Entire home

Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park

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

Amazing views
Large custom built home
Beautiful relaxing setting surrounded by nature
Tucked away in a beautiful setting
Gated entrance

Overview of Gated Waterfront Nature Retreat 5 minutes from Starved Rock State Park

Reviews
10 out of 10 Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 162250 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot TubHot TubHot Tub
  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • Pet friendlyPet friendlyPet friendly
  • Outdoor SpaceOutdoor SpaceOutdoor Space
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • 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)91 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

Bedroom 1

2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Futon

Bedroom 2

4 Queen Beds

Living Area

2 Double Futons

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

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
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Hot Tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly
Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 23
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: less than 20 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking inside No shooting guns, fireworks or illegal drugs No indoor fires April through October Outdoor fires permitted in firepit only
Property has exterior video cameras that will remain on during your stay. To protect your privacy, no cameras are inside the home.
NO GUESTS are allowed that are not included in the reservation. If this rule is violated, you agree to vacate the premises immediately and NO refund.

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

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

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.
Map
Ottawa, IL

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) - 92 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

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 35 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 35 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 35 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 35 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Joseph E.

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

About the host

Hosted by Tom Gibson

Host profile image
Tom and Michelle are Superhosts / Premiere Hosts with VRBO and Air B&B.

Why they chose this property

Gated estate with waterfront views

What makes this property unique

This property possesses 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, heated bathroom floor, gas log fireplace, 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 and lakes. 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.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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