Cabin with Kitchen, Whirlpool Tub & Bonfire Pit Near Starved Rock State Park

I'm a lifelong local, born and raised in nearby Ottawa, Illinois, and proud to call this beautiful area home.

My husband, Jamie, grew up helping his father, stepmother, and other family members and friends build what is now Kishauwau Cabins. What began as a family dream in 1986 has grown into something truly special, and I'm honored to help carry that legacy forward.

Today, our family continues to own, operate, and care for these cabins and the 65 wooded acres surrounding them. We take great pride in preserving the peaceful atmosphere and personal touches that have made this property special for 40 years, while continuing to improve the experience for today's guests.

For us, Kishauwau Cabins is so much more than a business. It's a piece of our family's history that we're fortunate enough to share with yours.

We hope you'll find the same peace, beauty, and sense of connection here that we've treasured for so many years.

Built by Our Family. Shared with Yours.

Sometimes the best things in life begin with a feeling you just can't ignore.

In 1986, my in-laws, Ben and Ellen King, heard that the former Boy Scout Camp Ki-Shau-Wau was for sale. Curious, they decided to drive out and take a look.

As they pulled through the entrance and caught their first glimpse of the beautiful wooded property, Ellen turned to Ben and asked, "Do you want this property as much as I do?"

And just like that, the decision was made.

They purchased the property without knowing exactly what they would do with it, but they knew there was something special about this place. What began as a feeling grew into a dream, and eventually into the family-built cabin retreat we know today as Kishauwau Cabins.

Forty years later, we're still welcoming guests through that very same entrance, sharing the beauty and peacefulness that captured Ben and Ellen's hearts all those years ago.

And to think, it all started with one question and a dream.

A Different Kind of Getaway — One That Invites You to Unplug.

At Kishauwau Cabins, we believe some of life's best moments happen when you disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other, yourself, and nature.

Our 17 cabins are thoughtfully spaced throughout 65 wooded acres, offering a level of privacy and tranquility that's becoming harder to find. Whether you're enjoying morning coffee on your porch, gathering around your private fire pit, or simply listening to the sounds of the woods, there's no shortage of opportunities to slow down.

One of our guests' favorite features is our charming office building, open 24/7. Inside, you'll discover an entire wall of movies, board games, and puzzles available to borrow, along with a selection of snacks and supplies offered through an old-fashioned cash honor system. It's a little touch of nostalgia that reminds us of simpler times.

And yes, we really do encourage you to unplug!

Our cabins have no Wi-Fi, cell reception is limited and varies by carrier, and televisions are intended for watching DVDs and Blu-ray movies rather than traditional channels. Limited guest Wi-Fi is available in our office for brief, essential use.

We're proudly family-owned and operated, and we believe that personal attention, genuine hospitality, and a peaceful environment make all the difference.

If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle, enjoy meaningful time together, and experience the simple pleasures of nature, you've found it.

Kishauwau Cabins — Come Back to What Matters.