Spruce Lodge Resort: A Family Tradition on Beautiful Star Lake

Some of the most beautiful shoreline and sugar sand beaches on Star Lake are along the South side. It is there, in the Southwest corner, that you will find the quaint family-friendly community of Spruce Lodge Resort. If you have the chance to stop by, be sure to say hello and visit with Ruth Felton.

Ruth and her husband, Skeeter, purchased Spruce Lodge Resort in 1977, when there were 13 resorts on Star Lake! Skeeter passed away 20 years ago, but that didn’t stop Ruth from continuing to operate the resort. With much help from family and friends, Spruce Lodge Resort continues to offer weekly rentals in 8 cabins with 1-3 bedrooms, and 11 seasonal RV spots. You’ll be fortunate to find an available week, though, as the only open times this year are early June and midAugust. Most of the renters return year after year. In fact, she has seen several generations come and go over the past 46 years. Many are now property owners on Star Lake!

Ruth recently celebrated her 88th birthday – but you wouldn’t know it by visiting with her. She will eagerly tell you much about the history of Star Lake and her many years at the resort. She frequently receives cards and visits from people that tell her about how they met, got engaged, or celebrated special occasions at the Dance Hall in the hexagon building that was located where the seasonal campers now sit. And apparently there was a Saw Mill at one time on the property.

Ruth’s family all help to keep Spruce Lodge Resort a favorite for many to enjoy. Her son, Wade, and his fiancé, Sami Hammer, live here full-time now, making the move from Bismarck to help his mom. Ruth’s two daughters and 7 grandchildren all pitch in as well. Ruth is from Canby, Minnesota, and taught Kindergarten for 43 years. She retired 25 years ago, but has spent every summer on Star Lake for 46 years. 

For more information or to check on cabin availability, contact Ruth at 218-758-2922, or Wade at 701-426-4424.