Wide view across a lake showing shoreline, reflected water and a row of small cabins or covered docks on the far side — matches the site’s description of cabins overlooking a 24‑acre lake on the Home Page (image used as the site header/background). Good overall scenic overview of the property water and accommodations.
Ground-level photo of planted rows (vineyard or orchard) on the property grounds; appears on the same Home Page as a background/feature image, indicating it represents on-site landscaping/agricultural area and provides variety beyond the lake view.

Featured amenities

Fire Pit Fire Pit
Bedrooms Bedrooms
Kitchen Kitchen

Campground Amenities

Most popular amenities

Fire Pit Fire Pit
Bedrooms Bedrooms
Kitchen Kitchen
Site Setup and Access

Site Setup and Access

  • ADA Accessible
Cooking and Fire

Cooking and Fire

  • Fire Pit

Cabin Interior

  • Bedrooms
  • Kitchen
  • Air Conditioning
Cabin Outdoor Features

Cabin Outdoor Features

  • Deck or Patio
  • Outdoor Seating

Views and Setting

  • View
Missing information?

Reviews

5 reviews

Summary

AI generated

Shale Lake offers a beautiful and peaceful getaway, with accommodating hosts and well-maintained cottages that provide lovely lake views. Guests appreciate the availability of kayaks and fishing opportunities, enhancing their outdoor experience. While some accessibility challenges were noted, overall, visitors found the environment relaxing and enjoyable, with many expressing a desire to return.

Based on guest feedback

4.6

Overall rating

Based on 5 reviews

Write a review
5 stars 60.0% (3)
4 stars 40.0% (2)
3 stars 0.0% (0)
2 stars 0.0% (0)
1 star 0.0% (0)

Showing 5 reviews

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Timothy Rodkey (Tim)

Timothy Rodkey (Tim)

June 10, 2025 Google Maps

Overnight (actually two) during a road trip... Our cottage was tiny but still accommodating for the two of us and my wife's wheelchair. There is a choke point between the bed and the stairwell to the loft, but we worked it out. The bathroom was amazingly roomy. The porch was a lovely place to while away the hours reading, listening to birds and enjoying the view of the lake. We never saw the hosts, barely saw any sign of other guests though I'm assuming the occupancy was about 25%. Kind of sad that the welcome booklet repeatedly explained how not to lie about how many people were in your party vs what was booked. The bed was nice. Kitchen was minimal with only a microwave and toaster oven. We got creative about where to put our luggage (shower bench) with a wheelchair in the mix. All in all a nice/quaint place to stay.

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Cassie Rodkey

Cassie Rodkey

June 11, 2025 Google Maps

What a lovely peaceful cottage. We stayed in Shale Cottage as it was described as wheelchair accessible. It was for the most part. The bed was a good height for transfers, and very comfortable. Great firm pillows. There was a tight spot between the corner of the bed and the loft stairs. It took some attention to lining up just right to get thru. The toilet area has a strong grab bar and the shower has a wide pull down bench and lots of room. Mirror is a little too high for someone in a chair. The porch was so wonderful. However, I could not manage the ramp by myself, it was too steep. Over all a great stay and I would recommend.

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Heather Poole-Preece

Heather Poole-Preece

June 23, 2025 Google Maps

My sister and I made last minute reservations while eating dinner at the Pink Elephant Antique Mall down the road. When we pulled up to the entrance we didn't know what to expect. This place was perfect for our night! It was peaceful, the cabin was clean, and had AC!! We got to see some wildlife and watch the sunset over the lake. I got some good reading in while enjoying my morning coffee on the porch. The owners were friendly and have done a great job with the place. We definitely want to stay again and take advantage of the fishing opportunity and enjoy a nice relaxing getaway.

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Lance Ratze

Lance Ratze

July 5, 2025 Google Maps

We stayed in Cottage #12 at The Cabins and Cottages at Shale Lake and had a fantastic experience! The cottage was beautifully decorated and perched on top of a hill with a lovely view overlooking the lake. We especially enjoyed the fire pit and chairs for relaxing in the evening. There were kayaks, a canoe, and a Jon boat available, which made it easy to get out and enjoy the lake. The property is peaceful, well-kept, and the owners were very friendly and welcoming. A wonderful getaway spot—highly recommend!

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Lindsey Grace

Lindsey Grace

September 19, 2025 Google Maps

We absolutely loved it! The hosts were very nice and accommodating. Thr area is beautiful. They have kayaks to use for free on the lake. We had a blast fishing and sitting by the fire. This was our first trip as a family as I JUST had my baby. Peaceful and quiet. You will love it here.

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Location & Directions for Shale Lake

1499 Washington Avenue, Williamson, IL United States

Nearest town

Williamson, IL - 0.4 mi

About 2 min to downtown

Near Gateway Arch National Park

The closest entrance is: West Entrance

Approximate drive: 41.6 mi · over 1 hr (71 min)

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: October 7, 2026

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Explore Williamson, IL

Population: 160

Nearby city: Florissant, MO

Approx. 33 mi away (straight-line distance)

Elevation: 604 ft

Williamson, IL

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