Spotlight on Local Business: Little Village Retreat

Nestled in the scenic heart of Southern Utah, just minutes from the breathtaking Zion National Park, Little Village Retreat offers a unique escape for outdoor enthusiasts who crave adventure with a touch of comfort. Owner Diane Bealer, along with her family, has created a special place for travelers to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing modern luxuries.

Diane’s journey—from childhood camping trips to running a retreat—reflects her deep-rooted passion for the outdoors, community, and family. Growing up in a large family where camping in big tents was the norm, she developed a lifelong love for nature but always dreamed of a more comfortable experience. With help from her husband and six children, Diane turned this vision into reality, building Little Village Retreat from the ground up with care and dedication.

The Dream Behind the Name

The name “Little Village Retreat” captures Diane’s vision of a cozy village where guests can find solitude and reconnect with nature. The retreat currently features four secluded glamping units, each providing the privacy and tranquility that larger resorts often lack. Diane’s dream is to eventually expand into a small village, complete with additional rental units, a general store, and perhaps a quaint restaurant.

Conveniently located just a short drive from Zion National Park, the retreat is ideal for those who love hiking and value a comfortable, private retreat after a day of exploration. It’s perfect for introverts and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more intimate experience, away from the hustle and bustle of traditional lodging.

Unique Offerings

At Little Village Retreat, guests enjoy the best of both worlds: the thrill of nature with the comforts of home. Each unit offers a luxury camping experience with comfortable beds, heated mattress pads, and private bathrooms. Guests can soak in the fresh air, marvel at the stunning landscapes, and experience the essence of camping—all while resting in cozy, well-appointed spaces.

“We focus on making sure our guests feel like they’re the only ones here,” Diane shares. “Many glamping resorts offer communal spaces and a high number of units, but privacy is a huge part of what sets us apart.” This seclusion allows guests to fully relax and unwind after a busy day in the national park.

A True Family Business

Running Little Village Retreat is truly a family effort. Diane, her husband, and their six children handle everything, from managing bookings to maintaining the property. This labor of love has brought the family closer and taught them valuable skills. Diane’s husband, a former handyman, takes care of much of the maintenance, while Diane is deeply involved in every aspect of the business, even taking on projects like refinishing furniture for the glamping units.

Giving Back to the Community

Community is central to Diane’s story. Living in a small town, she has seen people come together to help one another, a spirit she brings into her business. Little Village Retreat regularly supports causes Diane believes in, such as providing free stays for families who have experienced loss, in partnership with organizations like Simply America. The retreat also offers a 20% discount to military groups, honoring their service and sacrifice for those booking multiple units.

Diane is active in local business networks, such as the Cedar City Small Business Networking Group, and recently completed a six-month program at the Cedar City Innovation Center, where she learned valuable lessons about running a small business.

A Perfect Escape for Nature Lovers

Nature lovers are at the heart of Little Village Retreat’s guest community, and Diane couldn’t be happier. “Nature lovers are some of the best customers in the world,” she says. “They’re already happy just being in nature, and we strive to go the extra mile to make their stay even more special.” To enhance guests’ experiences, Diane and her team greet those celebrating special occasions with fresh flowers, chocolates, and flameless candles to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Despite the many modern comforts, the retreat preserves the essence of camping. As Diane puts it, “It’s still camping, but it’s the best kind of camping.”

Looking Ahead

With two successful seasons under their belt, Diane has big plans for the future of Little Village Retreat. Expanding the “little village” concept remains a long-term goal, but for now, the focus is on refining the guest experience. With plans to enhance their marketing and continue offering personalized touches, Diane is excited for what the future holds.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, luxurious getaway with stunning views and easy access to some of Utah’s most famous natural landmarks, Little Village Retreat is the perfect place to experience nature at its finest—without giving up the comforts of home.

Website: littlevillageretreat.com