Cabins near Bargerville, Illinois range from rustic structures to units with full amenities. Located in the Shawnee Hills region at elevations between 400-800 feet, these accommodations experience mild winters and warm, humid summers. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, making air-conditioned options desirable during peak season.
What to do
Hiking trails: Giant City State Park Campground features numerous hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "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., who visited in fall.
Rock climbing: For visitors seeking adventure beyond hiking, Lake Murphysboro State Park Campground offers nearby climbing opportunities. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," advises Josh M.
Fishing options: Crab Orchard Lake provides excellent fishing access for cabin renters. "So much to do here I'll just have to keep coming back to get everything in," mentions Jim L. about Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Catfish and crappie are particularly abundant in spring and fall.
Water activities: Cabins near water access points allow for convenient boating and swimming. "Fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set" are among the amenities noted by visitors to the education center properties.
What campers like
Diverse accommodation options: Arrowhead Lake Campground offers a range of cabin types. "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," explains Lori W.
Privacy levels: Some cabin areas provide more seclusion than others. Camp Manitowa at Cedar Point offers a unique group cabin experience. "Imagine a place where peace seeps in to your soul and no worries can find their way in. This sanctuary gave all of us a private setting to relax and enjoy our community," writes Art S.
Lakeside views: Many cabins feature water views. "If I was in any other spot this would probably be a 4/5, but spot 56 has a crazy lake view and is on the tip of an outlook with pretty nice privacy!" shares Eli R. about South Marcum Campground.
Shade coverage: Whittington Woods Campground provides well-shaded cabin areas. "Beautiful campground with mature trees providing lots of shade on the 100F weekend we were there. Gravel sites, level. A lot of common ground, shaded, picnic shelters," notes Jan S.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some properties take advance bookings, others operate differently. "First come first serve, and the park was full most of the time we were here," reports a visitor to Crab Orchard. Weekends fill quickly, especially during summer months.
Cabin amenities differ: Some cabin facilities are basic while others offer more comforts. "Lots of amazing, beautiful hikes in this park, especially if you're into bluffs and large boulders. Easy drive to many other picturesque and unique parks (i.e. Garden of the Gods, Ferne Clyffe), and easy drive into town if you want something more civilized," explains Kyle K. about Giant City State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Area cabins experience different peak periods. "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," notes Shana D. about spring visits.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some properties. "Yes, there is highway noise. It's a KOA. Convenience of being easy off an interstate has its tradeoffs. That said, excellent staff, clean, professional KOA," explains Tom B. about Benton KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several cabin areas include recreation facilities. "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!" shares Livia W.
Swimming areas: Gun Creek offers water access for family cooling off. "Overall a great stay, very busy as it was full the entire time we were there while the state park down the road was empty. Nice place for families, most campers seemed to be fishing," notes a visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy animal sightings at cabin properties. "There was a little skunk walking around this morning," mentions Brennan M. about Gun Creek, while other visitors report deer, turkey and various bird species throughout the region.
Group facilities: For family reunions or large gatherings, specific sites work better than others. "We stayed here for family reunions over last 10 years. Wooded and nice, in July it's hot here, but trees help make it easier," shares Jim J. about Whittington Woods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection factors: For cabin campers bringing additional vehicles, pay attention to parking configuration. "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," advises a visitor to Gun Creek.
Accessibility challenges: Some cabin areas have terrain limitations. "The area is very hilly and narrow to drive through," notes Jamie E. about Lake Murphysboro State Park, which may affect access for those with mobility concerns.
Utility connections: For cabins with hookups, placement matters. "Full hookups but not on the correct side of RV. All gravel sites. Low dust," explains a visitor to Whittington Woods, suggesting guests check orientation details before arrival.
