Ontarah is a Spiritual Retreat and campground located on the highland ridges overlooking the Mississippi River Valley (known as little Egypt by locals) ...
An affordable getaway for both families and adults.
Ontarah has beautiful views of the valley between Illinois' Highlands Ridges and the Ozark Mountains, and offers private access to freeform hiking in the Northwestern portion of the Shawnee National Forest. Ontarah is one of the only sites of the highlands with a private entrance (for retreat guests only).
There are two ridges. The west ridge has two plateaus, the eastern plauteau is reserved for families, while the western plateau is reserved for adults only. The east ridge provides forest camping and access to the Shawnee National Forest; the space between the two ridges is the mid-ridge and offers a large pond for fishing.
Parking is located on the lowlands of the property's front entrance (Porter service for your gear and lugage is available). To ensure guests have freedom of movement and to protect children and wildlife, guests cars are not permitted on the plateau. The retreat is set atop the highlands, a 5-minute walk with a soft slope incline of 80 feet and a distance of approximately 780 feet that curves onto the plateau (see image of slope).
Join us during our soft-opening for fishing and hiking. We are currently raising funds for our future amenity offering: pool, entertainment area, restaurant, showers and restrooms with biogas-generation, and the Midridge Music Venu (Est. 2026 - Summer of 2028).
Those who believe in Jesus Christ and keep his commandments and renouncements are welcome at the retreat, as well as those who desire to learn more about Jesus' Sacred Gnostic Teachings.
Learn more about Jesus' renoncements
We look forward to your visit,
Ontarah by AdvanCN
