Ronora Lodge and Retreat Center presents a rare opportunity to acquire an established Southwest Michigan retreat center set on 3 parcels totaling nearly 227 acres of picturesque grounds that includes frontage on a private lake, a meandering stream, fields, forests, hills and wetlands. This is your chance to step in to continue the legacy that began as the Watervliet Camp for Girls in 1934 and evolved into the Ronora Lodge and Retreat Center, and is now ready for its next chapter. Expand the existing concept or create an entirely new vision for this one-of-a-kind property.

The property consists of three total parcels, and these are being listed for sale individually and as a group.

The current retreat center (Parcel A↑) sits on 101 acres and is thoughtfully developed for weddings, private events, family reunions, outdoor adventures, group retreats, celebrations, and other hospitality concepts. The property offers sleeping accommodations for up to 75 guests across approximately five structures in the retreat space. Each cabin and lodge includes a fully equipped kitchen and living space. The main dining hall features a commercial kitchen, event space for large group gatherings, as well as spacious bathrooms with showers for guests that are camping to fully enjoy the property’s natural setting.

The grounds are thoughtfully designed for recreation and outdoor enjoyment, with established areas for horseshoes, basketball, soccer, and sand volleyball. Approximately 1.5 miles of trails wind through the property, providing opportunities for morning hikes, nature walks, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, nature photography, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and exploring the landscape throughout the seasons.

A 1,250-square-foot greenhouse is situated adjacent to approximately 6 acres of open land, offering an opportunity for gardening, crops, or grazing. The agricultural potential of the property could complement the retreat center, with the opportunity to grow fresh produce and incorporate locally grown ingredients into meals prepared in the commercial kitchen for guests.

An additional 76 acres of land (Parcel B↑) sits adjacent to the main retreat parcel as additional acreage, and can also be purchased individually. This is the perfect property to build a home in the country, with land to hike, explore, and hunt. Imagine waking each morning to hike trails through rolling forest beneath a cathedral canopy of maple trees over 200 years old, past wetlands containing orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants, along a meandering creek, or climb to the top of the hill for a great view in the winter months. There are over 1.5 miles of well-maintained hiking trails to enjoy.

Finally, there is also a private cabin on 50 acres (Parcel C↑) that could be utilized for owner/managers quarters or additional retreat lodging as part of the larger parcel, or purchase individually as your dream country getaway.

Tucked away in this intimate cabin in the woods, you would never know you are only minutes from town and M-140. Experience the sunrise while sitting on the dock and watching the property come to life at the start of a new day. Take a hike through the rolling forest or wildflower field—this property has a little bit of everything. The eco-cabin features a beautiful stone fireplace, screened-in porch, and all you need for a weekend getaway.

Depending on an owner’s vision and applicable approvals, the property could support a variety of additional uses, including owner/operator residence, corporate or executive retreats, or a private hunt camp. The possibilities are endless. Explore the individual parcels through the menu above, or reach out to agent Emily Wilke with questions and to view the property.

ABOUT THE AREA

Watervliet, Michigan—whose name translates to “where the waters meet” or “flowing water” in Dutch—is a charming rural farming community nestled in Berrien County along the I-94 corridor.

Moving to Watervliet, Michigan is highly appealing if you want an affordable, small-town lifestyle deeply connected to outdoor recreation and southwest Michigan’s wine country. With a tight-knit population of just over 2,000 residents, it balances rural charm with convenient highway access. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of why you might want to call Watervliet home.

Premium Water & Nature Access

• Paw Paw Lake: Watervliet sits right next to this popular destination. It is highly rated for boating, swimming, water skiing, and summer relaxation.
• The Paw Paw River: Passing directly through the area, the river offers a modern canoe launch and fishing pier right at Hays Park.
• Lake Michigan Beaches: You can reach the pristine shoreline beaches of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph in just a 10-to-15-mile drive.
• Four-Season Recreation: The town features great sledding hills, access to regional snowmobile trails, and local ice fishing.

Strategic Southwest Location

• Short Commutes: Over 43% of working residents enjoy a one-way commute of under 15 minutes. The average commute is a swift 19.4 minutes.
• I-94 Proximity: Interstate 94 runs right by the city. It effortlessly links you to regional job hubs like Kalamazoo and South Bend.
• Easy Major City Access: Chicago is only about 95 miles away. You can reach it in under two hours for weekend trips or airport access.

Small-Town Culture & Community

• Classic Main Street: The downtown district features a traditional Main Street layout. It includes local diners like Local 3 Grill & Tap, specialty markets, and hardware stores.
• Wine Country Living: The surrounding countryside is dotted with scenic vineyards and local tasting rooms, such as Moonrise Winery.
• Family-Focused Events: The town rallies around traditional events. These include the annual Independence Weekend Celebration, complete with parades, carnivals, and fireworks.
• Local Schools: Watervliet Public Schools support the community with strong extracurriculars, competitive robotics, and after-school sports.

See this City of Watervliet’s website for more information: www.watervliet.org

Property Tax

This is a HUGE incentive for the new owner!! Thanks to Public Act 446 passed in 2006, upon transfer of a conservation easement property the property tax remains capped. There will be no “pop-up” to the current SEV.