Entire cabin

THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Pool
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Property grounds
Interior
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pool
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Equality, IL
  • Place, Shawnee National Forest
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Trailhead
    ‪36 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Equality

In Equality .You'll be within 6 miles (10 km) of Shawnee National Forest and 9 miles (15 km) of Shawnee Hills Country Club. Harrisburg Township Park District and Ross Cottom Lanes are within 12 miles (20 km).

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 15 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Shawnee Hills Country Club - 24 min drive - 18.0 km
  • Harrisburg Township Park District - 26 min drive - 21.1 km
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 31 min drive - 26.3 km
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 36 min drive - 28.4 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Red Onion - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Jacs - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Saline Valley Conservancy - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Town Square Pub - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪A Little Taste of Italy - ‬13 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Enjoy amazing views of the Shawnee National Forest ⭐️❗️

Rustic Ridge is a small working farm located in Southern Illinois about 15 minutes north of Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest.

Our cabin has lots of windows for great indoor viewing as well as lots of patio & deck spaces to enjoy the outdoors. Splash in the pool (in season). Walk down to see the animals on our 40 acre property, go Explore the Shawnee National Forest, take a drive to the wine trail or visit nearby horse trails, atv trails, and so much more that the Shawnee National Forest area has to offer.

Meet the animals:
🐄 Highland Cows (Daisy, Rusty, Kane, & Lily)
🫎 Moose the dog you might see him around the property & Rufus the livestock guardian.
🐈 Sierra, Butterscotch, Special, & Kitty. The cats may roam the property.
🐥🐓 chickens and newly hatched chicks
* Miniature ZEBU! Dixie, Shawnee & our calf Brisket born Jan '25
➕️ all of the wildlife 🦌🐿🦃🐦🦝......

🌳cabin on a 40 acres property
🏊‍♀️ private pool
🌞 views
🐴🐱🐄🐶🦌Animals & Wildlife
🚜 Farm
🔥fire pit
🛜WiFi
Smart tv📺
3 🛌🛁

Private use of cabin & pool but being in the forest daily pool maintenance may occur

Everything here is on a hill with lots of rocks. If it's raining or recently rained you may find mud. Expect to see & hear nature all around you. This is a working farm so you may hear & see us or hear any of the neighboring farm properties. We are on property and also have exterior cameras throughout the 40 acre property. No Fence around pool! You accept responsibility for yourself & other guests.

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Close curtains
Message us when you leave & notify us if anything is damaged
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Agree to terms in the rental agreement

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: No fence around pool

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 53 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Leslie G., Ballwin, MO

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved this stay! The house was beautiful, as was the pool and the view. It was a very comfortable and relaxing stay. We will definitely stay here again if it is available.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness
We wanted a relaxing weekend with our sons and our new daughter-in-laws. It was perfect. The weather was spectacular and the house and property were perfect! It was our 2nd time staying here and it does not disappoint.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jordan T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect retreat for rest, relaxation, amazing views, animals, and amazing pool. Can't wait to come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacey W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great family weekend at Rustic Ridge- very clean, great amenities (pool, firepit, quiet/privacy). Garden of the Gods hiking trails within 20 minutes, wineries & distillery 50 minutes.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Austin K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Property was very nice. Loved the friendly cat that came by.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily S.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful time. Rustic Ridge is a serene place with amazing sunrises. The hosts Eric and Jacqueline are lovely. Our boys really enjoyed the tour of the farm and brushing the cows.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Geoff M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great vacation home! They have thought of everything one would need to have a relaxing stay. Easy drive to Garden of the Gods. We hiked in the morning into early afternoon and went back to the pool (which is well maintained and perfect water temp) after pizza from Morello's. All the activities suggestions were provided in their welcome packet. If you need a place to stay in this area, just book it. You will be glad you did.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Samantha B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing cabin very peaceful and beautiful definitely coming back

Overall the property was beautiful from the house to the landscape
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Abraham F.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great time at this place!The views are incredible and the pool was just perfect.Jaqueline showed us around the property and we met the amazing animals and gorgeous vegetable garden.Thank you for an amazing time!Hope to come again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trena M.

Liked: Cleanliness
We love staying here. Jacqueline and Eric are wonderful hosts. The accommodations are perfect for a peaceful getaway. The kitchen is well equipped for indoor and outdoor meal prep. Check-in and check-out are simple. The views are spectacular. The pool, firepit, covered deck, and farm animals make it very easy to stay put and simply enjoy the outdoors. Yet the home is close enough to town for a run to the grocery store or to grab a bite to eat. We will continue to come back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julian M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica C.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful stay. The cabin was immaculate and the views were beautiful. Our 11 year old enjoyed the pool daily and we spent almost every morning on the covered porch drinking coffee and watching the rain come in. The hosts were extremely accommodating with suggestions for dinner and hiking trails. We also loved our tour of their farm and meeting all their animals.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

David L., Flossmoor

Liked: Cleanliness

Southern Illinois Shangri-La

Everything I and my family was hoping for. The property was beyond amazing, very secluded, peaceful, tranquil, with incredible views. The cabin was well equipped with everything we need and very comfortable for everyone to spread out and enjoy themselves. The decks and firepit were so nice to enjoy also. Lastly the pool was beyond perfect. It had the perfect amount of shade during the hottest time of day. It made the really hot days very bearable. We couldn't ask for a better place. Jaqueline and Eric were a pleasure and very helpful with anything we needed. I wouldn't hesitate to visit again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

jill w.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved this property. Gorgeous views, amazing pool and a very comfortable stay. Cabin had everything needed and was very clean and comfy. Hosts were so gracious and gave us a great farm tour. Overall a great get away. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Spring M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Ladies Trip

Everything about our stay was absolutely perfect!! The house and grounds are even prettier in person! Eric and Jacqueline were amazing hosts and went out of their way to make our stay perfect! We will definitely be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Remote and peaceful!

Its beautiful, relaxing, clean cabin, super comfy beds, friendly/helpful hospitality and the pool was always clean! It was also nice that the host provides firewood!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miriam F.

Liked: Cleanliness

A great visit

This is a wonderful property. My family really enjoyed the pool, the house, the scenery and the farm. The hosts were gracious and welcoming. I would recommend it for a relaxing getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leah G., Orlando Florida

Liked: Cleanliness

A beautiful escape

My family and I had such a great time at this house. They had everything we needed to entertain and the pool offered a breathtaking view of the Shawnee hills. We made many memories on this trip and cannot wait to come back and do it again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

amy b.

Liked: Cleanliness
By far one of the best VRBO properties we have ever stayed at. Very clean. Everything is exactly as described. The flowers and plants were amazing. View was great. The owners we great with communication and made sure we had everything we needed. I hope we can make this a yearly trip for me family.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren P.

Liked: Cleanliness
This property is amazing! Everything from the space, the pool, the property and even the roosters made our stay perfect for our family. The house was very clean and we had no issues during our stay. It had everything we needed including kitchen supplies, towels and even extra shower supplies. The owners were wonderful and very easy to communicate with . Our family LOVED the tour of the farm and meeting all the animals. I would highly recommend this rental for families or even just as an adults trip. The pool is amazing and there is SO much to see and do in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Katie B.

The house was mostly as described. We never used the ceiling fan or fireplace, so I cannot comment on those. We didn't use the lower level except the bathtub once, so I can't comment on that area either, though it is spacious. The beds were comfortable. The property is extremely rural and on a hill, so peaceful and secluded, which was nice. The lawn is too sloped to be used for games or play. The pool was pretty chilly, so we didn't use it much. We mostly went on day excursions for hiking. The kitchen was well supplied, but only a broom, some dish soap, and hand soap were accessible for cleaning. Three days after we left, they made several accusations of damages and tried to claim we didn't follow their rules, though we did. They were upset we didn't clean smudges off the glass surfaces, but there was no glass cleaner anywhere or instructions to do so. We assumed that was something they did routinely when they clean after guests. They were aggressive in their communication and tried to say we hid things and intentionally left messes, which is just not true. The only thing we didn't do was strip the beds, which we were explicitly instructed not to do. I will admit there were stains on a pillow and sheets that we didn't notice (they sent pictures 3 days later). Otherwise, their accusations of damages were false. If you stay here, document every inch when you arrive and leave and bring cleaning supplies. Not a child friendly place, but fine for older kids. Best for adults.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Memorial Day Weekend

The property was great.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Don’t hesitate, book now!

Book this now, you will not regret it! Beautiful home that you can tell was built , decorated and maintained with love. The view is gorgeous! Perfect for taking in while sipping your coffee in the morning. Although it was too cold this trip, I have stayed here before and the pool is amazing. The hosts are fantastic! So inviting. They make us feel like friends. And even though I am from just upstate and see farms and farm animals, it was awesome to get the farm tour. If you don’t smile interacting with the cows and watching the chickens run…well let’s be real, you will be smiling like a kid. The location is remote enough for a relaxing , undisturbed, quiet getaway yet close to soooo many things to do! We loved this place and will definitely be repeat customers.
The view from the deck!
Garden of the gods
Garden of the gods
Cave in rock
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Respite away from the city

Family trip with our sons was a success. The house was beautiful, the location to the park was great, and the hosts were nothing but helpful and welcoming. We got a tour of the farm and got to learn a bit about their journey. One of our days included a muddy hike and Eric and Jacqueline graciously washed our pants so that we could wear them the next day. I loved it all. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hiking in Shawnee National

Clean, friendly beautiful location.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025