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Entire cabin

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

Cabin in Equality with private pool and kitchen

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

Pool - THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! (Equality)
Property grounds - THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! (Equality)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! (Equality)
Interior - THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! (Equality)
Exterior - THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! (Equality)
Immerse yourself in nature at Rustic Ridge, where the Shawnee National Forest unfolds before your eyes. With plenty of windows and outdoor spaces, take in the views and enjoy a dip in the seasonal pool or a hike on one of many trails throughout 40 acres.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

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

Add dates for prices

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 โญ๏ธโ—๏ธ

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, ziplining, bike trails, and so much more that the Shawnee National Forest area has to offer.

Meet the animals:
๐Ÿ„ Highland Cows (Magnolia, Honeysuckle, Daisy, Lily, Rusty, & Yeti)
๐ŸซŽ Moose & Duke the dogs. You might see them running around the property.
๐Ÿˆ Multiple cats roam the property.
๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿ“ chickens and chicks
* Miniature ZEBU! Dixie, Shawnee & our calf Brisket born Jan '25
โž•๏ธ all of the wildlife ๐ŸฆŒ๐Ÿฟ๐Ÿฆƒ๐Ÿฆ๐Ÿฆ......

๐ŸŒณcabin on a 40 acres property
๐ŸŠโ€โ™€๏ธ private pool
๐ŸŒž views
๐Ÿด๐Ÿฑ๐Ÿ„๐Ÿถ๐ŸฆŒAnimals & Wildlife
๐Ÿšœ Farm
๐Ÿ”ฅfire pit
๐Ÿ›œWiFi
Smart tv๐Ÿ“บ
3 ๐Ÿ›Œ๐Ÿ›

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.

3 night minimum on weekends or holidays and 2 night weekdays *the app keeps reverting minimum nights back to 2 nights in error. we will only honor bookings with our minimum night policy followed.

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • 6 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Gravel flooring in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Composting
  • Garden

Similar properties

Dining

Black Ridge Cabin LLC

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, 15 reviews
$243 nightly
The price is $258
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Total with taxes and fees
Black Ridge Cabin LLC

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

Pets not 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

We should mention

This property does not have elevators

About the neighborhood

Map
Equality, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 13 min drive - 6.3 miles
  • Shawnee Hills Country Club - 20 min drive - 11.2 miles
  • Harrisburg Township Park District - 21 min drive - 13.1 miles
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 29 min drive - 16.4 miles
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 34 min drive - 17.6 miles

Restaurants

  • โ€ชThe Red Onion - โ€ฌ13 min drive
  • โ€ชJacs - โ€ฌ17 min drive
  • โ€ชSaline Valley Conservancy - โ€ฌ12 min drive
  • โ€ชA Little Taste of Italy - โ€ฌ13 min drive
  • โ€ชLeonard's Country Kitchen - โ€ฌ13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

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

Situated in the mountains, this cabin is 4.6 mi (7.4 km) from Shawnee National Forest and within 12 mi (20 km) of Shawnee Hills Country Club and Harrisburg Township Park District. Ross Cottom Lanes and Saline County Area Museum are also within 12 mi (20 km).

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 55 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Paul T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Mike T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorial Day Weekend

The property was great.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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

Leah G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice Getaway in the country

Property was very clean and views were gorgeous. Nice anniversary weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

ScienceWares

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible place!

Itโ€™s hard to believe this place exists - worth a visit even if you donโ€™t know anything about the area! Itโ€™s a wonderful place to stay and the hosts have an amazing farm that is well worth a tour even in the pouring rain! The kitchen was top notch and the connection of the whole house to the views and outdoors is amazing. Hosts were super nice and went above and beyond responding to everything.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Johnita M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Weekend

We loved it !!! The animals, the views, the pool, the home !! Everything was perfect. I have told everyone how wonderful it was โค๏ธ
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow!

This is a perfect property for a getaway. It did not disappoint. If I could give 10 stars I would. The beds are amazing, the views, close to trails, the pool, the comfort of the house, truly everything! The hosts are amazing and friendly. We are already planning a return trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous in the middle of nowhere!

The worst part of this place was leaving. Everything was just perfectโ€ฆ.decor, landscaping, cleanliness, layout, amenitiesโ€ฆ.we just canโ€™t wait to go back! It was so nice and relaxing! The pool??โ€ฆ.in southern Illinois, that was the cherry on top! Loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tina J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Donโ€™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 donโ€™t smile interacting with the cows and watching the chickens runโ€ฆwell letโ€™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

Jude B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven on earth!

We loved this place! I donโ€™t even know where to start. The cleanest place Iโ€™ve ever stayed, which I love! The real draw is the beautiful pool view! So relaxing, beautiful and quiet & thatโ€™s just what we needed. So many pretty spaces to sit/swing and relax. The full moon from there was one of the most beautiful I have seen in my life. The space itself is very nice, well put together, they did a great job. I canโ€™t say enough about it. Will be back!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Phillip K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing nature stay

Jacqueline and Eric, the hosts, gave the clearest communication we have had with VRBO so far. The only communication break down was my own fault which they were helpful in solving for me. They offer tours of their farm animals which the kids loved. They were both awesome with the kids and very sweet. They were helpful with local recommendations as well. The house and pool have beautiful nature views all around. In addition to the farm tour, we saw many wild animals passing through the yard and flying above. The house is in a quiet country area but a short dive to town. Though you might not need to go to town often since the house is well stocked with items in general and has many items you might have forgotten to pack. The house is very close to amazing Shawnee Forest parks if you or your kids need a break from swimming.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

jill w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Miriam F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Lauren P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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.

Liked: Check-in
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

Stacy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hiking in Shawnee National

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

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and relaxing

We had a wonderful stay at this cozy spot near Shawnee National Park! The views were absolutely beautiful, and the peaceful setting made for a perfect getaway. One of the highlights was getting a tour of the owner's small working farmโ€”we loved meeting the animals and learning more about the property. She also gave us some great hiking recommendations that led us to some amazing trails we might have otherwise missed.Weโ€™re already looking forward to coming back when the pool is open and the weather is even warmer. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to relax and explore the beauty of southern Illinois!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A slice of heaven

We had everything we needed to play games together, cook and eat wonderful meals, and enjoy the incredible scenery, even with rain. The hosts are wonderful! We enjoyed visiting with them and meeting the animals. Will absolutely visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A birthday get away

We traveled down to southern Illinois to enjoy a family birthday, the area provided was exceptional and enjoyable. We really appreciate the hospitality provided and the unique adventure the space provided.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Morgan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas with the family

This property was beautiful. The perfect space for my husband and I to bring the kids and their significant others to stay for Christmas. Each couple had their own bedroom, that included plenty of space and a bathroom. The downstairs area is a great space for playing games and hanging out. The cleanliness was a 10! That was my favorite part. There wasn't a crumb or hair anywhere. The kitchen is well appointed, and I had everything I needed to cook a big breakfast for us all. We enjoyed the animals and Eric and Jaqueline were wonderful as well. Very quick to respond to any questions we had and happy to show us around. We will definitely be back for another stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024