Hi moms,
I'm looking for a place where we can rent a cabin or house that is a reasonable drive from Chicago and has a lot of nature, not too commercialized. Are there any secluded beautiful areas not far away? Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated! We're relatively new to the Chicago area and have not really explored the surroundings. I know that both Michigan and Wisconsin have beautiful nature way up north, but I don't want to drive more than 3 hours... Thanks!
Galena, IL, right at the Iowa/Illinois border, about 3 hrs drive. Secluded, old-time town feel. Lots of nature to see, as well as nice cottages/bed and breakfast places to stay. Only need 1-2 days to see the whole little quaint town.
If you go to Starved Rock, you might also want to check out another park, Mathiessen. It's smaller, but I always liked the waterfalls they have. There are steps down into the canyon area, and a part where you walk across water/steps, and some parts are not always a flat path, maybe a little water smoothed, but still lumpy rock. So, if you have a little one be cautious. There is a new hotel in Utica too, that has an indoor waterpark, but you can still getaway to nature.
When I was in my 20's we use to go to the Indiana dunes too. Not sure how they are nowadays, but you could probably find info online. And lastly, a friend of mine use to take family vacations to House on the Rock. She still likes to go there. I believe it's in Wisconsin, not sure how far.
We just spent a weekend at Starved Rock lodge - really amazing to have such beauty only 90 minutes away. It's a great area. Definitely check it out.
Starved Rock state park is a great place! There are hiking trails, bald eagles, frozen waterfalls, and cabins to rent. There are also hotel rooms in the lodge, and any overnight accommodation rental gives you access to the pool, whirlpool and sauna. Also, they have a killer Sunday brunch. Starved Rock is about an hour and a half south west of Chicago. It's very beautiful there, and quite rustic.
