Dutton Chapel Lodge

07/10/2026

We're putting the final touches on Dutton Chapel Lodge and are excited to announce that reservations will officially open next week.

Designed to bring people together, Dutton Chapel Lodge is a place to disconnect from the world and be fully present.

From thoughtfully designed luxury interiors to breathtaking landscapes, every detail invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, Dutton Chapel Lodge borders the Shawnee National Forest and the beautiful Big Grand Pierre Creek, giving guests direct access to thousands of acres of hiking, horseback riding, and outdoor adventure. Accommodating up to 16 guests, it's the perfect destination for family gatherings, group getaways, corporate retreats, and celebrations that deserve an unforgettable setting.

Explore 50 private acres featuring a natural swimming pool with waterfalls, a private hot tub, a fishing pond, complimentary kayaks, and spaces designed for gathering. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, fishing, or simply looking forward to unwinding, there's room here to reconnect with nature and with one another.

We look forward to welcoming you to Dutton Chapel Lodge.

07/07/2026

Bell Smith Springs is approximately 43 minutes from Dutton Chapel Lodge and is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Shawnee National Forest, featuring more than 8 miles of interconnected trails. You could easily spend an entire day exploring Bell Smith Springs and still find a reason to return.

Before heading out, be sure to check the weather and download a map, as cell service may be limited in some areas.

We're excited to share our Bell Smith Springs Hiking Itinerary and hope it helps you make the most of your adventure. We look forward to hearing about your experience on the trails!

07/04/2026

06/30/2026

The older I get, the more I realize that children don't remember our perfectly planned itineraries.

They remember the way we made them feel.

They remember the excitement of climbing a little higher up the rock. The way we stopped to admire the view together. The laughter that echoed through the trees. The questions they asked that somehow led to conversations we didn't know we needed.

At Garden of the Gods, something beautiful happens.

The distractions become quieter. The pace slows down. And for a little while, we trade schedules and screens for wonder and presence.

06/25/2026

Indian Point is hidden within the Shawnee National Forest, offering hikers a more secluded experience filled with breathtaking views and natural beauty.

This hiker-only trail features a 1.7 to 1.9-mile lollipop loop with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain, making it an "easy to moderate" hike that most visitors can complete in about an hour.

Along the way, you'll discover:
🔸 Rugged bluff-top views overlooking the valley below
🔸 Unique rock formations shaped over millions of years
🔸 Opportunities for rock scrambling and exploration
🔸 Small caves tucked along the trail
🔸 A peaceful woodland pond near the trailhead
🔸 A quieter, less crowded side of Shawnee National Forest

Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply seeking a memorable outdoor experience, this trail offers adventure, stunning scenery, and moments of quiet wonder around every bend.

06/23/2026

We officially have the kids' stamp of approval. ✅

Watching them spend the afternoon laughing, splashing, and exploring every corner of the natural pool keeps us focused on the purpose behind Dutton Chapel Lodge.

Not for the pool itself. Not for the amenities. But for the memories they'll carry home.

We're running one final pump test, cleaning up the water, and preparing for the families, friends, and moments that will soon fill this place with memories of their own.

06/18/2026

Imagine spending your days exploring scenic horse trails and experiencing the beauty of Southern Illinois from the saddle. No rushing home. No leaving your horses behind.

At Dutton Chapel Lodge, there's plenty of space for horse trailers, and your horses are welcome to stay alongside you while you settle into your Midwest escape.

With nearly 4,000 square feet of luxury accommodations, Dutton Chapel Lodge offers the perfect balance of adventure and restoration—for riders, families, and friends who believe the best days end with dusty boots and unforgettable memories.

06/17/2026

The road to Dutton has been long, but at last, we have arrived.

We've been here through every season—the changing colors of fall, the quiet stillness of winter, the promise of spring, and the endless days of summer. Each season has carried us one step closer to what Dutton Chapel Lodge was always meant to be.

Nestled in Southern Illinois, Dutton Chapel Lodge offers nearly 4,000 square feet of luxury accommodations, direct access to Big Grand Pierre Creek, a natural swimming pool, hot tub, private fishing pond, and space for new traditions to begin.

The journey here has been filled with hard work, patience, and purpose. Every season has shaped this destination, and every step has been worth it.

Be among the first to experience Dutton Chapel Lodge. Summer 2026 prebookings are now open.

We look forward to welcoming you home.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 "𝟐𝟓" 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐞'𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟓% 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲.