Heartland Lodge Re-Grand Opening!
A New Era Begins!
Heartland Lodge is excited to announce our Re-Grand Opening, marking a new chapter filled with major upgrades, expanded opportunities, and an even better outdoor and hospitality experience for all our guests. Whether you’re a return guest or first-time visitor, we’ve transformed the Heartland experience to offer more comfort, adventure, and unforgettable moments than ever before.
Re-grand Opening: Coming Fall 2026!
New Events & Activities
We’re rolling out a full calendar of brand-new events for hunters, families, and outdoor lovers. Seasonal gatherings, specialized hunting weekends, training clinics, and more will now be a core part of the Heartland Lodge experience.
New Pro Shop/ Gathering Area Building
Our brand-new building is slated to open Summer 2026! This 3,000 sq ft building will feature a new gathering room with large wood burning fireplace, bar and lounge area- the perfect area to retell stories after the hunt and relax next to the cozy fireplace.
The new pro shop area will feature:
- Expanded clothing and gear selection featuring Sitka, Orvis & other high-quality brands
- Branded apparel- hoodies, pullovers, t-shirts, hats
- Branded merchandise- coffee mugs, wine and bourbon glasses
- Heartland Lodge goose & duck calls
- Artwork and bronze displays
- New hostess desk
Additional Land Leases for Hunting
Expanding hunt-able acreage and offering more diverse high-quality habitat in Pike County.
New Five-Stand Course
Dynamic, fast-paced set up perfect for sharpening shotgun skills before your hunt.
Sporting Clay Course
Designed to simulate real world field situations, offering fun and challenging shooting for every experience level.
New Management Team
Heartland Lodge is now operated under new management. Committed to next level guest satisfaction through open communication, streamlining operations, and delivering a more personalized lodge experience. Expect a smoother booking process, elevated hospitality experience, and a renewed focus on guest comfort from the time you arrive to departure.
Improved Habitat & Conservation Practices
We’ve made significant investments to enhance wildlife habitat across our properties. These improvements include:
- Expanded native grass plantings
- Improved cover and food plots for upland, whitetail and turkey hunters
- Better upland bird management
- Trapping & hunting nest predators in the off season to increase brood survival and boost turkey numbers
- New conservation-minded land practices such as prescribed burning, timber stand improvement, etc.
This means stronger wildlife populations and higher-quality hunts for the upcoming seasons.
New & Upgraded Meals
Our kitchen team has revamped the meal program with:
- New signature dishes
- Better menu variety
- Farm-inspired ingredients
- Enhanced dining experience
Enjoy hearty, home-style meals that match the quality of your outdoor adventure.
Lodging Improvements
Your stay just got more comfortable. We’ve completed upgrades throughout the lodge, including:
- Modernized guest rooms
- Improved bedding & furnishings
- Enhanced common areas
- Updated décor with a warm lodge feel
New Dog Kennels
Your four-legged hunting partners will feel right at home with:
- Newly built, secure dog kennels
- Better climate control
- Clean, comfortable runs
- Wash & prep areas for dogs
New Customizable Hunt Packages
We’re introducing new thermal nighttime predator hunt packages as well as fully customizable hunt packages for upland, whitetail, turkey and waterfowl hunts. Hunt a variety of game species all during one trip! Call for more details- 217-734-2526
Pistol Range
A safe, modern range ideal for both practice and instruction. This range will also feature a lean-to to keep you out of the weather!
New Entryway & Road Upgrades
On your next visit to the lodge, you’ll notice one of the first changes before you exit your vehicle! A wider access road for egress/ ingress. We’ve also sprayed the main road with calcium chloride to reduce dust to a minimum.
New Bird Cleaning Facility
Closer proximity to the main campus and easier access to your birds upon departure.
Lodge Renovations
- Complete remodel of the Sunset Valley Lodge kitchen area.
- Updated rooms and bathrooms in the Prairie Ridge Lodge.
- Renovated the Conference Center with new projector screen (Bluetooth capable), kitchenette and seating area.
- New decor, including several new taxidermy mounts, paintings and more!
Fishing Ponds
We’ve improved the habitat around several of our fishing ponds to be more user-friendly and accessible. Fish for largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill!
New Website
- Simplified navigation to help you find lodging, activities and events quickly
- Streamlined booking with faster, easier reservation tools
- Updated content highlighting our new amenities, packages, and experiences.
Join Us for the Re-Grand Opening!
Come experience all the upgrades, meet the new team, and be among the first to explore the expanded offerings at Heartland Lodge.
Last Updated: December 16th, 2025