Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake – A Vacation for Generations

By Tim Cotroneo

The team at Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake couldn’t help but glance back when it sped by the resort’s 80^th birthday three years ago. Just so you don’t think they were sitting on their hands and reminiscing, owner Dutch Cragun and his staff also began construction of a brand-new golf course.

It seems like every year there is a renewal of some sort at this 800-acre property that features 4500-feet of Gull Lake shoreline. Keep in mind, that when the resort opened in 1940, the Cragun family started with just eight ultra-modern cabins. Back then, ultra-modern meant inside toilets, an electric stove, and running water.

Today’s Cragun’s Resort still includes cabins, only now there are cabins with up to 10 bedrooms. Guests can also book lodge rooms, poolside rooms, King Suites, Whirlpool Suites, and six-bedroom Reunion Homes. The word reunion strikes a particular chord at Cragun’s because this Brainerd Lakes gathering mecca seems to be the perfect setting for reunions and multi-generational vacations.

The Setting

Natives of the Midwest love the water. Whether their preference is swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, paddleboarding, or just relaxing, there’s no better summertime activity than being on or near the water.

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Gull Lake in Brainerd, MN, is at the top of the heap. Gull Lake is part of a chain of eight lakes and connecting channels that spans 13,000-acres.

The Cragun family had a bit of futuristic vision in their real estate purchase that closed in 1934. They felt Gull Lake would be the ideal destination for couples, families, and outdoors enthusiasts to simply get away from it all.

Accommodations

Obviously Cragun’s has come along way accommodation-wise since the days they advertised indoor plumbing as a cabin selling point. Today, vacationers flock to Cragun’s because of the wealth of resort stay options at their fingertips.

Some of Cragun’s guests love to be within easy walking distance of the main lodge, the restaurants, and their famous beach and marina. Others like the idea of privacy, quiet, or luxury accommodations. Regardless of your Cragun’s vacation priorities, Dutch’s team aims to please.

A Lakeside Lodge Room spells convenience, a friendly history, and the cleanliness that the Cragun team has built their reputation. For those who desire a bit more, Cragun’s now offers a Private Collection of privately owned homes that include an outdoor patio, a golf course view, and a fire pit. In between there are a wealth of options that are sure to satisfy your customized needs.

Fishing, Boating, Swimming, and The Marina

Gull Lake is a paradise for the fishing enthusiast. Cragun’s Marina can book you a local fishing guide, as well as assist in the rental of a boat, and getting outfitted with state-of-the-art gear.

A Gull Lake sightseeing or dinner cruise aboard the 65-foot North Star luxury vessel is one of the most popular activities at Cragun’s Resort. This two-tiered yacht is a favorite for stargazing, live music, weddings, private charters, and a leisurely look at Gull Lake.

The Gull Lake North Beach is known for its fire pits, campfires, and picnic tables. The safe and shallow South Beach is great for swimming, beach volleyball, marshmallow roasts, and family gatherings. The beach life is a great life at Cragun’s.

Cragun’s Legacy Golf Courses

The Cragun’s golf courses recently completed a $15 million renovation. Tom Lehman was on hand to introduce the new Lehman 18 Golf Course.

The Lehman 18 complements the renowned Dutch 27 championship layouts. If 45 golf holes aren’t enough, know that Cragun’s also offers a Par 3, nine-hole course. For the past two years, Cragun’s has hosted the PGA Tour Canada’s CRMC Championship.

Dining by the Lake and Dining by the Course

The Lakeside Dining Room Overlooking Gull Lake is the perfect venue for dining with a view. This restaurant, located at the Main Lodge, is home to Cragun’s Breakfast Buffet and dining with a Northwoods ambiance.

The Legacy Grille delivers breathtaking views of Cragun’s Legacy Golf Course. The patio is a great setting for alfresco dining while watching golfers arrive at the 18^th green.

Irma’s Kitchen dates back to the 1940s, and the cabin decor adds a nice touch to entrees that will remind you of home cooking. Walleye, pot roast, shrimp skewers, and the Stockyard Ribeye are as good as it gets.

Step Back to the Future at Cragun’s

If you haven’t figured it out by now, Cragun’s offers something for everyone. That’s what makes this enduring destination a favorite of every generation, young and old.

The Cragun’s team of 300 smiling employees’ goal is to make their resort a place you’ll return to again and again. The resort welcomes couples seeking a quiet lakefront escape, companies seeking to reward valued employees, and families seeking an unforgettable reunion.

It won’t be long before Cragun’s celebrates another birthday, and they’d like nothing better than for you to be on hand to join in the festivities. Regardless of whether you book a cabin, a suite, or a private home, you’ll discover Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake delivers a sublime vacation for generations. https://www.craguns.com/