They will gather if you construct it, as the tale goes for the scenic Lake Wildwood in Central Illinois. In the 1960s and 1970s, the rising population attracted developers eager to create new lakeside properties. A pristine lake nestled amidst the vast prairies southwest of Chicago was a coveted retreat for urbanites seeking solace from city life. Thus, a dam was meticulously crafted across the gentle Shaw Creek within a natural lowland, giving rise to Lake Wildwood. Despite sharing the postal code of Varna in Illinois, Lake Wildwood swiftly outpaced the quaint town of Varna, accommodating over 400 households within its expansive 1400 acres. Lake Wildwood is a meticulously planned community governed by a dedicated property owners’ Association overseeing every facet of life at the lake. Serving as a sought-after oasis, the 220-acre lake welcomes all residents and guests, offering two sandy shores with vigilant lifeguards for those without waterfront abodes. Members contribute dues to the Association covering amenities like five boat launch points, an open-air pool, various courts for tennis, volleyball, and basketball, a marina, a golf practice area, a fish cleaning station, scenic hiking trails, and a communal lodge for group events., The allure of Lake Wildwood doesn’t end there – it’s an all-encompassing sports lake where enthusiasts revel in water skiing, tubing, personal watercraft ventures, and leisurely pontooning. Adjacent to this hub lies the serene 18-acre Lake Tanglewood, designated solely for fishing and paddle sports, where only electric motors glide upon its calm waters. Its intimate size often leads to winter ice cover, inviting ice fishing endeavors. Surprisingly, Lake Wildwood boasts a private campground for residents eager to revel in nature near Lake Tanglewood. This feature is highly coveted, with residents eagerly awaiting their turn to savor a few nights under the starry skies, whether within the full-service campground or the more rustic camping locales. In tandem with the rustic ambiance at Lake Wildwood, angling emerges as a beloved pastime. The Association diligently enhances fish habitats and populates the lake based on meticulous surveys. Anglers can pursue an array of fish species, such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, sunfish, bluegill, channel catfish, white bass, bullhead, carp, flathead catfish, hybrid striped bass, muskie, and northern pike. The numerous coves cater to fishing enthusiasts and paddle sports fans, providing a sanctuary from the bustling main lake locale. The marina offers boat slip rentals alongside bait, snacks, and quick provisions. Beyond the fishing realm, residents relish the presence of a three-hole golf practice area for honing their skills and the network of marked trails and undisturbed park spaces ideal for nature lovers. Serene avenues beckon walkers and cyclists, while golf carts offer conveyance for those with mobility limitations around the neighborhoods. An abundance of trees and vast undeveloped expanses transform Lake Wildwood into a natural wildlife haven. Inhabitants often catch glimpses of wild turkeys, foxes, hawks, pheasants, deer, owls, geese, ducks, blue herons, bluebirds, raccoons, coyotes, and other indigenous creatures. Flourishing wildflowers and mushrooms lend a colorful touch, with the National Audubon Society even conducting annual bird counts at Lake Wildwood with rare bird sightings, including majestic eagles., The community spirit thrives at Lake Wildwood through seasonal gatherings orchestrated by the Association, encompassing Easter egg hunts, picnics, fishing competitions, 4th of July fireworks, dances, swim soirees, potlucks, Christmas celebrations, and fish fries. Arrowhead Lodge is the hub for Association events and is also available for exclusive member festivities. With a plethora of amenities at hand, departing Lake Wildwood seems incomprehensible. Yet, residents occasionally venture to historic Henry on the Illinois River for nostalgic ice cream socials, to Peoria for the lively Waterfront Festival, or a chance at the riverboat casino. A cluster of charming towns within a 15-mile radius offers golfing facilities, movie theaters, dining establishments, and festive events. The vicinity is dotted with farm markets and antique outlets. The residents of Lake Wildwood represent a mix of temporary and year-round inhabitants. Merely a short drive southwest of Chicago, Lake Wildwood is an idyllic weekend retreat coveted by many as a serene retirement haven. Permanent residents find solace in the myriad recreational options dotting the nearby surroundings. Water enthusiasts revel in boating adventures along the Illinois River, with convenient public launch sites at Lacon a mere 15 minutes away. Public docks in Peoria and Henry provide easy river town access for boaters, while further upstream, the breathtaking sandstone cliffs of Starved Rock near Utica offer unparalleled photo opportunities. Starved Rock State Park entices hikers and nature enthusiasts with its captivating geology and unique landscapes sculpted by glaciers and streams. Scenic waterfalls and 18 canyons carved into the sandstone bluffs draw visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Marshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, close to Lake Wildwood, beckons birdwatchers and seasonal hunters, boasting acres of Illinois backwater habitats and well-facilitated campgrounds. Finding vacation lodging at Lake Wildwood proves challenging, with sporadic availability of private cottages for seasonal rentals. Real estate transactions are more prevalent, including existing residences and undeveloped properties. The gated community boasts exclusivity without any public access, allowing entry solely to guests of property owners. Those fortunate enough to secure an invitation often peruse real estate listings, captivated by Lake Wildwood’s allure as the perfect sanctuary away from home. To truly comprehend its enchantment, one must experience Lakewood firsthand!