When I tell people I need to get away from it all, what I really mean is that I need to go somewhere where I can get back in touch with nature. On occasion this means pitching a tent and backpacking truly off the grid. But for a quick getaway, it can be nice to have internet access and running water.

There are plenty of riverside retreats where the sound of rushing water can help you reset. Bungalows tucked away within woods are ideal for hearing birds first thing in the morning. Whatever natural sounds bring you calm, there are vacation rentals all over Illinois that can help you get in tune with nature.

1. The School House Cabin in Hudson, IL

Built inside a historic school house, this refurbished cabin is just on the edge of Lake Bloomington. There is a fire pit, hot tub and shaded seating just outside the building.

Inside, the School House Cabin has a charming atmosphere.

Between the wood-burning stove and the window seat, the first floor is the epitome of cozy. You will take a spiral staircase pasts colorful bookshelves to get to the upstairs bedrooms.

2. Sunset River Cottage in East Peoria

This cottage in East Peoria offers views of the Illinois River from nearly every window. Beautiful willow trees arch over a path between the cottage and the river.

The interior of the cottage has lots of windows and lightly colored furniture to draw your eyes to the great outdoors.

Sliding doors in the living room open up to a backyard deck. A loft bedroom on the top floor means guests can see the sun rise over the river.

3. Clinton Lake Cottage in Weldon, Illinois

Just across a quiet road from Clinton Lake, this cute cottage is the perfect place to hit reset and enjoy time with family and friends. The fenced-in property has a seating area near the front with a fire pit to roast some marshmallows under the night's sky.

The decor around this lakeside cottage is all lake-themed.

I am in love with the red-bottom boat lodged above the kitchen. The living spaces have a lot of seating, so you and up to eight other guests can hang out around the breakfast bar overlooking the lake.

4. Highview Country Escape in Stockton, Illinois

Perched on top of a sloping hill, this picturesque cabin has 360 degree views of the farmland all around. Decks wrap around the building and an attached gazebo is the perfect spot for enjoying a drink or meal in the fresh air.

Inside the log cabin, there are a lot of natural elements like wood and stone to keep guests feeling connected with nature.

A main room on the ground floor features a full kitchen as well as a bar/workstation. Upstairs there are three bedrooms that lift you even higher above the treetops for phenomenal views.

5. Peaceful Lake House in Franklin, Illinois

To say this lake house is on the water feels like an understatement. A four-acre pond is accessible directly from this cabin's back porch. While the water is only three feet deep at that point, it gets to about 20 feet deep further out.

The house is enshrouded by pine trees on three sides and water on the other, but once you are inside you won't want to leave.

The rustic design inside is inviting and welcoming. Up to six guests can spend the night in the two-bedroom house, and after a night playing games the back porch fire pit, I'd never want to leave.

While staying the night in a resort or a hotel has an element of fanfare to it, renting a cottage is the best way to cater your vacation to your exact preferences. As a Chicagoan who likes to go where no traffic can be heard, I'd love to visit any of these rentals!

What's your go-to spot in Illinois to get back in touch with nature? If you don't have one yet, see if any of the natural wonders on this road trip might be worth adding to your new adventure itinerary.