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Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit

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Beautiful Lodge situated upon 70 acres.
Great place to unwind and take a nap on the covered front porch.
Available mid May thru October due to pollen and weather.
Terrace/patio
Front Door

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 152600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

View in a map
Makanda, IL
  • Place, Blue Sky Vineyards
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, StarView Vineyards
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Ferne Clyffe State Park
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Airport, Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

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
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit

Wine Trail Getaway | 4BR Lodge w/ Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit & Forest Access
4 BR | 2 BA | Sleeps 12

Welcome to Firefly Valley Lodge, a secluded 2-story cedar home nestled on 75 private acres in the heart of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Enjoy breathtaking views from the expansive wrap-around deck, direct access to 140 acres of Shawnee National Forest, and top-rated wineries just minutes away.

Located on scenic Rocky Comfort Road, you’ll be within a short drive of Blue Sky Vineyard, StarView, Wichmann, and Feather Hill Vineyards, as well as Giant City State Park, Devil’s Kitchen Lake, and Southern Illinois University.

The Space
This 4-bedroom, 2-bath lodge combines rustic charm with modern comforts, perfect for families, couples, or group getaways.

Main Floor:

Open-concept living room with vaulted ceilings & updated furniture (pull-out sleeper sofa)
Fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances & dining area
2 guest bedrooms with queen beds
Full bathroom
47” flat-screen TVs in living room and bedroom with satellite TV

Upstairs:

Private master suite with king bed, bath with walk in shower, and flat-screen TV

Basement:

Oversized 4th bedroom with queen bed and full-size couch

Outdoor Amenities

75 private acres plus direct access to 140 acres of Shawnee National Forest
Large wrap-around deck with stunning views
Cozy porch swing bed – the perfect spot for an afternoon nap, reading a book, or watching the sunset
Custom two-tiered fire pit—perfect for chilly evenings and stargazing
Ample space for hiking, wildlife watching, or just relaxing in total privacy

Sleeps Up to 12 Comfortably
Bedroom 1 (Main Floor): Queen bed
Bedroom 2 (Main Floor): Queen bed
Master Suite (Upstairs): King bed + Private Bath
Bedroom 4 (Basement): Queen bed + Full-size couch
Living Room: Pull-out sleeper sofa

Included for Your Stay:
High-quality linens, towels & bedding
Fully stocked kitchen (utensils, cookware, dishes)
Central heat & air
Satellite TV, flat-screen TVs
Firewood for fire pit (seasonal)

Nearby Attractions:
Shawnee Wine Trail – 5+ wineries within a short drive
Giant City State Park – hiking, climbing, and scenic trails
Little Grassy & Devil’s Kitchen Lakes – boating, fishing, kayaking
Southern Illinois University – 15 minutes away
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

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

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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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
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.

Important information

You need to know

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

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. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cabin rentals in MakandaOpens in a new window
Map
Makanda, IL

What's nearby

  • Blue Sky Vineyards - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • King Neptune Memorial - 14 min drive - 12.8 km
  • StarView Vineyards - 15 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Panther Den Trailhead - 15 min drive - 8.0 km
  • Ferne Clyffe State Park - 19 min drive - 19.0 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
  • ‪Eagle Ridge Winery - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit?

As of 7 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit on 16 Mar 2026 start from £153, 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 Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded Lodge on 75 Acres PRIME Location by wineries, Porch Swing Bed, Fire Pit 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. 68 out of 90 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 90 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 90 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 90 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 90 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Anne H.

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

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

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

10/10 Excellent

Lisa F.

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

10/10 Excellent

Judy R.

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

10/10 Excellent

Kayla H.

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

10/10 Excellent

Mark O.

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

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

10/10 Excellent

Shawn H.

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

8/10 Good

Kara B.

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

8/10 Good

Clayton R.

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

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

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

10/10 Excellent

Lisa K.

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

8/10 Good

Stacey D.

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

10/10 Excellent

Amanda W.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jamie B.

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

10/10 Excellent

Sue S.

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

10/10 Excellent

Kindra H.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

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

Weekend away

Cabin was nice. The air conditioner had a hard time keeping up with the 100+ temperature. We had no cell service at the cabin. That was troublesome when trying to navigate or find a restaurant. Really did unplug for the weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

8/10 Good

Angie W.

Great News Years getaway

We enjoyed our stay at your lodge. The pictures online were exactly what we found when we arrived. Easy directions and booking. Plenty of room to spread out with our family - especially with teenagers. We were very pleased! The basement was a bonus for our wet boots. Could come right into a dry space, dump off the winter clothes and head upstairs. Looking forward to booking again, possibly in the summer. Do you offer repeat customers a slight price break?

6/10 Okay

Chris B.

Our Stay

The setting was nice and home was nice. However, the dishwasher was broken (owner told us but there was 1/4" of dish soap to do dishes) Only 1 trash bag, the hideaway couch was dirty and had cereal in it and we did not use it. A lot of other small noticeable things. I believe the owner or housekeeping needs to pay closer details for their guests.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Katelyn M.

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

Great place to disconnect

Lovely space that was clean and had plenty of bedrooms for our group to spread out! Beautiful property, very serine and relaxing. I didn’t realize there wasn’t WiFi until last minute which was my fault and I probably should’ve printed out our check in information before we lost service. Otherwise it was great to disconnect and be off grid for a few days (there is service just down the road so it is still easy to get to other places). My only other complaint was that we couldn’t figure out how to turn on some of the light fixtures (specifically the big overhead light in the living room but there was plenty of other lighting to supplement). The kitchen and grill worked great for us and was well stocked with everything we needed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

lori k.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in

Nice and relaxing

A bit on he back roads , but that's why its nice and quite . Before you get to close to the property , make sure you have the access code . I had no cell service and no code when I got to property . I had to drive a ways to try to contact owner for code , he had never sent it , it was now 40 mins. after check in time . If you plan on a fire outdoors, make sure you bring your own wood .
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

8/10 Good

Debra b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Wine trip

Had a great time at the house. Had all the necessities we needed. Arrived after dark and was unable to find the key pad to unlock the house. We did call the owner and found out that it was on the back door. The dishwasher did not work and outside lighting was not nearly enough. I didn’t realize how dark it could be. Had several lady bugs in the upstairs bedroom. The kitchen chairs were wobbly. I realize these were very trivial issues so overall the stay was enjoyable.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

2/10 Terrible

Terri O.

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication

No WiFi, mouse in Keurig, Found someone else’s shirt and a glow stick In one of the rooms.

The property was beautiful. However, we found a shirt and a glow stick that was not ours in the upstairs bathroom and bedroom. Makes me question how well the property was cleaned. When we got there, the doors were Unlocked and one of them was open. We assume that’s how the mouse got in. We found the mouse in the Keurig in the morning. We notified the owner who did come over right away. However, he came in with an attitude of accusing us. We had to show him pictures and the dead mouse, He took the Keurig with him and never replaced it. The property did have gorgeous views and we did see some forest animals, which was really cool.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Stephen E.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

nice setting

The property is beautiful, note there is a small swampy pond not pictured. Could use some minor maintenance - the lights/fans in first floor bedrooms not working, and perhaps label all switches so guests know which switch turns on what. The upstairs bedroom was difficult to keep cool and the daily high was only 80. Confusion about this being a place to have our small ceremony - original listing posted a wedding cake on the stage (now picture taken down)then we read in rules Not to use the stage, and a large sign by the road that reads weddings, events (Firefly Valley lodge); now it list no parties-events - but as an elderly couple we moved our little wedding with a few family and friends under the trees and it was wonderful. Plenty of kitchenware, bring your own soap, extra toilet paper, paper towels and even towels as minimum is provided. Great views, would be nice for hikers/winers as in perfect location in the beautiful Shawnee Forest wine country.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

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.

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