Listen, Illinois lakes might not get the hype of the coasts, but trust me, they’re seriously underrated. After spending countless weekends exploring these waters, I’ve discovered some of the best places in Illinois to truly unwind and disconnect. From the sprawling waters of Fox Lake to the peaceful coves of Lake Shelbyville, these spots have completely changed how I think about Midwest getaways.
I’ve done the legwork and found the absolute gems when it comes to lakefront rentals. Picture this: a modern Fox Lake cottage where you can watch the sunrise with your coffee, or a spacious Lake Shelbyville house where the deck practically touches the water. No standard hotel rooms here, folks. These lake houses are the real deal, and I’m excited to show you exactly why they’re worth every penny.
Top Vacation Rentals in IL: Best Illinois Lake Houses of 2025
Here are the best lake house rentals in Illinois by category, considering factors including amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
- Most Affordable Lake House: A-Frame Rental Near Morraine View State Park
- Top Spot for Large Groups: Stunning Stanton Bay Rental w/ Space for 17
- Best Couple’s Cottage: Intimate Getaway Near Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
- Most Impressive Rental: 4-Bedroom Vacation Home w/ Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
- Best of Both Worlds: Countryside Cabin 15 Minutes From Downtown Paducah
- Most Relaxing Lap of Luxury: 1,800-Square Foot Personal Resort
- Most Fun Amenities: Mill Creek Lake House w/ Rock Wall, Tiki Bar & More
- Best Place to Get Some Peace & Quiet: Secluded Getaway w/ 80-Acre Private Lake
- Top Spot for Families: Pet-Friendly Vacation House w/ Outdoor Pool & Deck
- Most Convenient Waterfront Rental: Illinois Lake House Just Steps From the Beach
- Best Place to Enjoy the Great Outdoors: 10-Acre Retreat w/ Picture-Perfect Views
- Best Home Away From Home: Cozy Midwestern Lakehouse w/ Fully Stocked Kitchen
- Comfiest Cabin Getaway: Two-Bedroom Rental w/ Hot Tub & Plush Recliners
13 Waterfront Rentals in Illinois: The Best Lake Houses for Rent
Illinois is home to some of the most unique places in the United States. If beautiful rustic views and cozy waterfront cottages all sound good to you, you’re in for a treat! Below are some of the most scenic and relaxing lakeside getaways in Illinois.
1. Southern Illinois Lake House with Hot Tub, Near Shawnee National Forest
Location: Union, Union County, Illinois
Rates from: $178 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
If you’re looking for a peaceful adults-only vacation destination, this two-bedroom lake house rental in Illinois is the perfect fit. Set near the Shawnee National Forest with its miles of scenic hiking trails, the gorgeous lake-view cabin has a screened-in porch to take in the view.
You’ll find plenty of places to kick back and relax, whether in the bubbling hot tub, next to the electric fireplace in the spacious living room, or stargazing around the fire pit. Wine lovers will appreciate its easy access to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.
2. Private Illinois Lake House Retreat with 10 Acres
Location: Rice, Illinois
Rates from: $350 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
With a secluded setting and private lake, this two-bedroom Illinois lake house getaway appeals to travelers who want to enjoy the quiet sounds of nature. It has a large outdoor deck for capturing the picture-perfect lake and forest views, while outdoor activities include fishing, hiking, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.
Take advantage of the rowboat and canoe for exploring the waterways, then enjoy a campfire around the fire pit or step inside to find a fully equipped kitchen and dining area and space for up to six guests with its queen-size sofa in the living room.
3. Stunning Illinois Lake House on Peaceful Stanton Bay – Chain O’Lakes
Location: Ingleside, Illinois
Rates from: $590 per night
Accommodates: 17 guests
Sleeping up to 17 guests, this large lake house rental in Illinois is designed for entertaining. Its modern interior features a primary suite with a fireplace, a chef’s kitchen, and a second fireplace in the cozy living room. The bright and airy three-level space also includes a wall of windows overlooking the bay.
The outdoor space is just as alluring as the inside, featuring an elevated wrap-around deck with seating and a backyard for kids to play. It’s a short walk to the dock while comfy Adirondack chairs surround a fire pit area. Water lovers can enjoy jet skiing, tubing, or boating in Stanton Bay.
4. Southern Illinois Lake House with Outdoor Hot Tub
Location: Jackson, Illinois
Rates from: $160 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
This two-bedroom property is one of the most popular lake house rentals in Illinois, offering 1,000 square feet of comfortable living space. A fully stocked kitchen opens into the main living area, while the master bedroom overlooks the large screened-in porch and has excellent lake views.
In addition to a private hot tub, you can enjoy perks like a gas grill and lakeside swing. With space for up to six guests, families will love the central heat and AC, washer/dryer, coffee maker, and complimentary coffee supplies.
5. Gorgeous Two Bedroom Lake House Rental in Illinois with Hot Tub
Location: Jackson, Illinois
Rates from: $197 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Equipped with everything you need for a memorable getaway, this two-bedroom Illinois lake house is perfect for a small family or group of friends. In addition to a serene setting on Hohman Lake, it has a hot tub, fireplace, and full kitchen.
You can enjoy the views from the multiple decks that overlook the lake or sit around the fire pit, while the home even includes an outside bar with a TV. Designed for relaxation, the outdoor deck even has plush recliner chairs so you can experience supreme comfort.
6. Lake House Rental in Illinois with Hot Tub
Location: Jackson, Illinois
Rates from: $160 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
This two-bedroom lake house rental in Illinois is cute, cozy, and highly rated on Vrbo for a good reason. In addition to its affordable rates, the lakeside retreat is beautifully decorated and includes a fully stocked kitchen and open dining and living areas.
A crackling fireplace keeps you warm on chilly nights, and a luxurious hot tub sits on the large screened back porch, while the outdoor dining area offers panoramic views of the lake. It provides an excellent base for canoeing, kayaking, and floating. It’s also just 15 minutes from Paducah’s shopping, restaurants, and entertainment, while many appreciate its countryside location in Southern Illinois.
7. Stunning Illinois Lake House on Chain O’Lakes with Amazing Views
Location: Fox Lake, Illinois
Rates from: $388 per night
Accommodates: 10 guests
Like your own private waterfront resort, this three-bedroom lake house rental in Illinois is a modern oasis that can accommodate ten guests. Sitting on Fox Lake, the 1,800-square-foot home features an outdoor deck where you can dine and take in incredible lake views.
Its flat yard is great for bonfires and lawn games, and a pontoon boat is available for rent if you want to get out on the water. Inside, the open kitchen and dining area also offer spectacular views of the lake from its large two-story windows.
8. Pet-Friendly Illinois Lake House with Deck
Location: Summit, Effingham County, Illinois
Rates from: $267 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
It’s easy to make this family home your top choice when looking for a lake house rental in Illinois. The three-bedroom property has a bright living space with a modern kitchen, large windows, and Smart TV, while many of its highlights are outdoors.
Spend sunny days lounging at the sparkling outdoor pool and bask in the sunshine on the furnished deck, walk to the private dock, nap in the hammock, and kick back on the covered front porch. Make sure to also squeeze in time to explore the delightfully charming town of Effingham.
9. Illinois Lake House with Sun Room & Fire Pit
Location: Johnson County, Illinois
Rates from: $175 per night
Accommodates: 9 guests
Offering a prime location on the Lake of Egypt, this three-bedroom Illinois lake house is only one step from the dock. A covered sitting area with tables, chairs, and a BBQ grill is ideal for relaxing and taking in the view, while the grassy yard makes an excellent spot for lawn games.
You can enjoy pure relaxation while lounging on the porch and in the furnished sunroom, but if you’re up for getting on the water, a two-slip boat dock and pontoon rentals are available.
10. Pet-Friendly Lake House Rental in Illinois at Moraine View State Park
Location: Ellsworth, Illinois
Rates from: $92 per night
Accommodates: 5 guests
Budget-savvy travelers looking for an intimate waterfront getaway will love this A-frame lake house rental in Illinois across the street from Moraine View State Park. It’s ideal for nature lovers, with easy access to hiking, kayaking, and swimming at a beach only five minutes away on foot.
The pet-friendly rental has a front and back deck for wildlife watching (deer, wild turkeys, birds, and foxes) and a charcoal grill and fire pit in the backyard. Sleep peacefully on the king-size memory foam bed, whip up a meal in the full kitchen or catch your favorite flick on the flat-screen TV.
11. Quiet Lake House Rental in Illinois
Location: Brookport, Illinois
Rates from: $159 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Swap the stress of city life with this peaceful lake house rental in Illinois on Hohman Lake. The one-bedroom property is nestled next to an 80-acre private lake where no jet skis or motors about 5hp are allowed, which means you’re guaranteed a quiet setting.
Great fishing, kayaking, and nature-viewing can be found right outside your door. Its location near Shawnee National Forest means you can also add hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall chasing to your itinerary. After your adventures, recharge with a soak in the bubbling hot tub.
12. Luxury Family Mill Creek Lake House Rental in Illinois
Location: Marshall, Illinois
Rates from: $425 per night
Accommodates: 8 guests
This luxury four-bedroom lake house rental in Illinois has a long list of kid-friendly amenities. Overlooking the 800-acre Mill Creek Lake, the contemporary lakefront retreat has a two-slip boat dock, jet ski lift, and tiki bar on the water.
Its outdoor living space includes a wrap-around deck with a dining table and separate lounge areas and a large yard, gas grill, and hot tub. Inside, you’ll find 1,600 square feet of living space with an open living room and kitchen, a 10-person dining table, and a kid-friendly basement where kids can let off steam, featuring a toy room, tree swing, fort, trampoline, rock wall, reading nook, and slide.
13. Stunning Lake House Rental in Illinois
Location: Antioch, Illinois
Rates from: $522 per night
Accommodates: 12 guests
There’s not a bad seat in this four-bedroom Illinois lake house, which boasts incredible lakefront views from its large wall of windows. Sitting on Lake Antioch, it has a spacious deck with resort-style furniture where you can catch colorful sunsets. There’s also a private beach and pier, two kayaks, a paddleboard, and a paddleboat.
Fishing, swimming, and sitting around the fire pit are popular, while it’s also within walking distance to restaurants and bars in town. However, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on-site, including a full-size pool table, 50” TV, and an open floor plan with a fireplace and sunroom with floor-to-ceiling windows.
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