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Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing

Photo gallery for Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing

A two-story house with a red and white exterior, a front porch, and a flagpole with an American flag.
A living room with a sofa, armchair, ottoman, and a small table with a lamp. There are windows with blinds, a door, and a wall-mounted TV.
A kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a microwave, and a sink.
A dining area with a dark wooden table, black chairs, a chandelier, and a window with blinds.
A covered patio with a table and chairs, large windows, and a view of trees.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade and game room.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Big Stone Lake
4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Ortonville, MN
  • Place, Big Stone Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Big Stone Lake Museum
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Traverse
    ‪48 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Guest Cottage Bedroom

1 Double Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Lower Level Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Main Floor Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Main Floor Living Room

1 Double Futon

Master Bedroom with Ensuite Bathroom

1 King Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Upstairs Loft Area

2 Single Beds

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 4

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing

Enjoy two complete lakefront homes that sleep up to 16 guests, each with its own kitchen, laundry, and comfortable gathering spaces overlooking Big Stone Lake. Perfect for multi-family vacations, reunions, and all-season lake getaways — from summer days on the water to cozy winter stays and easy access to ice fishing right out front. Seasonal private dock access makes it easy to swim, kayak, paddle board, or simply relax by the water, with plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces for guests to spread out and enjoy the lake in their own way.

Why Guests Love This Property

- Two complete homes (main house + guest house)
- Sleeps up to 16 comfortably
- Seasonal private dock on Big Stone Lake
- Full kitchens and laundry in both homes
- Ideal setup for multiple families or generations
- Cozy year-round spaces — great for fall & winter stays too
- Easy access to ice fishing right out front
- Paddle North® 12' utility dock, paddle board + kayaks included
- Dog-friendly — no cats (family allergy)
- Close to golf, dining, and nearby South Dakota casinos.

Sleeping Arrangements

Main House (Sleeps 12)
- Bedroom 1 (Upper): King bed + twin-over-double bunk • ensuite bath
- Loft (Upper): Two twin beds
- Bedroom 2 (Main): Queen bed • bathroom right off bedroom
- Bedroom 3 (Lower): Queen bed • ¾ bath nearby
- Living Room: Queen sleeper sofa

Guest House (Sleeps 4)
- Open-concept layout with Queen bed + Double bed
- Full kitchen & bathroom with laundry
- Deck with lakeside “Pelican Bar” seating

Bathrooms (4 Total)

- Main House: 3 (two full, one ¾)
- Guest House: 1 full bath with washer/dryer

Full Kitchens & Essentials (Both Homes)

- Fully stocked kitchens
- Coffee makers & grinders
- Full-size appliances
- Cookware, bakeware & utensils
- Paper goods & cleaning supplies
- Smart TVs + Wi-Fi

Outdoor & Lake Amenities

- Seasonal private dock for swimming and boating
- Paddle North® utility dock, paddle board + kayaks
- Blackstone® griddle + gas grill
- Fire pit private beach
- Yard games

Fishing

As a designated border water, Big Stone Lake allows year-round fishing with extended seasons and generous limits. Whether by boat in summer or ice fishing right out front in winter, it’s an easy lake to enjoy in every season.

Local Favorites & Nearby Attractions

- Ortonville Golf Course / Sly’s on the Green
- Lakewood Supper Club
- Lingonberry’s Pastry & Coffee Shop
- Berkner’s Pizza (delivery, carry-out, dine-in)
- Melts Ice Cream
- Sioux Historic Pavilion (wedding/event venue)
- Big Stone Arcade
- Lakeshine Med Spa – relax & get pampered (book ahead)
- Nearby pub-style casinos with slots across the SD border
- Big Stone County Museum
- Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge (hiking & wildlife)
- Additional lakeside bars & restaurants accessible by boat or car
- Local boutiques, museum & wildlife refuge trails

Perfect For

- Multi-family vacations
- Reunions & group stays
- Wedding weekends
- Casual fishing getaways
- All-season lakeside relaxation

There is space for everyone to unwind in their own way, whether it’s morning coffee by the water, reading on the porch, fishing off the dock, or games in the guest house. People can spread out and enjoy the day however they like, then come together for good food, easy conversation, sunset views, and fires by the water as the day winds down at The Rusty Anchor.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2564400vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Ortonville

Located in Ortonville, this holiday home is on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Big Stone Wildlife Management Area and Prairie Wildlife Management Area can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Ortonville Municipal Golf Course. Looking to get your feet wet? Kayaking, fishing and swimming adventures can be found near the property.
View more Holiday homes in OrtonvilleOpens in a new window
Map
Ortonville, MN

What's nearby

  • Big Stone Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Ortonville Municipal Golf Course - 1 min drive - 1.4 km
  • Big Stone Lake Museum - 2 min drive - 3.2 km
  • Hartford Beach State Park - 17 min drive - 29.1 km
  • Lake Traverse - 48 min drive - 67.7 km

Getting around

  • Watertown, SD (ATY-Watertown Regional) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Headwaters Bar And Grill - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Lakewood Lodge - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Moose Lodge Ortonville - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Mac Daddy's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Pioneer Meat Market - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing?

As of 14 Jul, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing on 6 Dec, 2026 start from S$2,394, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

Where is Lakefront Home + Guest House • Sleeps 16 • Year-Round Fishing located?

This family-friendly Ortonville holiday home is located on the waterfront, within a 10-minute walk of Big Stone Lake and Nielson Park. Central Park and Lakeside Park are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 6 out of 8 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 8 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 8 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 8 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 8 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

8.6/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kang T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Andrew was very quick to respond to our questions which we appreciate that so much. He was accommodating to our needs and was flexible with us. We can tell Andrew took good care of the property and ensure the property felt as relaxing as possible. The main house and the guest house were clean with lots of kid activities. The place had no odor which we appreciate. The sofas were nice and comfy and had there were lots of seating areas. We would most definitely return!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2026
Thank you so much for the kind words! We're so glad your group felt comfortable and enjoyed the home. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we'd love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

8/10 Good

Timothy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Location, listing accuracy
Probably could use some spider spray inside and outside.The steps inside were very steep and small, not for older people.The lake view was fantastic!The way the wording was on the bedrooms I thought there were 2 bedrooms on the main level. Talked to host and they will reword, so that will be very helpful.Loved the black stone for cooking outside, it worked great for many people.A very big hike from car parking to house, again not for older people. My brother has ALS and it was hard for him, as well as my older sister and husband who have bad knees.It would be nice to have a deck or some sort of flat landing where we could sit and enjoy the outdoors.Overall, we made it work and had a fantastic time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We're glad you had a fantastic time and enjoyed the lake views and the Blackstone. We're currently planning to install a driveway so guests will be able to drive right to the front door, making arrival much easier. The steps down to the lake will remain, as they're part of the property's beautiful hillside setting. We're always looking for ways to improve the property with our guests in mind, and we truly appreciate your suggestions. We hope to welcome you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexis H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was wonderful! As amazing as described only the sunsets were even better! We were lucky and could not have asked for better weather, too! We will be returning and highly recommend the experience!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2026
The best part of hosting isn't just sharing our lake home, it's getting to meet such wonderful guests like you. Thank you so much for your kind review! It means a lot to us. We're so happy you enjoyed your stay, and hope to host you and your family again in the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Les K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was a great spot for my whole family. With grandkids ranging in age from 2-22 years old everyone had a great time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2026
Thank you so much! We're so glad your family had a great time. We'd love to host you again!
Verified

8/10 Good

Sharon F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Family Time

We enjoyed our family time at the Rusty Anchor. My husband and I stayed at the cottage and our children//grandchildren stayed at the Big House. We had plenty of space for eating and games. It was difficult to play yard games due to the lack of level ground. We enjoyed the paddle boat, kayaks, pontoon, and lily pad. Andy and Nick are friendly and easy to reach. They responded to my questions quickly. They provided top notch appliances and beds/bedding. The only area we felt needed to be improved was the number of steps required to reach the house and the lake and the slope of the land. I would highly recommend staying at the Rusty Anchor and having a cool beverage at the Pelican Bar located at the cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Family and Friends Reunion

Really enjoyed the Lake House with the Guest Cottage! The property was super clean and looked even better in person! Plenty of extra blankets, pillows and room for our party of 6 teens/6 adults from 3 sets of families! The kitchen appliances are very nice and the kitchen is stocked with extra supplies and utensils. Everyone loved fishing, swimming and hanging out in the main house which included plenty of late nights playing games and watching movies. Perfect way to reconnect with friends and plenty of space for everyone! Would come back for another weekend getaway in a heartbeat!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

Great place to stay. Steep property with a lot of stairs and limited parking but otherwise great.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary Ann T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorial Day Weekend w/Family

This Cabin and Cottage duo is special and in my opinion, better than the photos. You can tell the Owners take great pride in their place. We had a family group of 11 spanning in ages 64 down to 7, and there was plenty of room to spread out. Both kitchens are completely updated and include everything you need (or don't need) -- plenty of dishes, utensils, small appliances, bake ware, etc. They even include both Keurig and regular coffee makers -- very nice. Beautiful bathrooms with lots of towels; very comfortable beds/pillows and really nice bedding. There is actually more living room and sun room seating than is pictured and again, all really nice and comfortable. As the Grandparents, we stayed in the Cottage and would love to come back to just sit and read. We enjoyed grabbing a cup of coffee in the morning and sitting outside catching the morning breeze. There were plenty of fish caught right off the dock and when the kids weren't fishing they were playing on the Lily Pad which is right there at the Cabin, or inside playing one of the (many) games downstairs. The kids even beat the adults at foosball a few times. Thank you Andy and Nick for sharing the Rusty Anchor with our family. We look forward to coming again!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Andy Willenbring

Host profile image
Andy grew up in White Bear Lake, MN and attended Minnesota State University, Mankato. After graduating he became a volunteer fire fighter in Maple Grove, MN, and his passion for fire fighting became his full-time career as a fire fighter in St. Louis Park, MN. He was recently promoted to Lieutenant. Andy's husband, Nick, grew up in Springfield, MN and graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato with a degree in K-12 education. He is currently working in Special Education. We recently sold our Wisconsin cabin to buy a cabin in Ortonville to be closer to family. We love hosting vacations through VRBO, and like to continually add more amenities and updates to our Lake Home and Guest Cottage to make sure our guests are highly satisfied! At the cabin, our 3 children love boating, swimming, fishing and searching for other living creatures in and out of the water. They also love to make S'mores and to dance around the campfire.

Why they chose this property

We are excited for you to make lasting memories during your stay at The Rusty Anchor Getaway! Designed to accommodate a large group that sleeps up to 15 comfortably....ideal for 2-4 families. Both the lake house and guest cottage are available year round for guests and offer geothermal heating and cooling for your comfort. Please contact us for information about Pontoon Rental.

We are located on Big Stone Lake in Ortonville, MN, 2 hours north of Sioux Falls, 2 hours south of Fargo and 3 hours west of the Twin Cities. The lake is 26 miles long and approximately 12,000 acres. The lake has been featured on Midwest's best fishing TV shows for its great fishing. The lake is also fully recreational so you can enjoy boating, tubing, jet-skiing and swimming. There is a dock with steps and railing into the water for your enjoyment (no walk-in beach).

What makes this property unique

Pack lighter for travel!
These items are offered for our guests to enjoy....

Inside:

Both kitchens have all kitchen supplies, pots, pans, plates, glasses, coffee cups and utensils, dish soap and rags, paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, full fridge/freezer, oven, microwave, cleaning supplies, garbage bags, iron and ironing boards and 2 Amazon Echo bluetooth speakers with Amazon Unlimited Music. The main house has a Keurig® K-Duo® Single-Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker, and the guest cottage has a Keurig® K-Supreme® Single Serve Coffee Maker and 12-cup drip coffee maker. Both have electric coffee grinders. If something is not listed, just ask and we may have it.

Outside:

During the summer months we provide a dock for fishing and swimming, 2 kayaks, 2 paddle boards, pedal boat, Aqua Lily Pad, yard games, campfire chairs, fire pit, marshmallow sticks to roast hot dogs and make s'mores, miscellaneous life jackets and floaties and 2 gas grills (one at each house). If you enjoy ice-fishing, we provide a 2 Person Flip Down Ice Fishing Shelter for your use.

Other than the beautiful property and lake access, the near-by town of Ortonville offers plenty of fun activities for families, couples, and individuals. Only 0.8 miles away is the Ortonville Golf Course that overlooks Big Stone Lake. After a round of golf, relax on the deck at Off The Green Restaurant and Bar that also overlooks the golf course and Big Stone Lake. Be sure to visit Lingonberry's Pastry and Coffee Shop for the best pastries I've ever had, and for dinner order pizza for delivery, carry-out or dine-in at Berkner's Pizza! There will be information available at the cabin detailing local restaurants and bars (even a few that are accessible by boat and land), and other points of interest.

Languages:

English
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