Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest
Please note we will be traveling and not have access to internet for the month of April. Our instant booking will still be on for May onward, but because internet is not readily available, it may be several days before you receive a reply from me.
Wake up in your relaxing two bedroom carriage house and leisurely make a cup of coffee to start your day. (K pods & French vanilla creamer provided or Mr. Coffee available) or take a 5-7 minute walk down to the Steam Cafe coffee shop and have a latte or breakfast! You will pass by our beautiful new mural, “Shawnee Sunrise”, sit and enjoy at a picnic table …it’s beautiful any time of day!
Or perhaps you want to enjoy greeting the day inside on the comfortable leather sofa. However, my favorite is sitting outside on the comfortable sofa area by the hot tub and enjoying the birds singing and the sound of the fountains running. The coneflowers and patio plants are beautiful as you enjoy our private backyard oasis.
Spring is also a great time for taking a Wildflower Walk. The Giant City State Park is doing guided Trillium Trail walks in April...or you can go on a self-guided hike. It's very kid-friendly and a fun, shorter trail to explore. They post great pictures and insights.
Please note that we have a "no pet" policy so that our next guests with allergies will not have any problems. We want to respect and welcome all our guests.
Enjoy hiking or the bike trail (we have two bikes for guest use), and now we have an electric bike rental business down the street. Ride or walk half a mile to the Tunnel Hill bike trail or half a mile in the opposite direction will take you to our Harrisburg Park. It has a fenced preschool area, lagoon with benches, bridges and flowering trees. It's a great time to get outdoors!
While you are here you can go inside & relax with your favorite shows streaming on the 55" TV or go outside for a soak in the private hot tub. In the living area, we have added a desk, chair, and computer (WIFI is fast) with shortcuts to our favorite trails, restaurants, and activities such as ziplining, kayaking, and horseback riding. Use the keyboard to explore or search the internet so you can “know before you go”. Watch your favorite shows on our 55" Smart TV with Roku (55" Smart TV -Paramount+/Discovery+/Amazon Prime available or sign into your Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
We have an electric fireplace under the Smart TV (ROKU remote) which is so nice for the cooler evenings. Stay connected with fast WIFI. Grill/cook inside or walk to nearby restaurants. Enjoy the fire pit or fireplace, hammock chairs, outdoor Adirondack chairs, and a dining area with charcoal grill.
We also have a washer & dryer available for our guests to use downstairs, in the garage under the Apartment.
The private, upstairs living space, is over 800 square feet, but please, no smoking or pets on property. We send your door access code and welcome letter to your phone before your visit, so checking in is a breeze.
Our Apartment is in a building detached from house, over our 3-car garage. Whether you are here for business or exploring the Shawnee Forest, we hope to change your lodging experience by your stay with us. When you are here, relax in this two-bedroom apartment to enjoy your "home away from home"!
Located in the historic part of town, the Apartment is in a separate building from the main house, over a three-car garage. It's three blocks from the town square where you will find several restaurants and a coffee shop. The front door has a lock code/keypad entrance. Guests receive the door code before their arrival. Free wireless internet access and a desk with computer make it easy to stay connected. Living area: ~ Relax on the leather sofa while enjoying the wall mounted 55" Smart TV.
Our library area has some great books, all genres for reading inside or outside in the swinging chair in the patio area. We also have some games in the drawer under the books. We have added a desk and computer for a workstation in this area. It has icons to visit our favorite trails, restaurants, and activities such as ziplining, kayaking, and horseback riding.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please send us a text or on VRBO that you are checking out. We like to let our cleaners know as soon as possible.
Our outside trash is located on the alley side of our home. Please deposit your trash there upon checkout, or earlier if needed.
Please turn off air conditioners when leaving. Thanks for staying!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please place the patio cushions in storage container by hot tub after using and before rain (so they will stay dry for you).
Please cover the hot tub when not in use and turn OFF all jets, air vents, and lights. Please, no children in the hot tub without an adult present.
We allow one parking space, between the two garages, park under the "Guest Parking" sign. Two parking spaces may be possible with advance notice.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 907024vb
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
Note from host: Please, no loud music.
Long-term renters welcome
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
About the area
Harrisburg
Located in Harrisburg, this condo is in the city centre. 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 Harrisburg Township Park District. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
Harrisburg, IL
What's nearby
Harrisburg Township Park District - 11 min walk - 0.9 km
Saline County Area Museum - 4 min drive - 2.4 km
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 33 min drive - 42.2 km
Lake of Egypt - 35 min drive - 68.5 km
Cave in Rock State Park - 49 min drive - 71.3 km
Getting around
Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) - 37 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 2 min drive
Bar-B-Q Barn - 12 min walk
SUBWAY - 3 min drive
Hucks - 20 min walk
Don Luna - 8 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest on 30 May 2026 start from AU$174, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Spring is for Hiking! In Town-Private Hot Tub-2 Bikes-Shawnee National Forest located?
Located in the heart of Harrisburg, this condo building is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Harrisburg Township Park District and within 3 miles (5 km) of Saline County Area Museum and Shawnee Hills Country Club. Ross Cottom Lanes is 3.1 mi (5 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The place was perfect for our stay. The kids enjoyed the hot tub. The hiking in Shawnee National Park was wonderful and the local park was very nice. The host even had pickle ball paddles and balls for us to use.
Lisa B.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar 2026
So glad you enjoyed your stay! The park is a wonderful place to walk or drive down and enjoy. Our grandkids enjoy the slides, basketball, swings, ducks, and playground equipment. We enjoy the pickleball courts and the workout machines area…all in a beautiful setting. Thanks for staying!
This was the ideal property for our family of 4 on spring break! Only a 30 minute drive out to some of the most amazing hiking spots in Shawnee Nation Park. After hiking all day, the hot tub just was just what we needed to relax our sore muscles. The hot tub is cleaned throughly after each stay so it was spotless. Temperature is spot on as well! The inclusion of the pickleball/tennis rackets was perfect for the courts at the huge nearby park. On our down day we biked (on the included bike plus the kids bikes we brought) to the nearby Dairy Queen, which we got a tip from the neighbor that their soft serve is the best around…she want lying :POverall a perfect stay! We will certainly be hitting up Jody in the future when we decide to see more of Shawnee!
Our stay was absolutely exceptional from start to finish. The hosts were incredibly warm, welcoming, and attentive, making sure every detail was just right without ever being intrusive. You can tell they genuinely care about creating a great experience.The space itself was spotless and thoughtfully designed, with every amenity you could possibly need. From the cozy fireplaces to the relaxing hot tub, everything felt both luxurious and comfortable. The inclusion of a fully set-up computer and reliable WiFi was a great bonus, especially for staying connected or getting a bit of work done if needed.The attention to detail throughout the home really stood out—everything was perfectly arranged and clearly well-maintained. On top of that, the location couldn’t have been better: set in a beautiful part of the city that made exploring easy and enjoyable.Overall, this was one of the best stays I’ve had. I would absolutely return and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clean, well-equipped, and truly welcoming place to stay.The Scarbrough's
This was our second time staying at this location when we come into town to visit family. The hosts are wonderful and very responsive and accommodating. If able, we will always stay at this location when coming into Harrisburg. Highly recommended!
We loved staying at this quaint home. The garden is absolutley beautiful, great location to access downtown restaurants, and perfect base camp for exploring the Shawnee National Forest. Hot tub was a fun added bonus!
Eric W.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2025
So glad you enjoyed your stay! We love the garden flowers in spring and summer, this year has been especially beautiful, thankful to share it with you! Thanks for staying!
Cozy lil apartment was great for an anniversary getaway, hot tub was a great addition for nice relaxing evenings. The bikes were a treat to ride around town for sightseeing or visiting the coffee shop. Would definitely book it again for a future stay.
Lee T.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2025
It was a delight to meet you both, so glad you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for staying!
Love this place - it’s a perfect home away from home!!
The host is wonderful- the cottage like feel apartment is just beautiful, comfortable and convenient to everything!
Angela L.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 June 2024
Thanks so much for staying with us!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lori O.
5 Nov 2018
Perfect little place to stay!
Apartment was cute as can be and had everything we needed for our weekend of Hiking the Shawnee. Local restaurants were great!
Lori O.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you guys for staying at the Apartment at 217! So glad it was a good weekend for you to get away and enjoy the beautiful outdoors and relax! We would love to have you back anytime, you were great guests! #loveourguests
My best friend and I stayed at this charming property for a quick girls weekend. We were so pleased with our stay and the hosts were so kind! Would definitely stay again.
Megan K.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Oct 2024
It was so good to meet you both- thanks so much for staying!!! You guys are delightful!
Our family really enjoyed staying at this vrbo, it felt like a home away from home. The hot tub was amazing and the welcome snacks were delicious. Would definitely stay again and recommend this stay for anyone traveling in the area.
Andrea V.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Nov 2021
Thank you for staying, we love it when our guests feel welcomed! Love to have you back anytime. #loveourguests
About the host
Hosted by Judy Taylor
We grew up in the deep south but ended up in the Midwest after several years of living in Germany with Dewayne serving our country in the USAF. We love the seasons we find in the Midwest with the beautiful fall colors to the winter snows, spring awakening and summer flowers. We celebrated being married forty-eight years this summer! We love a good adventure and are excited to share our Southern hospitality with new friends who love traveling and exploring also!
Why they chose this property
We purchased this property in 2000 after moving to the area. Our daughters were graduating and going to college. We used the apartment for them and it worked wonderful. However, they have grown up, gotten married, and now all live away. We enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in Southern Illinois, especially with the four seasons and so many outdoor opportunities. We decided to share it with people who are coming to our area and wanted something more than a hotel room. We love to serve our guests and provide a bit of "Southern Hospitality".
What makes this property unique
Outside we have a lovely pagoda with outdoor wood burning fireplace, swing, outdoor seating, hammock chairs, two fountains, one small pond with fountain, beautiful flower gardens and tropical plants on the patio, and two tables for outdoor dining or grilling. We have a Weber charcoal grill that is available for guests, bring your charcoal.
In fall of 2017 we added a new hot tub with five seats and a lounger. It has extra wide steps and a handlebar for easy entry and beautiful lights for night. Seats have different style jets for a relaxing massage. We keep the water temperature around 100 in winter and cooler in summer. Air vents can be turned off and on with three different dials and dual speeds. It is located under the pagoda.
We enjoy the close proximity (less than 1 mile) to the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail. Enjoy hiking in the Shawnee Forest with Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Bell Smith Springs or swim at Pounds Hollow & more. We have two bikes so you can ride on the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, just half a mile (on sidewalks) to the trail.
Our local park has exercise equipment, a pool (summer) and several swings to sit and enjoy the ducks or read a book. It has a lighted walking trail around the water with several bridges and playgrounds for the kids or a game of basketball, pickleball, or tennis. We walk to the park, it's about a half mile away.
Dinner is an easy stroll downtown past the town square. Near the town square are several restaurants: Morello's, Mackie's Pizza, the BBQ Barn, or have coffee and breakfast at the Steam Café.
Also a few blocks away is Point Blank shooting range. It is the largest indoor gun range in Southern Illinois and open to the general public. Everyone is welcome to participate at the range with a valid FOID Card or be with someone who has a card. Check their website for hours.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests