FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: January 12, 2026

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Ryan Harrison, Ryan Crawford & Franklin Crawford Purchase Dockside Lake Resort in Monticello

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Historic Lake Shafer lodging destination enters its 86th season in 2026

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MONTICELLO, Ind. — Ryan Harrison, Ryan Crawford, and Franklin Crawford announced the purchase of Dockside Lake Resort, a beloved lakeside lodging destination located at 4849 E. Indiana Beach Road, Monticello, IN 47960.

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Dockside Lake Resort has welcomed generations of families to the shores of Lake Shafer for more than 85 years. Many longtime guests may also remember the property by its former names, Dawn’s Resort and Baypointe Resort. With its ideal location just a short walk from Indiana Beach Amusement Park, Dockside has been a favorite for vacations, weekend getaways, fishing trips, and family reunions.

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“Dockside is one of those rare places that feels like it belongs to everyone who’s ever stayed here,” said Ryan Harrison. “When our friend Jennifer approached us about purchasing the resort, we jumped at the opportunity. The history, the location, and the memories made here are truly special—and we’re excited to carry that forward while continuing to improve the guest experience.”

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“Dockside is one of the premier places to stay on Lake Shafer, and we don’t want to change what people already love,” said Ryan Crawford. “We’re here to care for this wonderful resort, welcome new guests, and help more families create memories that last a lifetime. When you have families returning for 50+ years, you know you’re part of something truly special.”

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“This new ownership team has consistently demonstrated the integrity and reliability I value,” said Jennifer Ousley, former owner of Dockside Lake Resort. “Over the years, they’ve shown themselves to be hardworking, honest, and capable of handling anything that comes their way. While the decision to sell Dockside Lake Resort was not easy, it was made with my family in mind. My parents and I have relocated to be closer to loved ones, and we’re excited to begin a new small business together.

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“I know my guests understand the true meaning of family—I saw it every day in the way you shared your time, your stories, and your traditions with me. Thank you for welcoming me into your families and your circles of friends. Dockside, and each of you, will always hold a special place in my heart.”

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A family-friendly resort built for getaways and reunions

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Dockside Lake Resort is a family-friendly destination designed for a peaceful retreat, a fun getaway, or a memorable family reunion. The owners are committed to helping guests feel like part of the Dockside family by providing the rooms, space, and support to ensure each stay is comfortable, enjoyable, and worth repeating.

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Resort details and amenities

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Dockside Lake Resort is open year-round and offers 12 individual cabins and motel rooms. Amenities include a heated in-ground pool (new in 2024) and lakeside piers for fishing.

 

New for guests in 2026

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Dockside has launched a new, user-friendly website that makes it easy to book online. New for the 2026 season, guests will also enjoy a more automated check-in process and electronic door locks for all accommodations—making arrivals, stays and checkouts smoother than ever.

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Local owners with hospitality and Indiana Beach roots

The Ryans and their son, Franklin, are the owner-operators of seven food stands at Indiana Beach Amusement Park & Resort and also own and operate The Peacock Theatre and Lake Shore Drive-In, both located in Monticello.

• Ryan Harrison has spent most of his career in hospitality and guest relations, including managing hotels and resorts for a nationally recognized management company. He currently serves as vendor relations manager at Indiana Beach.

• Ryan Crawford is a musician by trade and the owner of Peacock Music Company, an Allen Organ dealership located in Monticello, Indiana.

• Franklin Crawford, a high school sophomore, enjoys helping his family with their seasonal businesses at Indiana Beach and supporting their local operations.

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Celebrating a milestone year

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With 2026 marking Dockside’s 86th season, the new owners look forward to honoring the resort’s legacy while making thoughtful updates that enhance convenience and the overall guest experience.

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Dockside Lake Resort

4849 E. Indiana Beach Road | Monticello, IN 47960

www.DocksideLakeResort.com | 574-297-5674

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Media Contact:

Ryan Harrison | 574-297-5674 | info@docksidelakeresort.com

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Ryan Harrison, Franklin & Ryan Crawford