well, hello!

We’re the Doughertys: Anne, James, Seamus, Finn, MJ, Thomas and Paddy. As the 4th family to become stewards of Wambolt’s, we invite you to share in our crazy, beautiful dream and become a part of this legendary place.

a classic resort

Wambolts is one of Minnesota’s oldest and most classic resorts. In 1899 Alexander “Bud” Wambolt built a fishing camp he called Fisherman’s Lodge, making him one of the first resort owners not only on the Mantrap chain of lakes but also in the whole state.

It’s been said that Wambolt got ahead in the resort business by having a good team of horses to transport guests from the railroad depot at Dorset. He operated the camp successfully until 1945 when he retired and sold it to his daughter and son-in-law, the Arnolds. They continued to manage the resort until 1968 when Dareld and Rosemary Mauer purchased the property and operated it with their five children until the mid 2000s. The Mauer family created a loyal and loving community with families returning year after year. You can still feel their love and devotion when you walk the property. Dareld and Rosemary ran the resort until their passing and guests, neighbors, friends and family all worried about what would become of the resort without the Mauers.

uncertain times, and then…

These years were an uncertain time for Wambolts.  That all changed when an avid outdoorsman and entrepreneaur visited the property with his mother. They both fell in love with the history and beauty of the camp.

We don’t know what they talked about while overlooking the lake, but we’re grateful for their trip to the woods: they made significant renovations, including updating the utilities and burying the power lines, which gave the place that picturesque “off the grid” look that guests now enjoy. They also initiated the first significant updating of the cabins, including new appliances, plumbing, electrical and furniture.

We’re grateful to the previous owners, for without their stewardship, we certainly would not be here. Because of their generosity the camp has played host to guests who have been staying at the property for decades.

inspired to act

As you can see, Wambolts Cabins is a beloved destination with a rich history and dedicated following. So when the property went on the market again, we were inspired to act. 

Why? First, we wanted to save it from commercial development that would mar the pristine shoreline. Second, but most importantly – we LOVE a good family project and this magical property has always sparked our imaginations. Wambolt's is a place for people to honor history, enjoy nature, find peace and dream a little bit about what the future could bring.