The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access

Photo gallery for The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access

A spacious attic bedroom with a wooden ceiling, a bed, a sofa, and a view of the outdoors.
A log cabin with a porch, a front door, and a small deck.
A log cabin interior with a kitchen, dining area, and a staircase.
A log cabin interior with a dining table, chairs, a chandelier, a staircase, and a window.
A log cabin interior with a sloped ceiling, wooden floors, and a cozy seating area with a sofa and chairs.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • On the beach
    A rare beachfront property in the area - enjoy direct access to the sand and sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Lake Shelbyville
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Sullivan, IL
  • Place, Lake Shelbyville
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Eastern Illinois University
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Place, Millikin University
    ‪44 min drive‬
  • Airport, Decatur, IL (DEC)
    ‪37 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Basement Bunk Room

+2
3 Single Beds and 3 Double Beds

Master Bedroom Firefly Room

1 Queen Bed

The Loft

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

The Reflection Room

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

Basement Bathroom

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

First Floor Hallway Bathroom

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Master Bathroom

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access

Welcome to Firefly Lodge, one of Lake Shelbyville's most unique vacation homes. Situated on over 5 private wooded acres and partially surrounded by public state park land, this beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bath cabin offers the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and direct access to the lake.

What truly sets Firefly Lodge apart is its location. The property is just a stone's throw from the public boat launch and is the closest rental home to the water on Lake Shelbyville. Guests can access a trail that leads just 50 yards down to a sandy beach along the shoreline—a rare feature that makes Firefly Lodge a one-of-a-kind destination for families, fishermen, boaters, and large groups.

Recently renovated from top to bottom, the lodge blends rustic cabin charm with modern comforts, including updated furnishings, appliances, and tasteful finishes throughout.

The heart of the home is the spacious, fully equipped kitchen with plenty of room for preparing meals for large groups. The adjacent dining area features a large farmhouse dining table where everyone can gather together. Above the main living space, the loft offers soaring timber-framed ceilings, two beds, a comfortable lounge area, and space for cards, games, or relaxing after a day on the lake.

The main floor also includes a comfortable living room with a large-screen TV, a fully renovated guest bathroom, and a spacious primary suite featuring a log queen bed and a private bathroom with a walk-in shower.

Downstairs, guests will find a large bunkroom with three bunk beds that comfortably sleep up to nine people, an additional private queen bedroom, a full bathroom with a shower/tub combination, and a washer and dryer for guest use.

The lower-level entertainment room is a favorite gathering spot. Complete with a custom bar, pool table, dual TVs, comfortable seating, barrel tables, and the iconic Firefly Lodge neon sign, it's the perfect place to unwind with family and friends after a day outdoors.

Outside, enjoy five acres of peaceful woodland surroundings, a spacious wraparound porch, and a brand-new grill installed in May 2026. In the evenings, gather around the fire pit in six Adirondack chairs and take in the quiet sounds of nature and the incredible star-filled skies that make Lake Shelbyville so special.

Firefly Lodge has become a favorite destination for visitors seeking a memorable lake getaway. Whether you're planning a family vacation, fishing trip, boating adventure, reunion, or weekend escape with friends, you'll find the space, comfort, and unmatched lake access that make Firefly Lodge truly unforgettable.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
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
Please treat the lodge as you would your own home. Dispose of trash properly, and leave furniture, fixtures, and amenities in good condition.
Any special event/ gathering exceeding the listed accommodations requires prior approval from the owners.
Guests using the lake or nearby boat launch do so at their own risk. Please follow all safety regulations.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 4729950vb
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
Long-term renters welcome
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
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

Sullivan

Located in Sullivan, this cabin is in a rural area and on the beach. Eagle Creek State Park and Lake Shelbyville reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Beachy's Bulk Foods and Heroic Age Arts Center.
Map
Sullivan, IL

What's nearby

  • Lake Shelbyville - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Eastern Illinois University - 43 min drive - 56.4 km
  • Millikin University - 44 min drive - 61.8 km
  • Lake Sara - 49 min drive - 63.9 km
  • Effingham Performance Center - 51 min drive - 68.0 km

Getting around

  • Mattoon Station - 32 min drive
  • Decatur, IL (DEC) - 36 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Sully’s Taphouse - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Monical's Pizza - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Red Apple Family Restaurant - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access?

As of 18 Aug, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access on 1 Nov, 2026 start from S$1,423, 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 The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Firefly Lodge on Lake Shelbyville - Fully Updated Cabin with Lake Access located?

Located in Sullivan, this beachfront cabin is next to a golf course, steps from Lake Shelbyville and within 9 mi (15 km) of Eagle Creek State Park and The Little Theatre on the Square. Lake Shelbyville Beach and Kinzel Field are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 136 out of 178 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 34 out of 178 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 178 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 178 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 178 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deborah G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolute beautiful cabin!!! Cabin was fully stocked except for food of course. Plenty of room and amazing!!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you so much! We’re thrilled you loved the cabin and had everything you needed for a great stay. We’d love to have you back at Firefly Lodge anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Holly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to spend with a large group--kids loved the shared space! Note: the access to the beach is more for views as opposed to swimming. Go to the local beach or pool to swim!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thanks for the great review! We’re glad your group enjoyed the spacious cabin and that the kids had plenty of room to have fun. Lake levels are unusually high this summer, but as the water recedes, more of the beach will become accessible. We hope to welcome you back to Firefly Lodge!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Candi B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our third stay at Firefly Lodge. The updates are wonderful! We will be back again!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
We’re so grateful to have you back for a third stay! It means a lot to hear that you enjoyed the updates. We’ll look forward to welcoming you back for stay number four!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Matthew M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was great had stayed here years ago, they have done some nice renovations to make it even better.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for coming back to Firefly Lodge! We’re so glad you noticed and enjoyed the renovations. It’s especially rewarding to welcome back guests who remember the cabin from years ago. Hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jerad H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent place and we had an awesome time there! Host was very easy to communicate with and the house was clean.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad you had an awesome time at Firefly Lodge and found everything clean and comfortable. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Karin P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had eight adults and five kids stay comfortably. The kitchen and bathrooms feel modern and the rest of the cabin is nice and rustic. There’s a primitive trail that will take you to the lakeshore. The shore was mud and grass, but we were still able to swim. We went shore fishing at the nearby boat launch and caught a bunch of small striped bass. Everyone had a great great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad your group had a great stay and that everyone was comfortable. It sounds like you made the most of the lake, fishing, and trails. We’d love to have you back at Firefly Lodge
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

FRANK G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Always a great stay. Remodel made the place look amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Eric J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second stay at Firefly. What a fantastic place!!! Our family really enjoyed the weekend!!!Lake was flooded so we couldn’t use the private beach. We went a few miles to wolf creek and enjoyed the beach there to cool off!!Loved the renovations!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for coming back for your second stay! We’re so happy your family had another fantastic weekend and loved the renovations. It means a lot to have returning guests, and we hope to see you again for stay number three!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Molly G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was in a great location! Plenty of beds and lots of room for the 8 of us. The temp was a hard to control though and the steps going to the loft and to the basement were pretty steep. Overall if was a fun choice for our weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for the thoughtful review! We’re glad your group enjoyed the location, spacious layout, and plenty of room to spread out. We appreciate the feedback as well and are happy Firefly Lodge was a fun choice for your weekend!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jon H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The upgrades are AMAZING. If you've stayed here before, you HAVE to stay again to see all they did. We brought four generations for our annual family trip (third time staying here) and everyone had a great time! Unfortunately, the water was too high for us to get to the lake access/beach but the views are unbeatable. Lots of wildlife to watch. Be sure to bring extra trash bags and toilet paper if you have a large group, as they only provide a starter amount (two trash bags and two rolls of tp per bathroom). We can't wait to book again next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for coming back for your third stay—and for bringing four generations with you! We’re so happy everyone enjoyed the upgrades, wildlife, and those lake views. The lake levels have been unusually high this summer, but we’re looking forward to having more beach accessible as the water recedes. We can’t wait to host your family again next year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was awesome and the updates look great. We appreciate the 3rd bathroom and the bar setup in the basement is very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thank you for the great review! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the updates, especially the third bathroom and basement bar. We put a lot of thought into making Firefly Lodge comfortable for larger groups, so it’s great to hear those additions made a difference. Hope to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for our yearly fishing trip. Remote, plenty of parking. We will be back. Thanks!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2026
Thanks for making Firefly Lodge part of your annual fishing tradition! We’re glad you enjoyed the remote, secluded setting and privacy of the property. We’ll look forward to having you back next year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

rcoleman

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rachel M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second time staying here it is a great place to get together with a large group.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Julia P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cabin, clean, great location, will rent again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin, plenty of room to spread out , lots to do. Beautifully decorated, scenic location and conveniently located near other activities.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

FRANK G.

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

Great stay

Great location
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kevin B.

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

Fishing Trip

Awesome cabin, great location
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kate H.

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

Great place for families

Beautiful location, loved the lodge, very unique and cozy.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Douglas S.

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

Great for fisherman

My buddies and I have stayed here many times and it's a great getaway for us.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 May, 2025
Thanks for thinking of FireFly for your getaways!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

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

Great vacation property!

The cabin is located in a beautiful area and was as described. We really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Barb L.

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

Great place for a getaway!

Enjoyed our stay! Had everything we needed!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

donald n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great stay!Comfortable, plenty of room, great location for us! Very happy with our choice to stay there.Thank youDon Nordsell
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shane J.

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

Nice place

We enjoyed our stay
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Matthew D.

Liked: Communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to accommodate 4 family’s totaling 14

Plenty of space and great location.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

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