The Secret Season in the Shawnee Forest
October always slips by too quickly. The hills are still bright with color, but the golds and reds are appearing, and there’s that unmistakable edge in the air – the kind that hints Halloween is just around the corner. 🎃
Pumpkins sit on porches, the vineyards are wrapping up harvest, and the forest is slowly quieting down. Soon, the leaves will fall, the trails will soften underfoot, and the Shawnee will settle into its most peaceful season.
Cabin Getaway in the Quiet Winter Months
There’s a special kind of hush that falls over the Shawnee National Forest once autumn fades. The bright colors give way to soft golds and grays, and the woods settle into a stillness that feels almost sacred. For those who know, this is the secret season – quiet, beautiful, and deeply restorative.
Winter at Rocky Comfort Cabins, tucked along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in southern Illinois, is not about doing more; it’s about slowing down. The air is crisp, the stars seem closer, and even the smallest comforts; a warm cup of coffee, a glowing fire, a long soak in the hot tub, feel like luxuries.
Where Stillness Becomes the Experience
Our Shawnee National Forest cabins are surrounded by natural beauty in every direction. On frosty mornings, the ridge is wrapped in mist, and the only sound you’ll hear is the wind in the trees. Step outside with a blanket and watch the sun rise over the hills, or slip into the hot tub and feel the contrast of steam against cold air.
Simple Pleasures Along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Don’t miss the new Lost Forest CoffeeHouse and Pub where the décor celebrates the forest itself – and the coffee is the same freshly roasted blend we serve in our cabins, Cold Blooded Coffee & Roastery.
Sip & Savor
Cozy up with a winter wine tasting at Blue Sky Vineyard or StarView Vineyard, both open seven days a week. Savor unique cocktails and coffee brews at the new Lost Forest CoffeeHouse and Pub. The Shawnee Forest Decor is divine and the coffee brewed and served here is the same freshly roasted coffee enjoyed at our cabins. We take our coffee seriously!
Explore without Crowds
Breathe in the quiet beauty, and no bugs, of Pomona Natural Bridge
or Little Grand Canyon Trail. Take and even shorter drive and visit Panther’s Den Wilderness Area or Rocky Bluff Trail and its gorgeous waterfall.
Antiquing Adventures
Winter is also the perfect time for a leisurely day of treasure hunting.
Shop Southern Estates Antique Mall in Herrin, Marion Antique Mall in Marion, Warehouse Antique Mall in Marion, Annabell Market in Anna, Makanda Trading Center in Makanda, or Think Vintage in Murphysboro.
Winter in the Shawnee is slower, simpler, and quietly breathtaking – a perfect time to rest, recharge, and reconnect.
✨ Anniversary Special – 13% off any stay November 2025 – August 2026*
Offer valid until midnight October 19, 2025.
Use Promo Code CELEBRATE13 Reserve Your Winter Getaway Today!
*Applies to dates available online, new reservations only, and cannot be combine with other discounts.
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Don’t Forget Fido! The French Cabin and The Cove Cabin are both pet-friendly.
A Winter Getaway for Rest and Renewal
There’s a rhythm to this time of year, slower, quieter, more intentional. It’s the perfect season for reflection, for reading by the fire, or simply watching the light change across the trees.
Many guests tell us winter stays are their favorite, not because of what there is to do, but because of how it feels to just be here.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a creative retreat, or a peaceful reset before the new year, winter at Rocky Comfort Cabins invites you to slow down and reconnect with what matters most.
Happy October!
With warmth,
Ed & Nancy
Rocky Comfort Cabins