The Oaks at Kiser Lake: Where History Meets New Beginnings

Rooted in History, Built for Celebration
Just beyond the wooded edge of Kiser Lake State Park lies a hidden gem that’s quickly becoming one of Champaign County’s most beloved destinations. With 117 acres of rolling hills, peaceful ponds, and towering pines, The Oaks at Kiser Lake offers more than just a stunning setting—it’s a place where memories are made, traditions are honored, and love stories begin.

Owners Ashley and Brandon James first visited the property in 2022 and instantly felt a connection. “We immediately fell in love with it,” Ashley recalls. “We saw so much potential and felt a deep connection to the land and its history.” After purchasing the property that June, the couple dove into renovations, determined to preserve its natural beauty and rich legacy while transforming it into a modern venue designed for unforgettable events.

Long before weddings and weekend retreats, the property was known as Camp Shawano, a Camp Fire Girls summer camp established in the 1940s. The land was purchased from John Kiser—who also donated land for nearby Kiser Lake State Park—and became a cherished summer haven. The centerpiece was the Jim Davis Lodge, a grand barn with a stone ​fireplace added in 1951, still bearing the original “Camp Shawano” name in its stonework.

​In 1996, the camp was purchased by Dean and Shirley Vance, along with their daughter Julie and son-in-law Tim Driskill. They reimagined the space as the Higher Ground Family Retreat Center and spent 25 years welcoming campers, youth groups, and families, creating a new generation of memories

Now, as The Oaks at Kiser Lake, the property has entered a new era—one centered around connection, joy, and celebration. The first wedding was held in March 2024, and the venue has since hosted families, couples, and groups looking for a truly meaningful place to gather.

Rustic Charm with Modern Comforts
The Oaks offers a variety of customizable event packages, from single-day celebrations to full three-day wedding weekends with overnight accommodations. Couples can choose from three breathtaking outdoor ceremony sites: a dock overlooking a peaceful pond, a secluded pine grove, or an open hayfield framed by evergreens. A vintage hay wagon provides charming shuttle service to and from each location.

The Venue Lodge, once a working sheep barn from the 1800s, has been transformed into a warm and welcoming indoor space. It includes a vaulted wood-ceiling ceremony hall with grand chandeliers, a rustic reception hall, a bar space, modern restrooms, and an expansive prep kitchen. The bridal suite offers hair and makeup stations, a private bath, kitchenette, and cozy lounge area, while the groom’s room includes a pool table, bar, and changing space—ensuring everyone has room to relax and prepare.

Overnight lodging is available in a variety of spaces, including two renovated guest houses and nine restored cabins, three of which offer deluxe accommodations. Whether staying for one night or a full weekend, guests can enjoy wooded trails, fishing ponds, volleyball and basketball courts, a playground, and—perhaps most charming of all—Ash and Coco, the resident Highland cows who never fail to delight wedding guests.

They’re supported by a trusted team of family and friends, including parking attendants, day-of-event assistants, and Ashley’s sister Stephanie, who handles everything from bridal expos to hands-on event support.

The venue includes many thoughtful amenities: linens and chair covers, a fully stocked décor closet, shuttle service, yard games, and access to the grounds for engagement photo shoots. Clients are welcome to choose their own vendors for catering, photography, and entertainment, and the team is always happy to offer recommendations.

​Looking ahead, the James family plans to expand overnight options with luxury glamping tents placed on original concrete pads from the Camp Shawano era. With views of Kiser Lake and surrounding woodland, these future additions will offer guests a unique and memorable way to experience the property.

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“The Oaks at Kiser Lake is one of a kind—just like every wedding and event we host,” Ashley says. “Whether it's a simple elopement or a full weekend celebration, we go above and beyond to make it special.”

Tours are available by appointment, and Ashley and Brandon would love to welcome you for a walk through the property. Whether you're planning a wedding, reunion, corporate retreat, or family celebration, The Oaks is a place where history is honored and new stories begin.

To learn more, visit www.oaksatkiserlake.com, connect on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, or call or text 937-244-9545.

Take the road less traveled—you just might find the perfect place to celebrate your next chapter.