Entire home

Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park

Photo gallery for Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor dining
Exterior
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Smart TV, fireplace, stereo, computer monitors
Reviews
10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 16209 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendlyPet friendlyPet friendly
  • Hot TubHot TubHot Tub
  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Air conditioningAir conditioningAir conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Ottawa, IL
  • Popular LocationMatthiessen State Park11 min drive
  • Popular LocationStarved Rock State Park18 min drive
  • Popular LocationBuffalo Rock State Park18 min drive
  • AirportPeoria, IL (PIA-Greater Peoria Regional)87 min drive

Most relevant reviews

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park

Discover this estate providing the ultimate multi-purpose property. Behind the privacy gates, you will find one of the best kept secrets along the Illinois River Valley and Starved Rock State Park area.

This property has a gorgeous custom home that is 2,250 sq. ft. overlooking the water. Truly a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship with a grand 14’ double door entrance, large fully screened porch, and wall of windows showcasing a pond that provides picturesque sunsets. Inside you will find a large open concept floor plan along with tall ceilings, beautiful finishes, two large bedrooms, two full bathrooms, radiant heated bathroom floor, gas log fireplace, charcoal grill, gas grill, several custom cabinets, high-end appliances, new furnace, nest thermostat, automatic gate opener and door access keypad.

When you are not enjoying the views from the home, you will find 2 additional fishing ponds. The property has proven to be excellent for fishing, kayaking, bird watching and much more. The property is located between Dee Bennet Road and the I&M Canal Trail, creating a natural barrier to the south and north. The property creates the perfect private year-round retreat to enjoy with family and friends.

In addition to enjoying your own private ponds, you can launch your boat into the IL river at multiple nearby locations, the closest being Starved Rock Yacht Club, located directly across the road. The Wide Waters Yacht Club is also across the road with great public dining and boat rentals.

The property is adjacent to Buffalo Rock State Park and the I&M Canal National Heritage Trail.

Buffalo Rock State Park is a 298-acre park that offers bike trails, American bison, hunting, canoeing, cross country skiing, geocaching, hiking trails, baseball field, horseshoe pits, playgrounds and shelter.

The I&M Canal National Historic Area borders the property with private access from the property directly onto the I&M Canal Trail. Many activities are allowed on the canal’s 77+ miles of well-maintained trails. The I&M Canal offers may different experiences including boat trips, horseback riding, snowmobiling, biking, hiking, walking, canal towns, dining and many more.

Just across the river is Starved Rock State Park, one of the Illinois’ most beautiful destinations and the #1 most visited state park in Illinois. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the park’s 18 canyons featuring vertical walls of moss-covered stone formed by glacial meltwater that slice dramatically through tree-covered sandstone bluffs. More than 13 miles of trails allow access to waterfalls, fed season runoff or natural springs, sandstone overhangs, and spectacular overlooks. Recreational opportunities abound, from hiking to camping to fishing, boating, or hunting.

Just a few miles further down the road is Matthiessen State Park that offers canyons, streams, prairie, and forest. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities, make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for an outing.

Vermillion River is also a local attraction that is 112 miles long offering an abundance of activities. The Vermillion River is a fisherman's paradise, with numerous eddies, slack pools, overhanging and downed trees, deep holes, and rocky shorelines. The Vermilion is a great place to go fly fishing. For a full experience, drop a pole while drifting the river in a raft or canoe. Rafts are available at the Vermilion River Rafting Company.

Utica is just minutes away and it is known as the Gateway to Starved Rock. Utica has festivals, fine and casual dining, live music, pubs, wineries, shopping, open air market, and much more.

Ottawa, IL has a deep history with several public attractions and a very active Chamber of Commerce. There are 15 Parks to choose from in Ottawa. Click to learn more about Ottawa’s downtown, dining, parks, economic development, LaSalle Speedway, golfing and bustling tourism. If you are awaiting an adventure or endless outdoor recreation, you are able to take full advantage of the thousands of public lands in the direct vicinity. As you can see, Ottawa is a very charming town in the middle of everywhere!

Property manager

Tom Gibson

Languages

English

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Blender
  • Electric kettle
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Spices

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Shampoo
  • Towels provided
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Hair dryer

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite service
  • Stereo
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near laundromat

Work spaces

  • Computer monitor
  • Printer
  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total (up to 20 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the lake
  • On the waterfront
  • In a rural location
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near outlet shopping
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Water park
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Kayak on site
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Marina nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Golf nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 2250 sq ft (209 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 23

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
2 total (up to 20 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Private Retreat minutes from Starved Rock State Park

About the neighborhood

Ottawa

Located in Ottawa, this vacation home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Hegeler Carus Mansion and Lock 16 Visitor Center & LaSalle Canal Boat are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Mix's Trading Post and Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park. Traveling with kids? Consider Dickinson House, or check out an event or a game at Skydive Chicago. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

What's nearby

  • Illinois River Winery - 8 min drive
  • Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park - 10 min drive
  • Matthiessen State Park - 11 min drive
  • Starved Rock State Park - 18 min drive
  • Buffalo Rock State Park - 18 min drive

Getting around

  • Mendota Station - 29 min drive
  • Peoria, IL (PIA-Greater Peoria Regional) - 87 min drive

Restaurants

  • Casey's General Store - 11 min drive
  • Anne's Hide-A-Way - 6 min drive
  • Lodi Tap House Utica - 9 min drive
  • Back Door Lounge - 15 min drive
  • Berta's Tap - 10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 20 lbs per pet.

What time is check-in at Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly vacation home is within 6 mi (10 km) of Mix's Trading Post, Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park, and Washington Square Park. LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum and Illinois River Winery are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 36 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Matthew S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just what we needed
Secluded and relaxing atmosphere. The screened in porch was fabulous as we watched the sun set. Beautiful weather. Starved Rock close by. Just an amazing time.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joseph E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Private Oasis
We had two wonderful nights at this retreat. The home was clean and comfortable. One of my favorite cabins ever. Location was very private but close to hiking and shopping.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Girls relaxing weekend
Every year 5 of us life long friends travel for a weekend away. We seek out comfort, cleanliness, and hope for some unique finds at our VRBO’s. This checked ALL the boxes, super clean, comfortable, and bonus some really cool attributes to this house including the unique front door! Great back porch too to chill in rocking chairs and a nice walking path near the property as well. Owners very responsive.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

chad h.

Liked: Cleanliness
The great getaway
The property is absolutely beautiful, the water that surrounds the house is amazing. Having a privacy gate is very nice makes you feel safe and alone. The home is fully stocked with everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. Plenty of space for any occasion looking forward staying there again in the spring/ summer time!! The hosts were very professional and curtious. Thanks for a wonderful stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday Weekend Getaway
This property is absolutely gorgeous! The house is spacious and beautiful inside and the grounds outside are breathtaking! Thank you - I would definitely come back again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Myrna H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Short stay
Beautiful property, enjoyed the fire pit and star gazing, nice welcome basket of snacks
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Martin N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Enjoyable
Enjoyable, between the town of Ottawa and Utica, we enjoy the best of both towns. Spent time rocking on the porch and enjoyed a nice nighttime fire. Very good restaurants and friendly towns
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lauren M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Weekend Away
It was great staying at this property! I wish we had more time to enjoy it. Everything matched the pictures and they were very responsive for anything we may have needed!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great weekend stay!
This house was one of the most well-stocked rentals we've ever seen. They've truly thought of everything. Despite only having two bedrooms, the interior is spacious and the entire property is sprawling - there's something to do around every corner. This is a great place to get away from city life and enjoy some nature.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Saul R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
I had an amazing experience. Thank you so much for everything. We hope to come back and stay in this beautiful property.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023