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift heavy objects.
    Culinary

    Wait Staff 6/10-9/21/2026

    Minocqua

    We are looking for a Server to join our team and ensure our guests are comfortable by serving food and beverages, answering questions, and assisting guests as needed. Banquet Server responsibilities include serving food and beverages, helping prepare the event space, and cleaning up the event space once the affair is complete. Ultimately, you will work with guests throughout the event to ensure they are comfortable and relaxed during their time at the banquet.

    Responsibilities

    • Direct guests to necessary services and features and lead guests on tours of the location.

    • Assist with event preparation, set up, and closing, including setting up and packing away tables, tablecloths, and place settings.

    • Support other staff to ensure guest satisfaction

    • Adhere to safety and quality regulations

    • Assist with the complete setup and breakdown of the banquet area

    • Maintain composure in a fast-paced environment.

How to Apply

Learn more by applying here and seeing the latest openings:  Summer Employment Page

Apply Now
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