Lake Wildwood Association logo
Directions & Visitor Arrival

Find your way to Lake Wildwood.

Navigate to the staffed main gate, avoid common GPS confusion, and know what to expect when you arrive.

  • Main Gate Visitor entrance
  • Route 89 Three miles west
  • 965 N County road turn
  • 24/7 Staffed main gate
Plan Your Arrival

Visitors should use the main gate.

Enter the Association Office address into your GPS and confirm that your route ends at the main gate on Lake Wildwood Drive. Visitors should not use the Southwest Access back gate off Access Road.

Before You Drive

Double-check your GPS route.

Some navigation apps may direct visitors to Southwest Access, also known as the back gate. Your route should approach the main gate from County Road 965 N, three miles west of Route 89.

A Smoother Visit

Three things to know before arrival.

Use the Office Address

Use 1000 Lake Wildwood Drive, Varna, Illinois 61375 as your destination.

Check In at Security

Be ready to provide the member name, lot number, and any other information requested at the gate.

Allow Extra Time

Weekends, holidays, community events, and poor weather can add time to travel and guest entry.

From Route 89

Watch for County Road 965 N.

These photos show the turn from Route 89 and the entrance road leading toward Lake Wildwood’s main gate.

View while traveling north on Route 89 at County Road 965 N
Headed North on Route 89 Turn left onto County Road 965 N.
View while traveling south on Route 89 at County Road 965 N
Headed South on Route 89 Turn right onto County Road 965 N.
Entrance to County Road 965 N toward Lake Wildwood
Entrance to County Road 965 N The main gate is three miles down the road.
Guest Entry

Prepare before leaving home.

For Visitors

A little preparation makes entry easier, especially during peak lake season and community events.

  • Confirm the member name and lot number before arriving.
  • Use the main gate, not Southwest Access.
  • Have identification ready if requested by Security.
  • Follow all posted signs and gate instructions.
  • Drive slowly and watch for pedestrians, golf carts, wildlife, and other vehicles.

For Members Hosting Guests

Give guests the details they need before they begin their trip.

  • Send the Association Office address.
  • Remind guests to use the main gate.
  • Provide your name and lot number exactly as Security should receive it.
  • Use the proper guest form or call-in process when required.
  • Suggest extra travel time on busy weekends and holidays.
Community Map

Explore Lake Wildwood.

Blue markers show points of interest throughout the community. Use this map for general orientation after you arrive and follow posted signs while driving.

Once You Arrive

Travel safely around the community.

Finding Amenities

Use the community map and posted signage to find beaches, launches, trails, the pool, lodge, marina, and other amenities.

Drive Carefully

Watch for residents, walkers, golf carts, children, wildlife, and seasonal traffic on community roads.

Check Conditions

Weather can affect roads and arrival times. Check current conditions before leaving, especially in winter.

Winter Travel

Check Illinois road conditions.

The Illinois Department of Transportation map provides current winter road conditions reported by snowplow operators. Zoom into an area to look for blue camera icons with real-time roadway snapshots.

Ready to Visit?

Set your destination for the main gate.

Use 1000 Lake Wildwood Drive, Varna, Illinois 61375 and confirm that your route approaches from County Road 965 N.