Cabin
Delightful Cabin near a wildlife refuge, 6 miles to Carbondale Illinois.
Photo gallery for Delightful Cabin near a wildlife refuge, 6 miles to Carbondale Illinois.





Reviews
9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Carbondale, IL
- Place, Spillway Road Ponds Trailhead8 min walk
- Place, Southern Illinois University13 min drive
- Place, Shawnee National Forest20 min drive
- Airport, Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA)18 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer
Spaces
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Delightful Cabin near a wildlife refuge, 6 miles to Carbondale Illinois.
This veteran owned and veteran built cabin is newly cozy and ready for your two-person getaway!
The Cabin That Lee Built is a lovely one bedroom one bathroom sanctuary conveniently located just off Illinois highway 13 in the hidden neighborhood of Lakewood Park. Inspired design and attention to detail are rivaled only by the natural beauty of the Crab orchard refuge.
Enjoy nearby attractions: Prime location.
It is a short drive to The artsy community of Makanda illinois, and an even shorter drive to the food and fun in the college town of Carbondale Illinois.
Love the local wine trail?
We are conveniently located within minutes of many wineries. Hikers and explorers will love the easy access to the many trails of the Shawnee National Forest or Giant City State Park.
Fishing and water recreational sportsman will delight in the super easy access of four local lakes. Crab orchard, Devil's kitchen, and Cedar lake. We also have ample parking available for your boat.
The wilderness is right at your back door. This enchanted cabin is within walking distance to the Crab orchard refuge.
Or stay the evening in. We offer an intimate private yard with great outdoor ambience. Cuddle up while watching the mesmerizing dance of flames in the fire pit. This cabin is an inviting retreat for rest and relaxation.
Meals will be easy and fun at The Cabin That Lee Built. We offer a fully equipped kitchen with an open floor plan and complimentary farm fresh eggs. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood and take in the beautiful starry nights of Southern Illinois.
Amenities:
-air conditioning and heat
-private yard and fire pit
-queen size bed
-bed linens, towels and washcloths
-household soaps
-hair dryer
-board games
-full kitchen with all major appliances in cookware, spices
-coffee and coffee pot
-ceiling fans
-smoke alarms, fire extinguisher and first aid kit
-hot water, shower and a full bathroom
-indoor and outdoor seating area
-ample parking for your boat
-local channels, tv, dvd player, collection of DVDs
-wifi
-washing machine and dryer
- NEW easy to use electric fireplace heater
Nearby Attractions:
Lakes:
Crab Orchard Dam - 1.3miles
Crab Orchard boat ramps- 1.5 miles
Little Grassy- 4.2 miles
Devil Kitchen boat ramp - 4.6 miles
Cedar Lake - 9.2 miles
Towns:
Carbondale IL - 4.4 miles
Carterville IL - 5.2 miles
Makanda IL - 6.8 miles
Marion IL - 16 miles
Interstate/transportation:
Interstate 57- 9.5 miles
Williamson County Veterans Airport - 7.5 miles
Amtrak - 4.5 miles
Wineries:
Honker Hill- 3.3 miles
Monte Alegre Vineyards - 3.4 miles
Wine Cave @ Walkers bluff - 6 miles
Blue Sky - 8.8 miles
Kite Hill Vineyard - 9.7 miles
Feather Hills - 9.9 miles
Von Jacob - 12 miles
Owl Creek - 12 miles
Starview - 12 miles
Alto Vineyards - 13 miles
Hickory Ridge - 13 miles
Pomona Winery - 13 miles
Parks and Hiking:
Castle Park - 6.5 miles
Giant City Stables Equestrian - 13 miles
Rocky Bluff Trail - 4.8 miles
Green Earth Chautauqua Bottoms - 6.2 miles
Stone fort Nature Trail - 6.4 miles
Trillium Trail - 6.5 miles
Giant City State Park - 7.2 miles
Indian Creek Trail - 7.6 miles
Little Grassy Fish Hatchery - 9.4 miles
Lirley Trailhead, Cedar Lake, Shawnee National Forest - 8.7 miles
Golf Courses:
Crab Orchard Golf Club - 4.4 miles
Hickory Ridge Public Golf Course - 7.2 miles
Pine Lakes- 7.5 miles
Jackson County Country Club - 8.4 miles
Kokopelli Golf Club - 10 miles
Breweries:
Backwater Brew works and whiskey house
- 4.5 miles
Route 51 Brewing Company - 12 miles
Big Muddy Brewing - 12 miles
Scratch Brewery - 20 miles
Antique Stores:
Cricket & Red Brick Antique Mall - 5.2 miles
Golden Goodies Antiques & Crafts - 7.6 miles
Rosebud Antique Mall - 8.1 miles
Southern Estate Antiques - 8.8 miles
White Cotton Antique Mall - 10 miles
Marion Antique Mall - 12 miles
Warehouse Antique Mall - 12 miles
The Cabin That Lee Built is a lovely one bedroom one bathroom sanctuary conveniently located just off Illinois highway 13 in the hidden neighborhood of Lakewood Park. Inspired design and attention to detail are rivaled only by the natural beauty of the Crab orchard refuge.
Enjoy nearby attractions: Prime location.
It is a short drive to The artsy community of Makanda illinois, and an even shorter drive to the food and fun in the college town of Carbondale Illinois.
Love the local wine trail?
We are conveniently located within minutes of many wineries. Hikers and explorers will love the easy access to the many trails of the Shawnee National Forest or Giant City State Park.
Fishing and water recreational sportsman will delight in the super easy access of four local lakes. Crab orchard, Devil's kitchen, and Cedar lake. We also have ample parking available for your boat.
The wilderness is right at your back door. This enchanted cabin is within walking distance to the Crab orchard refuge.
Or stay the evening in. We offer an intimate private yard with great outdoor ambience. Cuddle up while watching the mesmerizing dance of flames in the fire pit. This cabin is an inviting retreat for rest and relaxation.
Meals will be easy and fun at The Cabin That Lee Built. We offer a fully equipped kitchen with an open floor plan and complimentary farm fresh eggs. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood and take in the beautiful starry nights of Southern Illinois.
Amenities:
-air conditioning and heat
-private yard and fire pit
-queen size bed
-bed linens, towels and washcloths
-household soaps
-hair dryer
-board games
-full kitchen with all major appliances in cookware, spices
-coffee and coffee pot
-ceiling fans
-smoke alarms, fire extinguisher and first aid kit
-hot water, shower and a full bathroom
-indoor and outdoor seating area
-ample parking for your boat
-local channels, tv, dvd player, collection of DVDs
-wifi
-washing machine and dryer
- NEW easy to use electric fireplace heater
Nearby Attractions:
Lakes:
Crab Orchard Dam - 1.3miles
Crab Orchard boat ramps- 1.5 miles
Little Grassy- 4.2 miles
Devil Kitchen boat ramp - 4.6 miles
Cedar Lake - 9.2 miles
Towns:
Carbondale IL - 4.4 miles
Carterville IL - 5.2 miles
Makanda IL - 6.8 miles
Marion IL - 16 miles
Interstate/transportation:
Interstate 57- 9.5 miles
Williamson County Veterans Airport - 7.5 miles
Amtrak - 4.5 miles
Wineries:
Honker Hill- 3.3 miles
Monte Alegre Vineyards - 3.4 miles
Wine Cave @ Walkers bluff - 6 miles
Blue Sky - 8.8 miles
Kite Hill Vineyard - 9.7 miles
Feather Hills - 9.9 miles
Von Jacob - 12 miles
Owl Creek - 12 miles
Starview - 12 miles
Alto Vineyards - 13 miles
Hickory Ridge - 13 miles
Pomona Winery - 13 miles
Parks and Hiking:
Castle Park - 6.5 miles
Giant City Stables Equestrian - 13 miles
Rocky Bluff Trail - 4.8 miles
Green Earth Chautauqua Bottoms - 6.2 miles
Stone fort Nature Trail - 6.4 miles
Trillium Trail - 6.5 miles
Giant City State Park - 7.2 miles
Indian Creek Trail - 7.6 miles
Little Grassy Fish Hatchery - 9.4 miles
Lirley Trailhead, Cedar Lake, Shawnee National Forest - 8.7 miles
Golf Courses:
Crab Orchard Golf Club - 4.4 miles
Hickory Ridge Public Golf Course - 7.2 miles
Pine Lakes- 7.5 miles
Jackson County Country Club - 8.4 miles
Kokopelli Golf Club - 10 miles
Breweries:
Backwater Brew works and whiskey house
- 4.5 miles
Route 51 Brewing Company - 12 miles
Big Muddy Brewing - 12 miles
Scratch Brewery - 20 miles
Antique Stores:
Cricket & Red Brick Antique Mall - 5.2 miles
Golden Goodies Antiques & Crafts - 7.6 miles
Rosebud Antique Mall - 8.1 miles
Southern Estate Antiques - 8.8 miles
White Cotton Antique Mall - 10 miles
Marion Antique Mall - 12 miles
Warehouse Antique Mall - 12 miles
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9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (18 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
About the area
Carbondale
Located in Carbondale, this cabin is in a rural area and near a water park. The Science Center and Crab Orchard Golf Club 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 Giant City State Park. Marion Cultural and Civic Center and Williamson County Fairgrounds are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Carbondale, IL
What's nearby
- Spillway Road Ponds Trailhead - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
- Southern Illinois University - 13 min drive - 11.4 km
- Shawnee National Forest - 20 min drive - 17.7 km
- Giant City State Park - 21 min drive - 24.7 km
- Lake of Egypt - 22 min drive - 27.0 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 12 min drive
- Casey's - 12 min drive
- Panera Bread - 13 min drive
- Taco Bell - 13 min drive
- Chili's Grill & Bar - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window9.8/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
10/10
Check-in
9.8/10
Communication
9.2/10
Location
9.8/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Verified
20 February 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Au N.
31 December 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Au N.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth D.
19 February 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Elizabeth D.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Abigail S.
3 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Abigail S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth D.
19 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Elizabeth D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Nora B.
21 January 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nora B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
JAYME W.
9 December 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
JAYME W.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Kati H.
22 September 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Kati H.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
rickei L.
6 March 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy




rickei L.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Layna R.
5 November 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Layna R.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Lori S.
16 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lori S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Jackie U.
2 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful
Jackie U.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Victoria L.
6 October 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Victoria L.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Les Y.
30 March 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy!
Les Y.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Mark B.
15 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful
Mark B.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Ben R.
20 August 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ben R.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Debra P.
12 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Debra P.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Kristen A.
29 June 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little cabin!
Kristen A.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Beth L.
27 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Crab Orchard Lake
Beth L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dena H.
31 December 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cozy place to be near the Shawnee Forest and Carbdondale.
Dena H.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Tammy W.
26 March 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy, comfortable cabin for a peaceful getaway!
Tammy W.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Evelyn H.
13 March 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Simple and Eclectic
Evelyn H.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lee G.
12 June 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lee G.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Stacey C.
5 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin in the woods
Stacey C.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Miroslav L.
12 January 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome stay
Miroslav L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
About the host
Hosted by Linda Choate
I am originally from Southern Illinois. I had spent a few of my younger years in the United States Navy, Stationed at 32nd Street San Diego. Attended college at SIU, met my husband. We are raising two children. We spend most of our time gardening and tending our small farm. Very involved in creating and all things artsy.
Hosting is a new adventure for us, and we are committed to making a peaceful, serene, and pleasant stay for you.
Hosting is a new adventure for us, and we are committed to making a peaceful, serene, and pleasant stay for you.
Why they chose this property
There is little to no light pollution in this neighborhood, which makes for a stunning display of the stars at night. We truly love star gazing and cuddling up next to the fire pit but also having the convenience of being near a bustling college town.
What makes this property unique
This property was hand built by my father-in-law (Also a Navy veteran) as a get away/ fishing bungalow. He spent a lifetime curating and rebuilding the L. L. Bell Building in Makanda Illinois.
As a Up- Cycle artist myself, I admire his dedication to craftsmanship and repurposing of materials. It creates a sense of warmth and welcomeness that has the weight of history.
This cabin is an ode to his creativeness.
We utilized architectural elements and light fixtures from Makanda, to create this warm space.
And Hope you enjoy it.
As a Up- Cycle artist myself, I admire his dedication to craftsmanship and repurposing of materials. It creates a sense of warmth and welcomeness that has the weight of history.
This cabin is an ode to his creativeness.
We utilized architectural elements and light fixtures from Makanda, to create this warm space.
And Hope you enjoy it.
Languages:
English
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