Bailey's Bison Hill Lake House at Calamus SRA, is a 7.8-acre haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with abundant wildlife and panoramic lakefront and Sandhills views. This 3-bed + loft, 2-bath home is fully furnished. Enjoy fishing or boating with the nearby Nunda Shoal boat ramp. Includes fiber optic access, propane fire pit, garage with EV outlet, and potential for additional builds. This property makes an ideal primary residence or vacation retreat!
Land
This lot was one of the very first to be developed in Aggies Acres here at the Calamus back in 2002! The developer was originally saving it for himself, but grew fond of his new friends and sold the lot to the current owner to be developed. It arguably has the best vantage point of the lake and with nothing but the rolling Sandhills pasture and cattle grazing behind you, it truly is one of a kind.
Property sits in the 5th Subdivision of Aggies Acres and includes Lots 1, 2 and 7. The house sits on Lot 1. A home is allowed to be built on Lot 2 and/or Lot 7 as well. Lot 1 is the only lot in this subdivision currently that is allowed an outbuilding to be built. Lot 1 is also the only lot that is allowed horses to be grazed and can be grazed on adjoining lots if owned by owner of Lot 1 (Lot 2 and 7 would currently qualify). See the Restrictive Covenants located under Documents for full information.
Lots 1, 2 and 7 according to the Plat Map equate to around 7.8 +/- acres. Lot 7 is very wooded and features several black walnut trees! Lot 2 has a good vantage point for a building site and then rolling hills. There is a community well and a private septic system. Property has underground sprinklers and lawn has been maintained and treated around the house to offer a cactus free area for the kids and pets to play! You will also find an established asparagus patch and beautiful, flowering plum bushes. Wildlife include: mule deer, turkeys, coyotes, Sandhill Cranes twice a year, bald eagles, finch, bluebirds, seagulls, pelican, rabbits and the occasional owl.
Improvements
This custom home (built in 2002 by Larry Gaukel) with addition added in 2007 offers 3 bedrooms plus a loft area, 2 bathrooms and is coming fully furnished (some exclusions). The craftsmanship and esthetic of this home are truly fitting to its surroundings. You will be taken aback by the panoramic windows, custom wood beams, fireplace mantels and iron work found in the home. This property would make a great primary residence or vacation residence.
The main level plus loft area equates to 1,768 sq ft with an additional 672 sq ft in the basement. Upon entering the main level, you will first notice the panoramic windows, lofted ceiling with custom wood beams and the custom fireplace with bison mount, that will stay. Here is where the dining area, cozy living area and the eat-in kitchen can be found. Also located on this side of original home is one main level bedroom, one full bathroom, linen closet, pantry storage and stairs to loft area and basement. The addition (built in 2007) features a large living area with panoramic windows, double doors to the wraparound deck and matching wood beams and custom fireplace.
The loft is currently set up with two twin beds and a nice sitting area by the window. There is also a cute book nook at the landing of the staircase. The basement houses 2 bedrooms, one full bathroom with laundry and walk-out access to the garage. The garage is 12 ft x 28 ft.
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Key Features:
Fiber cement siding
Metal roof
Wrapround composite decking with outdoor speakers
Fiber Optic to driveway
Propane outdoor firepit
Burwell native made iron curtain rods and pot hanger in kitchen
Fireplace mantels came from wood from the Niobrara River
Furnace from 2002 and both a/c heat pumps replaced (2023) (Furnace to Addition from 2007)
200 Amp Panel
240 volt outlet by garage, can power electric vehicle
Garbage disposal and microwave (2024)
Dead tree removal (2024)
Septic cleaned out (2021)
Showings are by appointment only and buyers must be qualified.
Recreation
Calamus Reservoir in Nebraska is a popular destination for outdoor and recreational activities, set in the beautiful Sandhills region. Here are some of the key activities you can enjoy at and around the Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area:
Fishing:
Calamus Reservoir is well-known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species like walleye, white bass, crappie, northern pike, and catfish.
Gracie Creek Pond, located nearby, is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a great spot for anglers of all ages.
Boating and Water Sports:
The reservoir covers over 5,000 acres, making it ideal for all types of boating, including motorboats, sailboats, pontoons, and jet skis.
There are multiple boat ramps and docks available for easy access to the water.
The large size of the lake also makes it great for water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding.
Camping:
Calamus Reservoir has several campgrounds with both primitive and modern camping facilities.
Options range from tent camping sites to spots with RV hookups, restrooms, and showers.
Campgrounds like Homestead Knolls, Nunda Shoal, and Valley View provide great places to stay close to the water.
Swimming:
There are designated swimming areas around the reservoir, providing safe spots for cooling off in the summer.
Sandy beaches make it a pleasant place for sunbathing and enjoying a beach day.
Hiking and Nature Trails:
The area around Calamus Reservoir features several trails that are perfect for hiking and exploring the scenic Sandhills landscape.
Hikers can enjoy views of the native grasses, wildflowers, and abundant birdlife that thrive in the region.
Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching:
The area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, and various species of birds.
Birdwatchers can observe species like bald eagles, pelicans, herons, and Sandhill cranes, especially during migration seasons.
Picnicking:
Numerous picnic areas with shelters, tables, and grills are available for day-use visitors.
It’s a great spot for family gatherings, casual lunches, or just enjoying the view with a meal.
Hunting:
During the hunting season, the lands surrounding Calamus Reservoir provide opportunities for hunting deer, waterfowl, pheasants, and other game.
The area’s diverse terrain makes it suitable for both big game and upland bird hunting.
Calamus Fish Hatchery:
Located below the dam, the Calamus Fish Hatchery offers self-guided tours where visitors can learn about fish breeding and local conservation efforts.
It’s a great educational stop to understand the role of the hatchery in stocking lakes and rivers with fish.
Stargazing:
The remote location and minimal light pollution around the reservoir make it an ideal place for stargazing.
On clear nights, the view of the stars and the Milky Way is stunning, perfect for those who enjoy astronomy.
Calamus Reservoir’s combination of water activities, wildlife, and natural beauty makes it a top destination for recreation in Nebraska. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, camping, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this scenic spot.
Location
Unfamiliar with the area? Aside from all the fun to be had at the lake, there are several other amenities to be found in the nearby towns. Burwell, Nebraska, offers a range of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, rodeo fans, and those looking to experience the local culture and small-town charm. Boutique shopping, lumber store, restaurants, movie theatre, bowling alley, gas stations and more can be found in Burwell.
Here’s a brief list of activities you can enjoy in and around Burwell:
Nebraska’s Big Rodeo
Event: Burwell is home to Nebraska’s Big Rodeo, one of the state’s most significant annual events.
Activities: Watch exciting rodeo events like bull riding, steer wrestling, roping, and barrel racing. There are also parades, live music, and fun for all ages.
When: This event takes place every July, drawing visitors from all over the country.
Explore The Villagers of Taylor
Art and History: Visit Taylor, NE, just a short drive from Burwell, to see life-sized wooden cutouts of historical figures placed around town in an open-air exhibit that blends art with history.
Scratchtown Brewing Company-Ord, NE
Craft Beer: Enjoy craft beers in a friendly atmosphere. It often hosts events and food trucks, making it a social hub for the community.
If you want to know more about the local area, just reach out!