See all properties
Cabin

THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Photo gallery for THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Pool
Cabin
Kitchen / Living room
King Bedroom with ensuite
Rusty - Highland

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Equality, IL
  • Shawnee National Forest
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead
    ‪36 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden

About this property

THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!

Enjoy amazing views of the Shawnee National Forest ⭐️❗️

Rustic Ridge is a small working farm located in Southern Illinois about 15 minutes north of Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest.

Our cabin has lots of windows for great indoor viewing as well as lots of patio & deck spaces to enjoy the outdoors. Splash in the pool (in season). Walk down to see the animals on our 40 acre property, go Explore the Shawnee National Forest, take a drive to the wine trail or visit nearby horse trails, atv trails, and so much more that the Shawnee National Forest area has to offer.

Meet the animals:
🐄 Highland Cows (Daisy, Rusty, Kane, & Lily)
🫎 Moose the dog you might see him around the property & Rufus the livestock guardian.
🐈 Sierra, Butterscotch, Special, & Kitty. The cats may roam the property.
🐥🐓 chickens and newly hatched chicks
* Miniature ZEBU! Dixie, Shawnee & our calf Brisket born Jan '25
➕️ all of the wildlife 🦌🐿🦃🐦🦝......

🌳cabin on a 40 acres property
🏊‍♀️ private pool
🌞 views
🐴🐱🐄🐶🦌Animals & Wildlife
🚜 Farm
🔥fire pit
🛜WiFi
Smart tv📺
3 🛌🛁

Private use of cabin & pool but being in the forest daily pool maintenance may occur

Everything here is on a hill with lots of rocks. If it's raining or recently rained you may find mud. Expect to see & hear nature all around you. This is a working farm so you may hear & see us or hear any of the neighboring farm properties. We are on property and also have exterior cameras throughout the 40 acre property. No Fence around pool! You accept responsibility for yourself & other guests.

Property manager

Eric
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Private Gated Property

Private Luxury Escape at the base of the Shawnee National Forest

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
10.0 out of 10, (18 reviews)
Private Luxury Escape at the base of the Shawnee National Forest

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
No fence around pool
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Close curtains
Message us when you leave & notify us if anything is damaged
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Agree to terms in the rental agreement

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Equality

Equality is home to this cabin. Shawnee Hills Country Club and Ross Cottom Lanes are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Shawnee National Forest and Garden of the Gods Recreation Area.
Map
Equality, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 15 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Harrisburg Township Park District - 26 min drive - 21.1 km
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 31 min drive - 26.3 km
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 36 min drive - 28.4 km
  • Cave in Rock State Park - 61 min drive - 55.5 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Red Onion - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Leonard's Country Kitchen - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Jac's Place - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Leonards Country Kitchen - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪A Little Taste of Italy - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is THE VIEWS! Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Shawnee with Highland cows & a pool! located?

Situated in Equality, this cabin is 4.6 mi (7.4 km) from Shawnee National Forest and within 12 miles (20 km) of Shawnee Hills Country Club and Harrisburg Township Park District. Ross Cottom Lanes and Saline County Area Museum are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Melissa L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hiking in Shawnee National

Clean, friendly beautiful location.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorial Day Weekend

The property was great.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A birthday get away

We traveled down to southern Illinois to enjoy a family birthday, the area provided was exceptional and enjoyable. We really appreciate the hospitality provided and the unique adventure the space provided.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Casey O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Great views
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A slice of heaven

We had everything we needed to play games together, cook and eat wonderful meals, and enjoy the incredible scenery, even with rain. The hosts are wonderful! We enjoyed visiting with them and meeting the animals. Will absolutely visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Respite away from the city

Family trip with our sons was a success. The house was beautiful, the location to the park was great, and the hosts were nothing but helpful and welcoming. We got a tour of the farm and got to learn a bit about their journey. One of our days included a muddy hike and Eric and Jacqueline graciously washed our pants so that we could wear them the next day. I loved it all. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice Getaway in the country

Property was very clean and views were gorgeous. Nice anniversary weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and relaxing

We had a wonderful stay at this cozy spot near Shawnee National Park! The views were absolutely beautiful, and the peaceful setting made for a perfect getaway. One of the highlights was getting a tour of the owner's small working farm—we loved meeting the animals and learning more about the property. She also gave us some great hiking recommendations that led us to some amazing trails we might have otherwise missed.We’re already looking forward to coming back when the pool is open and the weather is even warmer. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to relax and explore the beauty of southern Illinois!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Don’t hesitate, book now!

Book this now, you will not regret it! Beautiful home that you can tell was built , decorated and maintained with love. The view is gorgeous! Perfect for taking in while sipping your coffee in the morning. Although it was too cold this trip, I have stayed here before and the pool is amazing. The hosts are fantastic! So inviting. They make us feel like friends. And even though I am from just upstate and see farms and farm animals, it was awesome to get the farm tour. If you don’t smile interacting with the cows and watching the chickens run…well let’s be real, you will be smiling like a kid. The location is remote enough for a relaxing , undisturbed, quiet getaway yet close to soooo many things to do! We loved this place and will definitely be repeat customers.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

The location is fairly remote, but yet you are able to access the Shawnee Park trails in a reasonable drive. The home was beautiful and clean. The hosts were very kind, responsive, and helpful. Would not hesitate to go back.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

ScienceWares

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible place!

It’s hard to believe this place exists - worth a visit even if you don’t know anything about the area! It’s a wonderful place to stay and the hosts have an amazing farm that is well worth a tour even in the pouring rain! The kitchen was top notch and the connection of the whole house to the views and outdoors is amazing. Hosts were super nice and went above and beyond responding to everything.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

❤️❤️❤️

This place is amazing and can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristi A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome get away!

What a gorgeous home outside of Shawnee National Forest. Loved our stay, and the home was gorgeous! Every detail was perfect! As an added bonus you can see animals (cows, Moose the dog!) We will be back next time we return to the area!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Weekend Getaway

This was a great home for our family for the weekend. Everything was clean, well maintained, and decorated to perfection. We loved feeling secluded, but not far from town. The house and views were beautiful and the pool was perfect to cool off in! My kids loved seeing the farm animals and are still talking about them. We highly recommend and look forward to our next trip back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Johnita M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Weekend

We loved it !!! The animals, the views, the pool, the home !! Everything was perfect. I have told everyone how wonderful it was ❤️
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tabitha B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great view

The view from the covered porch is amazing. My son did not want to leave. He enjoyed the pool, the tree swing and the animals. We will definitely book this place again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truly a must visit property!!

We had such a great time here! The entire property is gorgeous, inside and out. The hosts were kind enough to give us a tour of their farm and introduce us to their beautiful animals. The house is modern, with a lovely farmhouse style, full of every amenity, and spacious. We loved swimming in the private pool and looking out at the rolling landscape. Everything was fresh and clean – a top-notch stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Luke M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

5 star cabin

This cabin way exceeded our expectations. My son who is autistic loved the pool and being in nature. He was thrilled to have a tour of the farm animals and definitely wants to come back with the rest of the family.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous in the middle of nowhere!

The worst part of this place was leaving. Everything was just perfect….decor, landscaping, cleanliness, layout, amenities….we just can’t wait to go back! It was so nice and relaxing! The pool??….in southern Illinois, that was the cherry on top! Loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely beautiful!

Absolutely beautiful home! Besides the beautiful scenery, the home was the cleanest we have stayed in! We loved the farm animals and the fact that Jacqueline and Eric took time to give us a tour. My daughter loved it! We spent a day at Garden of the gods, which was about a 30 minute drive. Absolutely worth it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow!

This is a perfect property for a getaway. It did not disappoint. If I could give 10 stars I would. The beds are amazing, the views, close to trails, the pool, the comfort of the house, truly everything! The hosts are amazing and friendly. We are already planning a return trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Morgan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas with the family

This property was beautiful. The perfect space for my husband and I to bring the kids and their significant others to stay for Christmas. Each couple had their own bedroom, that included plenty of space and a bathroom. The downstairs area is a great space for playing games and hanging out. The cleanliness was a 10! That was my favorite part. There wasn't a crumb or hair anywhere. The kitchen is well appointed, and I had everything I needed to cook a big breakfast for us all. We enjoyed the animals and Eric and Jaqueline were wonderful as well. Very quick to respond to any questions we had and happy to show us around. We will definitely be back for another stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Little Slice of Heaven!

We loved our stay at the Rustic Ridge. First of all, this place exceeded all of our expectations. The home was beautifully decorated and cozy but more importantly it was CLEAN! The owners were very friendly and quick to answer any questions we had. The sweet animals were an added bonus to our stay. We had plans of doing more hiking nearby but ended up spending most of our time enjoying the awesome pool and the magnificent views. There are lots of hiking trail options nearby, as well as some local restaurants/grocery stores. This was just the relaxing getaway we needed. We will most definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jude B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven on earth!

We loved this place! I don’t even know where to start. The cleanest place I’ve ever stayed, which I love! The real draw is the beautiful pool view! So relaxing, beautiful and quiet & that’s just what we needed. So many pretty spaces to sit/swing and relax. The full moon from there was one of the most beautiful I have seen in my life. The space itself is very nice, well put together, they did a great job. I can’t say enough about it. Will be back!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing!

My husband and I decided to take a trip to relax. The modern cabin was the cleanest vrbo we have rented yet! I can be picky about cleanliness so this is saying a lot! There are so many spaces to sit and enjoy the view, even if it’s raining, you could sit on the covered porch. The pool was Very clean and relaxing also, it was really nice to have the cows and other animals to walk over and see. We found a couple really great restaurants in town just 15 minutes away that We were very happy with, Morellos for dinner and Steam Cafe for breakfast. The hosts were great. We will be visiting again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

About the host

Hosted by Eric

Host profile image
We began hosting in 2017 with our Siesta Key Condo Rental and loved all of the great people we had a chance to host. After selling, we planned to return to rentals with all of the great views of the Shawnee National Forest. So, we are hosting again on our little farm. We have a great cabin with amazing views plus we have Highland Cows, mini horse, mini zebu, chickens, dogs, & the cats. We look forward to hosting you!

Why they chose this property

This property was originally purchased for our weekend getaway but after a few weekends down here, we decided to make it full time. Now we want to share the property with you - - private use of cabin & pool but we will still be on the 40 acres property.

What makes this property unique

The views, the pool, & the cows! Seriously, though all of the animals are great!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Hotels

cottages Kaikōura
family rentals in Caloundra

Holiday Rentals

Te Anau Holiday Rentals
Lake Brunner Holiday Rentals
Canggu Holiday Rentals
New Zealand Holiday Rentals
Wānaka Holiday Rentals
Punakaiki Beach Holiday Rentals
Rarotonga Holiday Rentals
Moana Holiday Rentals
Martinborough Holiday Rentals
Kawhia Holiday Rentals
Paraparaumu Beach Holiday Rentals
Zealand Holiday Rentals
Christchurch Holiday Rentals
Manurewa Holiday Rentals
Yudanaka Shibu Onsen Holiday Rentals
Tapanui Holiday Rentals
Dargaville Holiday Rentals
Taupo Holiday Rentals
Foxton Beach Holiday Rentals
Honua Kai Resort & Spa Holiday Rentals
Moeraki Holiday Rentals
Waiheke Island Holiday Rentals
Lake Taupo Holiday Rentals
Doves Bay Holiday Rentals
Charteris Bay Holiday Rentals
Castlepoint Beach Holiday Rentals
Makara Beach Holiday Rentals
Whangarei Holiday Rentals