Ontarah is a Spiritual Retreat and campground located on the highland ridges overlooking the Mississippi River Valley ...
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).
The plateau on the eastern ridge is reserved for families, while the western ridge is reserved for adults only.
Parties and group events are available if you book an entire plateau.
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 in 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 intended sevice and 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
