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The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

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Cozy cabin-style interior with a high ceiling and exposed beams, featuring a kitchen, dining area, and comfortable seating space.
Cozy cabin interior with a central seating area, wooden walls, and a ladder leading to an upper level.
Compact kitchen with central stove, sink, and ample storage.
Cozy cabin kitchen with a wooden countertop, stainless steel refrigerator, and coffee maker.
Cozy cabin-style interior with a vaulted ceiling, fireplace, and wooden staircase.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4457 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor Space
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Elizabethtown, IL
  • Shawnee National Forest
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Elizabethtown

This cabin places you adjacent to Shawnee National Forest. The cabin includes a patio, a coffee maker, and a TV.
View more Cabin Rentals in ElizabethtownOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 13 min drive - 4.8 miles
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 17 min drive - 6.0 miles
  • Hitching Post Trailhead - 24 min drive - 10.9 miles
  • Cave in Rock State Park - 45 min drive - 25.0 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Trail End Restaurant - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪The Gap Bar & Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Harbisons Country Market - ‬27 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

Experience a piece of history and stay in an authentic antique log cabin just minutes away from the famous Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest. This cabin was disassembled and rebuilt at Timber Ridge with all the modern conveniences. Hand made quilts hanging on the walls make this cozy little cabin a perfect retreat for couples or small families.

The kitchen is equipped with an apartment size refrigerator, stove/oven, microwave, toaster, coffee pot and all the dishes you'll need. We supply complimentary coffee, coffee filters, cream, sugar packets, salt, pepper, hand soap, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, firewood and camp chairs and of course, FREE WiFi.

Located just minutes from the famous Garden of the Gods Wilderness area, Pounds Hollow lake and Rim Rock in the Shawnee National Forest, this little gem is right where you want to be. There is a pavilion on the resort property, about 2 miles from the house, for all guests to enjoy with tether ball, horseshoes and bags (corn hole) games as well as a catch and release pond for fishing.



Cottonwood is affordably priced. This cabin is part of Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins. All guests will check in at our ice cream and gift store, Garden of the Gods Outpost.

Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins is ranked #1 in our area on TripAdvisor with over 200 FIVE STAR reviews. We have been featured in Better Homes and Garden (2021), Washington Post (2021), Life and Style in southern Illinois (2016), Chicago magazine, AAA travel magazine, Midwest Traveler magazine, The Saturday Evening Post (August 2016), Chicago Parent Going Places magazine (2012 and 2014 and 2017), on Cruisin' Illinois with Julian Cruz (WGN-TV spring 2013) as well as a long list of various blogs, regional publications and more.

Come see what all the fuss is about and go home with memories to last a lifetime!

Please note, you must include an accurate number of people with your reservation request , regardless of how many nights each person is staying. We do count children as well.

The base price is for 2 guests. Anymore than 2 guests is $10 per night per guest extra.

*** Pets and Kids:***
We are a Pet and Kid Friendly resort. We allow up to two pets per unit for no additional charge, however, we do require a credit card to be on file in the event there is any damage to the unit or its furnishings. To remain a pet friendly resort, pets that are aggressive towards other dogs, cats or people, will NOT be allowed. Pet owners assume ALL liability for their pets. We do have cats on our property so if your dog is aggressive or likes to chase cats, please leash them at all times or do not bring them. We love our pets too. Aggressive animals will be asked to leave immediately.

All pets are required to be current on shots and must be protected with Flea and Tick medicine BEFORE you arrive. If you forget, we do have some for sale in the Outpost. All pets must be crated if left unattended in the units. No exceptions please! For your convenience, we do rent crates of all sizes for $8 per visit (not per night) but it is BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket). Please call us in advance if you will need a crate in your unit. Please note, we will automatically charge your credit card for any damages done to the units, furnishings, linens or towels. Although we have never had to charge someone for damages, you will be required to sign a paper stating that you agree to these charges in advance. In the event this is ever necessary, we will provide photographs of the damages. PLEASE help us remain a pet friendly resort and just let us know if your pet had a bad day and accidentally chewed the towel or corner of the rug. We ask only that you reimburse us for the cost of the damaged item.

Even if your pet typically doesn't jump on the furniture, PLEASE bring thick blankets to cover the furniture with anyway! This goes a long way to helping the cleaning people get all the dog hair up before the next guests arrive. Thanks!

All guests MUST check in at our ice cream and gift shop Garden of the God's outpost at 281 Karber's ridge road. Once checked in you will be given your door code, wifi password, local information and a map to the cabin you are staying at. Currently the Outpost is open Monday-Thursday 10a-6p and Friday-Sunday 10a-8p, if you'll be arriving after hours please call the Outpost at 618-264-9091 to arrange after hours check in.

The Outpost serves as a sort of home base for all our guests with supplies, gifts, ice cream, to go food, t-shirts and more.

THE FIREPLACE IN THIS CABIN IS NON-OPERATIONAL
The cabin is air-conditioned and features a patio and space to spread out with a separate bedroom. The cabin also includes a coffee maker.

Similar properties

Situated in a wooded area, this cabin features a pitched roof, front porch, and small deck.

The Hickory Hollow Log Cabin by Garden of Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, 108 reviews
The Hickory Hollow Log Cabin by Garden of Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: WiFi

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom

Bathroom

  • 0.5 bathroom

Entertainment

  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Things to do

  • Kayaking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 457 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.

Property is also known as

40121

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do near this cabin?

This cabin is located in Elizabethtown, just steps from Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the Gods Recreation Area is also within a driving distance of 4.2 mi.

Is there parking available at this cabin?

No, there isn't parking at this cabin.

Is this cabin next to a casino?

No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cabin?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.

Does The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this cabin.

Does this cabin include breakfast service?

No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cabin allow pets to stay for free?

Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cabin.

Does this cabin have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cabin.

Are there rooms with balconies at The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest?

Yes, every cabin at The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest comes with a deck.

The Cottonwood cabin by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 43 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rickie G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing

Everything was amazing even though it rain off and on the whole time. Cabin was excellent and extremely clean.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

James W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle M.

Liked: Cleanliness

A. Perfect weekend retreat!

Even better than the pictures. The cabin is an 1850s cabin that was reassembled on the property. It was adorable. Had everything we needed. The area is beautiful. There are several cabins and tree houses on the property but each has more than enough privacy from the next. We came with our two young daughters and they had a blast. We had a resident kitty that hung out on our porch, and it was the friendliest cat I’ve ever met! Kids were in love and had so much fun playing with the cat all weekend. We only stayed two nights so next time we will stay at least 4 to enjoy the property a little longer. The owners are very friendly. They live on the other side of the property and they even let our kids meet their farm animals. The outpost that you check in at has a great gift shop to bring home a souvenir. Very close to garden of the gods. Grocery store about 30 minutes away. We will definitely be back again! We went to Garden of the Gods and Bell Smith Springs. Highly recommend both. Southern Illinois is a hidden gem and in my opinion and so was our cabin.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carlee H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quaint Cabin

Adorable cabin. Clean and well stocked. Super quiet and private. Great location. Garden of the God's was just a few minutes away. The loft was not as ideal for someone who gets up in the middle of the night. There were 2 kitties on the property that adopted us while we were there and that was a bonus.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marella M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful stay

Loved it! So cozy. Beautiful spot. The cabin is beautifully built and so clean. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marla P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy and relaxing

We originally booked the cabin so we could hike for the weekend. It ended up raining most of the time due to the effects of Hurricane Helene. We packed books and puzzles and had a wonderful time just relaxing away from all the noise. We were able to enjoy one afternoon out as well. Great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joanne G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mom and Dad’s weekend adventure

We were looking for a cozy place to escape to for some good old fashioned relaxation and some serious hiking! We found just the place! We loved it! We will recommend it to all of our family and friends!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

jackie h.

Liked: Cleanliness

A quick little get away.

I thought the cabin was adorable. Plenty of yard to hang out in. Firepit, grill, firewood . Just about everything you would need except charcoal which we did bring. Plenty of hiking places. We even went to the lake for swimming.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice old rehabbed log cabin

A true log cabin with air conditioning and a kitchen. The only issue I had was the lack of a sink in the bathroom. Because the original cabin was very old, it had dropped in one corner so the floor was sloped which was a little disorienting. Despite being pet friendly, It was pretty clean and the location in Shawnee National Forest was ideal for hiking.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

James A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cottonwood cabin

We had a great time! The place is very relaxing and really enjoyed the cabin and the amenities on the grounds. The cabin was very clean and well equipped. We would recommend this place to anyone looking to enjoy the national forest. Definitely will be coming back here!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

James K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice cabin

We enjoyed the cabin and would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tammy B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice getaway spot.

The cabin was just what we expected, rustic and cozy. They did a very good job supplying everything we would need. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness

AWESOMELY AWESOME!!!!

Really loved the place. Very nicely appointed Could use some more pots and pans and such Tried to make spaghetti in one pot was different. Other then that we will come back again soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

kelly f.

Liked: Cleanliness

Best little getaway

This cabin was nicely tucked away in the Shawnee forest. It was exactly what we wanted to get away and enjoy nature for a little while away from the busy area we are normally from. The cabin was clean and perfectly cozy. It was close to many great hiking places and scenery. They provided lots of amenities and we even got to bring our pet. Can’t wait to come back here and stay again. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Madeline A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great for weekend

My partner and I stayed at the cottonwood and had a nice day at the cabin painting, cooking, and reading. Then the next day we went on a lovely hike at the Garden of the Gods right next door. Very nice
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

2/10 Terrible

Scott

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
There was a very large snake coiled above the door to the cabin. We only stayed for 2 hours and left.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rosemary L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very cool cabin!

This cabin was so nice! Very relaxing environment. We will difently stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cottonwood Cabin

Very nice cabin near everything we wanted to see in the Shawnee National Forest. The fire ring was great to have. All of us from 8 to 84 enjoyed. A great place to relax after hiking.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joshua P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to stay

Me and my husban had a wounderful stay. The cabin was clean and very cozy.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Nikki L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful cabin

The property was beautiful. The only thing we didnt like was the empty liquor bottles that were on the shelf for decoration. My husband and I are sober. We came to the cabin for our 5 years anniversary and had they been full we may have relasped. Overall we plan on going back it was a great time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

mesnikoff m.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exploring the Shawnee

The cabin was perfectly located for some great day hikes. We missed directions about checking in at the Garden of the Gods outpost so remember that detail. The cabin was clean and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing place--10 stars!!!

This place is great. It is an authentic cabin structure, with modern improvements. We loved it. The description of the property and cabin were spot on. All kitchen amenities were there, tv worked great, bed very comfortable. Would stay here again if/when we are back in this area. 10 stars!!!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to stay

This is a super clean small little cabin that has everything that you need. The front porch is great for meals and the firepit grill area is perfect. Games n swings in the pavilion are close. Area is pretty and quiet. Close to all of the attractions. Only downfall is checking in. The ice cream counter is the check in area so get in line n wait your turn. Order some ice cream too. I was confused at first but there couldnt have been nicer people at the check in counter. Easy and pleasant. Highly recommend this place. All of the cabins look great too. I have nothing bad to say about this property and the others on it. We will be coming back and spreading the word to others.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Justin T., New Albany

Liked: Cleanliness

Short romantic getaway

Looking for a special place, in the middle of nowhere? This is it. So close to Garden of the Gods, which was amazing. We had a cozy bonfire the first night, and it rained the next night but it was still amazing!!! The rainy night was perfect while up in the loft, laying in the comfy bed. I’m glad I made the decision to book this cabin. And we will be back!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023