Enjoy A Picture-Perfect Weekend In Southern Illinois When You Visit Shawnee National Forest
By Linze Rice|Published December 19, 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.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Shawnee National Forest is one of the highlights of nature in Illinois. It offers some of the very best in Prarie State landscapes, and the small towns that surround it are brimming with rich histories, fascinating cultures, local traditions, and some of the best shopping, dining, and overall hospitality around. I remember the first time I drove through the region — seeing the hills and trees, so different than the flatlands and cornfields I’m used to, was remarkable. For those visiting the area, the best cabin rental near Shawnee National Forest acts as a secluded but modern home base for all your adventures.
Southern Illinois is arguably the most scenic region in the state, with thick forests, hills, and historic bluffs that overlook the treetops for miles. Shawnee National Forest (and its beloved Garden of the Gods), Kinkaid Lake, and the Pomona Natural Bridge are just a few of the spectacular natural sights to explore in the area. Plus, the popular Shawnee Wine Trail offers delicious beverages from local wineries.
Small towns like Murphysboro offer the charm and slice-of-life culture that many travelers yearn for — especially when it comes to food. In fact, Murphysboro is the barbecue capital of Illinois with a number of award-winning diners in town, all showcasing their own distinct flavors.
With so much to do in the region, visitors often turn to vacation rentals for a home away from home. Hiking the trails and seeing the sights can take time and energy, so an oasis of respite is crucial to truly get the best of the recreation and relaxation Southern Illinois is known for.
This luxurious cabin on the outskirts of Murphysboro is a great home base for those coming into town. With four bedrooms, five bathrooms, and 3,000 square feet of space, this bright home can sleep up to 12 guests and two dogs.
The home sits at the top of a hill on 18 acres of forested land making it an excellent getaway for those in need of some peace and quiet, yet want to be surrounded by nature. You'll also find games, books, a stereo with Bluetooth speakers, a game room with a pool table, video games, and a DVD player for entertainment options.
In the kitchen, you'll find everything you need to enjoy a meal — from dishes and utensils to a Keurig coffee maker, blender, toaster, dishwasher, and plenty of seating. Outside, a grill is available to cook up tender meats and veggies.
Bedrooms come with either queen or twin beds and bathrooms feature showers, tubs, or combinations of both — some of which are jetted for total relaxation. Other essentials like a hair dryer, soap, and shampoo are also provided. Each room is considered a suite with its own private bathroom.
One of the best features: A sauna! This bad boy is a unique feature that shows this home means serious business when it comes to giving the spa treatment.
Or, soak in some rays on the sun deck, swing on the front porch, or make s'mores under the stars at the fire pit. Whether you're out and about in the state parks or taking some time to rest and reflect from the cabin, there's no way to go wrong when visiting this gorgeous region.
