Cabins near Marseilles, Illinois range from rustic to modern accommodations with varying amenities. Kishauwau Cabins offers 17 log cabins in a forested setting with full kitchens equipped with cooking utensils, silverware, glassware and dishware. Most units include flat-screen TVs with DVD players, heating and air conditioning. Illini State Park provides cabin options with more basic amenities, while Starved Rock State Park Campground features cabin rentals within hiking distance of the park's canyons and waterfalls. Nature's Way RV Park maintains four rental cabins with porches, grills, fire pits and picnic tables. "Perfectly perched far away from traffic, noise and the routine drudgery of day-to-day life, Kishauwau is situated far back in a thick-forested pristine patch of land that places you very near two of the best state parks."
Rustic log cabins and KOA-style accommodations dominate the region's overnight options. The Lasalle/Peru KOA offers standard cabin rentals with typical KOA amenities, operating from April through November. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Millbrook provides family-friendly cabin options year-round. Reservations are essential, particularly during summer months when cabins book quickly. Pet policies vary by location, with Kishauwau Cabins and several other properties allowing pets in designated cabins. Pricing ranges from budget-friendly state park cabins to premium private accommodations with full amenities. According to reviews, Kishauwau Cabins provides "extremely personal hospitality" with a family atmosphere that makes guests "feel at home."
Most cabin rentals provide beds with varying levels of additional furnishings. Higher-end options like those at Kishauwau include bed linens, while more rustic accommodations typically require guests to bring their own bedding, towels and toiletries. Kitchen facilities range from full kitchens with cookware to simple countertops with microwaves. Fire rings and outdoor grills are standard at most properties. Camp stores at locations like Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area offer "everything from souvenirs to camping supplies, ice, beverages and snacks." Visitors staying at cabins near Starved Rock should consider bringing additional supplies, as the park store carries limited inventory, primarily offering "fire starters, marshmallows, bug spray, ice cream, and pop."
"If your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks."
"With the car in the drive blocking the road, I had complete privacy. There was a short walk to porta potties and a nice walk to the modern, clean bath house."
from $25 - $35 / night
"We bought fire wood from a locals front lawn at the entrance to the state park. Put 5$ in the bin and take a bundle. Its 30 mins away from Starved Rock and Matthiesson State Park. Good hiking."
"Spent a couple nights here (site 3) for Vintage Illinois at a nearby park. Quiet, fairly level, gravel sites. Electric worn but fully functional. Lots of trees and shade."
from $12 - $55 / night
"The largest and most open area is on top of the hill (the Highlands) but there are other areas that are shadier and more close to nature (Alcove way, Creekside, Oak Grove, the Glades). "
"This is very close to Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks, both of which are absolutely breathtaking! The campground is decent; lots of tents."
"And about an hour and a half from central Chicago is Illini State Park, a comfortable slice of wilderness."
"While both campgrounds offer close proximity to the Illinois River, you will be challenged to actually see the river from Whitetail, unless you head far west on Hawk Road where there is a separate picnic"
from $10 - $45 / night
"The front of this park is the typical KOA. Trailer spots, pool, general store. Showers and bathroom are VERY clean and the staff is on top of things."
"Heaven for tenters as you can be in the larger groups or some very secluded areas as well. RV/Trailers are a little tight on space but we tend to be away from the site when we are there."
"bordering Lake Michigan, right?"
"The camping is not the best but the lake is amazing! Campsites are really cramped, no privacy at all. The lake has huge inflatables and a trampoline so it’s unique and fun."
"Perfectly perched far away from traffic, noise and the routine drudgery of day-to-day life, Kishauwau is situated far back in a thick-forested pristine patch of land that places you very near two of the"
"Great cozy cabins to disconnect from reality. We visited as a family with a newborn and absolutely fell in love with the place."
from $129 - $499 / night
"Over in these parts, just past the bridge that you would need to cross to reach this primitive camping area, there’s a K9 dog park as well as plenty of scattered picnic tables, in-ground raised BBQ pits"
"Pet friendly. We want to come back when we can stay longer."
from $30 - $125 / night
"RV, tent, and cabins make it easy for everyone to enjoy their stay. Bathrooms need some attention and hotter showers would be wonderful."
"This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest! We will continue to go there for as long as we live in this area."
"bordering Lake Michigan – other than this, finding a proper beachhead is impossible."
"Tent sites are right across from a park with a back drop creek that runs through the camp. Fish are very abundant. When the lake is open it’s great to bring kids for the water sports."
ScoutTook my daughter for the weekend. Camp host were wonderful and even worked with us when I arrived later then planned. Full hookup was perfect and location was great.
Location is close to Utica so we were able to enjoy the local shops and restaurants.
Wonderful spot and we will definitely be back.
GuideWe had an easy after-hours first come first serve check in experience. Directions were easy to follow and the campground itself was well-kept. Having a power hook-up for a night was a huge plus.
The state park trails aren't really accessible from the campground but are a short drive away. They are doing A LOT of work on the trail system so not all trails are open at this time. Definitely check out some of the canyons and overlooks if you are staying in the campground.
LegendIf your family enjoys spending more time on the trail than sitting around the campsite, Starved Rock Campground makes a wonderful home base for exploring one of Illinois' most beautiful state parks. Located just outside Starved Rock State Park, the campground offers spacious sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, mature shade trees and just enough modern comforts, including shower facilities and flush restrooms, to make returning after a full day of hiking especially rewarding. One of my favorite memories was watching families head out early with hiking boots and backpacks, then return later that afternoon tired, a little muddy and smiling as they swapped stories about waterfalls, canyons and wildlife around their campfires. The best souvenirs here aren't the photos you take, but the adventures your family shares along the trail. From what we experienced, the more shaded campsites offer the nicest combination of privacy and a peaceful setting, especially during the warmer months. We would gladly recommend Starved Rock Campground for families because it provides comfortable camping, EZ access to one of the Midwest's premier hiking destinations and countless opportunities to spend meaningful time together outdoors. Just remember that you'll need to drive a few minutes into the state park itself to reach the main trailheads, lodge and canyon system.
ScoutNice, clean, quiet, simple state park set up. Many miles of paved and crushed limestone trails. The actual Kankakee River access is sort of outside of the campground- that would be my only complaint. You have to walk or bike a little distance to be near the river. Seemed very well maintained and we loved it!
RangerWe added a day to our Starved Rock itinerary and couldn't get into Starved Rock State Park Campground that night, so quickly booked this from the road. Got into the Highlands, which was packed and super close quarters. Not what we love, but several sites looked like extended families/friends had booked together and they were having a blast, especially the kids. Looked like they had some activities available and we saw several kids with fishing poles heading somewhere fun. We didn't explore the rest of the grounds; perhaps other sections afforded more privacy. I thought it was a bit pricey for the amenities (one shower house very far away) and hemmed-in feel, but it served our purpose for one night.
RangerWe loved site 89 at Starved Rock State Campground, in the wooded area of the east loop. Felt enveloped by nature among the trees and birds. Nice privacy, with neighbors at a distance through the trees. The pit toilets weren’t far and were well-kept. The only disappointment was the shower house. The shower itself was excellent—hot and powerful—but one men's and one women's shower for more than 70 sites isn't sufficient, and those facilities felt neglected.
The location of this campground is perfect if you’re there to explore the canyons, as it’s an easy drive to so many trailheads. We hiked up to Starved Rock and also down into seven canyons over the four days there: Illinois, Ottawa, Kalkaskia, Council Bluffs, St Louis, French, and Wildcat. We enjoyed a riverboat cruise down the Illinois River among bluffs of sandstone. We had lunch in Ottawa one day and Utica another; both cool towns. We also loved our time just relaxing at the site in such a beautiful setting.
LegendThe first thing that struck us about Woodhaven Lakes was that it didn't feel like a campground at all - it felt like a small town built entirely around family camping. Spread across nearly 1,800 acres of woodlands, lakes and prairie in north-central Illinois, this membership campground somehow manages to offer seven lakes, swimming pools, sandy beaches (yes, even though you are in the middle of a land-locked state), miles of trails, playgrounds, mini golf, restaurants, a well-stocked camp store, spotless bathhouses and more family activities than we could possibly fit into one trip without losing its relaxed, welcoming feel. My favorite memory was watching families gather along the beach as the kids bounced between building sandcastles, splashing in the water and making brand-new friends before racing back to camp for dinner. Some places are measured in acres; this one is measured in smiles, laughs and conversations. From what we saw, the waterfront campsites in Zones 1-5, 7, 10-11, 16, 21, 23 and 24 offer the nicest combination of peaceful lake views and convenient access to many of the campground's amenities. We would absolutely recommend Woodhaven Lakes for families looking to create lasting memories because of its incredible variety of activities, beautifully maintained facilities and endless opportunities to simply enjoy being together outdoors.
LegendTucked along the shore of shimmering Shabbona Lake, just under two hours west of Chicago mind you, are two rustic yet welcoming camp cabins at this particular SP. These modest structures, each around 200 sq ft, offer a cozy hideaway for up to six people. Facing southeast over the lake, the cabins are shaded and tucked away for privacy, with only a nearby boat launch dock reminding you of civilization.
Inside, the cabins keep it simple: two basic rooms in each, with electricity, baseboard heat, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. There are no cooking facilities or bathrooms (which I have to admit, I was surprised to learn) although there is a multi-leveled adjustable BBQ grill along with a very good sized firepit, so bring your own plans for cooking meals and preparing food. Guests rely on nearby campground amenities, including showers with running hot water, flush toilets, potable water, a dump station and the handy Camp Store that is a very short walk from these cabins and comes stocked with supplies, snacks, firewood and fishing gear.
What sets these cabins apart is the lakefront view combined with practicality. You step right from your door onto a serene, wooded lakeshore offering a perfect perch for early-morning fishing, sunrise coffee on the veranda or unwinding at sunset. The proximity to stocked waters featuring large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, channel catfish, walleye and muskies adds fishing convenience, while the quieter, smaller-scale lodging feels exclusive. Additionally, the Camp Store’s rentals(boats, bait, paddleboats) keep the fun within reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Reserve early as only two cabins exist, and they’re popular from May 1 through October 31 on ExploreMoreIL™; (2) Drive gently on the access path as the lake road can be narrow and shaded; (3) Expect no kitchen or plumbing, so prep meals or plan to dine at nearby Pokanoka’s Dockside Restaurant that sits inside the SP on the western side of the lake or, for a short drive to Shabbona, check out Shabbona Café, Chumley’s Pizza followed by some sweets at Screamers Ice cream after saving campfire cookouts for the fire ring; (4) Bring your own bathrooms habits as restrooms are shared in the main campground; and (5) Check out the Camp Store early for spare fishing poles, firewood or ice cream before being tempted into relaxation.
Happy Camping!
ScoutNice campground, but make sure you are on the outside. Very little shade.
Cabin accommodations near Marseilles, Illinois sit within a region characterized by rolling hills and wooded terrain along the Illinois River, approximately 75 miles southwest of Chicago. The area receives an average annual rainfall of 39 inches, creating seasonal conditions that affect cabin access and amenities. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while winter cabin rentals face temperatures that can drop below 20°F from December through February.
Hiking at Starved Rock: Explore 13 miles of trails through sandstone canyons with seasonal waterfalls. "If you want all of your typical creature comforts but still want to be within arms reach of natures beauty, this is the place for you. It's probably the best and most advertised site in Illinois though so be prepared to see lots of people," notes Carrie J. from Starved Rock Campground.
Kayaking the Illinois River: Rent watercraft at several locations within 5-10 miles of Marseilles cabins. "Kayak starved rock getting their landing finished up," mentions Eric R., highlighting river access improvements at Starved Rock.
Seasonal waterfall viewing: Visit during spring or after heavy rains when waterfalls are most active. "Beautiful in the spring! Great hikes and great sights!" says Hannah S., emphasizing the optimal timing for waterfall viewing at Starved Rock.
Fishing at Shabbona Lake: Access trophy fishing spots within 45 minutes of Marseilles cabin rentals. "The lake has produced a lot of trophy fish, if that's your thing. Otherwise it's quiet and peaceful. We like to go just to chill and read out in the woods," explains Scott C. from Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area.
Secluded cabin settings: Many cabin rentals offer wooded surroundings away from city noise. "Perfectly perched far away from traffic, noise and the routine drudgery of day-to-day life, Kishauwau is situated far back in a thick-forested pristine patch of land that places you very near two of the best state parks," describes Stuart K. from Kishauwau Cabins.
Riverfront cabin views: Sites #003-#018 at Great Falls Campground offer direct Illinois River views. "We stayed here while visiting relatives in Marseilles, and this park was the closest. Things here were fine for our purposes. During our stay, the place needed mowing and the men's shower and bathroom didn't have water," reports Karla J.B. from Great Falls Campground.
Heated pools and water features: Several properties offer swimming facilities during summer months. "Nice campground with decent activities. Lake is small but has water toys to swim out and play on," notes Marc W. about Hi-Tide Recreation, which provides cabin rentals alongside water recreation options.
Winter accessibility: Unlike seasonal accommodations, some cabins remain open year-round. "I stayed in Whitetail Campground for a few days. It was very quiet, especially during the week, and secluded. I stayed in site 63, a back-in site with electricity that is shared with another campsite," explains Inez W. about winter cabin options.
Reservation timing: Book cabins 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. "Book early - reservations open online 6 months in advance and book up quickly. Most summer weekends are completely full," advises Kim L. from Starved Rock Campground.
Cabin amenities vary substantially: Check specific listings for included items. "We have a 30' travel trailer. The overall layout isn't great. To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction," warns Brian A. from Pleasant Creek Campground.
Limited store supplies: Most camp stores carry basic necessities only. "A very basic 'store' open after 3pm, just had fire starters, marshmallows, bug spray, ice cream, and pop. Some little souvenirs. No milk or eggs," shares Kim L. about Starved Rock.
Seasonal closures: Verify operating dates before booking. "The Lasalle/Peru KOA offers standard cabin rentals with typical KOA amenities, operating from April through November," explains Jim T., noting the seasonal limitations.
Playground proximity: Choose cabins near play areas for convenient supervision. "This campground is fun because it is the only one in the area with a pool. A creek runs through it so you have to check for flooding. Close to all the state parks," advises Amanda W. about Lasalle/Peru KOA.
Entertainment options: Some properties offer organized activities for children. "My family and I have been going to Jellystone in Millbrook for the past 4 years now. The last 2 years have been the best out of the 4. This location has been taken over by new management and they are absolutely the greatest!" shares Chad C. from Jellystone Park Millbrook.
Safety considerations: Check for flood-prone areas when booking cabin sites with children. "The bulk of the campsites are down in a valley and ours was along the creek. A heavy downpour resulted in water up over our ankles all through the site! Thank goodness the tents floated while we hunkered down in our vehicles," warns Jackie S. about Pleasant Creek Campground.
Hiking difficulty levels: Assess trail challenges before bringing children. "People get down on Illinois. And I get it. It's a typical Midwest state and it's mostly pretty flat. But...then there's Starved Rock! Easily accessible to most of IL residents, Starved Rock is a great half-day for anyone looking for hiking, waterfalls, and views, views, views!" recommends Brannon M.
Electric hookup access: Some cabin areas share electrical connections between sites. "I stayed in site 63, a back-in site with electricity that is shared with another campsite. This required some re-adjustment to my rig to reach it with the 30-foot cord that I have," notes Inez W. from Whitetail Campground.
Road width constraints: Interior roads at some properties create passing challenges. "To get up to the sites, it's a one way up and down road. Hopefully no one else is coming the opposite direction," cautions Brian A. about Pleasant Creek's layout.
Dump station wait times: Plan for potential delays during peak checkout periods. "Took about 45 min for us to dump being 5th in line at 10:30am," reports Kim L. about Sunday morning congestion at Starved Rock.
Site grading variations: Request specific site information regarding levelness. "Interior of the loop had more level sites with less privacy where as external were a various degree of slope but more private," observes Katherine T. about tent sites that may also affect cabin placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities do cabins in Marseilles offer for Starved Rock visitors?
Cabins in the Marseilles area near Starved Rock offer various amenities to enhance your visit. Camp Bullfrog Lake provides small and medium cabins, with some heated units featuring private bathrooms. These accommodations are positioned near water, offering beautiful views. At Illini State Park, nearby facilities complement the cabin experience with scenic river spots, hiking access, and proximity to Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Most cabins in the area offer basic furnishings, fire rings, picnic tables, and varying levels of privacy depending on the property.
How much does it cost to rent a cabin in Marseilles near Starved Rock?
Cabin rental costs near Starved Rock vary based on size, amenities, and season. Pleasant Creek Campground, located close to both Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, offers reasonably priced accommodations. For a more upscale option, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Millbrook provides cabin rentals with various price points depending on the amenities included. Generally, basic cabins in the area start around $60-80 per night, while more luxurious options with private bathrooms, heating/AC, and additional amenities can range from $100-200+ per night, especially during peak summer and fall seasons.
Are there cabins near Starved Rock State Park in Marseilles, Illinois?
Yes, there are several cabin options near Starved Rock State Park. Kishauwau Cabins is an excellent private cabin facility perfectly positioned for Starved Rock visitors. Located in the area, these cabins provide a comfortable indoor experience while still letting you enjoy the surrounding nature. For those wanting to stay closer to the park itself, Starved Rock State Park offers lodging options as well, though the campground primarily focuses on tent and RV camping.
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