Cabin options dot the Shawnee National Forest region surrounding Herod, Illinois, at elevations between 400-600 feet. Most cabin rentals in this area experience temperature variations of 30-40 degrees between day and night during spring and fall seasons. Winter cabin camping requires preparation for occasional ice storms that can affect road access to more remote properties.
What to do
Hiking to geological formations: At Cave-in-Rock State Park, visitors can explore unique rock formations within a 2-mile loop trail system. "We took a 2 mile loop hike across to the lodge, along the cliff face and down to the cave. A lot of history here and some nice views," notes Shelly S. The cave itself provides natural cooling on hot days, as one camper mentioned, "The cavern was a great respite on a really hot day!"
Ferry experiences: Take the ferry across the Ohio River when traveling to cabin accommodations. "If you're coming from the Kentucky side first there is Amish country to visit... Next there is the ferry ride across. If you've done it a lot no big deal, but my kids used to love it every time," shares a reviewer about accessing Cave-in-Rock State Park.
River watching: Cabin sites at Birdsville Riverside RV Park provide opportunities to observe river traffic. "Right after getting set up, we got to see a big barge go by," reports Duwana P. Another visitor added, "Watching the barges go up and down the river along with an occasional recreational boat or 2" made for a relaxing experience.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian facilities: Little Lusk Trail Lodge & Campground offers expansive grounds for horse enthusiasts. According to dana W., "Bring your horses, or just come and camp and stay in the lodge. Ride or hike in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Campsites are spacious and can accommodate very large rigs. High lines behind sites. Stalls can be reserved."
Quiet camping areas: Many cabin campers appreciate the peaceful setting at Giant City State Park Campground. "We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private," notes Sunshine Z. The park offers different lodging options including cabin rentals with various amenities.
Waterfront locations: Riverside cabin options provide views and ambiance. "All open sites waterfront, 30 or 50 amp, sewer and water hookups. Right on the Ohio river!" reports Beth H. about Birdsville Riverside RV Park. Another visitor mentioned the "magnificent sunsets" visible from riverside accommodations.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare for connectivity issues when staying in cabin rentals. "Write your directions down for this whole area, the cell phone coverage is spotty and it will keep frustration down," advises one Cave-in-Rock visitor.
Supply limitations: Stock up before arriving at remote cabin locations. According to Nicole C., "Also note that there is no place to buy ice or firewood nearby. We crossed the ferry and went to Marion Kentucky and found some there."
Seasonal crowds: Dixon Springs State Park Campground experiences varying usage patterns throughout the year. "We were the only campers in our loop for the entire stay. This is a very clean, well maintained campground," reports Joel H. about off-season visiting. During summer months, the park's pool facility draws additional visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: For cabin stays during warm months, Dixon Springs State Park offers swimming facilities. "The pool is in the same area. Ghost Dance Canyon Trail is .7 miles long and an interesting, picture worthy hike," mentions Shelly S. Another camper adds, "They have a fun pool with a slide attached to the campground with an entrance fee of $6."
Multiple playgrounds: Harmonie State Park Campground provides family-friendly cabin options with recreation areas. "It has 200 sites, electric only, 5 bath houses and 2 pit toilets. There are also 11 cabins. 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," describes Olivia S.
Holiday events: Some parks offer seasonal activities for families. As Nichole M. explains about Harmonie State Park: "They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating. Next time we'll be sure to park and hand out candy as well. There was also a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations carefully based on size requirements. According to Jessica R. at Dixon Springs, "We have a 29 foot camper: the sites and roads are snug for it. At site 6 it goes downhill so it is difficult to get your camper level."
Electrical considerations: Most cabins in the area offer limited electrical options. "They are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites," reports one visitor about Giant City State Park, indicating ongoing improvements to power availability for larger setups.
Seasonal maintenance: Weather affects cabin access conditions. "Giant City is a great place with the fall colors to go and explore, but plan your hike with enough time to not get caught in the lower amount of daylight," advises Daniel B., noting that reduced visibility affects both hiking and cabin access during certain seasons.
