Cabins near Highland, Illinois range from rustic to comfort-oriented accommodations within a 30-minute drive. The region sits along the Kaskaskia River basin at approximately 500 feet elevation with seasonal temperatures that fluctuate significantly. Winter cabin rentals require advance planning as many facilities reduce operations from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access: year-round options: At Illini Campground — Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, anglers can fish directly from the shoreline. "We lucked out and were able to reserve one of the last spots (site #76) which happened to have a nice view of the lake and several short trails down to the water. There was a sand/beach area and plenty of firewood around," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: lake views: The hiking trails around Beaver Dam State Park Campground offer moderate terrain for casual walks. "The trail goes all the way around the lake with several fishing spots. The overlook to the marsh is pretty cool," reports a camper who explored the area. The trails need better markings but provide scenic lake views.
Swimming options: pools and beaches: Seasonal swimming facilities vary between cabin locations. "There is a swimming pool and campground store. The pool was closed when we were there but looked nice," mentions an Eldon Hazlet visitor. Many cabin rental properties close pools from September through May, so verify availability when booking.
What campers like
Proximity to St. Louis attractions: Cahokia RV Parque offers cabin accommodations with easy access to metropolitan attractions. "Just minutes across the river from St. Louis. They have a shuttle to the various tourist attractions, just ask the staff at the office for details," reports a visitor. Their cabin options provide urban convenience while maintaining camping comforts.
Clean facilities: air conditioned bathhouses: The shower facilities at Dam West Campground receive consistent praise. "Showers are great separate toilets/shower rooms," notes a recent visitor. Another camper states, "CLEAN (and air conditioned) bath houses. The sites are beautiful and well maintained!" This makes the cabin experience more comfortable during summer heat.
Budget-friendly pricing: Value-oriented cabins provide affordable accommodations. A visitor to Beaver Dam State Park noted, "This is a small quaint campground that allows you to get a feel for the state park. There are plenty of walking trails, rec areas and fishing available around the park which makes it for the perfect weekend getaway for the family."
What you should know
Reservation timing: book early: Securing cabin rentals requires advance planning. At Dam West Campground, "We arrived at this campground at 11am on a Friday only to find that that the first-come, first-serve sites were already full. From driving around it looks like a very nice campground. After talking to the campground host, it sounds like they go fast."
Water quality concerns: Water systems at some properties may have seasonal issues. At Eldon Hazlet, one camper reported, "Only complaint that I have was the potable water supply. I filled by trailer's tank at the drinking water supply when you enter the campground. It was extremely dirty with a lot of copper colored solids."
Offseason limitations: Several cabin properties reduce services during winter months. A Dam West visitor notes, "Very nice kept up campground. Reservable sites are hard to book. Only negatives is that this campground is not open year-round." Call ahead to confirm winter availability.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: weekend events: Country Bend Campground offers extensive family-oriented recreation. "Huge campground with a lot of different areas. Be prepared for a lot of walking unless you rent or bring your own golf cart. Holiday weekends have so many planned activities, some for all ages," shares a visitor. Their cabin rentals provide convenient access to these facilities.
Grocery options: plan ahead: Supply runs require driving to nearby towns. "Walmart is just 5-10min away if needed as well as restaurants, gas station, and other amenities in Carlyle nearby," mentions an Eldon Hazlet camper. Most cabin areas lack substantial on-site stores.
Playground access: multiple locations: Family-friendly cabin areas typically include play areas. At Eldon Hazlet, "There are three playground areas, a basketball court, sand volleyball and a pool during summer months. Lots of families with kids, bike rides and plenty of other lake and outdoor activities in the area," notes a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Rustic Acres Jellystone, site choices matter significantly. "The campsites are small and a bit pricey, but it is a great family friendly place. Good pizza and amazing ice cream at the store!" The same applies when selecting cabin locations within campgrounds.
Onsite food options: Some cabin areas feature dining facilities. At Cahokia RV Parque, a visitor recommends, "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers." This saves cooking time during short stays.
Bathroom proximity planning: When selecting cabin locations, bathroom proximity matters. One Eldon Hazlet visitor cautioned, "Unless you have a restroom in your rig, be prepared to walk up to the showerhouse. The pit toilets that were spread across the campground were in horrendous condition and had wasps, spiders, and other critters hanging out."
