Imagine this: you've just left your corporate job behind, determined to trade spreadsheets for sunsets. You have a charming tiny house in tow, but finding a place to park it proves trickier than expected. That's exactly what happened to Thomas Bales and Anna Josephs, two of the five new owners of Swan Lake Resort & Campground. Their search for a little piece of paradise took an unexpected turn, leading them to the shores of Swan Lake and a whirlwind adventure that is still unfolding.
The group, which also includes Jake Schmitz, Francis Pineda-Fischer, and Andy Bales, initially set out to find a place to park their vans and build their tiny houses as an alternative to the never-ending rat race. They found a small campground on Zillow, but the deal fell through. Disappointed, they revised their original mission and embraced the idea of creating and sharing a welcoming space for all who pass through their doors. This shift led them to explore established Minnesota resorts & campgrounds.
“A commercial real estate broker opened their eyes to the possibility of a larger operation”, Thomas explains. That's how we stumbled upon Swan Lake Resort & Campground."
Swan Lake Resort & Campground, a Fergus Falls gem for over six decades, wasn't initially on their radar but fate intervened and their search for a tiny house haven transformed into running a beloved lake retreat. While their original dream of a tiny house on-site is still a work-in-progress, the resort & campground is thriving under their care.
From Boardrooms to Lawnmowers: A Baptism by Resort Life
Owning a resort comes with a whole new set of challenges, and for the new owners of Swan Lake Resort & Campground, that included... a lawnmower. Fresh out of their corporate lives, the new owners were suddenly responsible for maintaining sprawling acres of lakeside property.
Imagine their surprise when a wave of guests arrived the day after they purchased the resort! Learning the intricacies of hospitality while figuring out how to tame the wilderness with a previously unknown machine was an experience they won't forget.
From Chaos to Community
Those early days were a whirlwind of long hours, unexpected situations, and a whole lot of learning on the fly. But through it all, the collective determination and willingness to embrace the chaos kept them going. They quickly discovered that owning a resort wasn't just about mowing lawns and cleaning cabins; it was about creating a community.
A Place to Relax, Reconnect, and Recharge
Today, Swan Lake Resort & Campground carries on its tradition of providing a haven for families and nature lovers. Whether you're seeking a lakefront cabin or a campsite under the stars, Swan Lake offers something for everyone. "We have beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for soaking up the sun," Jake explains. "There's also volleyball, a game room, and even yoga classes on the beach on Sundays!"
But relaxation isn't all there is to do. Swan Lake Resort & Campground offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. You can rent a pontoon boat and explore the lake, challenge your friends to a game of volleyball, or take a walk through the nature trails and disc golf course.
Embracing the Future with a Nod to the Past
The new owners are passionate about preserving the resort's legacy while adding their own unique touch. They're committed to long-term sustainability and introduce new amenities and artistic projects every year. In the last few years, they’ve added swim rafts, a water slide, chainsaw tree carvings, ping pong, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, flowers, and so much more.
More Than Just a Resort, It's a Legacy
Swan Lake Resort & Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a place to create lasting memories. It's a testament to the power of unexpected journeys and the magic that unfolds when dreams take a different shape.
So, if you're looking for a lakeside escape that offers relaxation, recreation, and a touch of history, look no further than Swan Lake Resort & Campground. Book your stay today and experience the magic for yourself!
Don't forget!
Swan Lake Resort & Campground is a proud sponsor of the Fergus Falls summer VIP pass. VIP pass holders can enjoy a 20% discount on boat rentals – the perfect way to explore the beauty of Swan Lake. Just call ahead to reserve your boat and mention your VIP pass to redeem your discount.
For more information about Swan Lake Resort & Campground and to book your stay, visit their website or call them today. Get ready to discover your own little piece of paradise on the shores of Swan Lake!