A luxury camping dome situated in southern Illinois has gained notable recognition on Airbnb, earning the title of the most wish-listed rental in the state, according to a March 25 report from the platform.
Located near the Shawnee National Forest, the dome, listed as “Glamping Dome with Hot Tub in Shawnee Forest,” is part of a growing trend of elevated outdoor accommodations that blend comfort with nature immersion—a movement that continues to reshape consumer expectations in the outdoor hospitality industry.
With 68 reviews and an average rating of 4.99 out of 5 stars, the dome ranks in the top 10% of Airbnb listings for reviews, ratings, and reliability. Travelers have praised the property for cleanliness, host communication, and listing accuracy.
The site features a king-sized bed, private bathroom with shower, small kitchen, air conditioning, and a hot tub, among other amenities, according to a report by Bellevile News-Democrat.
While it does not include a television, large windows and outdoor seating create a setting conducive to stargazing and forest views.
“Shawnee Hills Glamping is a luxury camping dome that offers a unique and memorable way to experience the great outdoors,” the listing states.
“This dome is designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing camping experience, while still allowing guests to feel connected to nature.”
The listing reflects a broader shift in the industry toward high-demand, low-footprint structures that appeal to experience-driven travelers.
Business owners in the glamping and outdoor hospitality sectors may view this as a case study in how relatively modest, well-designed accommodations can drive bookings and visibility when combined with a compelling location and curated amenities.
The dome’s success also highlights the importance of maintaining high guest satisfaction scores, which increasingly influence algorithmic rankings on platforms like Airbnb.
The unit requires a two-night minimum stay. As of early April, much of the spring and early summer calendar was already booked.
A sample two-night stay in mid-June was priced at $938 before taxes and fees, including a nightly rate of $411 and a $116 Airbnb service fee.
In addition to the appeal of the dome itself, proximity to regional attractions such as the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area and the Village of Makanda offers added value for guests.
These natural and cultural sites enhance the destination’s appeal and can be leveraged by other operators considering site selection or partnership opportunities in similar rural or forested settings.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the popularity of this glamping dome underscores how strategic amenity choices, strong guest experience, and effective listing management can elevate even single-unit properties into high-visibility, high-demand destinations.