In addition to the main hotel area, this resort also features four vacation homes, two separate event buildings on the property, and convention and meeting space within the hotel. Oakwood Resort is located a few hours from Chicago, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids and Cincinnati, making it the perfect location for visiting the Midwest.
As for food options, the on-site restauarant and bar, The Pier & Back Porch, serves a delightful steak and seafood menu with many beer and wine accompaniments. The food is good, reasonably priced and often offers specials that will keep you coming back.
The foundation ran into financial trouble in 2008 and was forced to close its doors and the resort was put on the market in 2010. As a Christian resort, no alcohol was served on the premises, so finding new owners who would have to hold to the same clause became quite challenging. The ban on alcohol was tied up in legal proceedings until a court ruling established that pending offers did not have to uphold the religious covenants and ideals for which the property was originally intended.
Now you will find sparkling-clean rooms decorated in tasteful, bold colors with very modern décor. Each room comes equipped with a flat-screen HD television, complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room Keurig coffee and tea service, and a mini fridge, just to name a few highlights.
“Oakwood’s story of revitalization is an important part of who we are,” says General Manager Stacey James. “There’s a strong sense of pride from the community and longtime lake visitors who remember when the resort sat vacant and are excited to see it thriving again.”
Overall, guests will be amazed by how quiet and peaceful their stay will be. Even with the hotel full, you will feel secluded and relaxed. The beds are very comfortable and the lobby has a grand old hotel feel to it. Your check-in will be quick and efficient and then you’ll be on your way to a tranquil weekend. After that, you can sit lakeside in one of the gazebos and enjoy the calming presence of the water.
“Oakwood blends that nostalgic lake-life charm with updated amenities, making it a place where boaters, families, couples, and event guests all feel welcome,” adds Stacey. “It’s a place that feels familiar, even on your first visit.”
The Oakwood Resort offers scenic lake cruises for guests aboard its large, flat-bottom party barge. Outside of special events for large parties or groups, boat tours are available in the summer every Friday and Saturday beginning at 7 pm.
“What surprises people most is just how much there is to do once they arrive,” explains the general manager. “Many guests come expecting a nice lakeside hotel, but they’re often amazed to find on-site dining, live music, lake cruises, marina access, event spaces, and walkable lakefront views all in one place. Oakwood really functions as a destination, not just a place to stay, and that’s something first-time visitors don’t always realize until they experience it.”
The year-round lakeside destination blends classic lake-life charm with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for stay-cations, romantic getaways, family vacations, and group events alike.
“I’d estimate that well over half of our guests are repeat visitors,” concludes Stacey. “Many have been coming to Lake Wawasee — and Oakwood specifically — for years, sometimes even generations. At the same time, we’re seeing a growing number of first-time guests who are discovering us through boating, events, weddings, or live entertainment and quickly become repeat customers themselves.”
If this sounds fun to you, book your weekend at the Oakwood Resort now.
