If you’re looking for a place to stay while you explore a beautiful landscape, this list of the 11 best cabins in Shawnee National Forest will give you some fantastic options.
Table of Contents
Overview of Best cabins near the Garden of the Gods Illinois
| Persons | Type | Amenities | Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Antique log cabin garden of ihe gods | 6(2bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$ | |
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Hickery hollow log cabin | 4(1bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$ | |
|
Log cabin by Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest | 8(1bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$ | |
|
Carbondale cottage | 6(2bedr) |
Cottage |
|
$$ | |
|
Beautiful Makanda cabin in Shawnee National Forest | 4(2bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$$$$ | |
|
Maple Oak treehouse | 4(1bedr) |
Treehouse |
|
$$ | |
|
Hummingbird road cabin | 4(1bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$ | |
|
Adamsrock cabins | 6(2bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$ | |
|
Rest, Relax and Renew. Serving our guests since 1989. Union Counties first. | 3(1bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$ | |
|
Secluded rental cabin on Southern Illinois Wine Trail, Private Hot Tub | 4(2bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$ | |
|
Secluded, Log Rental Cabin, Private Hot Tub, on Southern Illinois Wine Trail | 6(2bedr) |
Cabin |
|
$$ |
Best cabins near the Garden of the Gods Illinois
The Shawnee National Forest’s Garden of the Gods is one of its most stunning areas.
This breathtaking vantage point will provide you with an unrivaled view of the rest of the area.
It’s notable for its unique sandstone rock formations that were formed over the course of nearly 300 million years. It’s long been a favorite hiking spot for outdoor adventurers.
Antique log cabin garden of the gods
Entire cabin hosted by Elizabeth, Premier Host
- 6 guests, 2 beds, 1 bath
When this listing was named, they weren’t just throwing in fancy buzzwords. The cabin is truly an antique log cabin, dating back to the mid 1800s. The interiors retain their historic charm but are outfitted with modern amenities like plumbing, electricity, and free Wi-Fi.
The cabin includes a small but complete kitchen that is stocked with coffee, cream, sugar, salt, pepper, and all of the dishes and cutlery you’ll need. It also includes basic tools for cooking such as pots and pans.
Firewood and camping chairs are also provided, allowing you to avoid purchasing the supplies elsewhere and lugging them to the cabin.
You can also enjoy time sitting out on the front porch or the tree deck.
Pets are welcome here. There is no additional fee for two pets but you will have to leave a card on file in case of damages.
The cabin is located just minutes away from the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest.
You can spend your full day exploring the wilderness but the cabin is situated close enough that you can stop by for lunch if you prefer.
Rating: 4.7
Extra amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- TV
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
- Pet friendly (free up to two pets, current on shots and must be protected with Flea & Tick medicine)
Conclusion
This antique log cabin dates back to 1852 – truly a unique historic accommodation!
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Hickory Hollow Cabin
Entire cabin hosted by Elizabeth, Premier Host
- 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bath
This beautiful Amish-built log cabin is perfect for a cozy and peaceful retreat. The cabin features a loft with a queen bed and the living room has a futon that converts into a similar sized bed.
You can enjoy use of the kitchen when you stay which includes a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, toaster, and a coffee maker. The host provides free coffee and cream and sugar – they also provide firewood and camp chairs if you’re in the mood for a campfire.
Pets are welcome here. There is no additional fee for two pets but you will have to leave a card on file in case of damages.
This cabin is conveniently located just a few minutes from the famous Garden of the Gods in Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest area, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors. Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow Lake, Burden, and Jackson Falls are all nearby.
Rating: 5
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
- Pet friendly (free up to two pets, current on shots, and must be protected with Flea & Tick medicine)
Conclusion
This cozy and sturdy cabin provides you with a great place to stay as well as some amenities like free coffee and firewood to make your visit less stressful.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Log cabin by Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest
Entire cabin hosted by Elizabeth, Premier Host
- 8 guests, 1 bedroom, 4 beds, 1 bath
This cabin is ideal for larger groups who are traveling together.
There is one bedroom with a double bed and the other beds are located in the loft. It would be a perfect place for a large family so all the kids can stay together in the loft and the adults can have their own space.
The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, toaster, and a coffee maker. The host provides free coffee and cream and sugar. Firewood is also provided so you can enjoy cozy evenings outside around the campfire.
Pet lovers can bring their furry friends. There is no additional fee for the first two pets.
The cabin is close to the previous one in this list. This means that it is just as conveniently located for the famous Garden of the Gods in Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest. Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow Lake, Burden, and Jackson Falls are also all nearby.
This listing is hosted by Premier Host Elizabeth.
Rating: 4.9
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
- Pet friendly (free up to two pets, current on shots, and must be protected with Flea & Tick medicine)
Conclusion
This cabin is great for large groups and families where one pair requires their own private space and the others can share the beds in the loft.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Carbondale Cottage w/ Fire Pit – 3 Mi to SIU!
Entire cabin hosted by Evolve, Premier Host
- 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath
The clean and spacious Carbondale Cottage is a hidden gem in Southern Illinois. It’s within a few miles of Southern Illinois University so if you’re a student hoping to plan a laid-back trip or someone visiting a student, it’s a great choice.
The kitchen comes stocked with free coffee and the tools you’ll need to cook meals. You can opt to prepare your food outside on the charcoal grill as well.
This cottage is pet friendly but you will have to pay a fee. You can bring up to two pets at one time.
The cabin is located near many wineries and breweries as well as Giant City State Park.
Rating: 4.9
Extra amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- TV
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
- Pet-friendly (for an additional fee)
Conclusion
Located near Southern Illinois University, Carbondale Cottage is a great place for a small group to unwind while enjoying the great outdoors.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Beautiful Makanda Cabin in Shawnee National Forest
Entire cabin hosted by Evolve, Premier Host
- 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1.5 baths
“Beautiful” doesn’t do this cabin justice – it’s perched atop a hillside allowing for gorgeous views of the area, and the deck is outfitted with cozy chairs and decorated with plants, making the ideal spot to enjoy the sunrise.
One of the most unique features of this cabin is the screened-in porch and the firepit located nearby.
As this cabin is located in Shawnee National Forest, those who stay here are close to various hiking trails. There are also a handful of wineries nearby such as the Blue Sky Vineyard, which is about two miles away.
This listing is hosted by the Evolve Vacation Rental Network, a Premier Host.
Rating: 5
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- TV with DVD-player and video library
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Fireplace
- Washer & Dryer
- Heater
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
The cabin is located near many of the reasons that southern Illinois is an amazing place to visit – but features like the fire pit or screened-in porch will make it hard to leave!
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Best Shawnee national forest treehouse cabins
Maple Oak treehouse
Entire cabin hosted by Elizabeth, Premier Host
- 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bath
When you think of a treehouse you may have explored in your childhood, you’re probably thinking of a small and simple wooden structure that you have to climb up a ladder to access.
The Maple Oak Treehouse takes all of the fun of that experience but upgrades it to create a fantastic studio cabin that accommodates up to four people.
There is a deck and a set of stairs to access the cabin and a full bathroom and kitchen inside. The host provides complimentary coffee, sugar, and cream, as well as salt and pepper, firewood, and campfire chairs.
The treehouse is pet friendly. You can bring up to two pets at one time as long as the pets you bring are not aggressive towards other pets, especially cats as there are several cats on the property full time.
Rating: 5
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- BBQ
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
- Pet friendly (free up to two pets, current on shots, and must be protected with Flea & Tick medicine)
Conclusion
The Maple Oak Treehouse is a fun and unique accommodation that doesn’t skip out on any modern comforts.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Shawnee national forest cabins with hot tub
Lifetime memories, WIFI, Hot tub, Fire Pit, Gas Grill, High Chair, Bird Watching (Hummingbird road cabin)
Entire cabin hosted by Geloria Jerrell, Premier Host
- 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bath
Hummingbird Road Cabin is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet place to stay within the Shawnee National Forest.
It’s also perfect for exploring the Southern Illinois Wine Country, with several wineries close by.
The cozy cabin has a deck and a grill so if you want to do more than just sleep off your wine tastings, you definitely have the opportunity to do so!
In addition to wine country, the Hummingbird Road Cabin is located near Ferne Clyffe State Park, a nature reserve where you can spend your time hiking, boating, or fishing. This is a great place for a family weekend getaway or a romantic weekend with your loved one.
Bird watchers will be happy to hear that Hummingbird Road Cabin really is accurately named – there’s a hummingbird feeder next to the house and you might even see some of the birds visit!
Rating: 4.9
Extra amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- TV
- BBQ
- Washer & Dryer
- Fireplace
- Hot Tub
- Outdoor firepit
- Heater
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
Hummingbird Road Cabin is a great cabin with a hot tub and if you stay here, you’ll be close to many of the things that make Southern Illinois so spectacular.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Other Cabins in Shawnee National Forest With A Hot Tub
Here is a list of several other cabins in the same region that feature hot tubs:
- Rest, Relax and Renew. Serving our guests since 1989. Union Counties first.
- Secluded rental cabin on Southern Illinois Wine Trail, Private Hot Tub
- Gorgeous Two Bedroom Lakefront Cabin with Hot Tub!!
Best Shawnee wine trail cabins
The Shawnee Wine Trail originated in 1995 when the owners of Alto Vineyards, Pomona Winery, and Owl Creek Vineyard decided to come together and boost the awareness of the incredible wine produced in this part of southern Illinois.
As the years passed, more and more wineries have joined the group and the Shawnee Wine Trail continues to be a great destination for wine lovers in the region.
AdamsRock cabins
Entire cabin hosted by Tim and Mary (Rothschild) Adams, Premier Host
- 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 2 baths
The AdamsRock Cabin is a traditional log cabin outfitted with modern luxuries. Relax in the hot tub on the porch or sit by the fireplace inside.
The cabin has a full-size kitchen so you can bring your own ingredients and prepare your own meals during your stay.
The location of the cabin puts visitors in a prime location to explore the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest.
You can hike through Giant City State Park with beautiful areas such as Panther’s Den, one of a total of seven wilderness areas within the forest.
This listing is hosted by Tim and Mary Adams, Premier Hosts.
Rating: 4.8
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- Fireplace
- BBQ
- Hot tub
- Heater
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
The AdamsRock Cabin is perfect for small families or a group of friends who want to enjoy the Shawnee Wine Trail and stay somewhere that feels isolated but isn’t too far away from everything.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Rest, Relax and Renew.
Entire cabin hosted by Angela and Chris Boyd, Premier Host
- 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 1 bath
This cozy, welcoming cabin is a great choice for couples who are looking for a peaceful retreat that is close to plenty of activities and attractions.
This cabin features a queen sleigh bed and a comfortable futon for the kids. The kitchenette is relatively basic but has everything you need to make quick meals and coffee.
Dishes and silverware are also provided so all you have to bring with you is food!
In the bathroom you find a jacuzzi tub as well as a shower. Towels are also provided.
The cabin is located near the iconic Shawnee National Forest so you are well-situated to explore the Garden of the Gods. Ferne Clyffe State Park is also just 9 miles away.
Rating: 4.9
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- TV with DVD-player
- Hot Tub
- BBQ
- Fireplace
- Heater
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
This cabin is situated near a pond which provides a serene setting. Perfect for a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Secluded rental cabin on Southern Illinois Wine Trail, Private Hot Tub
Entire cabin hosted by Charlie and Brystal Pinnon, Premier Host
- 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bathroom
If you’re looking for privacy without sacrificing any basic comforts, this cabin is the best choice for you. This spacious cabin has a wraparound covered patio so you can enjoy the outdoors from the chairs or from the hot tub.
This listing features a nicely sized kitchen that includes most of the standard tools you need to cook such as pots, pans, and utensils. There is also a grill located on the patio if you would prefer some grilled cuisine.
Guests here will have easy access to the natural landmarks nearby such as the gorgeous Shawnee National Forest. You can quickly join the Southern Illinois Wine Trail and sample some of the best varietals produced locally.
Rating: 4.8
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- TV
- BBQ
- Fireplace
- Hot tub
- Outdoor firepit
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
A quiet and comfortable cabin that can be your home base as you explore the Southern Illinois Wine Trail or Shawnee National Forest.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Secluded, Log Rental Cabin, Private Hot Tub, on Southern Illinois Wine Trail
Entire cabin hosted by Charlie and Brystal Pinnon, Premier Host
- 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 2 baths
This rustic but modern cabin provides all of the comforts of home, plus several luxuries you won’t want to miss like a spacious hot tub located on the wraparound patio where you can soak in the stunning views of a magnificent valley that flows directly into Pinnon Lake.
The cabin features two bedrooms, each with a queen bed, there also a sleeper sofa in the living room. It’s ideally suited for two couples but the sleeper sofa is a comfortable option.
It’s ideal for slow weekends where you can relax by the fireplace in the evening and cook meals in the full-size kitchen.
There are fantastic wineries nearby that are worth exploring, and you’ll be able to find stunning hiking trails of all difficulty levels within an hour of the cabin.
Rating: 4.8
Extra amenities
- Air conditioning
- TV
- BBQ
- Fireplace
- Hot tub
- Outdoor firepit
- Parking on-site
Conclusion
This cozy cabin has great views, a hot tub, and a kitchen. It’s best suited for two couples.
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Shawnee national forest pet-friendly cabins
Several of the cabins mentioned on this list are pet-friendly and specific policies or unique situations are listed in their descriptions.
Here is a list of the five cabins that allow you to bring your furry friend with you:
Conclusion
If you’re hoping to find a place to stay while you explore the Shawnee National Forest and all that it has to offer, these eleven cabins will provide you with unparalleled experiences. If you are looking for more cabins in southern Illinois, click here.
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