Cabin

Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest

Photo gallery for Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest

An outdoor dining setup with a table set for a meal, featuring a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and a bowl of salad.
A wooden cabin with a deck and stairs, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.
A neatly made bed with patterned pillows, a dark headboard, and a bedside table with a framed picture.
A living room with a black sofa, a patterned rug, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a granite countertop, a dining table with chairs, and a window with a view of trees.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Room to spread out
    Enjoy spacious layout that give everyone more room to relax.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Shawnee National Forest
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Makanda, IL
  • Place, Shawnee National Forest
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake of Egypt
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Place, Southern Illinois University
    ‪39 min drive‬
  • Airport, Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

4 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Number of living rooms
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest

Wine Trail Getaway | 4BR Lodge on 75 Acres | Shawnee Forest Access

4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps Up to 12

Welcome to Firefly Valley Lodge, a secluded two-story lodge tucked away on 75 private acres in the heart of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. A trusted vacation rental since 2013, Firefly Valley Lodge has welcomed guests looking for a peaceful Southern Illinois getaway, a Wine Trail weekend, family time, or a relaxing escape in the woods.

Surrounded by woods, wildlife, and beautiful Southern Illinois scenery, the lodge offers the privacy of a true country retreat while keeping you just minutes from some of the area’s most popular wineries, hiking trails, lakes, and attractions.

Relax on the expansive wrap-around deck, curl up on the porch swing bed, gather around the custom fire pit, explore the property, or enjoy direct access to Shawnee National Forest.

Located on scenic Rocky Comfort Road, Firefly Valley Lodge is ideally positioned near Blue Sky Vineyard, StarView Vineyards, Wichmann Vineyard, and Feather Hills Vineyard, with Giant City State Park, Devil’s Kitchen Lake, Little Grassy Lake, and Southern Illinois University all within an easy drive.

The Lodge

Firefly Valley Lodge combines rustic cedar-lodge charm with the comforts you want for a family vacation, couples’ Wine Trail weekend, girls’ getaway, or group trip.

Main Floor

* Open-concept living area with vaulted ceilings
* Comfortable updated furnishings
* Pull-out sleeper sofa
* Fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances
* Dining area for gathering and meals
* Two bedrooms, each with a queen bed
* Full bathroom
* 47” flat-screen TV in the living room
* Satellite TV

Upstairs

The upstairs features a private master retreat with:

* King-size bed
* Private bathroom
* Walk-in shower
* Flat-screen TV

Basement

The lower level provides additional sleeping and gathering space with:

* Oversized fourth bedroom
* Queen-size bed
* Full-size couch

Outdoor Living

The outdoor spaces are one of the highlights of Firefly Valley Lodge.

Enjoy:

* 75 private wooded acres
* Direct access to Shawnee National Forest
* Large wrap-around deck with peaceful woodland views
* Cozy porch swing bed, perfect for an afternoon nap, morning coffee, reading, or watching the sunset
* Custom two-tier fire pit
* Plenty of room for hiking and exploring
* Wildlife watching
* Stargazing
* Quiet spaces to relax and enjoy the woods

Don’t be surprised to spot deer, wild turkey, and other Southern Illinois wildlife during your stay.

Sleeping Arrangements

Firefly Valley Lodge can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Bedroom 1 – Main Floor: Queen bed
Bedroom 2 – Main Floor: Queen bed
Primary Suite – Upstairs: King bed + private bathroom
Bedroom 4 – Basement: Queen bed + full-size couch
Living Room: Pull-out sleeper sofa
Additional Sleeping: Inflatable air mattress available

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available at Firefly Valley Lodge.

Please keep in mind that part of the charm of Firefly Valley is its secluded, rural location. Internet service can occasionally be affected by weather, local service interruptions, trees, or other conditions outside of our control.


Included With Your Stay


* High-quality linens and bedding
* Bath towels and shampoo condition and bath soaps and
* Fully stocked kitchen with starter supplies
* Cookware, dishes, utensils, and basic kitchen essentials
* Stainless steel appliances
* Central heating and air conditioning
* Satellite TV
* Multiple flat-screen TVs
* DVD Player
* Inflatable air mattress

Prime Shawnee Wine Trail Location

Firefly Valley Lodge puts you close to some of Southern Illinois’ most popular destinations while still giving you the privacy of your own secluded retreat.

Nearby attractions include:

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Multiple wineries are located just a short drive from the lodge, including Blue Sky Vineyard, StarView Vineyards, Wichmann Vineyard, and Feather Hills Vineyard.

Giant City State Park
Enjoy hiking trails, rock formations, scenic drives, and some of the area’s most beautiful Southern Illinois scenery.

Shawnee National Forest
Enjoy direct access from the property for hiking, exploring, wildlife watching, and experiencing the natural beauty of Southern Illinois.

Devil’s Kitchen Lake & Little Grassy Lake
Great destinations for fishing, kayaking, boating, and enjoying the outdoors.

Southern Illinois University
Approximately 15 minutes away, making Firefly Valley Lodge a convenient option for SIU events, graduations, family weekends, and visits to Carbondale.

Your Private Southern Illinois Getaway

Whether you’re planning a Wine Trail weekend, family gathering, couples’ retreat, outdoor adventure, SIU visit, or simply want a peaceful escape in the woods, Firefly Valley Lodge gives you room to spread out, reconnect, and enjoy Southern Illinois at its best.

Spend the day exploring wineries and hiking trails, then return to the lodge for sunset on the deck, a fire under the stars, and the quiet of your own private wooded retreat.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Living room with fireplace
4BR Log Cabin · Fireplace, Bar & Game Room
Makanda
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (55 reviews)
4BR Log Cabin · Fireplace, Bar & Game Room

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
A small retention pond is located on the property.
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
The porch daybed is for 2 person max. No horseplay or swinging is allowed on the daybed. Use at your own risk.
A exterior security camera is located in a tree facing the front porch and deck area. A ring camera is outside the entry door

Important information

You need to know

Property # 513508vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Makanda

Located in Makanda, this cabin is in a rural area. Blue Sky Vineyards and StarView Vineyards 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 Giant City State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with rock climbing and hiking/biking trails.
View more Cabin rentals in MakandaOpens in a new window
Map
Makanda, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Blue Sky Vineyards - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Giant City State Park - 20 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Lake of Egypt - 22 min drive - 27.9 km
  • Southern Illinois University - 39 min drive - 58.0 km

Getting around

  • Carbondale Station - 37 min drive
  • Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Giant City Lodge & Restaurant - ‬36 min drive
  • ‪Blue Sky Vineyard - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪StarView Vineyards - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Bald Knob Room - ‬36 min drive
  • ‪Whit And Lisa's - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded 70-Acre Wine Trail Lodge Near Blue Sky, StarView & Shawnee Forest located?

Situated in a rural location, this cabin is steps from Shawnee National Forest and 2.2 mi (3.6 km) from Blue Sky Vineyards. StarView Vineyards and Panther Den Trailhead are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 78 out of 104 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 104 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 104 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 104 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 104 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, quiet, and near several vineyards.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2026
Thank you so much for staying with us! We’re glad you enjoyed your visit and appreciated the cleanilness and location near the wineries . We’re proud of our history of 10/10 reviews and are always striving to provide that same experience for every guest. If anything comes up during a stay, we always appreciate the opportunity to address it right away. We hope to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean home
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was very comfortable for our small group. The setting is lovely and hosts were quick to respond.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2026
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay! - We love to ensure that our guests have to best experience while visiting and are happy to answer any questions or provide local recommendations.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely gorgeous space. The photos do not do it justice at all. I was in awe of the size and space of the place. We had 10 people and plenty of room for everyone. The property is also gorgeous snd well maintained. The only negative (and i use that lightly as most of our group enjoyed it) is that there is no wi-fi and next to no cell service. We will def be returning though. It was so peaceful and relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2026
Thank you so much for your review! We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay! - We are looking into being able to to provide a reliable wifi service - watch our facebook page for the update coming soon!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great home!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Matt’s cabin is perfect!!!! Great location, clean and quiet. Beds are very comfortable and the kitchen is loaded with everything you need to cook if you wish. Nice outdoor grill and firepit along with plenty of outdoor seating on a large deck. We loved it
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was perfect for our stay. We needed a place to sleep 8 adults for a graduation celebration. There was plenty of space for sleeping, eating and gathering. The setting was upscale rustic. We enjoyed the surrounding nature and the view from the back deck. The fireflys put on a great light show at night. If you enjoy the country setting this place is great. We loved it.Only issue was some evidence of mice, but that is to be expected considering the location.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed here with a group of 9 for a weekend of winery visits. The location was perfect. The home felt plenty spacious and had all the amenities we needed. The availability of cell service and lack of wifi was an issue at times. The view from sitting on the deck was beautiful. It was a great weekend getaway. I'd love to go back again some day
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy Retreat

We had a great time at our stay. The lodge plus a bonfire really made a fun Fourth of July weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was very nice, fully stocked kitchen. Lots of outdoor space and a very nice swinging bed on the front porch for relaxing. Really close to our favorite winery, Blue Sky.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

wine trail get a way

Very quiet peaceful location. enjoyed the firefly display every evening
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great getaway

Firefly Valley Resort is a wonderful place to stay on the Shawnee Wine Trail.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Kitchen is well stocked - 2 coffee makers.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Great Weekend Getaway

We stayed here with our extended family (10 adults and 2 kids) for a weekend getaway. Everything was great and the hosts were easy to communicate with. We really enjoyed the location and its proximity to two of our favorite wineries.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Very cool location

Loved the place thanks for everything! Would highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect for family weekend.

This is our second year staying here, and we just love it for our family! It is very comfortable, the location is perfect and communication was quick. We will be back next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful location and property

We came for a long weekend and were not disappointed. The bedroom in the basement was a little strange but I slept just fine! I loved that there was no wifi. We saw lots of wildlife and nice wineries were close by.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Cozy and remote

Cabin was adequate. Comfortable and near wine trails. Lady bugs were a little overwhelming but all in all fun.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is absolutely gorgeous. It was more than we imagined and the pictures don't do it justice. It was the perfect getaway for our family. It was close to hiking, horseback riding and of course the Shawnee Wine Trail. It was so peaceful and the property is well maintained. We enjoyed being "unplugged" and forcing our kids to "live like the 1900s" (if you know, you know).
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Graduation Weekend Celebration

The proerty and accommodations were perfect for a multigenerational family gathering. 1st floor bedrooms were handicap accessible for 82 year old grandma and outdoor areas perfect for 3 and 5 year old granddaughters to run and explore! aexplorafter sitting
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great stay

The house was great and clean. The Wi-Fi is the only complaint no service out there. Other than that it was a perfect weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

So relaxing!

The home was amazing and clean and comfortable. Had everything you would need. Only complaint would be poor cell reception. Other than that we loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Girls trip

Celebrating a birthday. Winery visits were fun. Not a lot of restaurants but plenty of options at the wineries for a light meal. Beautiful property. Lots of deer wild turkeys and other wildlife. House was very nice. 4th bedroom is down stairs. It’s basically in the garage but overall it’s a great place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2024
We are so glad you enjoyed your girls trip to Firefly Valley and the Southern Illinois wine trail! The views are unmatched and we love all our wildlife friends. The 4th bedroom is located in the walk out basement of the Lodge. Please come back to visit again - we would love to host you.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location

Girls trip Weekend

Great star at the Firefly…the amount of room was great for our party of 5. And Really clean. Deck area needs more lighting, comfortable seats and rehab on the deck. Maybe update the listing too - no leather sofas in the living room. No WiFi at all. Needs more seating in the living room. But overall great peaceful location easy to access all of southern Illinois favorites.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Friends weekend

We booked this property for a weekend away with some friends. It was perfect for us (3 couples). The beds and furnishings were comfortable. It would’ve been nice to have another small loveseat or armchairs in the living room for extra seating but we managed. The outdoor area is beautiful, with plenty of seating options. Bring some firewood or be prepared to search the woods if you want to use the fire pit. The only thing that would be nice would be WiFi - but that wasn’t a big deal for us and it was nice to unplug for a while. We would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2024
Thanks so much for your positive feedback. Unfortunately there is not an option for reliable wifi at this time at our location. We are glad you enjoyed the beautiful views and were able to unplug! That is our goal for all our guests. We would love to host you again!

About the host

Hosted by Matt and Corene

Host profile image
Meet the Owners – The Story Behind Firefly Valley Lodge
We were both born and raised right here in Southern Illinois, and as proud graduates of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, our roots run deep in this region. Firefly Valley Lodge is not just a rental—it’s a heartfelt extension of home, built on a love for the land, the community, and the peaceful beauty of the Shawnee Hills.

We discovered this 75-acre property nestled on Rocky Comfort Road, and instantly fell in love with its seclusion, sweeping views, and direct access to the Shawnee National Forest. It felt like the perfect place to create a sanctuary where guests could slow down, unplug, and experience the same beauty and serenity we grew up with.

Every detail in the Lodge—from the cozy porch swing bed to the two-tiered fire pit and handpicked furnishings—was chosen with care, as if it were our full-time home. We wanted it to feel warm, welcoming, and stylish, with a touch of rustic charm and all the comforts you’d expect.

Whether you're visiting wineries, hiking the forest trails, reconnecting with friends, or simply enjoying the stillness of nature, we hope Firefly Valley Lodge becomes a place you’ll return to again and again.

Thank you for considering our home—we’re proud to share a piece of Southern Illinois with you.

Warm regards,
Matt and Corene
Owners, Firefly Valley Lodge | SIU Carbondale Alumni

Why they chose this property

We chose this spot for Firefly Valley Lodge because the moment we stood on the hill and looked out over the valley, we felt something truly special. The sweeping views of the trees and rolling hills, the quiet stillness of the land, and the frequent visits from deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds made it feel like a hidden sanctuary.

In the early mornings, you can watch deer grazing just below the deck. In the evenings, the valley comes alive with the soft glow of fireflies dancing in the open fields—a truly magical sight that inspired the name of the Lodge. It’s a peaceful, almost timeless place that allows you to slow down and reconnect with nature.

This location gave us the privacy we craved and the beauty we wanted to share. And with the Shawnee National Forest literally at the edge of the property, we knew it offered the perfect balance of quiet retreat and outdoor adventure.

It’s not just a vacation spot—it’s a place to breathe, reflect, and appreciate the simple wonders of the natural world

What makes this property unique

Firefly Valley Lodge offers something truly rare: seclusion, scenery, and convenience—all in one location. Nestled on 75 private acres in the heart of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, this Lodge gives you the freedom to unwind in total privacy, yet places you just minutes from some of the area's most popular wineries including Blue Sky, StarView, and Feather Hill Vineyard.

What really sets this property apart is its direct access to 140 acres of the Shawnee National Forest, making it a dream destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, or just connecting with nature. Step off the back deck and into the woods—no driving required.

Whether you're sipping wine on the wrap-around deck, stargazing by the two-tiered fire pit, or relaxing on the porch swing bed, Firefly Valley Lodge delivers a peaceful, immersive experience you won't find in town or in clustered rentals.

Perfect for romantic escapes, friend gatherings, or family vacations—this is where comfort meets the quiet beauty of Southern Illinois.

Languages:

English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback