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

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Cabin

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

Parking available
Fireplace
Pool
Kitchen
Barbecue grill
Outdoor space

Explore the area

Equality, IL

Shawnee National Forest
‪12 min drive‬
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
‪25 min drive‬
Garden of the Gods Trailhead
‪30 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

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

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Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Parking available
Laundry

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 22

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

No fence around pool

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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.

Equality, IL

What's nearby

Shawnee National Forest - 12 min drive - 7.4 km
Shawnee Hills Country Club - 22 min drive - 14.4 km
Harrisburg Township Park District - 22 min drive - 16.4 km
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 25 min drive - 21.3 km
Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 30 min drive - 23.6 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).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

William B.

22 March 2025

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

Barbara C.

25 March 2025

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

Casey O.

21 November 2024

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

Great stay

Great views

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl S.

28 October 2024

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

Weekend getaway

Great time, beautiful location, beautiful cabin and great views. Animals were awesome too.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

27 March 2025

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

David W.

6 October 2024

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

Laurie H.

18 October 2024

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

3 October 2024

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.

8 July 2024

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

Pam D.

5 August 2024

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

WONDERFUL!!

It was everything we could have hoped for. Gracious hosts, amazing views, pristine pool AND Highland cows!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristi A.

15 June 2024

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

Courtney M.

30 November 2024

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

Perfect getaway for the holiday week

We had a wonderful stay at Rustic Ridge for Thanksgiving week. The home was immaculately clean, well appointed, had all the comforts of home and perfect for our family of 5. The cabin was just as described in the listing and the views are spectacular. Lots to do in the area so the location is perfect. The hosts were responsive to questions and very friendly. The animals on property are far enough away not to be bothersome, but close enough to visit whenever you like. I would definitely recommend this property to anyone. We will be back when the weather is warmer and we can take advantage of the outdoor amenities.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas G.

24 June 2024

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.

20 July 2024

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.

19 July 2024

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.

2 July 2024

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.

10 July 2024

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

Jennifer C.

29 July 2024

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

Amazing!!!!

We stayed with a group of friends, 6 total, and we had a blast. Check in was super easy along with additional directions from the hosts. We were able to meet the hosts and spend some time feeding the animals. The property and views and beautiful and it’s close enough to a few towns if you need anything. We will definitely be back!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly M.

11 September 2024

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

Jeffrey K.

25 August 2024

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

Oasis on the hill

What a peaceful setting amongst the forested hills of Southern Illinois! A short drive to hiking and wineries or just stay at this beautiful cabin! The pool is fabulous and set in such a serene environment. The home is clean and has many extras that make the stay easy and comfortable. We enjoyed sitting on the huge deck mornings and evenings taking in the views! The tour of the unique farm animals was an added bonus and so fun. Looking forward to returning for another stay!!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa l.

29 July 2024

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.

6 June 2024

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.

26 December 2024

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.

18 August 2024

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

Tracy B.

20 July 2024

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

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

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

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

About this property