Welcome to the Grain Bin in west central Illinois! This unique homestead has been converted into a tiny home among 14 acres of rural farmland and nature preserve!
The Grain Bin is in a rustic setting, but boasts electric power and running (non-potable) water, a kitchenette w/ microwave, mini-fridge, and hot plate; outdoor shower, portable A/C, heat, grill, fire pit, picnic table, and outhouse toilet.
Outside is a nature preserve full of trails, wildlife, scenic views, peace and quiet!
The space
The inside of the Grain Bin is essentially a one-room tiny house equipped with everything one would find in a full-sized home.
The lofted bedroom includes a Queen-sized mattress, sheets, and blankets with a portable A/C, fan, window, skylight, and room for luggage.
The kitchenette has a sink with running (non-potable) water, a window looking out onto the prairie, dish soap, hand soap, sponges, pots and pans, dishes and silverware, a plug-in hot plate, toaster, coffee maker, hot water heater, towels, napkins, and a few spices and condiments if you want to cook a meal.
The living room/sitting area has a window and a love seat and converts to a dining area if need be, though we prefer the outdoor picnic table and patio with view of the prairie and neighboring cow pasture.
The shower is outside, with soap, shampoo, conditioner, and towels provided.
The restrooms on the property come in the form of outhouses, with bucket toilets, toilet paper, compostible wood/paper shavings, and hand sanitizer.
Overall, the area is a sanctuary from urban noise and light; an opportunity to "unplug" from internet and social media, and return to nature, while still having the comforts of a home.
Guest access
14 acres of woods, prairie, and creek, outlined by either fencing or gravel road. Guests will not have access to other buildings on property.
Other things to note
The Grain Bin is set nearby a creek on a nature preserve among acres of pasture and rural farmland. Guests can expect to see neighboring cornfields and grazing cattle, and wildflowers amongst the dirt and gravel roads in this secluded area.
The setting is very natural, and while there is electricity at the Grain Bin, there is no drinkable water, flushable toilet, or internet service, and guests should be prepared for that.
Wi-Fi is currently unavailable, so be prepared and download any movies, shows, or otherwise ahead of time.
In addition, the Grain Bin is set on a fourteen-acre operational farm that includes a gracious farm cat, active bee hives, and a flock of chickens residing in a chicken coop. The adjacent Morton storage building houses farm equipment and other things guests will not have access to, but does have an attached porch, great for sitting and gazing at the grain bin or the prairie beyond and taking in the peaceful, natural setting.
Because of its natural setting, the farm is home and guest to many wild creature, large and small, from birds inherent to the area to deer, rodents, and insects of all kinds. (READ: bugs)
Though measures have been taken to prevent bugs from intruding on the interior areas, guests should be aware that they are present, especially in the warmer months.
At night, it is common to fall asleep to the sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, and coyotes in the distance. The area is especially good for stargazing, as there is very little light pollution to disturb the night sky.
Because of the chickens and bees on premises, no pets will be allowed, which includes "well-behaved" dogs.
During the day, the surroundings include nature trails, bird-watching, and relaxing in a preserved, natural setting.
This is a peaceful and tranquil place with the goal and purpose of maintaining habitat for viewing and watching of wildlife and pollinators. Despite the area, no hunting is permitted and absolutely NO firearms or fireworks whatsoever permitted, even if you are licensed to carry.
The property contains many woods and leaf debris as well as wooden structures. The owner would prefer no smoking on the premises if possible, and absolutely NO smoking inside of any of the buildings and structures; extinguish and dispose of ALL cigarettes and tobacco products in an appropriate manner.
Fires in designated fire pits/grills are allowed as long as they are extinguished properly and responsibly, weather/drought permitting. (Check with host/hosts prior to booking!)
Some firewood/drinking water/bug spray/cooking supplies will be provided, but guests are encouraged to bring their own according to their preferences.
The "carry in/carry out," "leave only footprints" principles apply here, to an extent. If you have any questions, please ask.
Waste receptacles have been set up and designated for trash/recyclables/food waste. The chickens appreciate any food scraps left behind!
Please leave all human waste in the outhouse buckets.
There are other buildings/structures on the property, but as you will be renting the Grain Bin, you will not have access to other buildings. Feel free, however to explore the prairie, the woodsy pathways, ponds, and scenic viewing points.
When driving to/from/around the property, it is important to remember the roads accessing the Grain Bin are gravel or dirt, weather has an important impact, and that the area is remote. Unless you are a local, it is advised that Illinois 110 between Carthage and Quincy be used as the main artery to approach or leave the Grain Bin. When driving on the dirt roads to/from the Grain Bin, it is advised to take it slow, use bright lights when available, and to give a honk around blind turns or hills. Wildlife, cattle, and neighboring vehicles may appear without notice at such points.
Be safe and enjoy your stay!
