Entire home

Shawnee Overlook

Photo gallery for Shawnee Overlook

A wooden cabin interior with a loft bedroom, a dining area, and a fireplace.
A small cabin with a dock, surrounded by trees and a lake.
A room with large windows overlooking a lake and a wooded area.
A small, single-story building with a triangular roof, surrounded by trees and a gravel path leading to it.
A lakeside cabin with a dock, a small deck, and a grassy area with a lawnmower.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Shawnee National Forest
6 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 14

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Kitchenette
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Washing machine

Explore the area

View in a map
Creal Springs, IL
  • Place, Shawnee National Forest
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake of Egypt
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Southern Illinois University
    ‪45 min drive‬
  • Airport, Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Brown Bear Bunkhouse (Bunks)

2 Single Bunk Beds

Brown Bear Bunkhouse (Full)

1 Double Bed

Lakeside View Cabin

1 Queen Bed

Lakeside View Cabin Loft

1 King Bed

Main House Family Room

1 Single Futon and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Main House Loft

1 King Bed

Main House Lower Level

1 Queen Bed

4 bathrooms

Brown Bear Bunkhouse

Toilet · Shower only

Lakeside View Cabin

Toilet · Shower only

Main House Entry Level

Toilet · Shower only

Main House Lower Level

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Shawnee Overlook

Set in the solitude of the Shawnee National Forest nestled right up to the crystal-clear Lake of Egypt. Surrounded by lush trees and an amazing star-lit sky, this is a true fisherman's paradise or secluded getaway from everyday life! There's also two adorable cabins for additional guest accommodation. Level 2 electric charging station for the environmentally conscientious electric car owners!

Sleeping Arrangements:
* Master Suite Loft with king bed, sitting area, closet & full bathroom on entry level
* 1 Queen Bed in 2nd bedroom on lower/ground level
* 1 pull out sofa bed in living room on lower/ground level
(Main house sleeps up to 6, the two cabins sleep 4 & 5)

The Layout- Entry Level:
* Foyer
* Master Suite Loft & Sitting Area
* Full Bath
* Game Cabinet

The Layout- Lower/Ground Level:
* Living Room with wood burning stove and smart TV
* Kitchen & Dining Area
* Bedroom with Queen bed
* Full Bath
* Laundry

Outdoors:
* Deck
* Blackstone grill
* Firepit
* Private dock to swim and fish
* Outside decking areas and fire pit for relaxation
* Deep water for swimming off dock
* Kayaks

Cabin Add On Option (Add'l guest fee)
Blue Cabin
Three room cabin with a queen bed, sofa sleeper, and full bath. Private deck, ROKU TV, WIFI, and coffee bar. Sleeps up to 4.

Brown Cabin
Three room cabin with a full bed, sofa sleeper, twin loft, and full bath. Private deck and coffee bar. Sleeps up to 5.

More Information:
* Just 20 min drive from town of Marion
* Close to hiking in the Shawnee National Forest, Ferne Clyffe State Park, Giant City State Park
* Close to biking trails at Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and mountain biking at the new Touch of Nature bike trail

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Guest is required to sign a Renter Agreement. Security Deposit Required of up to $1,000. Minimum age to rent is 25.
NO Smoking (subject to $250 fine). NO pets. NO parties/events. Quiet Hours are from 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM.
Guests should not leave the listing in a state that requires excessive or deep cleaning.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3780761vb
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, a first aid kit 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

Creal Springs

Located in Creal Springs, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Shawnee National Forest and Ferne Clyffe State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Marion Cultural and Civic Center and Williamson County Fairgrounds. Kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hunting nearby.
Map
Creal Springs, IL

What's nearby

  • Shawnee National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Lake of Egypt - 3 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Marion Cultural and Civic Center - 27 min drive - 30.1 km
  • Giant City State Park - 40 min drive - 48.1 km
  • Southern Illinois University - 45 min drive - 58.0 km

Getting around

  • Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Acee's Neighborhood Market & Deli - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Whiffle Boys Pizza - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Tommy Macks Marina - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Marion / Shawnee National Forest KOA - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Shawnee Overlook pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Shawnee Overlook?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Shawnee Overlook?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shawnee Overlook?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Shawnee Overlook located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Shawnee National Forest and 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Lake of Egypt. Dutchman Lake and Marion Carnegie Library are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

10

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. 19 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 19 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was wonderful. It was well outfitted with everything we could need. Love how quiet the cove was. Will definitely come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property, amazing amenities and great host
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fantastic time with family and friends. Host was incredible to work with and gave a very fast response.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place to stay. Owner was incredibly responsive and easy to work with. Will definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an great stay at this property. Chris was very responsive and easy to communicate with. When reviews said the place was well stocked, they were not kidding. There was plenty of everything! It is really nice to have the large outdoor space as your own private area.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect property for four couples getting together for the weekend. Excellent firepit area and pretty, mostly secluded lake spot.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Quiet Getaway

Was the perfect location for our family trip! The kids loved the lake and the cabins were perfect for family time and still getting some away time from each other too. Very clean and well stocked with all of the essentials.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was exactly as described!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family Vacation

Property was beautiful and well stocked with spices, kitchenware, linens, etc. Dealing with the owners was easy and they responded quickly. We would definitely rent this property again!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wagner family lake trip!

Every year our family goes on a lake trip to a new and different lake. Lake of Egypt was a beautiful lake and the house and cabins were good for us!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lake Egypt

Very clean. Great space for outdoor and indoor activities
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect for Large Group

Recently booked for my niece’s bachelorette party. Plenty of space for lounging and sleeping. Having 4 bathrooms on the property made it amazing for 10 women getting ready for our day of winery tours! The area is absolutely gorgeous! Highly recommend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May, 2024
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay at Shawnee Overlook! Thank you for sharing your winery tour itinerary with us - we will be sure to pass it along to future guests. We appreciate your adherence to the house rules & checkout guidelines. The house was immaculate, except for towels and bedding, we never would have known anyone stayed here. We hope you consider visiting again, we would love to have you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Girls get together

A beautiful property. Very accommodating with the cabins allowing for a bit of separation. Very well lit with all the motion lighting outside. Thank you for allowing us to visit your home.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Father's Day Weekend

My husband wanted ine request for Father's day. To have us all together no cellphones in a cabin fishing and hiking. We had the time of our life with our 5boys! This has become our new Father's Day tradition. Can't wait to go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jun, 2025
We are so glad your family enjoyed their time at the lake! We hope your husband had a relaxing Father’s Day weekend.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lovely lake house.

This is a lovely property. The host goes above and beyond to make the stay fun and comfortable. The property does sleep 15 people however 15 adults is tight. 11 adults is more comfortable. The towels are soft and plush. The blackstone grill is a bonus! The kitchen has everything you need however is small with minimal counter space. Over all we loved it. 😃
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property. The location on the lake is great. The sturdy ladder for swimming off the dock was much appreciated. Sitting around at night with the beautiful lights in the trees was magical.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by Chris Nelson

Host profile image
We’re Chris and Daniel, and this property is our happy place. We love lake life—the quiet mornings, long days on the water, evenings around the fire, and those nights when the stars seem ridiculously bright.

We’ve put a lot of ourselves into this place, and we’re always working on something—improving, updating, and finding new ways to make the property even better for our guests. It’s a bit of a labor of love, and probably always will be.

This isn’t a cookie-cutter property, and we wouldn’t want it to be. The cabins have character, the setting is wonderfully tucked away, and life here is meant to slow down a little.

We hope you’ll make some great memories here—whether you’re catching a fish off the dock, paddling around the cove, getting overly competitive on the putting green, gathering around the fire, or simply doing absolutely nothing with a drink in your hand.

Come get comfortable, enjoy our little corner of the lake, and make yourself at home. We hope you love it as much as we do.

Why they chose this property

One getaway. Three separate spaces. Your own slice of Lake of Egypt.

Perfect for families, multiple couples, or groups traveling together, our property includes the main house plus two private cabins, giving everyone room to spread out while staying together.

Step outside and the lake is right there—enjoy your private dock, deep-water swimming, fishing, kayaks, putting & chipping greens, fire pit, and multiple outdoor gathering areas. Surrounded by trees and close to Shawnee National Forest, you’ll feel tucked away while still being only about 20 minutes from Marion.

It’s the kind of place where everyone can do their own thing during the day—and come back together around the fire at night.

What makes this property unique

Together, but with room to spread out. The main house and two separate cabins give families and groups the rare combination of shared gathering spaces and private sleeping areas. With the lake just steps away, guests can swim, fish, kayak or relax on the dock, while multiple decks, a fire pit, putting and chipping greens offer plenty to enjoy without ever leaving the property. Surrounded by trees and star-filled skies, it feels wonderfully secluded while still being convenient to Marion and Southern Illinois attractions.

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