Strand Island is the quintessential Minnesota "cabin" experience elevated to private island scale. Centered around a 108-year-old lodge that was extensively remodeled in 2015, the island offers a rare combination of historic character and modern utility. It is a destination for large multi-generational families who want to experience the Northwoods as they were a century ago—fishing for crappie and bass, picking wild raspberries, and listening to the calls of loons. With 45 acres of wild forest to explore and no other cabins on the island, it provides a level of "total seclusion" that is increasingly rare in the popular Pelican Lake area.
Accommodations & Design The estate consists of a massive main lodge, a separate guest log cabin, and several functional outbuildings.
The Main Lodge: Features 8 bedrooms, each uniquely equipped with its own antique sink. The kitchen is fully remodeled with dual refrigerators and freezers to handle large groups.
The Screened Porch (Primary Suite alternative): The lodge is famous for its massive wrap-around screened porch, which features four "swinging beds" suspended from the ceiling—a favorite for afternoon naps or sleeping "outdoors" in the lake breeze.
Log Cabin: A charming 75-year-old secondary cabin that sleeps 4 and includes its own card table for late-night games.
Design: Authentic rustic aesthetic with native stone fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and screened sunrooms.
Amenities & Inclusions Strand Island is designed for active, self-sufficient groups:
The Sauna House: A dedicated wood-burning sauna building that also includes a shower, washer, and dryer.
Entertainment: A "TV Cabin" or movie house equipped with a large screen and Apple TV (no cable), plus a separate Game Room featuring an air hockey or ping-pong table.
Marine Activities: Two kayaks and a flat-bottom metal rowboat are included. A 21-foot pontoon with a 35hp motor is available for an additional weekly rental fee.
The Grounds: A large grassy field perfect for wiffle ball or football, and 9,500 feet of shoreline for dock-fishing or swimming.
How Private Is This Island? Privacy at Strand Island is absolute. As the sole residence on a 45-acre island, your group has exclusive access to the entire landmass. The 1-mile buffer of water from the mainland Deer Lodge ensures no "drop-in" visitors or noise from neighbors. For families seeking a secure environment where children can roam "wild" without leaving the property, Strand Island offers a gated-style wilderness. Security is naturally provided by the lake, while mainland parking for up to 8 cars at Deer Lodge ensures your transit to the island is organized and private.
