Are you looking for the best Shawnee National Park cabins? There are so many Shawnee Forest cabins to rent in this beautiful recreational area, where you can find everything from real treehouses to a traditional log cabin to the largest cabin perfect for large groups or even the whole family at a family reunion. Continue reading this blog post to discover 20 of the very best Shawnee National Forest cabins, handpicked by yours truly!
Where is Shawness National Park?
Shawnee National Park, or Shawnee National Forest, is a large forested region located in the heart of Southern Illinois, United States. It consists of 29 counties and is located between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. The acres and acres of Shawnee state forest is renowned among nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its complex terrain, distinctive geological characteristics, and rich flora and fauna. It is a great place for a home base in a cozy cabin to begin your outdoor adventures from.
The forest contains a variety of natural characteristics, including rock formations, canyons, waterfalls, and gorgeous views. The Garden of the Gods, a natural rock structure that gives spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, is one of the most popular places in the forest. Jackson Falls, a gorgeous waterfall and rock climbing location, and Rim Rock, a scenic overlook with views of the wooded terrain, are two more popular sites.
Hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and rock climbing are just a few of the activities available in the Shawnee National Forest. The forest has nearly 150 kilometers of hiking routes, ranging from short strolls to strenuous excursions. Visitors may also enjoy the forest’s campsites, picnic places, and fishing locations.
The Shawnee National Forest is rich in history and culture, in addition to its natural beauty. The woodland has a rich Native American history and was formerly home to a number of indigenous tribes. There are also various historic sites in the forest, including as the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which commemorates the forced displacement of several indigenous tribes from their ancient lands.
Shawnee National Forest is a one-of-a-kind and breathtaking location with something for everyone for an affordable rustic getaway or a romantic getaway. It offers some of the best cabin rentals around! It’s a terrific spot to experience southern Illinois’ natural beauty, learn about its rich natural history and culture, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Shawnee National Forest?
Shawnee National Forest is a beautiful destination that is open all year. The perfect time to visit for you is determined by your interests and the activities you want to do during your visit. The months of spring and fall are widely regarded as the finest periods to visit for outdoor activities, while the summer months are good for camping and water-based activities. Here’s an overview of when is the best time for some popular outdoor activities here:
Hiking
The best times to visit the Shawnee National Forest for hiking are in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the leaves are changing color, making for beautiful hiking views!
Camping
The summer months (June to August) are ideal for camping in the Shawnee National Forest since the weather is comfortable and dry.
Fishing
Fishing is greatest in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when the water is colder and the fish are more active.
Scenic drives
The best time to visit the Shawnee National Forest for scenic drives is in the fall (October to November) when the leaves are changing color and the forest is ablaze with bright, vibrant autumn colors.
Rock climbing
In Fall (September to November), Shawnee is the perfect place for rock climbing in the Shawnee National Forest since the temperatures are lower and the boulders are less slippery.
20 Amazing Shawnee National Park Cabins to Rent
1. Brand New Cabin in the Woods with Private Hot Tub
This is a lovely, secluded cottage in the woods with its own private stream that guests are free to explore. This cabin is located a half mile from StarView Winery, which is one of the best wineries on the Shawnee Wine Trail. The cottage has two bedrooms, a full bathroom, a fully furnished kitchen, and an outside space with a private hot tub and a covered porch where you may relax after a day out exploring the beautiful location!
RECEIVE HOT DISCOUNTS ON CABINS WITH MY LINK:
2. Retreat Cabin with Outdoor Hot Tub and Lakeviews
Enjoy a relaxed stay at this charming Hohman Lake cottage! Families, small groups, and couples wishing to escape will love this unplugged getaway.
The cottage contains 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, providing 1000 square feet of pleasant living space. The screened porch, balcony, and spacious private hot tub offer breathtaking lake views. Visitors can fish the lake, swim off the dock, and use their own boats or canoes.
The lake-view master bedroom has a comfy queen bed and a screened balcony. The cottage can accommodate 6 visitors with a queen-size inflatable mattress.
3. Hickory Hollow Log Cabin Close to Garden of the Gods
Hickory Hollow log cabin is an Amish-built log cabin featuring a tumbled marble bathroom, a stairway to the loft, and a queen-size bed. The living room futon also becomes a queen bed to sleep more family members. The kitchen has an apartment-size refrigerator, stove/oven, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and all the dishes you need. The cabin also is equipped with free coffee, filters, cream, sugar packets, salt, pepper, hand soap, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, firewood, camp chairs, and WiFi.
This hidden jewel is located near the Shawnee National Forest’s Garden of the Gods Wilderness, Pounds Hollow Lake, and Rim Rock. The resort has a pavilion with tether ball, horseshoes, bags (corn hole), and a catch-and-release pond for fishing, for hours of outdoor fun!
4. The Goddard Place – Relaxing Log Cabin
The Goddard Place is located only 5 miles east of Anna off Route 146 with the Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois Wine Trail, and SIU in Carbondale all easily accessible. There is a 32-inch flat-screen TV with DirecTV and a DVD player in your cabin, as well as a recliner, a sleeper sofa (ideal for accommodating overnight guests), and a reclining chair. The kitchenette is fully equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and utensils. The bedroom has a queen sleigh bed, a jacuzzi tub, and a bathroom. A great place to get away from it all and relax in the forest!
5. Cabin with jacuzzi and amazing view!
If you choosr to stay at this adorable cabin, your room’s back patio, perched at 200 feet above the Ohio River, provides one of the best views in all of Southern Illinois! There are several National Forest hiking paths and the popular recreation destination Garden of the Gods is just 12 miles away. The property’s natural pathways provide guests with access to the 200 acres of tranquility. There is a big picnic spot on the river bluff with a fire pit and plenty of wood that you’ll enjoy throughout your stay. Your suite has a full kitchen, an attached bathroom with a lovely jacuzzi, two queen beds, and enough space for four people! This is such an awesome cabin getaway in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois.
6. Cozy Cabin Close to Giant City Park, Wineries, Hiking, and More
Right smack dab in the middle of the Shawnee National Forest is where you’ll find this cozy cabin, with an amazing location only a short drive from both Southern Illinois University and Cedar Lake, as well as the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and only 2.5 miles from hiking at Giant City State Park. This is the ideal Southern Illinois cabin to use as a home base while exploring the stunning landscape of Southern Illinois, and participating in activities such as hiking or horseback riding and checking out the area’s excellent wineries.
7. Cozy lake cottage minutes from Lake Barkley Resort
This is a serene retreat situated directly across the street from lovely Lake Barkley! This property offers access to the lake as well as a seasonal view, making it ideal for fishing and other water-based activities. There is plenty of space for parking boats, and the closest boat ramp is about a quarter mile away. Take in the sights and sounds of nature from the huge wraparound veranda, where you may watch deer and sip coffee while taking in the breathtaking views. The Lake Barkley State Resort Park can be reached in about ten minutes, and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area can be reached in a short amount of time by just driving across the bridge. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to the region to go hunting, fishing, or boating; “On the Rocks” is the ideal place to stay if you’re just looking for some peace and quiet!
RECEIVE HOT DISCOUNTS ON CABINS WITH MY LINK:
8. Secluded Log Cabin with Private Hot Tub
This rustic yet contemporary popular cabin includes all the conveniences of home, in addition to a seven-person hot tub that is located on the huge covered porch and looks out over a gorgeous valley that runs directly into Pinnon Lake. Inside, there are two bedrooms, each with a queen bed, as well as a sleeper sofa. Additionally, there are two bathrooms and a fully-equipped kitchen. The flat-screen television in the living room is 40 inches and comes equipped with satellite. This is one of the best rustic hideaway cabins around the area!
9. Wine Trail Cabin & Hot Tub
Located on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, this cozy cabin can be found in Cobden from where you can discover the Shawnee National Forest, Little Grand Canyon, and Panoma Natural Bridge which are all located in the nearby area. Check out Giant City State Park and the lodge while you’re there! You’ll have fun at one of the nearby vineyards or one of the neighborhood orchards. There’s so much to do in this great location! The cabin is also in close proximity to Cedar Lake, where guests can fish or swim. After that, unwind in the calm and serene atmosphere of your charming cabin. This home has been given a full makeover, and it now contains two bedrooms, both of which have queen beds. A full bathroom and a huge kitchen that is stocked with everything you could possibly want are provided. The veranda at the rear of the house overlooks twenty forested acres and has a lovely private hot tub. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the land during your visit, which features waterways and a variety of species. This cabin is also dog friendly, and a perfect spot for a family vacation that includes your cherished pet!
10. Brand New Cabin in the Woods
On the Southern Illinois Wine Trail, hidden away deep in the trees, you’ll find your new home away from home. This gorgeous cabin is completely equipped and has a wide covered back deck that leads to an illuminated pathway to your own fire pit and a private hot tub. Both available cabins have two bedrooms, each of which is furnished with a queen bed, a complete bathroom, as well as a lovely open kitchen and dining area. These remote cabins are perfect for getting away from it all, whether you want to go wine tasting in the area, have dinner at one of the many interesting restaurants in the area, or just kick back in front of the fireplace with a nice book or movie.
11. Notting Hill Cottage
Get away from it all at this lovely cabin in the Alto Pass highlands! Along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, you can explore the neighborhood wineries and vineyards, which offer award-winning wines and tasting facilities, as well as entertainment provided by local musicians, dinner theaters, and festivals held during the summer and fall seasons. In Alto Pass, you’ll find a variety of vintage, artisan, and specialty businesses. Stop by the neighborhood orchards to pick up some apples, peaches, nectarines, strawberries, blueberries, and a wide variety of other seasonal fruits and vegetables. You can go swimming or fishing on Cedar Lake, and you can boat on many other nearby lakes. If you enjoy activities such as golfing, viewing birds, bicycling, hunting, boating, or horseback riding, then this is your place to be!
You can drive your car all the way to the peak of Bald Knob Mountain, or visit Cliff View Park to get a panoramic view of the valley, and then take a drive around the Alto Pass Scenic Circle. Visit the adjacent Shawnee National Forest, where you may find Pomona Natural Bridge, Little Grand Canyon, and LaRue Pine Hills. Visit the breathtaking Giant City State Park and the magnificent lodge that was constructed by the CCC. Visit the Cache River Wetlands to see cypress trees that are over a thousand years old. Explore the natural wonders that may be found in the southernmost part of Illinois.
12. Cozy Getaway Cottage within walking distance to Ky Lake
The smaller size of this cozy cottage may be deceiving because inside you’ll find all the comforts of home and an inviting atmosphere! The cabin provides a cozy bedroom with a queen-size bed, a fully equipped kitchenette with an apartment-size stove and refrigerator, a microwave, cable television, and two comfortable chairs in which guests may rest while utilizing the free internet. Because the Moors Marina is so close to the cabin, which is located in a neighborhood that is accessible only by a golf cart, the owners also provide golf cart rental services. Both Pattis 1800 Settlement and Land Between the Lakes are within a distance of 12 miles from the cabin’s location. Paducah is home to a plethora of must-see sights, but sometimes all you want to do is kick back, soak up some sun, and admire the view of the lake – and that’s totally fine!
13. Pet-Friendly Lake House in Pirate’s Cove
This is a beautiful and charming lake cottage located in Pirate’s Cove, Jonathan’s Creek, which has the best lake fishing! Pirate’s Cove resort has 1.5 miles of waterfront for fishing, hiking, or swimming with lake views, shoreline fishing, and year-round beach access. This lake property is 20 minutes from Murray State University, 15 minutes from Land between the Lakes, 40 minutes from Venture Water Park, and 45 minutes from the Quilt Museum.
This two-story, 1,500-square-foot family-friendly home has two bedrooms, a loft, two bathrooms, and two entertaining spaces. The main level offers two bedrooms (one with a queen bed, the other with a queen and twin bunk bed), a full bath, a huge family area with an entertainment setup, and seating for 6-8. The family room has two enormous picture windows with a great yard view and an entrance to the top deck. Kids and teens love the loft’s queen bed, full-size sofa, and TV. The lower level offers a well-equipped kitchen (service for 8), complete bath with tub/shower (with laundry and dryer), huge dining area with a family-style farm table, TV, and lots of rainy-day diversions including puzzles, coloring books, board games, and card games.
RECEIVE HOT DISCOUNTS ON CABINS WITH MY LINK:
14. Stunning New Property in Shawnee
This gorgeous property offers your home away from home, all on one stunning level! The tinted living room windows allow great views without anyone seeing in, and a smart TV to watch your favorite shows. The home offers a washer and dryer, and a full bathroom with an outdoor shower! There is a fully fenced patio and a firepit, plus a propane grill. The property is within walking distance to the Ohio River and E’Town River Restaurant, and close to Cave-in-Rock State Park, Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow Beach and Rec Area, Garden of the Gods, Jackson Hole, and Bell Smith Springs. The photos speak for themselves!
15. The Cottonwood Cabin by Garden of the Gods
Stay at a historic log cabin in Shawnee National Forest’s Garden of the Gods. Timber Ridge reconstructed this cottage with contemporary amenities, and this quaint home is great for couples or small families.
The kitchen has an apartment-size refrigerator, stove/oven, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and all the dishes you need. We provide free coffee, filters, cream, sugar packets, salt, pepper, hand soap, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, firewood, camp chairs, and WiFi.
This jewel is located near the Shawnee National Forest’s Garden of the Gods Wilderness, Pounds Hollow Lake, and Rim Rock. The resort has a pavilion with tether ball, horseshoes, bags (corn hole), and a catch-and-release pond for fishing about 2 miles from the home.
16. Spacious 2 BR with hot tub and pool table
This is a spacious two-bedroom cottage with hot tub, a pool table, a spacious complete kitchen, and a gorgeous outdoor space. With a cup of coffee or a bottle of wine, the “outside room” welcomes you to rest beneath the twin maple trees and enjoy the hot tub, rocking rockers, and porch swing in the trees. The two bedrooms and full bath are on the second level, allowing extra solitude away from the main living space. The outdoor space with hot tub is entirely surrounded by a privacy fence, making it completely private. This small cottage is the perfect escape to come back to after a day of exploring the lovely Shawnee Hills. It is just 11 minutes to the nearest vineyard and only 20 minutes to Cedar Lake, Cache River, Giant City State Park, and numerous wineries.
17. Charming Secluded Getaway Cabin
This lovely cottage is ideal for a weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The environment is peaceful, and surrounded by nature, yet it is also close to Cape Girardeau/ Jackson, Trail of Tears State Park, the iconic Pilot House, and many local vineyards. The cabin was previously the dining hall at a girls’ scout camp before being converted into a studio cabin. As you enter the cottage, you will notice its comfortable, rustic appeal. The gorgeous stone fireplace in the center of the cottage is the major focal point. There is a writing desk, a dining room, and a bedroom with a double bed and a daybed that can accommodate two more people. There is a full-length mirror in the dressing area and a bathroom/shower, and a large kitchen directly off the living area. After a long day, you can unwind in a chair on the Stonehedge terrace or toast marshmallows on the unique stone grill. A wonderful place for a secluded rustic cabin getaway!
RECEIVE HOT DISCOUNTS ON CABINS WITH MY LINK:
18. Quiet And Rural Retreat Close to Wine Trail
Welcome to your new cozy Home Away From Home! This beautiful property is tucked away nearly a half mile off the road and is the ideal getaway, incredibly secluded and tranquil. Nestled on a hill with a view of a stocked pond, you’ll have all you need to rest and relax while being close to many local activities. This spot is ideal for couples looking for a peaceful holiday.
You’ll have everything you need at this cozy retreat. You can sip coffee in a rocking chair on the covered front porch, fish in the stocked pond, or barbecue on the charcoal grill and then dine at the patio table on the paved patio. There is also a fire pit, so bring plenty of firewood and enjoy your time outside roasting hot dogs or s’mores. Inside, you’ll find all the conveniences of home, such as a fully-equipped kitchen, satellite television, free WiFi, and a washing machine and dryer.
The home sleeps 5 people with 2 queen beds and 1 full-size bed, as well as two full bathrooms. The master bedroom and one of the bedrooms each include their own television. The kitchen has an electric stove/oven, a full-sized refrigerator, a coffee maker and grinder, a blender, and other minor equipment, as well as plates, glasses, pots and pans, and so on. This is the perfect getaway retreat!
19. Secluded, Log Rental Cabin, Private Hot Tub
This rustic yet contemporary cabin includes all the conveniences of home, in addition to a seven-person hot tub that is located beneath the 1,200 square foot covered porch that looks out over a gorgeous valley that runs directly into Pinnon Lake. Inside, there are two bedrooms, each with a queen bed, as well as a sleeper sofa. There are also two bathrooms and a fully-equipped kitchen. The flat-screen television in the living room is 40 inches and comes equipped with satellite. You’ll love this secluded cabin with hot tub!
20. Luxe Micro Cabin with Waterview
The Dam Near Lake of Egypt Cabins has just welcomed the installation of this luxurious studio cabin. Their newest cabin features a washroom, one queen-sized Murphy bed, and one twin-sized Murphy bed. Its intelligent and well-designed living area of 600 square feet makes it a great accommodation choice for a couple searching for the ultimate cabin-on-a-lake experience in southern Illinois!
Southern Illinois is sometimes neglected as a vacation destination, yet it provides a unique and unforgettable experience! Rolling hills, lush forests, and spectacular natural features like the Shawnee National Forest, the Garden of the Gods, and the Cache River Wetlands characterize the region.
Cabin rentals are a great way to see Southern Illinois, which are more luxurious than camping and more unique than basic hotels. Southern Illinois log cabin rentals often include hot tubs, fireplaces, and complete kitchens while preserving their rustic appeal and natural surroundings.
Southern Illinois has cabin rentals for couples and families. Every budget and choice is available from modest one-bedroom cottages to spacious lodges to accommodate large parties. With so many cabins near hiking trails, waterfalls, and lakes, you’ll have lots of chances to experience the great Southern Illinois outdoors.
In conclusion, Southern Illinois cabin rentals provide a unique and wonderful holiday that blends luxury with nature. This area offers everything from stunning scenery to cozy accommodations. Why not visit Southern Illinois on your next vacation and experience log cabin living?
Other Getaways You Might Love:
The Most Romantic Getaways in Illinois with Hot Tub
BEST Cabin Getaways in Illinois for Your Cozy Getaway
Best Log Cabin Getaways in Upstate NY
The BEST Pet Friendly Cabins in Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
BEST Cabins in Tennessee Mountains with Indoor Pools
The BEST Cozy Cabins in Jasper National Park
Luxury Cabins in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains
Best Cabins on Lakes in Texas You Can Rent
Best Jasper Cabins – Alpine Village Cabin Resort
RECEIVE HOT DISCOUNTS ON CABINS WITH MY LINK:
PIN FOR LATER
leave me a comment