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White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

Photo gallery for White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

Property grounds
Exterior
Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 6384 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Elizabethtown, IL
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Rim Rock National Recreation Trailhead
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Garden of the Gods Trailhead
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

Loft Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 half bathroom

Bathroom

Spaces

Deck or patio
Garden

About this property

White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest

Enjoy a real treehouse experience in our White Oak treehouse, nestled 24 feet up in a 200+ year old White Oak tree. This treehouse has heat and air, a bathroom, kitchenette, loft and an upper and lower deck. It is our most private treehouse and sleeps 4 to 6 (absolutely no more than 6 people in this unit please).

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.

White Oak is affordably priced. This tree house 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.

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 property for all guests to enjoy with tether ball, horseshoes and bags (corn hole) games as well as a catch and release pond for fishing.

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!



*** 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.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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

About the neighborhood

Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown is home to this cabin. 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. Take an opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as kayaking.
View more Cabin Rentals in ElizabethtownOpens in a new window
Map
Elizabethtown, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - 12 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Rim Rock National Recreation Trailhead - 13 min drive - 10.7 km
  • Garden of the Gods Trailhead - 16 min drive - 9.7 km
  • Cave in Rock State Park - 36 min drive - 40.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Gap - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Trails End Restaurant - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest?

As of Mar 26, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest on May 28, 2026 start from $217, 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.

What time is check-in at White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is White Oak Tree House by Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest located?

Situated in Elizabethtown, this cabin is steps from Shawnee National Forest, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Garden of the Gods Recreation Area and Rim Rock National Recreation Trailhead. Garden of the Gods Trailhead and Illinois Iron Furnace are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 12 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 12 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy

Treehouse

Nice stay
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Our stay at the treehouse was fantastic! They had firewood already cut. We built a big campfire and cooked steak dinner on their BBQ pit. The place came with every thing we needed to cook and clean up. It was a great experience. Planning on going back next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy N.

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

A fun family getaway

We decided to treat our kids to a tree-house getaway for a Winter break and this house was perfect! The design is very clever and solid. The necessities are all there: hot plate, toaster, coffee maker, fridge, sink, extra heater, microwave, some games, a television and big enough bathroom. Right nearby you have the Garden of the Gods and Rim Rock trails. I was sad to go home after our weekend there, but the kids made is promise that we would return in the Summer!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nanette M.

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

Nice experience

My family and I enjoyed our very first treehouse experience! It had all you need from toilet paper, cooking, outdoor chairs, etc. The available firewood was very convenient and helped us enjoy our outdoor longer. We’ll come back again. Thanks!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Deb S.

Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

It was an adventure!

My 11 year old granddaughter said this was the best place we ever stayed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary M.

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

Amazing Location

How often as an 'adult ' can you spend time in a treehouse? Wonderful setting up in a tree.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria W.

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

Absolute Gem of a Getaway!!

Booking was incredibly easy, the pictures were accurate (and even more beautiful and cozy in real life), we really got even more than we expected!! I took my 10 year old daughter and her best friend for a little mother, daughter, and bestie getaway in nature and we had a BLAST!! Check in at the outpost was very easy, location is fabulous and easy for the outpost as well as our treehouse rental. Directions off the website we’re absolutely SO spot on and easy to follow, I was so thankful! Payton at the Outpost was so kind and talked through hike routes with us, recommended things we might enjoy in the area…we also loved the Wi-Fi in the treehouse!! After spending lots of time hiking and playing outside, coming back to relax and still being able to enjoy some tv or the kids playing some games on their devices upstairs in the loft was truly just the best. The kids LOVED the loft, we brought our own food- easy to stock the fridge, microwave fabulous for reheating, and the outpost had many great things we could have bought even if we hadn’t come with our meals planned. We also stopped by the outpost every day for ice cream :-) it was a must and so perfect after hikes!! We loved everything. Cabin was very clean, the futon couch was very comfortable also (where I slept). The only thing the kids wished we also would have found was the smiley face swing :-) lol. Elizabeth was fabulous too- we had a snafu in the code to get in initially so I called her and she answered immediately and helped us get right in. I have zero complaints and nothing but wonderful things to say about the property, the process, and Elizabeth. They had even left fresh flowers on the table to welcome us! It was such a thoughtful touch and you could really feel the love and welcoming energy and that they really want everyone to enjoy their stay. It meant so much to us. Thank you so much for such a wonderful spot for us to make lifelong amazing memories- we are absolutely hoping to be back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn R.

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

Tree House experience

I was lucky to have found this place on VRBO at the last minute. It was such an amazing experience. My daughters (8 and 11) loved staying in the treehouse! It was small but we were very comfortable. The tree house was well equipped with what we needed. The timber ridge amenities offered a safe space for everyone to have fun. It was centrally located to several hikes, including the Garden of the Gods. I did not realize that the Shawnee National Forest was so dispersed. The GOG outpost was helpful. We would definitely recommend and stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

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

Treetop Escape

Wonderful experience! Hosts were super easy to work with especially since we had to reschedule once due to inclement weather. Loved being at the doorstep of so many great hiking trails.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly M.

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

Fun spot for a family getaway!

We included Shawnee National Forest in our Spring Break getaway and came across the tree house rental. We are so glad it was available to book. It is cozy, well-built, and has all you need for your stay. We were in a perfect location to hike some great trails - we did Rim Rock, Garden of the Gods, and High Knob which were all fantastic! One evening we had a fire in the firepit and roasted hot dogs and made smores. We loved that wood and camping chairs were provided. We also took advantage of the outdoor games (cornhole, tetherball, and horseshoes). We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and this awesome, unique place. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Candi J.

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

White oak treehouse

My family thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The treehouse is well maintained and clean. It is within a short driving distance of a lot of wonderful hiking areas.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny D.

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

Beautiful escape

The treehouse has everything you need to enjoy your stay. It was perfect for the two of us. The owners remembered the little things like a fan in the loft (for noise we can't sleep without one) We stayed in the winter and it was nice and warm inside. The sunrise is beautiful. We explored the area stopped at several mom and pop shops gas stations, bars, Bobs grocery, everyone was very friendly. This should be a must on the to do list.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

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