Lake Owasso & Gervais Lake

Lake Owasso is one of the most desirable lakes in the Roseville area and one of the closest recreational lakes to both downtown Minneapolis and downtown Saint Paul. Located just north of Highway 36 and Interstate 35W, the lake provides a rare combination of true lake living with immediate access to the core Twin Cities metro. For buyers who want waterfront property without leaving the city environment, Lake Owasso offers a unique opportunity. The lake covers approximately 375 acres and reaches a maximum depth of about 42 feet, making it one of the deeper and clearer lakes in the northern metro area. Its size and depth support boating, fishing, and year-round recreation while maintaining strong long-term residential demand.

A Clear Recreational Lake

Lake Owasso is known locally for its relatively clear water compared to many lakes in the immediate metro area. Because of its depth and basin structure, the lake supports a variety of recreational uses including boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing. Residents regularly enjoy sunset views across the open water and quiet mornings on the lake before the city fully wakes up. Despite being located in a highly developed suburban area, much of the shoreline still feels private and residential. For many homeowners, the ability to enjoy a full recreational lake while being only minutes from two major downtowns is what makes Owasso unique.

Shoreline Character & Real Estate

The shoreline around Lake Owasso is made up primarily of established residential homes, with a mixture of classic lake houses and newer redevelopment projects. Over time many original properties have transitioned into larger custom homes as buyers recognize the rarity of lakefront property this close to the urban core. Waterfront homes on Lake Owasso often feature expansive lake views, private docks, and outdoor spaces designed to maximize the lake lifestyle. Because the lake has relatively limited shoreline, inventory tends to remain tight, and properties often attract strong interest when they come to market.

Location & Accessibility

One of Lake Owasso’s greatest strengths is its location. The lake sits within Roseville, just minutes from Interstate 35W and Highway 36. From most properties on the lake, residents can reach downtown Saint Paul in roughly 10 minutes and downtown Minneapolis in approximately 15 minutes depending on traffic. This accessibility makes Lake Owasso particularly appealing to buyers who work in the cities but want the lifestyle of living on the water. Nearby amenities include shopping, restaurants, parks, and the extensive trail systems that run through Roseville and the surrounding communities.

Buying or Selling on Lake Owasso

Like most urban lakes, property values on Lake Owasso are heavily influenced by shoreline characteristics and positioning on the lake. Buyers typically evaluate factors such as:

• lake depth near the dock
• exposure to sunsets or morning sun
• shoreline topography
• rebuild potential
• privacy from neighboring homes

Sellers benefit from positioning their property based on these same lake-specific characteristics, as the differences between properties can significantly influence value. Lake Owasso continues to attract buyers because it delivers true waterfront living within one of the most accessible locations in the Twin Cities.

Lake Gervais Real Estate

Recreational Lake Living in Little Canada Lake Gervais is another prominent recreational lake located in Roseville and offers a different but equally appealing lake lifestyle compared to nearby Owasso. The lake spans approximately 230 acres and reaches a maximum depth of around 47 feet, making it both deep and capable of supporting a variety of recreational uses. Because of its location and size, Lake Gervais has become a popular destination for boating, fishing, kayaking, and year-round outdoor activity. Residents enjoy the balance of lake living while still being located within the city of Roseville.

A Full Recreational Lake

Lake Gervais supports a wide range of recreational activities including boating, water sports, fishing, and winter recreation. Public access points and nearby parks make the lake an active part of the surrounding community. Many residents enjoy spending time on the water throughout the summer months, while the lake remains a scenic backdrop for the neighborhood year-round. Because of its depth and water quality, the lake supports healthy fish populations and remains a popular destination for anglers.

Shoreline Real Estate

Homes surrounding Lake Gervais range from established residential properties to newer construction homes that have replaced older structures along the shoreline. Waterfront properties often include private docks, lake-facing patios or decks, and large windows designed to capture views across the water. Like many lakes in the metro area, the limited amount of shoreline means that inventory remains relatively small, which helps support long-term property values. Many buyers who consider Lake Gervais are looking for:

• recreational lake access
• proximity to downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul
• established residential neighborhoods
• a lake lifestyle within the city

Location in the Twin Cities

Lake Gervais sits in an ideal location within Little Canada, positioned between the downtown cores of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Residents enjoy quick access to major highways including Interstate 35W and Highway 36, making commuting to either downtown straightforward. Roseville also offers a wide range of amenities including shopping, restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities. This combination of location and lifestyle continues to attract buyers looking for lake property within the metropolitan area.

Buying or Selling on Lake Gervais

Lake Gervais offers a unique opportunity for buyers who want lake living while remaining within the city environment. When evaluating waterfront properties on the lake, buyers often consider factors such as:

• shoreline structure and depth
• dock placement and water access
• lake views and exposure
• privacy and lot size
• redevelopment potential

Understanding these lake-specific characteristics helps both buyers and sellers navigate the market effectively. Lake Gervais remains one of the most appealing lake communities in Roseville because it combines recreational water, established neighborhoods, and proximity to the Twin Cities.

Preparation creates leverage.
Relationships outlast transactions.

Tim Ornell
Luxury & Waterfront Real Estate Advisor
Ornell Group | Real Broker Luxury Division (NASDAQ: REAX)

651.263.8480
ornellgroup.com