This Cozy Cabin Is The Best Home Base For Your Adventures In Illinois' Shawnee National Forest And Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
By Linze Rice|Published October 23, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
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Shawnee National Forest is one of Illinois’ greatest natural treasures, and one that every resident should visit in their lifetime. Located near the very southern portion of the state near the Mississippi River, the forested wonderland mingles with numerous other state parks and has undeniably the best scenic views in Illinois. The Southern Illinois region is also rich with charming small towns, each bursting with local flair, culture, and traditions. A bucket list must for all Illinoisians, the area is the perfect place for a memorable and inspiring getaway. And this rustic log cabin vacation home rental near Shawnee National Forest is an excellent resting place between adventures.
Shawnee National Forest spans over 289,000 acres and includes wetlands, forestry, trails, ridges, bluffs, unique rock formations, and breathtaking views. It's one of the most popular parks in the country for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with more than 1 million visitors per year.
It's also surrounded by other parks, such as Giant City State Park in the nearby small town of Makanda. Giant City is home to some of the area's best trails and mind-bending geological formations, like the Giant City Streets, which are 12,000-year-old massive sandstone bluffs.
Makanda itself is worth a day trip. Though the small town has less than 600 residents, it's home to many artists and creatives who have made it a thriving community with plenty of charm and character. Its famous boardwalk offers a stretch of local shopping, and its friendly attitude and colorful decor have helped the town earn a reputation as a "hippie paradise."
Another must is a pilgrimage through the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail — a 40-mile trail that takes visitors to 11 local wineries, showcasing award-winning, locally made wines. Walk to a few in a single day, or finish the trek over a week. Whatever you do, make sure to find some time to visit at least one winery or brewery in the area.
After a day of adventuring, rest at this rustic retreat just three minutes from Giant City State Park, five minutes from the wine trail, and eight minutes to Cedar Lake. Surrounded by gorgeous trees, this simple abode is the ideal spot for visitors who plan to hike, hunt, shop, and visit wineries. Just minutes away from Southern Illinois University, it's also a great place for parents to stay for an affordable price. On average, a night here goes for $72.
All your everyday essentials are taken care of, from fresh towels and linens to dishes and utensils. You'll also have access to a coffee maker, blender, hair dryer, shampoo, and more.
By the time you're ready for sleep, collapse into this cozy queen or pull out the living room sofa for a comfortable double bed. The simple bedroom puts all the focus on getting a good night's rest.
If you're like me, in the morning you'll want to take your coffee outside on the patio. Or, I also love to build a fire at night and bask in the dazzling stars. Fortunately, this vacation home rental has one that's just perfect for s'mores and campfire chats.
