Cabin camping near Carbondale, Illinois provides access to the Shawnee National Forest with its sandstone formations and over 403 miles of hiking trails. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows reaching 20-30°F. Most cabin rentals are concentrated around the numerous lakes and recreation areas within a 30-mile radius of Carbondale.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Giant City State Park offers equestrian camping with 25 dedicated sites separated from the main campground. "There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here. The geology is much like the Missouri area near the other bank of the Mississippi river," notes Michael M. about Giant City State Park Campground.
Rock climbing opportunities: For more adventurous visitors, several cabin rental locations provide access to climbing areas. "The park used to have an interp center but I believe the state closed it do to funding. The trails aren't always maintained it definitely depends on the season but the park itself is not to be missed," writes Ashley Y. about Giant City State Park Campground.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Cabin rentals at Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR offer direct lake access for fishing. "This is a quiet family campground, most spots are lake side. Very spacious and lots of trees," according to Never Sitting S. Catfish and crappie are particularly abundant in spring and early summer.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many cabin campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private. Camp grounds were clean, quiet, and the camp host and park ranger were very kind," writes Sunshine Z. about Giant City State Park.
Waterfront views: Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground offers cabins with scenic lake vistas. "I've camped here several times with family and also with Boy Scouts. The regular campground is ok. Regular state park stuff. The group camping area was very nice," notes Joel R., highlighting the separate group area available for family gatherings.
Communal activities: Some locations organize group events for cabin guests. At Arrowhead Lake Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "The campground host and wife were friendly. The hosted a pot luck dinner and even had a singing after the dinner," according to Christopher R., showing the social aspects available beyond individual cabin amenities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many cabin rentals book quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Camp Manitowa at Cedar Point, Art S. notes, "This is a group campground. It's used for summer camps but families and groups can also reserve it," indicating the importance of planning ahead for group cabin bookings.
Varying amenities between locations: Cabin facilities differ significantly between parks. "Campground here has both electric sites for campers and primitive sites for tents. All are shaded and quiet. Showers/bathrooms are really nice and clean. In addition to campgrounds, there's a very nice lodge with a good restaurant, and the cabins here are pretty good too," explains Kyle K. about Giant City State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Cabin availability and conditions change throughout the year. "We stayed Easter Weekend here in the campground and had a great time. The campground is clean and maintained. Some sites are gravel and some are asphalt. Not sure if they are upgrading a little at a time??" shares Shana D. about spring conditions at Giant City State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin rental areas have dedicated children's facilities. "Very clean, level sites, large lake with a well maintained walking trail. Lake side sites, wooded sites and regular sites in the middle. Water, 30 and 50 amp, shower house, small laundry facility. Wifi fiber being installed, boat ramp, primitive cabin, tent camping, large childrens playground," describes Lori W. about Arrowhead Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabins offer chances to observe local fauna. At South Marcum Campground, Garrett F. comments, "Great place, clean. Lots of deer and turkey!" making it ideal for families interested in nature observation from their cabin porches.
Educational opportunities: Some locations have interpretive programs. "Giant City is a great place to go with your family! The trails are fun and interesting while the lodge is fantastic! Amazing food there! The scenery is beautiful and the lookout tower gives amazing views!" mentions Livia W., highlighting attractions beyond the cabins themselves.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many cabin and RV sites require attention to leveling. At Benton KOA, Joel R. notes, "This is not a typical KOA. The spaces were large and roomy. Showers and bathroom were very nice, too," suggesting potential comfort for those transitioning between RV and cabin camping.
Hookup availability: Cabin campers should verify available connections. "There is a dump station, hot showers, flush toilets, and drinking. Also a playground in the Whispering Pines loop. The campground is on Rend Lake with swimming, fishing and boating. Most sites are level. Some are pull-through," Joel R. explains about South Marcum Campground.
Noise considerations: Location affects cabin experience. Ellen S. warns about Benton KOA, "Very convenient off the interstate, but also noisy due to the interstate being right there. Small park, quite a few permanent residents," suggesting cabin campers should research location specifics before booking.
