Enjoy a Cozy Family Holiday Retreat at This Hidden Northern Illinois Lodge

If you've been looking for the perfect place to celebrate the holidays with your extended family, check out the gorgeous Log Lodge at Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center in Pecatonica, Illinois.

What Is the Torstenson Youth Education and Conservation Center?

I've live in Pecatonica for over three years now, but I'm still learning new things about this small village every day. Of all the people I've met and charming places I've discovered, the Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center might be my favorite.

The Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center is run by the Illinois Conservation Foundation and spans 750 acres just outside of the village along the Pecatonica River. The land features an education center/building, a shooting range complex, a fishing pond, a mobile learning station, and SO many beautiful sights to explore.

My daughters' school often utilizes this property for field trips and large gatherings, and it is such a cool place to visit. Today I met my youngest daughter's class at Torstenson Center for a Thanksgiving feast and it dawned on me that the Log Lodge at  Torstenson would be an amazing place to stay with my very large extended family for the holidays!

Here's some pics I took of Torstenson's Log Lodge that last time I was out there to prove how cool this place is...

Sure, it looks awesome from the outside, but I was floored once I stepped inside. (How could I not know that this place existed so close to home?!?!)

Torstenson Lodge Rentals

This beautiful 11,500 square-foot lodge is right on the water, surrounded by a camping area and hiking trails, and features a full kitchen (and several other meal-prepping areas), a massive family room with a double-facing fireplace, a dining room/conference area, a game room, a covered outdoor patio/grill space, 4 bathrooms, 5 bedrooms, and 19 beds!

Can't you just see your family enjoying a cozy Christmas celebration here?!?

To find out more about renting the Torstenson Lodge, (and to see more pictures), just click here.

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