Ask Dustin Lutt
52.8-Acre Off-Grid Estate Overlooking Tuttle Creek Lake-Riley County, Kansas
This 52.8-acre Flint Hills property represents a unique opportunity to acquire a thoughtfully developed off-grid homestead with exceptional recreational access and significant historical character. Located on the northwest end of Tuttle Creek Lake in Riley County, the property directly borders the Fancy Creek Recreation Area of Tuttle Creek State Park, offering immediate proximity to one of Kansas' premier outdoor destinations.
The Property & Setting
The property sits atop Flint Hills bluffs. Where Fancy Creek and the Blue River Valley converge at the northern end of Tuttle Creek Lake, the landscape commands attention. The area draws migratory birds and waterfowl throughout the year-dynamic wildlife viewing all season long. An open grass area on the east end behind the guest cabin offers beautiful views today and is an excellent vantage point for wildlife observation.
The main cabin also has potential for exceptional lake views. Mature cedar trees that have grown over the decades currently limit those views-though they existed when the cabin was first built. A new owner could easily do some selective cedar removal to recover them. With minor land management, you can restore those panoramic vistas.
Rolling native prairie mixed with mature timber-bur oak, pin oak, chinkapin oak, black walnut, cedar, elm, hackberry. Switchgrass, Indian grass, and bluestem keep the native Flint Hills character alive. Rugged limestone, wooded draws, grasslands. A small pond on the east end provides wildlife watering. An established trail system runs through the property. Everything adds up to genuine wildlife habitat and real recreational potential.
You're just two miles from Randolph. Close enough for convenience, far enough to feel secluded.
The Improvements
The property was designed and built by John and Geri McPherson, who brought deep knowledge of off-grid living and outdoor skills to every aspect of the property. John, a U.S. Army veteran, and his wife Geri were recognized outdoor educators and authors, having written numerous books and manuals on outdoor skills and self-sufficient living, including "How To Build This Log Cabin for $3,000"-the two-story guest house that stands on the property today. John also conducted SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training on the property for many years for the Riley Army base. Every aspect of this property reflects their philosophy of working with the land rather than reshaping it.
The main residence comprises 1,658 square feet: a 1,358-square-foot main level with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and seven total rooms, plus approximately 300 square feet of loft space. Large windows throughout allow natural light. The concrete foundation provides solid structural support. A composting toilet system minimizes water use, while window air conditioning handles summer conditions. Two small primitive cabins with wood-burning stoves provide additional shelter and functionality.
Off-Grid Infrastructure (Fully Operational)
The systems installed here reflect years of practical experience:
This isn't experimental technology-it's a working, maintained system that the original owners relied on for decades.
Recreational & Wildlife Value
The combination of location and habitat management makes this property exceptional for outdoor recreation and wildlife:
Historical Significance
John and Geri McPherson built this property as a working demonstration of off-grid living and self-reliance. Every decision-from the timber harvested on-site for construction to the location of outbuildings-reflected their philosophy of working with the land rather than reshaping it. The property has served as both residence and retreat, a place where they taught, wrote, and demonstrated a sustainable way of life for decades. Family and friends gathered here to enjoy the Flint Hills solitude, wildlife, and natural beauty.
Opportunities
This property works well for multiple uses: a private residence for someone committed to off-grid living, a weekend hunting lodge with established wildlife habitat, a vacation retreat with lake access, or an investment property with strong recreational appeal. The combination of Flint Hills bluff-top location, mature timber, native prairie, established off-grid infrastructure, and direct proximity to Tuttle Creek Lake creates an offering difficult to replicate.
Properties of this caliber rarely become available. The infrastructure is proven, the land quality is genuine, and the recreational access is exceptional.
KEY PROPERTY FEATURES
Land Features
Residence
Off-Grid Infrastructure (Fully Operational)
For more information: Land Specialist - Dustin Lutt 785-577-7377
Directions:
Open House
Private showings are by appointment only.
Approximate Distance: 20 miles
Driving Time: 25-30 minutes
DIRECTIONS FROM MANHATTAN TO 15201 GARDINER RD:
Showing Instructions:
