Sankoty Lakes, a wilderness resort and retreat in Spring Bay, has begun taking reservations and expects to be open to the public for lodging by April 1. Developed by central Illinois-born, California-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Kim Blickenstaff of KDB Group, the long-awaited, 220-acre project ran into delays over the past year with a once-in-a-century pandemic and the property’s unique regulatory requirements. With those hurdles overcome, the public can now enjoy its many amenities—including three large fishing and boating lakes, a mile-long trout stream, Illinois River frontage, 20 luxury “glamping” tents, 20 RV sites, and a pair of cabins.

In addition to overnight lodging, Sankoty will offer day passes for fishing, guided hunting expeditions, canoe and kayak rental, beach and cabana access, and birdwatching tours—plus much more with time. The resort’s “Woolly Bugger” restaurant—named after an artificial lure used in fly fishing—will soon welcome customers inside the Sankoty Pavilion. Travis Mohlenbrink, whose Spice Hospitality Group operates well-known local eateries Thyme, Sugar, Cayenne, Cracked Pepper and Industry Brewing Co., is consulting on the restaurant. Learn more at sankotylakes.com. PM