About Ontara

Ontara is a Spiritual Retreat and campground located on the highland ridges overlooking the Mississippi River Valley ...

Ontara 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.  Ontara is one of the only sites on the highland ridges open to the public (recently).

The plateau on the western ridge is reserved for adults only, while the eastern ridge is reserved for families.

Group booking for an entire plateau are available.

We will be offering a pool, entertainment area, cafe, restaurant, picnic areas, showers with biogas-generating restrooms, and fishing - join us during our soft opening and help to determine the service offering (Est. Summer 2026).

Parking is located in the lowlands of the property's front entrance. To ensure campers have freedom of movement and to protect the preserve, cars will not be permitted on the plateau.

Those who believe in Jesus Christ and keep his commandments are welcome at the retreat, as well as those who desire to learn more about Jesus' Sacred Gnostic Teachings within the Books of the Saviour. 

Host