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

Cabin in Equality with private pool and kitchen

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
  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Shawnee National Forest
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Trailhead

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, ziplining, bike trails, and so much more that the Shawnee National Forest area has to offer.

Meet the animals:
🐄 Highland Cows (Magnolia, Honeysuckle, Daisy, Lily, Rusty, & Yeti)
🫎 Moose & Duke the dogs. You might see them running around the property.
🐈 Multiple cats roam the property.
🐥🐓 chickens and 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.

3 night minimum on weekends or holidays and 2 night weekdays *the app keeps reverting minimum nights back to 2 nights in error. we will only honor bookings with our minimum night policy followed.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

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

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

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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

Located in Equality, this cabin is in the mountains. 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. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Equality, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 13 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Shawnee Hills Country Club - 20 min drive - 18.0 km
  • Harrisburg Township Park District - 21 min drive - 21.1 km
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 29 min drive - 26.3 km
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 34 min drive - 28.4 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Red Onion - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Jacs - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Saline Valley Conservancy - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Leonard's Country Kitchen - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Town Square Pub - ‬18 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 the mountains, 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

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 57 out of 58 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 58 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 58 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 58 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 58 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Leslie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this stay! The house was beautiful, as was the pool and the view. It was a very comfortable and relaxing stay. We will definitely stay here again if it is available.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trena M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We have stayed several times and always enjoy coming back. We could not ask for a more relaxing and scenic location. The home is always so clean and comfortable. We were thrilled that we got to see the newly born calf during our trip this time. The hosts are always so kind and attentive to any needs that we may have.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacey W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great family weekend at Rustic Ridge- very clean, great amenities (pool, firepit, quiet/privacy). Garden of the Gods hiking trails within 20 minutes, wineries & distillery 50 minutes.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rick R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is phenomenal. The view is so beautiful we had our coffee on the deck every morning. It is a hidden gem. The owners are wonderful people. I highly recommend staying at the Rustic Ridge. You won’t be disappointed. I definitely want to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul T.

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

Remote and peaceful!

Its beautiful, relaxing, clean cabin, super comfy beds, friendly/helpful hospitality and the pool was always clean! It was also nice that the host provides firewood!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay. The cabin was immaculate and the views were beautiful. Our 11 year old enjoyed the pool daily and we spent almost every morning on the covered porch drinking coffee and watching the rain come in. The hosts were extremely accommodating with suggestions for dinner and hiking trails. We also loved our tour of their farm and meeting all their animals.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 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

Leah G.

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

A beautiful escape

My family and I had such a great time at this house. They had everything we needed to entertain and the pool offered a breathtaking view of the Shawnee hills. We made many memories on this trip and cannot wait to come back and do it again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trena M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We love staying here. Jacqueline and Eric are wonderful hosts. The accommodations are perfect for a peaceful getaway. The kitchen is well equipped for indoor and outdoor meal prep. Check-in and check-out are simple. The views are spectacular. The pool, firepit, covered deck, and farm animals make it very easy to stay put and simply enjoy the outdoors. Yet the home is close enough to town for a run to the grocery store or to grab a bite to eat. We will continue to come back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

amy b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
By far one of the best VRBO properties we have ever stayed at. Very clean. Everything is exactly as described. The flowers and plants were amazing. View was great. The owners we great with communication and made sure we had everything we needed. I hope we can make this a yearly trip for me family.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 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

David L.

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

Southern Illinois Shangri-La

Everything I and my family was hoping for. The property was beyond amazing, very secluded, peaceful, tranquil, with incredible views. The cabin was well equipped with everything we need and very comfortable for everyone to spread out and enjoy themselves. The decks and firepit were so nice to enjoy also. Lastly the pool was beyond perfect. It had the perfect amount of shade during the hottest time of day. It made the really hot days very bearable. We couldn't ask for a better place. Jaqueline and Eric were a pleasure and very helpful with anything we needed. I wouldn't hesitate to visit again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

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

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

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

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

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.
The view from the deck!
Garden of the gods
Garden of the gods
Cave in rock
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

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

Phillip K.

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

Amazing nature stay

Jacqueline and Eric, the hosts, gave the clearest communication we have had with VRBO so far. The only communication break down was my own fault which they were helpful in solving for me. They offer tours of their farm animals which the kids loved. They were both awesome with the kids and very sweet. They were helpful with local recommendations as well. The house and pool have beautiful nature views all around. In addition to the farm tour, we saw many wild animals passing through the yard and flying above. The house is in a quiet country area but a short dive to town. Though you might not need to go to town often since the house is well stocked with items in general and has many items you might have forgotten to pack. The house is very close to amazing Shawnee Forest parks if you or your kids need a break from swimming.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts are fantastic and very hard working. The home is absolutely beautiful, rustic and elegant at the same time. We enjoyed our stay very much. We will definitely be back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ben J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This stay was perfect for our mini vacation. Very clean and a great quiet spot to relax. We got a tour of the farm and met lots of the host’s animals. We did a few short hikes at Garden of the Gods, Cave in Rock, and Rim Rock. All of these are short drives from the house. Watching the sunset at Garden of the gods and the sunrise right on the front porch will be remembered forever.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We wanted a relaxing weekend with our sons and our new daughter-in-laws. It was perfect. The weather was spectacular and the house and property were perfect! It was our 2nd time staying here and it does not disappoint.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jordan T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect retreat for rest, relaxation, amazing views, animals, and amazing pool. Can't wait to come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Austin K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was very nice. Loved the friendly cat that came by.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful time. Rustic Ridge is a serene place with amazing sunrises. The hosts Eric and Jacqueline are lovely. Our boys really enjoyed the tour of the farm and brushing the cows.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

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

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