Fox Farm & Retreat

Ellsworth, MI, Antrim County

Lease

Sep 22, 2025

Acreage

  • 65 Acres Available
  • 40 Open Tillable Acres

Infrastructure and Equipment Available

  • Barns or other facilities
  • Electrical Access
  • Farm Equipment
  • Irrigation/Water Access
  • Road access

Past/Current Land Usage

  • Cattle - Dairy
  • Fruit Trees
  • Vegetables

Vision for the Farm

Our vision is to create a beautiful destination to enjoy nature and organic agriculture. We have revived and restored the property and want to use it in a sustainable manner for generations to enjoy.

Past/Current Land Usage

  • Cattle - Dairy
  • Fruit Trees
  • Vegetables

Acreage description

The property sits on a lovely slightly elevated area within walking distance to the shores of Grand Traverse Bay on the eastern arm. It is surrounded by other farms and has a beautiful view of the bay just beyond Antrim Natural Area.

It is bordered by farmland to the north, Antrim Creek to the East, Rex Beach Road to the South, and a conservation easement to the west. It has not been farmed routinely in 20+ year. The overgrowth and brush were cleared and field corn was planted in 2024 and a cover crop in 2025. 

Of the total 65 acres, approximately 40 is ready to farm, another 15 is residential agricultural (barn, home), with the remaining being wooded.

Description of the property’s current condition, current use(s), and past use(s)

We purchased it in 2023. We understand through research and conversations that it was established as a farm in the late 1800's, was likely the birthplace of Olympian and author Rex Beach, and was previously an apple orchard and cattle farm based on the equipment and remaining vegetation.

We have removed all of the old buildings with the exception of a cabin from the late 1800's and constructed a stunning Nordic-style barn that can be used as a residence and for events. We also have a new pole barn, tractor and excavator for use.

Additional Information

It is our strong desire to have the land be farmed using organic practices. We can envision families and friends gathering for agricultural and educational events in the Nordic barn, and enjoying the amentities of the surrounding areas. The lovely beach, wineries, galleries, and winter sports in Charlevoix, Petoskey, Traverse City, and Boyne City areas.

Soil Type(s)

The soil was tested in 2024 and determined to be predomenintly sandy loam. 

Transition Agreement

Lease

We are looking for a mid- to long-term arrangement with a farmer or farm family that shares our vision of destination organic agriculture.

Sale Price or Estimated Market Value

United States

Price for Lease Per Acre

Negotiable

Mentoring

I am seeking mentorship

Production Preferences

Preferred Farming Method

Certified Organic, Organic Practices

Infrastructure and Equipment Available

  • Barns or other facilities
  • Electrical Access
  • Farm Equipment
  • Irrigation/Water Access
  • Road access