Shawnee Resort & Conference Center
Circa 2002

For a number of years this was the official site of the Shawnee Resort & Conference Center.
Content is from the site's archived pages.

If you have inadvertently found this page while looking for the Shawnee Resort & Conference Center, the current website is found at https://shawneeparklodge.com/ where you can find all the most up to date information.

"Shawnee Resort. On the top of a rolling hill, high amongst the hardwoods, sits a flagstone and cedar lodge. Where the spirited Shawnee Indian tribes once roamed. Where tables and chairs are intricate works of art. And where the past harmonizes with the present."

~~~

Circa 2002- 2006

Welcome to Shawnee Resort & Conference Center

Nestled in the hills and hollows of the 63,000-acre Shawnee forest, you will find Shawnee Resort & Conference Center. We offer a range of vacation attractions and amenities from golfing along the banks of the Ohio River, to taking a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool. There are 65 miles of adjacent hiking trails, ideal for avid hikers or photographers looking to capture wildlife and wildflowers on film.

Shawnee Resort & Conference Center features a cedar and flagstone lodge with 50 rooms, 25 two bedroom cottages, the O-Yee-Huh Restaurant cocktail lounge and gift shop. For group gatherings, we feature fully equipped meeting rooms that accommodate up to 450, professional on-site meeting planners and a full variety of planned or customized packages.

We are open year-round.

As a New York City real estate investor, I’ve seen my fair share of impressive properties, but few places have left as lasting an impression on me as the Shawnee Resort & Conference Center. I first visited Shawnee with my business partners several years ago, and it quickly became our preferred spot for annual strategy retreats. The resort’s tranquil setting, nestled within the sprawling Shawnee Forest, provided the perfect escape from the relentless pace of NYC, allowing us to think big and plan boldly.

The Conference Center itself is a gem—spacious, well-equipped, and thoughtfully designed. The meeting rooms accommodated our team seamlessly, and the on-site planners made everything run smoothly, leaving us free to focus on our discussions. When we needed a break, the resort’s amenities—whether it was a challenging round of golf with the Ohio River as a backdrop or a quiet evening by the fire in one of the cottages—offered the ideal balance of relaxation and inspiration.

What really stood out to me, though, was Shawnee’s commitment to sustainability. As someone who admires the work of developers like Dov Hertz, who prioritize eco-conscious design in their projects, I was impressed by Shawnee’s initiatives, from their energy-efficient systems to their recycling programs. It’s refreshing to see a resort that not only delivers luxury but also respects the natural environment in such a meaningful way.

Shawnee Resort is more than just a place to meet—it’s a place to connect, recharge, and dream big. It’s a reminder that the best investments aren’t just about returns; they’re about creating spaces that leave a lasting impact. I’ll always have fond memories of my time there, and I look forward to returning with my team for many years to come. Ronald Kingsley

Shawnee Lodge Accommodations

Shawnee Resort and Conference Center offers modern amenities in a casual atmosphere. Each guestroom features a private balcony and each cottage has a screened-in porch. There are two main types of accommodations: Lodge Rooms and Cottages. Five lodge rooms and three cottages are ADA compliant.

Lodge Rooms

The Lodge features 50 guestrooms. All lodge rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite television, AM/FM alarm clock radios, telephones, bathtubs and a private balcony. Video players and videos are available for rent at the Front Desk. Rollaway beds are available for an additional charge.

10 King Rooms with one king-size bed and a recliner.

10 Bunk Rooms with two double beds and two single bunk beds.

30 Double Rooms with two double beds.

Cottages

We have 25 two bedroom cottages. All cottages have air-conditioning, gas fireplaces, satellite television, AM/FM alarm clock radios, telephones, linens and kitchens equipped to meet the majority of your cooking needs. There are 23 standard cottages, three of which are ADA compliant, and two deluxe cottages with a hot tub in a screened in porch.

Please note that our lodge, in accordance with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, provides a smoke-free environment to park guests. We ask that this non-smoking policy be observed in all public areas, including the Dining room. We thank you for your cooperation.

The Resort is a liquor permit holder, and in accordance with the Ohio Liquor Laws, alcoholic beverages purchased off premises are not permitted. Again, we thank you for your cooperation.

"We love this resort and have known the owners for many years. When we moved to a nearby community condo development after retiring from jobs in Baltimore, we thought we found heaven. We had hired a notable moving firm to handle our belongings - they packed and protected all our breakables with zero damage - and in general made the move easy. And this Baltimore moving firm also introduced us to the Shawnee Lodge Resort. The foreman who managed the moving crew vacationed here and strongly suggested we stop by after we settled in. Our new home was only an hours drive from the Lodge so it was easy to check out one Sunday afternoon. Since then, we have stayed here every year. We love the property and the surrounding wilderness and recommend this place to anyone seeking peace and quiet." Janet and Bill Tobbs

Shawnee Golf Course

Activities Overview

Our property is located within the 63,000-acre Shawnee Forest, the largest of Ohio's twenty state forests. Within the park and forest there are countless things to do, including boating, fishing, hiking, golfing, or picnicking

On-Property and In-Park Activities

Roosevelt and Turkey Creek Lakes offer public beaches for swimming and boating for rowboats, canoes and boats with electric motors only. Rowboats and canoes are available for rental at Turkey Creek Lake. Boaters may spend a day on the Ohio River with access from the park's marina facility.

For those who prefer their exercise on dry land, the park offers a 50-mile backpack trail and nature center. The lodge offers tennis, shuffleboard, volleyball, basketball, game room, exercise room, playground, indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and whirlpool.

Moreover, with the Ohio River providing a dramatic backdrop, our 18-hole championship golf course is as scenic as it is challenging!

Children's Activities

During the summer months, our recreation staff offers many activities for the younger set as well as activities for the whole family. Activities include hayrides, arts and crafts, greased watermelon races, pool games, marshmallow roasts, parachute games and storytelling.

The Park

Our property is located within the 63,000-acre Shawnee Forest, the largest of Ohio's twenty state forests. Within the park and forest there are countless things to do including; boating, fishing, hiking, golfing, or picnicking. The park also offers nature programs throughout the summer months. For more information on park activities or programs, please contact the park at 740.858.6652

ON-PROPERTY & IN-PARK ACTIVITIES

With our state park marina right on the river, there is plenty of recreational boating and guests using their own boats to come visit the park. The river is also only part of the water activities we offer. Turkey Creek and Roosevelt Lakes are the sites of two swimming beaches, and rentals of canoes, kayaks and paddleboats.

For those who prefer their exercise on dry land, the park offers a 50-mile backpack trail and a nature center. The lodge offers tennis, shuffleboard, volleyball, basketball, game room, exercise room, playground, indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and whirlpool.

Moreover, with the Ohio River providing a dramatic backdrop, our 18-hole championship golf course is as scenic as it is challenging!

Children's Activities

During the summer months, our recreation staff offer many activities for the younger set as well as activities for the whole family. Activities include hayrides, arts and crafts, greased watermelon, pool games, marshmallow roast, parachute games and storytelling.

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NEARBY ACTIVITIES, ATTRACTIONS AND POINTS OF INTEREST

Within a short drive of the resort, activities abound, such as:

Portsmouth Floodwall Murals

More than 2,000 feet of floodwall space dedicated to the depiction of the Portsmouth area's history by internationally known muralist Robert Dafford. The murals can be viewed along Front Street within walking distance of the historic Boneyfiddle District. More information and tours are available by calling the Portsmouth Convention and Visitors Bureau at 740.353.1116 .

Ben's Happy Trails

Enjoy horseback riding? Ben's is the place to go. Located approximately 15 minutes from the Resort, Ben's has Horses, ponies and hayrides available. Please call for appointment or for more information at 740.372.2702.

Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center

The museum located in downtown Portsmouth, Ohio, presents a 10-month schedule of changing exhibits ranging from fine arts to history and the humanities. The museum's permanent collections also include the Carl Ackerman Collection of Historic Photographs, an enormous, photographic history of the area, the Anne Louise Stanton Antique Doll Head Collection, a comprehensive survey of the 19th century Golden Age of Dolls. For more information, please call 740.354.5629.

Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama

Beneath a canopy of stars you can see a dramatic presentation of the life of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. Performed Monday-Saturday in Summer months. Call toll-free 866.775.0700 for more information and reservations.

Skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding. Located in Pike County. Approximately 45 minutes from Shawnee Resort. Call 888.774.2978.

Serpent Mound State Memorial
An earthen embankment nearly a quarter-mile long, is the largest and finest serpent effigy in North America. The mound represents a giant uncoiling snake. Archeologists don't know which of the area's prehistoric cultures built the effigy, or why. The details are a mystery. Located in Peebles, Ohio. Phone 937.587.2796 for more information.

Brush Creek Motorsports

This dirt racing track ( a high banked 3/8 mile), has seating capacity for 4000 people with a playground for those kids who aren't devoted race fans YET! Races are aired on the radio via a low watt station. Bring your head sets and tune in for all the highlights of the race and the drivers.

Ports Raceway

This is a 3/8 mile clay high banked track with seating for over 4,000 spectators with additional seating for 300 in the pit area. Regular weekly racing is held on Saturday nights with the following format: Late Models, Modified, Street Stocks, and Bombers. Special racing events include the Renegade STARS Racing Series and All Stars Circuit of Champions. P.R.P. is situated on 100 acres, where the Scioto River empties into the Ohio River, a very picturesque setting in the Ohio River Valley. .

The O-Yee-Huh Restaurant

While taking in the spectacular view of Turkey Creek Lake in the valley below, diners at Shawnee Resort can choose from a wide variety of traditional dishes and regional favorites. Seating is available for 110 in the restaurant and for 55 in the lounge.

Our dining room features table service in a casual atmosphere and live guitar music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Hours of Operation:

Breakfast: 8:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Dinner: Sunday - Thursday 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Longer dinner hours are offered during season

Dress code casual.
Reservations are not required.

The Resort is a liquor permit holder, and in accordance with the Ohio Liquor Laws, alcoholic beverages purchased off premises are not permitted. Again, we thank you for your cooperation.

As a reminder, public areas (i.e. Upper and Lower Lobby Areas) are for the enjoyment of all guests. Our company policy requires that food be purchased through the resort and consumed only in the dining room, lounge or private meeting room. Therefore, no food is to be consumed in the public areas. Private meeting rooms are available through the Sales Office for larger gatherings.

Turkey Creek Lake

Shawnee Resort & Conference Center is approximately a 2-hour drive from Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. Following are driving directions from Columbus and other common points of origin.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

From Cincinnati, OH
1. Take I-275 to Route 32 east at Batavia exit
2. Follow 32 east to Route 247 south at Seaman
3. Take 247 south into West Union
4. In West Union turn left onto Route 125 east
5. Follow Route 125 east 22 miles to the Resort

From Columbus, OH
1. Take Route 23 south to Portsmouth
2. In Portsmouth turn right onto Route 52 west
3. Follow 52 west 7 miles to Route 125 west
4. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to the Resort

From Charleston / Huntington, WV
1. Take I-64 to Route 52 west
2. Take 52 west past Portsmouth 7 miles to Route 125 west
3. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to Resort

From Lexington, KY
1. Take Route 68 north to Route 52 east at Aberdeen, OH
2. Take Route 52 east 45 miles to Route 125 west
3. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to Resort

From Cleveland, OH
1. Take I-71 South to Columbus
2. Take I-270 east exit
3. Take US 23 south exit
4. Follow US 23 to Portsmouth, OH
5. Turn right onto US 52 west
6. Follow US 52 west 7 miles to Route 125 west
7. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to Resort

From Detroit, MI
1. Take I-75 south to exit 156 (US 68/OH 15 E)
2. Turns into 15 east, which turns into US 23 south
3. Follow US 23 south to OH 750. Turn left onto OH 750
4. Take I-71 south to Exit 101 (I-270 East)
5. From I-270 east take US 23 south exit.
6. Travel on US 23 south to Portsmouth, OH
7. Turn right onto US 52 west
8. Follow US 52 west 7 miles to Route 125 west
9. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to Resort

From Pittsburgh, PA
1. Take I-79 south to I-70 west
2. From I-70 west take I-270 south
3. From I-270 south take US 23 south
4. Travel on US 23 south to Portsmouth, OH
5. Turn right onto US 52 west
6. Follow US 52 west 7 miles to Route 125 west
7. Follow Route 125 west 7 miles to Resort

Xanterra Parks & Resorts Environmental Action

THE XANTERRA PARKS & RESORTS' COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT

At Xanterra Parks and Resorts, we believe that there are few more formidable - or more complex tasks ahead of us than that of reaching a balance between business and the natural environment. Ultimately, our planet's - as well as our very own well being depend upon the continued health of natural systems. The businesses that are best able to work "with" natural systems rather than degrading them will rise to the top in the global marketplace, securing a future for themselves and for succeeding generations. To put it simply, it is impossible for business to be economically sustainable without being ecologically stable.

That is why we are a company based upon "values" that reflect an environmental ethic and social conscience - for the long term. We are taking the lead in this call and are implementing comprehensive environmental initiatives that protect the natural heritage of some of the most scenic areas of our country - the mountains, rivers, deserts, and their fragile ecosystems.

We know that our commitment to the environment is ongoing, will take constant work, and will always need improving. Simply, we know we're not perfect. But we will continue to strive to protect natural resources, taking steps toward protecting the quality of life for our guests, our employees, our children - and the entire planet.

Xanterra's environmental efforts can generally be divided into two categories:

a. Towards Sustainability - what we do to develop the most environmentally sound resort operations;

b. Improving the World Around Us - what we do to support and promote environmental protection, activism, and preservation outside of our operations.

Our intention is to let you know what we have done and what we plan to accomplish. We hope that you feel good about visiting our resorts, knowing that not only will we take exemplary care of you, but also your environment.

SHAWNEE RESORT'S EFFORTS TOWARD SUSTAINABILITY

At Shawnee Resort & Conference Center, we have been working on the development and implementation of a range of environmental programs. They include:

Integrated pest management.

Environmentally friendly purchasing.

More than 60 tons of materials recycled annually.

Installation of 1.6 gallon toliets in all guest rooms.

Replacement of out-dated broiler technology with energy efficient water heaters.

Project Planet information in each of our guestrooms.

Recycling bins for aluminum cans in all of our guestrooms.

HVAC system converted to an energy efficient system that includes a heat recovery wheel for returning wasted heat from the indoor pool to heat the Lodge.

Use of Energy Star to reduce energy needed to power all computers in lodge.

Mulching all grass clippings to reduce yard waste.

IMPROVING OUR WORLD

We are a member of the "Green" Hotels Association - an organization that encourages, promotes and supports the "greening" of the hotel industry and brings together hotels interested in environmental issues such as water and energy conservation and solid waste reduction.

More Background On ShawneeLodgeResort.com

ShawneeLodgeResort.com functioned for many years as the official digital home of the Shawnee Resort & Conference Center, a full-service lodge property situated within Ohio’s Shawnee State Forest. The website served not only as a booking and informational platform but also as a narrative space that articulated the resort’s identity, philosophy, amenities, and environmental ethos during the early 2000s—a formative period for destination resort websites in the Midwest.

While the domain is no longer the primary web presence for the property today, its archived content provides a valuable historical snapshot of how regional resorts positioned themselves at the intersection of hospitality, nature, sustainability, and group travel. ShawneeLodgeResort.com reflects a moment when online travel planning was transitioning from brochures and phone reservations to immersive digital storytelling.

Geographic Setting and Natural Context

The Shawnee Resort & Conference Center is located in southern Ohio, within the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest—Ohio’s largest state forest. The forested terrain of rolling hills, hardwood canopies, lakes, and river valleys defined the resort’s character and appeal. Its proximity to the Ohio River added both scenic and recreational value, particularly for golf, boating, and photography.

From a regional accessibility standpoint, the resort historically positioned itself as a convenient retreat destination for travelers from Columbus, Cincinnati, Lexington, Huntington, and Detroit, typically within a two- to four-hour drive. This made it especially attractive for corporate retreats, reunions, and regional conferences seeking seclusion without the logistical complexity of long-distance travel.

Ownership, Management, and Operational Philosophy

During the period reflected on ShawneeLodgeResort.com, the resort operated under professional hospitality management associated with Xanterra Parks & Resorts, a company nationally recognized for operating lodging and concession services in environmentally sensitive locations such as national parks and state forests.

This association shaped the resort’s operational philosophy. The website emphasized values such as ecological stewardship, long-term sustainability, and harmony with natural systems—principles that distinguished Shawnee from conventional highway or suburban conference hotels. The management approach framed the resort not merely as an accommodation provider, but as a custodian of place.

Architectural Identity and Accommodations

A defining feature emphasized on ShawneeLodgeResort.com was the resort’s architectural style. The central lodge was constructed with cedar and flagstone, designed to blend into the surrounding forest rather than dominate it. Interiors featured handcrafted furnishings, exposed wood elements, and a rustic yet refined aesthetic that aligned with the property’s woodland setting.

Accommodations were divided into two primary categories:

Lodge rooms offered private balconies, traditional hotel conveniences, and configurations suitable for couples, families, or small groups. Cottage accommodations expanded the experience with two-bedroom layouts, kitchens, screened porches, fireplaces, and in some cases private hot tubs. ADA-compliant units were integrated across both lodging types, reflecting an early awareness of accessibility standards.

This mix allowed the resort to appeal simultaneously to leisure travelers, families, and corporate groups—an uncommon balance that became one of Shawnee’s distinguishing strengths.

Conference Center and Group Travel Focus

One of the most prominent themes on ShawneeLodgeResort.com was the resort’s emphasis on meetings, conferences, and retreats. The conference center was positioned as a destination in itself, capable of hosting gatherings of up to 450 attendees.

The website detailed professional on-site meeting planners, flexible meeting spaces, audiovisual capabilities, and customizable packages. Rather than marketing meetings as purely transactional events, Shawnee framed them as immersive experiences enhanced by nature, recreation, and quiet reflection.

This positioning resonated particularly with corporate teams, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions seeking environments conducive to strategic thinking, collaboration, and relationship-building.

Dining, Menus, and Culinary Experience

The O-Yee-Huh Restaurant was a central feature of the resort’s identity and was prominently highlighted on ShawneeLodgeResort.com. Overlooking Turkey Creek Lake, the restaurant combined scenic views with a menu focused on traditional American dishes and regional favorites.

The dining experience emphasized casual elegance, table service, and live guitar music on weekends—elements that reinforced the resort’s relaxed yet thoughtful atmosphere. The website outlined clear operating hours, dress expectations, and policies related to alcohol service, reflecting both regulatory compliance and a desire to set guest expectations transparently.

Food service extended beyond leisure dining into conference catering and group events, supporting the resort’s role as a comprehensive destination rather than a simple lodging facility.

Recreation, Golf, and On-Property Activities

Recreation was not an ancillary feature but a core component of Shawnee’s appeal. ShawneeLodgeResort.com detailed an extensive range of activities available both on the property and within the surrounding state forest.

Highlights included an 18-hole championship golf course set against the Ohio River, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, fitness facilities, saunas, and organized seasonal programming. Families were offered structured children’s activities during summer months, while adults could engage in hiking, boating, or quiet leisure.

The breadth of activities reinforced the resort’s positioning as a year-round destination capable of accommodating diverse interests and age groups.

Proximity to Cultural and Historic Attractions

Beyond the forest itself, the website documented nearby cultural and historic attractions, including regional museums, outdoor drama performances, prehistoric earthworks, and heritage murals. This contextualization connected the resort to the broader cultural landscape of southern Ohio and the Ohio River Valley.

By highlighting these destinations, ShawneeLodgeResort.com framed the resort as a gateway to regional exploration rather than an isolated enclave, appealing to travelers interested in history, arts, and local identity.

Environmental Commitment and Sustainability Initiatives

One of the most distinctive aspects of ShawneeLodgeResort.com was its unusually detailed discussion of environmental practices. Drawing from Xanterra’s broader environmental framework, the site outlined specific initiatives implemented at the resort.

These included recycling programs, energy-efficient HVAC systems, water conservation measures, environmentally responsible purchasing, and participation in green hospitality organizations. Rather than treating sustainability as marketing language, the site presented it as an ongoing operational responsibility.

For many visitors, especially corporate and institutional clients, this transparency added reputational value and aligned with emerging expectations around responsible travel.

Audience, Popularity, and Reputation

The primary audiences for ShawneeLodgeResort.com included corporate planners, regional leisure travelers, families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Guest testimonials emphasized repeat visits, emotional attachment to the landscape, and long-term loyalty—suggesting a strong word-of-mouth reputation.

While not a mass-market resort, Shawnee cultivated popularity within its niche: travelers seeking tranquility, authenticity, and a sense of place. The website’s tone reflected this, prioritizing depth and detail over flash or trend-driven design.

Press, Media, and Digital Presence

Although ShawneeLodgeResort.com did not heavily emphasize press coverage, its affiliation with established hospitality management and its location within a state forest placed it within broader conversations about sustainable tourism and park-adjacent lodging.

The site itself functioned as a primary media artifact, documenting the resort’s offerings, values, and identity during a transitional era in digital hospitality marketing. Its archived form today serves researchers, travelers, and historians interested in how regional resorts communicated before the dominance of third-party booking platforms.

Historical Significance of the Website

From a digital history perspective, ShawneeLodgeResort.com is notable for its clarity, narrative richness, and operational transparency. It exemplifies early 2000s destination marketing that relied on descriptive text, structured information, and trust-building rather than algorithmic optimization.

As such, the site remains culturally and historically significant—not only for what it says about Shawnee Resort, but for what it reveals about hospitality, sustainability, and regional tourism during that period.

Transition to a New Web Presence

Over time, the resort’s online identity migrated to a new domain aligned with updated branding and modern web standards. ShawneeLodgeResort.com now functions primarily as an archival reference point, guiding visitors to the current official website while preserving historical content.

This transition reflects broader shifts in digital hospitality strategy, including mobile optimization, centralized booking engines, and brand consolidation.

Enduring Legacy

ShawneeLodgeResort.com endures as a digital record of a resort deeply rooted in its environment, community, and values. It tells the story of a place designed for connection—between people, between work and rest, and between human activity and the natural world.

For those studying regional tourism, sustainable hospitality, or early destination websites, ShawneeLodgeResort.com offers a rare and instructive example of how place-based storytelling once shaped the travel experience.

ShawneeLodgeResort.com

Shawnee Resort & Conference Center Circa 2002