The state of Illinois is more than bustling cities like Chicago. It is also a state filled with natural beauty. What better way to get away from it all than to head into the peaceful tranquility of your own log cabin? Nestled at the edge of not one, but two state parks, is the family-friendly Goose Island Cabin, a secluded riverside eco-retreat in Illinois. Leave the blue light of your devices behind and bask in the sunshine of this whimsical and rustic rental for the whole family.
Goose Island Cabin has a history dating all the way back to the 1830s when the land was home to native peoples of the area. Then, in the 1850s, the property was deeded to an early settler. The cabin has been passed down through the same family ever since it was built in 1907.
The cabin has since been updated to suit the needs of the modern world while still holding true to its back-country charm. Visitors can breathe easy: air conditioning is supplied in the bedroom, and fans are located in the living room so that warmer summer months feel comfortable.
Sometimes, it’s not just enough to look at the water – you want to get in! Canoe or kayak along Rock River, which runs 299 miles and up close to Goose Island Cabin.
If you don’t have your own equipment, a quick trip to White Pelican rental and shuttle services will help to get you to the river.
If Goose Island Cabin’s 100-acre property doesn’t cover enough ground, don’t worry. The cabin is near both the Lowden-Miller State Forest and Castle Rock State Park, totaling over 2,300 acres of combined forest. Don’t let the location fool you. Necessities abound as the cabin is only a 10-minute drive to the nearest town of Oregon, IL.
There’s oh, so much to do! Hiking, biking, games for the kids, and relaxation are just among the many ideal ways to spend your time at Goose Island Cabin.
This eco-cabin in Illinois can hold up to eight guests. There’s plenty of room, so it’s perfect for a family vacation or retreat. The cabin is also pet-friendly allowing well-behaved pets to stay as long as they are added to the guest count when booking.
Who wouldn’t love that view? Wind down with a nap in one of many hammocks or take in the scenery from the front porch and feel your stresses melt away.
When the day is at an end and the sun is setting, why not snuggle up by the fire pit? Watch the kids make s'mores and enjoy the stars while making memories that will be sure to last a lifetime.
How lucky it is that this historic generational cabin is available for vacation or retreat? Check out Goose Island Cabin’s Airbnb listing to see about booking.
You can also visit White Pelican rental services catering to Rock River adventuring in Oregon, IL.
While you're in the area, learn more about the Lowden-Miller State Forest located just steps from Goose Island Cabin.
Staying in a vacation rental often implies a kind of luxurious getaway, but sometimes you can get so much more out of staying a little unconventional. Take, for example, this cozy apartment in Teutopolis. Located at the intersection of I-57 and I-70, this small village is teeming with stories about what life was like in the few decades in Illinois after it was made a state. This wooden shoe factory has been converted into a cozy sleeping accommodation you won't forget.
While the quaintness of this Airbnb adds to its charm, rest assured the downstairs space has been upgraded with a modern bathroom and kitchen appliances.
The owners recently set out on a mission to fill this Airbnb with documents and photos that tell the building's story.
The foundation was hand-dug as well. Construction processes have changed a lot since then, but all the work that went into the wooden shoe factory gives it a remarkably personal touch.
I would feel transported back in time inside, but there is outdoor seating in the front and back if you need a change of scenery.
The owners don't recommend this spot for very small children because of the potential dangers of the spiral staircase and loft. For families with slightly older children, biking in this area would be a fun addition to an unforgettable stay!
You can spend the night in all kinds of historic places in Illinois, whether it's an old warehouse or a train depot. Taking a vacation in a wooden shoe shop is an experience that is somewhat hard to come by outside of the Netherlands and Teutopolis, IL. Check out the Airbnb listing for Wooden Shoe Factory to see its availability for your next long weekend or work trip in the area. Would you want to stay in a shoe factory?
Doesn't a getaway to a cozy cabin surrounded by the quiet and solitude of nature sound ideal? If you answered yes, then take a look at these cabins where you can let your stresses melt away as you relax in a beautiful, natural locale. You’ll want to book your cozy cabin getaway in Illinois as soon as possible.
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Affordable Cabins in Illinois
A getaway doesn't have to break the bank. Luckily, there are many affordable options throughout the Land of Lincoln for a budget-friendly vacation. Here are some affordable cabins in IL to consider next time you need some time away.
This cabin is situated in a perfect location. There are a plethora of local activities around the area. Favorites include the Shawnee Forest Wine Trail, which features over one dozen vineyards, and the Shawnee Bluff canopy tour, which is a zipline adventure. Take to the trails at Giant City State Park or take to the wine trail for a glass of red or white then come back home to this affordable cabin in Illinois for some R&R.
2. Moraine View State Park Pet-Friendly Cabin, Ellsworth
This pet-friendly A-frame cabin is surrounded by nature for the ultimate peaceful getaway. Take to the hiking trails in the state forest or a five-minute stroll to the beach to go fishing or swimming. Just 10 minutes away are the towns of Downs and LeRoy where you'll find shopping, restaurants, and more.
Check out one of the best cabin Airbnbs in Illinois at The Little Dipper, a charming A-Frame cabin that won't break the bank. Located in Elizabeth, just a short drive from Galena, this place is perfect for a peaceful getaway. You can enjoy the comfy interiors, go golfing, hike, and even taste some local wines. Whether you're on a romantic trip or just need some me-time, The Little Dipper offers a great balance of comfort and affordability, and it's close to lots of fun things to do.
Luxury Cabins in Illinois
Not all cabins are rustic. In fact, I found some that are downright luxurious. With all the amenities you could ever want, you may never want to leave these luxury cabins in IL.
Surrounded by 18 acres in the woods, the Heptagon Cottage-Timbered Retreat is a hideaway with plenty of space for a large group. So, if you’re planning any reunions, this vacation rental is ideal. Have some fun playing in the game room, relax in the living room, or take a soak in the hot tub, followed by some time in the sauna. You won't want to leave this luxurious cabin with all the conveniences you could ever want!
Romantic Cabins in Illinois
Have some one-on-one time with your significant other at a romantic retreat in the wilderness. Perfect for connecting or reconnecting with someone, your relationship may grow stronger with a quick getaway to one of these romantic cabins in IL.
Situated on Hohman Lake, this quiet lakeside Illinois cabin will give you the peace and solitude you'll need to connect with your significant other. Perhaps you'll grab a bottle of wine from a nearby winery to enjoy at the cabin while looking out at those gorgeous lakeside views.
Amenities: Fully equipped kitchen, free parking on the premises, private hot tub, free in-unit washer and dryer, AC split-type ductless system, bathtub, private patio
Ratings: 4.91 stars
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Stay at one of the top cozy cabins in Illinois with this charming suite, ideal for a romantic anniversary getaway. Relax in the hot tub on the covered patio, watch the sheep and chickens graze, and enjoy the serene countryside just outside Amish country. Located less than two miles east of Arcola and conveniently close to Interstate 57, this tiny house has a full kitchen, a queen bed, and a queen air mattress. With board games, a fire pit, and a small charcoal grill, it's the perfect retreat for romance.
Secluded Cabins in Illinois
We all need to get away for a while, and these cabin rentals in IL are the perfect escape. Get some rest and relaxation in a beautiful private setting.
Located in beautiful Galena on resort property, this lake-view cottage is secluded and provides the ultimate privacy. Enjoy lake views as well as the communal amenities the resort provides. This is one of the best cottage rentals in Illinois, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Enjoy seclusion at this private log cabin located close to Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park. With so much natural beauty surrounding you, you'll feel rested in no time at this secluded cabin.
The Blue View Cabin is a stunning farmhouse with all the modern amenities of home. It's located a stone's throw away from Blue Sky Winery and just a short drive from additional wineries on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. A perfect cabin in the perfect location -- once you check in, you won’t want to check out.
Cabins in Illinois with Hot Tub
What's better than a cabin stay? How about one that comes with its very own hot tub? Your stress will just melt away with a soak in the great outdoors.
This two-bedroom vacation rental with a private hot tub is found near Southern Illinois' Shawnee National Forest and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. You can enjoy some of the most extraordinary scenery as well as peace and quiet with a stay here. This is for adults only, so leave the kids at home! Book your stay at one of the best cabin rentals in Illinois on VRBO.
If you're looking for something different like, say, cabins with hot tubs in Illinois that also happen to be on the water we found this one! Located in East Dubuque, this floating cabin can be rented year-round. Not only that, but it offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River backwaters which you can enjoy right from the private hot tub. This cabin getaway has two bedrooms and sleeps up to six people. You can book your stay at one of the best cabins for rent in Illinois on Vrbo.
Amenities: Kitchen, Wi-Fi, free parking on premises, private hot tub, pet-friendly, 52-inch HDTV, free in-unit washer and dryer, AC split-type ductless system
Hidden Grove is one of the best cabins in Illinois, just 10 minutes south of Bloomington. Enjoy the natural beauty and modern luxury on two private acres. Relax in the covered hot tub under a softly lit pergola, roast marshmallows by the fire pit, and unwind indoors with comfy mattresses and a digital game table. It's the ultimate escape for adventure and relaxation.
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How would you like to book a stay at one of the best cabins in Illinois? Do you have another favorite place you'd like to share? Let me know - I'd love to hear your recommendations!
While these cabins are perfect any time of year, they are especially cozy in the fall. If you love the fall season as much as I do, check out some of the most beautiful fall destinations in Illinois. If you need some inspiration for fun things to do while on vacation, then check out these one-of-a-kind experiences.
