Jon never planned to run a campground. But after retiring from teaching Spanish, he began slowly shaping the 37 acres around his home in Pomona, southern Illinois — clearing trails, planting trees, and converting a grain bin into a social hub now known as the “GrainZebo.” In 2017, he opened Wine Trail Wilderness to campers. Today, it’s become a peaceful retreat for visitors exploring the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail; a place where people come for the wine but stay for the quiet, the wildflowers, and the space to unplug. Stories like Jon’s remind us that you don’t need a big plan to start, just the land, the will, and the welcome. Thinking of hosting? Comment Host and we’ll DM you details & a bonus link to this camp! #host #hipcamp #camping #hostwithhipcamp