Over the last 20 years it has become increasingly difficult to find good lakeshore property at an affordable price, and prime lakeshore opportunities are rarer still. Private parties, developers and investors have all recognized that the purchasing of lakeshore property is a good investment that pays dividends well beyond a generous financial return. This recognition has led to a scarcity of premium lakeshore opportunities.
However, there is an opportunity right now to experience the exquisite beauty of Stout Island Lodge as an overnight guest or to purchase property on the 12 acre island estate of former lumber baron Frank D. Stout. Property is also available on the two east islands, connected by bridge, which was contributed by Andrew Carnegie to augment Stout’s project . As one of Chicago’s wealthiest men, Stout built a lodge, cabins for his children and other buildings that served as a summer retreat for the family from 1903-1927. The place was so special to him that he would later call it "The Island of Happy Days."
Stout Island is located on Red Cedar Lake, right in Wisconsin’s heartland – and only a little over two hours drive from the Twin Cities. The property has been designated a National Historic Register property, combining Adirondack style architecture with the convenience of modern amenities. In this remote paradise, there is a turn of the century bowling alley within walking distance of a gourmet restaurant. And it is only a short boat ride to the Tagalong Golf Course which was modeled after the St. Andrews course in Scotland. The Stout Island experience is a rare mix of rustic beauty, old style architecture and modern convenience.
This lakeshore dream is available to many with a wide range of preferences and budgets. Rentals are a possibility, but there are also lots, homes and apartments for sale. Cathy Hansen with Associated Realty in Rice Lake has listed 3 private homes that are currently for sale on the island. 
John Rupp – one of the Lodge owners – is handling the other properties.
There are a total of 13 sites, 10 of which have been improved with homes and 3 are vacant to be sold as lake lots. The owners have reserved a couple of very "upper bracket" parcels on the two east islands. Each of these private islands has over 2,000 feet of shoreline, over 2 acres of property, and fantastic views of the water in all directions!
All properties are fully protected in perpetuity thru carefully drafted condominium, co-operative, and restrictive covenant documents - all done to protect the uniqueness of the property and maximize the owner’s investment.
All sites offer the privacy of a lakefront lot and a minimum of 200 feet of shoreline for private use but there are also the amenities of the shared spaces including walking paths, boathouses, tennis court, croquet lawn, swimming docks and a first class restaurant unique to this part of Wisconsin.. The existing owners realize that they have one of the most unique properties in the Midwest and have taken steps to maintain the integrity of the Stout Island experience.
Premium lakeshore property, especially premium property within a 2-3 hour drive from the Twin Cities, is rare in today’s market. Like most opportunities this one won’t last forever and you may want to check this one out today.
