Cabin lodging options near Equality, Illinois provide access to Shawnee National Forest and surrounding public lands. The area sits at elevations between 300-400 feet and features a mixture of forested hills and valleys with several lakes and reservoirs. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Swimming at Cave-in-Rock State Park: Electric-only cabins provide a base for water activities. "We drove up through the Amish Country. Saw a lady mowing her lawn barefoot with a horse. We made it up to the ferry which is a quick fun ride," notes Brittany B. The park features historical attractions along with water recreation options.
Trail riding at Hayes Canyon Campground: Visitors can bring horses and stay in cabins with corral access. "A luxurious crowded but nice campsites older stalls cabins available great trails and maps available store and cowboy church," reports Alicia B. Maps provided at the campground help riders navigate the extensive trail system.
Historical exploration near Harmonie State Park Campground: Located about 45 minutes from Equality, the park offers cabin stays and historical attractions. "New Harmony is a great place to vacation with family. The state park is gorgeous. The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants," writes Jamie B. The nearby historic town provides educational experiences between outdoor activities.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites at Cave-in-Rock State Park: Cabin and RV campers appreciate the uncrowded atmosphere. "We are the only campers here in a very well kept campground. The bathrooms are clean and the only sound is from the birds. $20 for a state park site with electricity is incredible," says Larry R. Weekday visits typically offer more solitude than weekends.
Cool temperatures in cave areas: The namesake cave and surrounding rock formations provide natural air conditioning during hot summer months. "Nice camping, the restaurant/diner was really good. The cavern was a great respite on a really hot day!" notes John F. The temperature difference between the cave and outdoor areas can reach 20 degrees during summer.
Wildlife viewing at South Marcum Campground: Rustic cabin options with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Great place, clean. Lots of deer and turkey!" reports Garrett F. The campground's lakeside location attracts diverse wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Limited provisions near Dixon Springs: Stock up before arrival as stores are limited. "Golconda is only 10 miles away and has a grocery store that was stocked with essentials we forgot and a gas station to fill up," explains Marta S. Most cabin accommodations require guests to bring their own linens and cooking supplies.
Ferry schedules affect access: Some locations require ferry crossings which operate on limited schedules. "If your coming from the Kentucky side first there is Amish country to visit. Check in Marion for what's available and where (fill your gas tank up!) Next there is the ferry ride across," advises Shelly S. at Cave-in-Rock. Ferry wait times can exceed 30 minutes during busy weekends.
Seasonal limitations: Pool facilities typically close after Labor Day despite warm temperatures continuing through September. "Pool was closed on Labor Day weekend??? Pretty wooded campground on the side of a hill has a lot of shade but most sites are not level for larger RVs," notes Muffy Clark G. at Dixon Springs State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities for children: Many cabin campgrounds include playground access and nature programs. "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer. There are 3 playgrounds through out the campground," explains Olivia S. about Harmonie State Park.
Halloween celebrations: Seasonal events make fall cabin stays popular with families. "We stayed the weekend before Halloween. We missed reserving the weekend they have the campground trick or treating, which was the weekend before, but this was just as fun... They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot," shares Nichole M. about Harmonie State Park Campground.
Poison ivy awareness: Prepare children with identification skills and protection. "LOTS of poison ivy and ticks. Luckily, we expected this and came prepared with tweezers, tick remover, insect repellant, and poison ivy wipes," warns Marta S. about Dixon Springs State Park. Long pants and closed shoes recommended for children hiking near cabin areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup availability at Gun Creek: Reserve early for sites with water and sewer. "Gun Creek has many sites for all campers. For cheap you get a simple site with electric or for not too much more there are sites with water and sewage dump," advises Dave S. Call ahead for cabin availability as they book quickly during summer months.
Cell service considerations: Prepare for spotty connections. "Write your directions down for this whole area, the cell phone coverage is spotty and it will keep frustration down," recommends Shelly S. about Cave-in-Rock. Download offline maps before arrival.
Site leveling challenges: Many cabins and RV sites require leveling equipment. "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline, which seems ok for Smaller rigs," notes Never Sitting S. about Gun Creek. Call campgrounds directly to request specific cabin locations with level approaches for those with mobility concerns.
