Cragun’s Resort, a cherished Minnesota landmark and family-owned since 1940, is officially changing ownership after 85 years. The resort, known for its rich history and stunning setting on Gull Lake, is now under contract with a local investment group led by Jamie Tatge, a respected veteran in resort management. Cragun’s, the third-largest resort in Minnesota, has been a place of family traditions and lifelong memories for generations of visitors—and that legacy will continue under new ownership.
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A Legacy of Excellence
Jamie Tatge, the President of Leisure Hotels and Resorts, expressed his deep respect for Cragun’s legacy, saying, “We are incredibly honored and humbled to carry the legacy and excellence of this legendary property, which has produced nearly a century of memories for so many Minnesotans.” While the details of the sale remain confidential, it is believed to be the largest resort transaction in Minnesota’s history.
For nearly its entire existence, Cragun’s has been led by Dutch and Irma, who took over the resort from Dutch’s parents in the early years. Dutch, now 93, fondly recalls the humble beginnings of Cragun’s, which was once a gamble. “It was a big hill that sloped down to a marsh. It was a swamp, a gamble,” Dutch recalled. But the vision and hard work of the family turned the resort into the beloved destination it is today.
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From Humble Beginnings to Modern Luxury
What began as rustic cabins and a simple swimming pool soon blossomed into a full-fledged resort. Dutch’s commitment to continuous improvement led to the first major upgrades, like hot water heaters in every cabin and a heated pool—additions that helped Cragun’s gain a reputation for offering amenities that surpassed those of its competition. Over the years, the resort continued to grow with modern features like year-round occupancy (starting in 1978) and a $25 million remodel in 2015, which brought upgrades to cabins, rooms, golf courses, and the marina.
Today, Cragun’s boasts 206 lodge-style rooms, 55 cabins, and 7 homes on its scenic golf course. Guests also enjoy five dining options, three golf courses, and a full range of recreational activities. With more than 400 employees, Cragun’s provides an experience that families return to year after year.
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Generations of Memories Continue
Eric Peterson, Cragun’s General Manager, highlighted the importance of maintaining the resort’s legacy, saying, “Dutch and Irma’s vision shaped this lakeside destination, so it’s important this transaction not only marks a new chapter but ensures its generations of memories continue.” The resort’s golf offerings are a big draw for visitors, with the newly renovated Cragun’s Legacy Courses providing a world-class experience. The resort is also home to the CRMC Championship, a PGA Tour Americas Event held in 2021.
Beyond golf, Cragun’s offers plenty of activities for families and adventure-seekers, from pontoons and speedboats to jet skis, paddle boards, and bicycles. The resort even owns Gull Lake Cruises, a luxury yacht offering public and private cruises throughout the summer months.
For corporate groups, Cragun’s remains a top destination with over 50,000 square feet of meeting space, including the expansive Tamarack Event Center, which boasts nearly 15,000 square feet of space.
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Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
The sale of Cragun’s Resort is expected to be finalized before the summer 2025 season, but the core values of excellence, hospitality, and family traditions will undoubtedly remain. Whether you’ve been visiting Cragun’s for decades or are looking to experience it for the first time, the legacy of “The Lodge Turned Legend” will live on—welcoming guests for generations to come.
