Lake DeSmet Legacy Retreat

The Lake DeSmet Legacy Retreat is located on the eastern shoreline of Lake DeSmet in Johnson County, Wyoming, with access via maintained county roads for year-round use.

One of the most notable features of the property is its exclusivity. It is the only residential property on the eastern shoreline of Lake DeSmet. Surrounded by large ranches, the setting offers a high level of privacy and protection from future development.

Views extend west across the lake toward the Big Horn Mountains, creating the most captivating sunsets in the water’s reflection.

The property is located approximately 8 miles from Buffalo, Wyoming, providing access to services, dining, and shopping, as well as convenient access to Interstate 90. With a modern hospital and clinic, two grocery stores, a sporting goods store, four banks, several agricultural supply stores, hardware and lumber stores, a movie theatre, fine dining, and an excellent public school system, Buffalo can provide all of the essentials.

Sheridan, Wyoming, 30 miles north of Buffalo via Interstate 90 along the Big Horn Mountains, provides additional services, including exceptional restaurants, large building-supply stores, Walmart, commercial flights to Denver, and a fine downtown shopping experience. Sheridan provides a great mix of the Old West and modern conveniences.

Johnson County Airport (KBYG), a well-improved airstrip capable of handling large private jets, is located in Buffalo, Wyoming. The lighted asphalt runway is 6,143′ x 75′ with a beacon operating from sunset to sunrise.

Approximate distances to nearby towns and attractions are as follows:

Buffalo, Wyoming           8 miles
Bighorn Mountains       10 miles
Sheridan, Wyoming       35 miles
Gillette, Wyoming          70 miles

The property spans approximately 89± acres of gently rolling terrain, combining open meadows, maintained grounds, and direct lake frontage. The setting feels both natural and well cared for, preserving the character of the Wyoming landscape while offering a comfortable and functional layout.

Improvements are spaced to provide both privacy and a sense of connection between structures, creating a setting that works well for hosting while still allowing for individual retreat spaces.

Lake DeSmet is the centerpiece of the property, offering both visual appeal and recreational use. Direct frontage, along with a private concrete boat ramp and floating dock, provides easy, dependable access to the lake year-round.

ELEVATION & CLIMATE

The property elevation is approximately 4,620 feet above sea level.

The area experiences a semi-arid climate with cold, dry winters, wet springs, and hot summers. The average annual precipitation in nearby Buffalo is 13.26 inches.

All of the improvements were remodeled in 2022, apart from the boat garage, which was newly constructed in 2022. The Clubhouse, Main Cabin, and other cabins are being offered furnished, providing a turnkey opportunity for the next owner.

THE CLUBHOUSE

The Clubhouse serves as the central gathering place for the property. With approximately 2,565 square feet, it includes a well-equipped modern kitchen, both gas and wood-burning fireplaces, and two bathrooms. Oversized sliding glass doors and expansive windows bring in natural light and frame the spectacular views of Lake DeSmet, creating a comfortable space that connects well to the outdoors.

MAIN CABIN

The main cabin offers a private and comfortable space suited for an owner or manager. The approximately 1,248 square-foot layout includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a full kitchen and laundry area. Its location provides a quiet setting while remaining close to the Clubhouse and shop.

CABINS 1-11

All cabins were remodeled in 2022 and share a consistent level of finish and overall design, creating a cohesive look across the property. The interiors are clean, updated, and practical, with layouts that support both short- and long-term stays. This consistency adds to the overall appeal of the improvements while also making management and potential rental use more efficient.

BOAT GARAGE

The boat garage, constructed in 2022, offers approximately 3,024 square feet and is designed with functionality in mind. Eight overhead doors allow for easy access and storage of boats and equipment. The building is insulated and heated for year-round use and includes a bathroom, fish cleaning station, outdoor shower, and covered porch—making it a practical space for both storage and day-to-day lake use.

SHOP

The shop, built in 2007, provides approximately 1,600 square feet of flexible workspace. It is well-suited for equipment storage, maintenance, or general project use, supporting the property’s overall operation and upkeep.

RV HOOKUPS

The property includes three RV sites. Two are located near the cabins, offering convenient access to shared amenities, while the third is positioned closer to the lake in a more private setting with direct access to the water and views.

BOAT RAMP & FLOATING DOCK

A concrete boat ramp and floating dock provide reliable access to Lake DeSmet. The ramp allows for smooth launching and retrieval of watercraft, while the floating dock adjusts to changing water levels and serves as a stable platform for docking, swimming, and general lake use.

FUEL TANK

A 500-gallon fuel tank on the property is set up to support boats and other watercraft. This allows for convenient on-site fueling and reduces the need to leave the property, enhancing overall functionality.

UTILITIES & SERVICES

The property is served by natural gas, a private well, and multiple septic systems.

REAL ESTATE TAXES

The 2025 real estate taxes were $10,983.17.

MINERAL RIGHTS

The seller will convey with the property 100% of whatever mineral, oil, gas, geo-thermal, hydrocarbon, solar, wind, and gravel rights it owns, subject to reservations by previous owners. The seller makes no representation as to the quantity or quality of any mineral or other subsurface rights appurtenant to the property.

The Lake DeSmet area is known for its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and strong ties to Wyoming’s ranching history. Lake DeSmet covers approximately 3,500 acres and is a well-regarded destination for fishing, boating, and water recreation. Species such as walleye, lake trout, kokanee salmon, and trout are found in the lake.

The surrounding area is largely composed of large ranches, which help maintain the open character and low-density feel that make the region desirable.

Nearby, the Bighorn National Forest and the Big Horn Mountains provide access to hiking, hunting, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities across extensive public lands.

The property offers immediate access to a wide range of recreational opportunities. Lake DeSmet offers boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities, with an on-site boat ramp and dock for easy access.

Winter in the Buffalo area offers additional opportunities, with the nearby Bighorn Mountains providing terrain for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. Meadowlark Ski Lodge offers a laid-back alpine skiing experience, while ice fishing is also popular on Lake DeSmet and surrounding reservoirs.

Golf is available in Buffalo at the Buffalo Golf Club, an 18-hole course set at the base of the Big Horn Mountains. The course features mature trees, varied terrain, and scenic views, offering an enjoyable experience for players of all levels.

The property itself is well-suited for hosting, with multiple accommodations and open spaces that support gatherings, retreats, and extended stays throughout the year.

WHY WYOMING?

Wyoming offers several tax benefits that make it an attractive place for individuals and businesses. Key advantages include:

No State Income Tax: Wyoming is one of the few states that does not levy a personal income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings.

Low Property Taxes: The state has relatively low property tax rates compared to the national average, making it more affordable for homeowners and businesses.

No Corporate Income Tax: Wyoming does not impose a corporate income tax, which can be beneficial for businesses looking to minimize their tax liabilities.

Sales Tax: The sales tax rate is relatively low, with some local jurisdictions adding additional amounts. This can be advantageous for both consumers and businesses.

Estate and Inheritance Tax: Wyoming does not have an estate tax or an inheritance tax, which can be a significant benefit for wealth transfer planning.

Business-Friendly Environment: The state offers a favorable regulatory environment, including streamlined business formation processes and support for various industries, particularly energy and technology.

These tax advantages, combined with a low cost of living and a business-friendly atmosphere, make Wyoming an appealing choice for residents and entrepreneurs alike.

The Lake DeSmet Legacy Retreat offers a rare combination of lakefront access, privacy, and extensive improvements. As the only residence on the eastern shoreline of Lake DeSmet, it provides a setting that is difficult to replicate.

Whether used as a private retreat, a place to gather with family and friends, or as a potential investment, the property presents a unique opportunity to own a well-located and well-developed piece of Wyoming.

The Lake DeSmet Legacy Retreat, as previously described herein, is offered at $7,500,000.00.

The Conditions of the Sale are as follows:

1. All Prospective Buyers must demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Seller’s absolute financial capability to purchase the Property prior to scheduling an inspection of the Property.
2. Earnest money deposit will be due within 5 business days of a fully executed contract, and all earnest money deposits will be held in escrow by First American Title Insurance Company of Wyoming in Buffalo.
3. The Sellers will provide and pay for a standard owner’s title insurance policy. Any endorsements requested by the Buyer or any lender will be at the Buyer’s expense. Title to the real property will be conveyed by a warranty deed.
4. All of the water rights controlled by the Property will be transferred to the Buyer at Closing.
5. All of the property’s mineral rights appurtenant to the property and currently owned by the Seller will be transferred at Closing.
6. Buyers’ Brokers are welcome and invited to contact listing broker Scott Williams, Swan Land Company, for information regarding Cooperation Policies.

TERMS OF INSPECTION

The Sellers reserve the right to effect a tax-deferred exchange for other real property in accordance with provisions in Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code.  The Buyer will not be required to incur any additional expenses or step into the chain of title on any property that the Seller may acquire.

This entire Offering is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, or withdrawal without notice.  Information provided herein is intended only as general guidelines and has been obtained from sources deemed reliable; however, accuracy is not warranted or guaranteed by the Sellers, the Listing Brokers, or Swan Land Company.  Prospective Buyers should verify all information to their sole and complete satisfaction.

The Seller is selling the Lake DeSmet Legacy Retreat in an “as is” condition. Boundaries shown on any accompanying maps are approximate. The maps are not to scale and are for orientation purposes only. The accuracy of the maps and information portrayed thereon is not guaranteed or warranted.