Lake life calling? Here’s your opportunity to escape to the dreamiest Woodland lake cottage nestled at the foot of 500+ heavily wooded acres of common ground, with beautiful cove views from the front porch, all within a 30 mile easy reach of St. Louis! Welcome to 88 South Lake, a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath retreat that has been lovingly maintained and thoughtfully reimagined. Filled with extraordinary natural light, an abundance of updates, and gorgeous treetop views from every room, this home is something special. The Seller has made too many improvements to list here, so be sure to review the attached feature sheet! More than just a home, this property offers an immersive nature experience that truly must be felt to be appreciated. Through the limestone valley echoes Whippoorwills, Pileated Woodpecker, and owls. Birdwatcher's paradise. Enjoy the best of both worlds: the peace, privacy, and natural beauty of a 2nd-tier setting, with convenient adjacent access to the seawall where you park your pontoon. Whether you’re searching for a full-time residence or a relaxing weekend getaway, the inviting open floor plan is perfectly suited for everyday living and entertaining a crowd. Situated on 1.41 acres in one of Wauwanoka’s most picturesque and quiet locations, the grounds have been completely transformed with the help of a professional hardscape designer. Thoughtful improvements include new retaining features, 2 timeless limestone stairways, a private nature trail, beautiful gardens, a firepit, and an expansive fenced area with room to play and roam. Every detail has been designed to complement the surrounding woodland and create a peaceful, private retreat. The crown jewel? A whimsical organic veggie garden featuring a baby greenhouse, a life-size chessboard, and more than 350 square feet of raised garden beds. Built on a compacted rock and gravel base for stability and drainage, the garden also features solar-powered pest protection and ideal Southern exposure. For anyone who dreams of growing their own food or embracing a little homestead lifestyle, this is a rare find! Bring your chickens and bee hives. They are allowed here. The Seller spared no expense and has done everything without chemicals, focused on support of native landscape and pollinators. Beyond the property, Wauwanoka is a nature lover’s paradise. This historic gated lake community offers a stocked lake, clubhouse, sandy swimming beach, marina, picnic pavilion, playground, basketball and sand volleyball courts, shooting range, and an extensive trail network. Explore 750 wooded acres of common ground with opportunities for hiking, ATV riding, hunting in season, and enjoying the outdoors. This home sits at the main trailhead so it is heaven for those who love to explore! For more than 80 years, Wauwanoka has been a vibrant lake community with year-round activities and a wonderful sense of tradition. You have not celebrated the 4th until you sink the anchor and have a 360 view on the water. Conveniently located near Hillsboro, less than two miles from two wineries and approximately five minutes from the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, Wauwanoka offers a lovely balance of peaceful seclusion and accessibility. Some places are meant to be experienced, not just described. Watch the video for a true glimpse behind the gates of this enchanting woodland retreat and special community. Life is better at the lake!