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The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing

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Grand Bear Vacation Resort is a comfortable retreat close to Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Furnished with rustic touches, this two-bedroom villa features a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, and relaxing Jacuzzi tub. With cable TV and WiFi provided upstairs in the living room with animal mounts adding to the cabin feel.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61800 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

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About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing

Grand bear vacation resort villa newly renovated very comfortable close to starved rock and Matthiessen state parks fully furnished two bedroom, two baths, 1 king size bed ,two queen beds very comfortable fully equipped kitchen and laundry Jacuzzi tub for relaxing lots of fun activities near by cable TV and WiFi provided front and back decks upstairs the living room is furnished with rustic looking furniture and animal mounts for that in the woods cabin feel guests are sure to enjoy this quiet comfortable atmosphere NEW SEALY SUMMER ROSE MEDIUM MATTRESSES FOR YOUR COMFORT

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the villa: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,800 square feet

Similar properties

Front of property
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
Utica
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kids’ pool
  • Water slide
7.2 out of 10, Good, 1,002 reviews
The price is £118
includes taxes & fees
1 Jun - 2 Jun
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
Compare similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

I have provided ash trays for outside smoking

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

Events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the area

Utica is home to this villa. Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park and Mix's Trading Post. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including birdwatching, power boating and wildlife walks. Visit our Utica travel guide
View more Villas in Utica
Map
UTICA, IL

What's nearby

  • Starved Rock State Park
    Starved Rock State Park
    2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Cascade Falls at Matthiessen State Park in Oglesby, Illinois
    Matthiessen State Park
    9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park
    1 min drive - 0.3 miles
  • Mix's Trading Post
    2 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Skydive Chicago
    21 min drive - 20.6 miles

Getting around

  • Mendota Station
    27 min drive

Restaurants

  • Casey's General Store
    5 min drive
  • Cortileno’s
    7 min drive
  • The Rootbeer Stand
    8 min drive
  • Casey's
    8 min drive
  • Garzanelli's
    7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing located?

Situated in Utica, this villa is within a 5-minute walk of Starved Rock State Park and Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park. Matthiessen State Park and Mix's Trading Post are also within 2 miles (3 km).

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The Bear Den Peaceful and Comfortable Animal and Hummingbird Viewing Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 126 out of 138 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 138 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 138 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 138 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 138 reviews

9.4

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

10

Staff & service

9.6

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tena G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun weekend getaway

Quiet and super clean. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great trip for the family

Nice and clean, close to parks and great hiking
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend getaway

Great place to stay! It was very clean and comfortable. It was in a great location for going to Starved Rock state park.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay

Cozy cabin, very spacious! Kitchen worked wonderfully and we were very close to the state park
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable, clean accommodations

Very clean, comfortable and centrally located accommodation to local attractions. Host was very responsive and thoughtful with treats and water provided for our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay at this property was wonderful! Beautiful villa and every amenity you can think of. We felt right at home. Every room was very clean and comfortable. Such a relaxing weekend. Mark is a great host. He answered all our questions immediately whenever we contacted him. We will definitely be back! Thank you, Mark!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Danyl V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were traveling for a wedding out of town. This venue worked perfect for us to be able to stay together as a family. It was a great area and we will plan to come back and explore the area when we have more time. The host communicated well and provided water and muffins, which was super thoughtful and helpful upon arriving!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Well kept and full of amenities! Great place to stay with thoughtful preparations!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joelle R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for Hiking Trip

This made a great home base for hiking in starved rock and Matthiessen State parks. It was clean and well stocked.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alden H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bear’s Den/Starved Rock

Property was just as listed. Convenient location and comfortable accommodations. Recommend this property to anyone looking to stay near Starved Tock.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Garrett G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Family Retreat

We had a great stay at this beautiful condo in Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock State Park! The home was well-kept, clean, and access was easy. We would recommend to others and hope to come back!
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terry S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visit with elderly family member

Nice place. Good location
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

Clean, cozy, comfy! Relaxing weekend, mark left muffins and water for us as well, that was greatly appreciated!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

We enjoyed the stay. We found all the amenities very useful. The pictures are accurate of the location. We're hoping to come back next year.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Before school Getaway

We've been to this area before this plsce is always great. Just a fun nice very relaxing time.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Arlene S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary

Very clean and comfortable. Great experience
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Construction superintendent

Nice place, mark was very friendly and helpful.Nice location.
Stayed 31 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caryn S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy and Comfortable

Thank you for making our stay feel so special. Your cabin was welcoming, spacious, and well-stocked. We loved walking in and finding the muffins and bananas! What a thoughtful gesture, we are hoping to return some time!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mickey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven on Earth

My week long stay at this Villa was beyond fantastic. The host was a pleasure to communicate with. I couldn't have asked for a more peaceful Christmas vacation. The host graciously provided a gift of water, bananas and cookies, as well as the villa to call home for the week. I most definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Barbara W.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Location

The location was perfect for hiking the parks. The condo was clean and spacious. Had muffins and bananas waiting for us. The upstairs master bedroom has a jacuzzi bathtub that made long hikes feel so Much better. We would stay again. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

REBECCA F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice Stay

We went to the Starved Rock, Buffalo and Matthiessen parks. Went to Ottawa, took river cruise. Enjoyed dinner in downtown Utica. Learned about the history of the area. Enjoyed Grand Bear resort and villa. Will go again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful wedding weekend

We were in town for a wedding and had never been to starved rock or the area prior. The location was perfect just minutes away from both state parks. The property itself was cozy comfy and relaxing. Just as advertised. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melissa N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful quiet place to stay

We had a wonderful stay at this location. The host was responsive, and provided the property details very timely. He welcomed us with some muffins, bananas, coffee, and bottled water which was very much appreciated. The place was very spacious with the bedrooms upstairs and the living space downstairs which was really nice so that the people who were up didn't disturb those that were sleeping. The location is very close to both Starved Rock and Mathiesson State Park. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great option for staying at the resort with family

This was perfect for a family of four, with kids sharing the room with two beds. There is a shared upstairs bathroom with access from both sides, and the main bedroom has an additional sink with a lot of counter space which is great. Then there is a downstairs bathroom. We had friends over for game night around the dining room table. The host left us plenty of bottled water and snacks too. If you are looking at staying at the resort, this makes a lot of sense as an option!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Becky S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bear Den Villa

Very nice villa. The owner made us feel right at home.On arrival we found muffins and bananas awaiting us. Also,a wonderful coffee bar. A very nice well stocked home. We really enjoyed spending time out on the outside decks. The owner was especially accommodating as the microwave was not working and he promptly fixed that issue. Definitely a place to return to. A home away from home.
Stayed 28 nights in Jul 2024