15 Best Romantic Getaways in Illinois

The state of Illinois is home to miles of beautiful forests, lakes, national parks, and rivers. Outside of the city, travelers have the opportunity to unplug and retreat to full privacy.

The secluded forest regions of Illinois are the perfect destination for a quiet, romantic vacation. Couples seeking an intimate getaway with nature can enjoy full privacy and fresh air with the state’s vast cabin rental  options. Some of the best cabins for the ideal couple’s retreat are the Champagne Lodge, Kishauwau, Oak Grove, and Willowbrook Cabins.

Read on to find the most romantic cabins in all of Illinois for your next getaway vacation.

1. Ten Acre Treehouse “Captains Quarters”

Credit: Great River Road Illinois

The Ten Acre Treehouse is a secluded cabin in the rural town of Nauvoo, Illinois. The 400 sq ft treehouse features a master suite and full kitchen. It is the perfect remote location to unplug for a weekend retreat.

Necessities are provided, from silverware and dishes to a coffee maker. There is also a unique window seat with a selection of books for reading. The second-floor bedroom has 10-foot high ceilings and expansive windows.

There is an outdoor deck that wraps around the exterior of the property. Guests can enjoy a gas grill and sweeping views of the surrounding forest.

The forest contains a private outhouse with a compost toilet. Another panoramic view is visible from the neighboring outdoor shower. Couples on a retreat to the Ten Acre Treehouse can truly become one with nature.

Location: 1825 N County Road 900, Nauvoo, Illinois 62354

‍Phone: (217) 440-8006

‍VRBO Rating: 4.9

2. The Champagne Lodge & Luxury Suites

Credit: Lovely Travels LLC / Facebook

The Champagne Lodge is located in Illinois’ Willowbrook village. The cabin suites are situated in a quiet residential area. The secluded area has easy access to downtown Chicago for additional attractions and amenities.

Each of the luxury suites features a private entrance, perfect for a romantic getaway. Couples can enjoy full seclusion with tons of amenities inside their cabins.

Among the best amenities offered by the Champagne Lodge are the fireplace and jetted bathtubs. There are four different types of suites: Standard, Executive, Premium, and Swimming Pool.

Couples looking to make their stay interesting might opt for the Executive Suite, which offers an in-cabin steam room. The Swimming Pool Suite features a private pool and surrounds sound system.

Specials available include romance and special occasion packages. There is also a proposal package, which includes champagne, chocolates, and roses.

Location: 16W621 S Frontage Road, Willowbrook, Illinois 60527

‍Phone: (630) 326-4662

Related Read: 15 BEST Boozy Bottomless Brunch in Chicago

3. Kishauwau Cabins

Credit: Kishauwau Cabins

The Kishauwau Cabins provide couples a unique and secluded stay in the town of Tonica, Illinois. It is located just 10 minutes away from Starved Rock State Park.

The cabins are nestled in a wooded area amongst untouched nature. Guests can experience the fresh air and connect with each other in the absence of everyday distractions.

The rustic style cabins include cozy furnishings with modern amenities. Central air and furnace heaters provide comfort for travel during any season. Winter visitors can enjoy a cozy night in together by the gas fireplace or wood stove.

There is ample outdoor space with a personal fire pit and patio furniture for gathering. There is also a charcoal grill and table area for outdoor cooking and dining.

Specials and packages include the Babymoon Special. Couples celebrating a new life can enjoy chocolates and sparkling grape juice. Expectant mothers can relax with a gift basket including belly butter and bath bombs.

While there is intentionally no internet or cell service available on the property, guests can use public wifi from the front office if needed.

Location: 901 N 2129th Road, Tonica, Illinois 61370

‍Phone: (815) 442-8453

4. Hilltop Hideaway Log Cabin Resort

Credit: Hilltop Hideaway Brown County Cabin / Facebook

The Hilltop Hideaway Log Cabin Resort is located on a quaint little farm in Herod, Illinois. The cabins can be found on the edge of the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Shaded by thick trees, the property offers sweeping views of nature.

All cabins at the Hilltop Hideaway come equipped with firewood and outdoor grills. Another amenity offered is a private hot tub for couples to enjoy.

There is one particular cabin that is the most highly requested among guests. The Owl’s Nest has one bedroom and features a wrap around deck. Those looking to book this cabin should make reservations well in advance.

Alternatively, couples can go for the queen suite for a more unplugged experience. There is no wifi or cable offered in this package, allowing couples to spend quality time together in the wilderness.

Each apartment style wood lodge includes a coffee maker and electric range stove. Modern amenities include a dishwasher and satellite television.

Location: 171 Robinson Road, Herod, Illinois 62947

‍Phone: (618) 503-9924

5. Cedar Rock Cabins

Credit: Cedar Rock Cabins / Facebook

The Cedar Rock Cabins in Goreville provide a cozy rustic vacation experience. Couples seeking a romantic getaway in Illinois should look no further. These secluded cabins offer a peaceful retreat, far removed from hectic city life.

There are only 3 total cabins on the property. This provides additional privacy for couples with minimal guest interaction. Each cabin includes a porch with views of the surrounding landscape.

The nearby woods are available for adventurous couples to explore together. Outdoor hot tubs provide the opportunity for quiet bonding under the stars.

The accommodations are fully-furnished with everything you need. The kitchens are fully stocked with dishes and cooking utensils and include all modern kitchen appliances. Cooking a meal together is the perfect activity when staying at Cedar Rock.

There are one and two bedroom cabins available with WiFi included. Guests can cuddle up and watch a movie together or venture out to the various attractions nearby.

Some of the best things to do in the Shawnee National Forest area are wine tasting and zip lining.

Location: 6005 IL-37, Goreville, Illinois 62939

‍Phone: (618) 751-1100

6. Shawnee Forest Cabins

Credit: Shawnee Forest Cabins / Facebook

The Shawnee Forest Cabins provide the closest possible stay to the Garden of the Gods. Couples can take advantage of its close proximity to the beautiful trails and rock formations nearby.

The famous ¼ mile hiking trail is easily accessible right from the lodge. There are one and two bedroom cabins available for nightly rental. The larger two bedroom cabins feature full kitchens and indoor fireplaces.

Couples on a romantic retreat may be interested in the one bedroom hot tub cabin. The private jacuzzi included is the perfect way to wind down together in the secluded forest.

The treehouse is another interesting option for couples on a romantic retreat. This cabin is secluded in the woods, surrounded by trees for additional privacy.

Guests can experience fresh air on the outdoor porch, and enjoy a Roku Smart TV when staying inside. The in-suite bathrooms are spacious and tastefully decorated.

Each cabin include full size tubs and showers with clean linens provided. Another unique amenity at the Shawnee Forest Cabins is Direct TV cable with super fast wireless internet.

In addition to the Garden of the Gods, the cabins are close to Pounds Hollow, Illinois. Nearby attractions include hiking and biking.

Location: 745 Garden of Gods, Herod, Illinois 62947

‍Phone: (618) 751-9926

Related Read: 12 BEST Water Parks in Illinois

7. Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins

Credit: Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins / Facebook

The Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins offer a unique getaway experience in Elizabethtown, Illinois. It is currently the one and only treehouse resort in the entire state.

The first of its kind, Timber Ridge offers couples an unforgettable retreat in the woods. The isolated cabins are conveniently located near several trails for hiking and romantic nature walks.

Each cabin has ample space around it for privacy from other parties. For additional privacy, couples can rent one of the acreage houses available on the property.

The Walnut Hill Home is one of the most popular choices for a peaceful retreat. It sits on 35 acres of open forest land.

The Prairie House includes a massive 60 private acres, while the Pine Ridge Home includes an outdoor hot tub. Another unique offering is the Amish-style log cabins also available in the woods.

The lodge accommodates all guests with full kitchens, equipped with everything needed for daily cooking. There is also heating and air conditioning in each unit. Other basic offerings include Dish television and Fiber Optic High Speed Internet.

Location: 546 N Iron Furnace Road, Elizabethtown, Illinois 62931

‍Phone: (618) 264-9091

8. Cave-In-Rock State Park Cabins

Credit: Cave in Rock State Park Restaurant & Lodging / Facebook

The Cave-In-Rock State Park Cabins are located near the famous recreational area they are named after. Guests can enjoy close proximity to the state park and neighboring Ohio River.

Spacious duplex cabin rentals are available seasonally. They each feature breathtaking views from the patio overlooking the Ohio River. Couples interested in staying here should book in advance for March through November.

All units include private bathrooms, showers, and outdoor decks. Dining sets and coffee makers are also included with the room rates.

There are 2 private homes available for couples seeking additional seclusion. They are spaced out a few miles from the Cave-In-Rock State Park. They are also similarly spaced out from the other cabins and on-site restaurant

The private homes include full kitchens and outdoor grills for convenient cooking. These river-view accommodations are available for a romantic retreat at any time of the year.

One of the most unique amenities offered is the free ferry service. Couples can head out to Kentucky on the water to tour a nearby Amish community.

Location: 125 New State Park Rd, Cave-In-Rock, Illinois 62919

‍Phone: (618) 289-4545

9. Doc’s Lakeside Cabin

Credit: Doc's Lakeside Cabin

Doc’s Lakeside Cabin is the premier location for romantic cabin rentals in Southern Illinois. Located in Jonesboro, this accommodation provides luxury and seclusion amongst the trees.

Rental cabins feature spacious open decks and private hot tubs for relaxation. The views of the beautiful sunsets are the perfect way to end a romantic evening. There is also a screened in deck for morning coffee made with the included coffee bean grinder and Keurig machine.

Amenities in the cabins range from fully stocked kitchenware to cozy beds. The living room area features an extra large 43 inch flat screen television. YouTube TV steaming and wireless internet are included for a comfortable stay.

Couples can take advantage of outdoor living by the fire pit on the brick patio. The nearby lake offers wonderful views and opportunities for romantic walks. Daytime fishing trips from the designated fishing dock are also an option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Location: 750 Morgan School Road, Jonesboro, Illinois 62952

‍Phone: (618) 697-1019

10. Oak Grove Cabins

Credit: Oak Grove Cabins / Facebook

The Oak Grove Cabins are newly built getaway cabins in Makanda, Illinois. at his romantic destination encompasses 10 private acres of land near the Shawnee National Forest.

The private decks allow couples to view the lush trees and breathtaking sunsets at their leisure. Cabins include satellite television and a gas fireplace for cozy movie nights.

Couples can also cook together in the full-sized kitchen. Other amenities include the elevated decks with private hot tubs.

The outdoor area has ample space for enjoying the fresh air. Each cabin comes equipped with a patio table and gas grill for gathering.

The luxury cabins provide everything needed for a comfortable stay, with tons of optional attractions available. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and Illinois Ozarks are nearby for additional daytime adventures together.

Location: 413 Oak Grove Road, Makanda, Illinois 62958

‍Phone: (618) 534-7143

11. Rim Rock’s Dogwood Cabins

Credit: Rim Rock's Dogwood Cabins / Facebook

Rim Rock’s Dogwood Cabins are an ideal destination for a couple’s retreat near the Shawnee National Forest. The cabins are secluded in the trees, several miles away from neighboring cities.

It is the perfect location for a quiet vacation together. The Garden of the Gods Recreational Area is only a short drive away. The forest and surrounding areas provide ample trails for hiking, biking, and exploring.

There are several accommodation options available at Rim Rock. They are spaced out one third of a mile for ample privacy from other guests.

Each cabin comes standard with fiber optic WiFi and satellite television. The rooms also feature a DVD player for easy movie nights. Kitchens are fully equipped with all necessary cookware and coffee makers.

The screened in porch provides an intimate setting for couples to spend quality time together. Firewood is provided to all guests for free. Access to outdoor grills are also available to visitors.

Couples who desire more space should check out the north side cabins. They feature additional privacy and beautiful views of the open skies and sunsets.

Location: 798 Karbers Ridge Road, Elizabethtown, Illinois 62931

‍Phone: (618) 264-6036

Related Read: 25 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois

12. Woodland Retreat Cabins

The Woodland Retreat Cabins are nestled in the woods of Makanda, Illinois. It’s secluded location offers couples the perfect opportunity to unwind with nature.

The old-fashioned cabins on this property feature electric fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens. The location on the Shawnee National Forest Wine Trail is convenient for daytime excursions.

The private deck has a gas grill for convenient outdoor cooking. The back porch is covered, with a fire pit for cozy nights under the stars. Other highlights inside the cabins include an automatic dishwasher and open upstairs loft.

Location: 255 Thorn Lane, Makanda, Illinois 62958

‍Phone: (618) 833-3004

13. Coyote Cabins Retreat and Farm

Credit: Coyote Cabins / Facebook

The Coyote Cabins Retreat and Farm is located in Sullivan, Illinois on 8 acres of land. The property features a honeybee farm and cozy lodging.

The Retreat Cabin is situated next to the farm’s butterfly garden. Breakfast baskets with fresh honey are included with each stay to make guests feel at home.

Other amenities in the cabin include a coffee maker, gas fireplace, satellite television, and wrap around deck. Each rustic style accommodation features central air and heat, along with a fully stocked linen closet.

Location: 1296 Cr 1000n, Sullivan, Illinois 61951

‍Phone: (217) 254-1623

14. Red Roof Retreat

Credit: Red Roof Retreat / Facebook

The Red Roof Retreat is an optimal destination for a romantic getaway in Goreville, Illinois. These one of a kind cabin rentals feature views of the nearby Shawnee National Forest.

The Red Roof Log Cabin is situated on the lake. It includes close up views of the water and beautiful evening sunsets. The cabins are stocked with clean linens and kitchenware for a comfortable stay.

Guests will feel at home with the cozy indoor fireplace and comfortable beds. A washer and dryer is also available within the cabin, and a smart TV. The DVD player includes several movies to choose from.

Some of the other unique offerings in the Red Roof Cabin include a table with games and private deck. The outdoor grill gives couples the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee or roast marshmallows for s’mores. Daytime activities include kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.

Location: 15 Mona Drive, Goreville, Illinois 62939

‍Phone: (618) 530-5236

Related Read: 21 Best Romantic Midwest Getaways

15. Willowbrook Cabins

The Willowbrook Cabins are a beautiful getaway destination nestled in the Shawnee National Forest. The forest expands for several acres, offering gorgeous views all around the property.

The cabins at Willowbrook include come in several different varieties. One of the most popular choices is the Outdoorsman Cabin. It features two bedrooms and a private hot tub.

The Romantic Getaway Cabin is another unique offering that features a private patio in the backyard with a hot tub. The large fire pit and fully equipped kitchen are perfect for a romantic retreat in the woods.

Other amenities include wifi, central air,  and a coffee maker. There is also a washer and dryer for convenient laundry inside each cabin.

These particular cabins are the closest to several attractions in the forest. These include the Sand Cave, Bell Smith Springs, and Millstone Bluff Petroglyphs.

Location: 610 Eddyville Blacktop Road, Golconda, Illinois 62938

‍Phone: (618) 672-4815