The United States is full of stunning parks that range in their scenery and history. While explorers could stay at a local hotel when visiting them, doing so doesn’t always give you the best experience possible. Because of this, cabin camping might be ideal to try. Most of the parks offer cabins which allows you to camp in them and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Below are some of the best places for cabin camping in the country.
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
Campers will find plenty of cabin camping options at the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. There are two districts visitors can rent cabins at: Canyon Lakes Ranger District and Clear Creek Ranger District. At Canyon Lakes Ranger District, there is one cabin rental available from June to October and reservations are required for it. The Clear Creek Ranger District has a few cabin rentals that are close to the Squaw Mountain Fire Lookout. While at the campgrounds, you’ll have easy access to the surrounding forests and grasslands. Be aware that bears do enjoy roaming around the land, so you might come across one at the campground.
Denver, CO 80526, Phone: 970-295-6600, Map
Big Arm State Park
This Montana state park provides stunning views of Flathead Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the United States. Big Arm State Park connects to Flathead Lake State Park and is a popular spot in the area for fishing. The park has a few camping options, including yurts and group cabins, many of which have views of the surrounding lake. These options are ADA-accessible and pet-friendly. The cabins provided here are near picnic shelters, firewood collection areas, restrooms, and docking stations for boats. Campers will also find plenty of hiking trails winding around the campground that will take them through the nearby landscape.
28031 Big Arm State Park Road, Big Arm, Montana 59910, Phone: 406-837-3041, Map
Big Bend National Park
Situated in southwest Texas, Big Bend National Park contains a large section of the Chihuahuan Desert and features many historic areas filled with ancient pictographs and homes. This national park provides a few lodging options that range from rustic mountain lodges to fancy camping resorts. One place you could stay at while here is the Chisos Mountains Lodge which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and provides a few amenities such as laundry rooms, a restaurant, and gift shop. However, there is no cellphone service or Wi-Fi available. It’s also just a short walk away from the majestic Rio Grande.
1 Basin Rural Station, Big Bend National Park, Texas 79834, Phone: 432-477-2291, Video, Map
Big Sur Campground and Cabins
Fragrant redwood trees and the sound of the ocean waves crashing along the shoreline - these are just a few things explorers can experience while at Big Sur. The Big Sur Campground and Cabins provides cabins that are nestled beneath towering redwoods that not only provided plenty of shade, but an interesting history lesson as well. The cabins also include kitchens and fireplaces and come in a variety of different design styles you can choose from. Most of these structures are also conveniently located next to trails and the campground’s camp store. A few also have a view of the Big Sur River.
47000 Highway 1, Big Sur, California 93920, Phone: 831-667-2322, Map
Black Rock Park
Spanning over 25 acres long, Black Rock Park is located in the heart of Texas and rests along the shoreline of Lake Buchanan. There are 18 cabins provided that can each sleep up to five people. The cabins have bunk beds and amenities such as electricity, water, fans, air conditioning, grills, and picnic tables. Keep in mind that smoking is not allowed in them. These structures are situated near boat docks and hiking trails. Black Rock Park is open year-round and reservations are recommended for the cabins. Pets are allowed to stay with you, but they must be leashed and watched at all times.
3400 TX-261, Buchanan Dam, Texas 78609, Phone: 512-369-4774, Map
Bruneau Dunes State Park
Bruneau Dunes State Park contains some of the tallest sand dunes in North America and is known for its unique ecosystem that features prairies, meadows, and marshes. It’s also home to one of the only public astronomical observatories in Idaho. The state park has two ADA-accessible cabins available for rent. These cabins are extremely primitive, but do have access to Wi-Fi. They are also located near a handful of amenities such as restrooms, a gift shop, and park information center. It is ideal to make a reservation ahead of time for a cabin to ensure you are able to rent one during your stay.
27608 Bruneau Sand Dunes Road, Bruneau, Idaho 83604, Phone: 208-366-7919, Map
Flowing Lake County Park
Flowing Lake County Park is located in Snohomish which is about an hour away from Seattle. The park overlooks Flowing Lake which is part of the area’s “Three Lake” chain. It is a sought-after destination in the area for fishing and water skiing. This county park has a few small cabins you can rent that are hidden away inside a thick forest. Cabins come with amenities such as water, electric, screened windows, and decks. There are bunk beds inside that can sleep up to five people. You’ll find two pet-friendly cabins available as well. Flowing Lake County Park requires reservations be made at least two days ahead of time.
17900 48th St SE, Snohomish, Washington 98290, Phone: 360-568-2273, Map
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers panoramic views of Colorado’s mountains and has over 42 miles of hiking trails. In addition to this, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a favorite habitat for many animals and plants, such as black bears, mountain lions, Douglas firs, and aspens. Visitors can stay at one of the park’s numerous cabins that can hold up to six guests. The cabins are extremely rustic, so you’ll need to make sure to bring many necessities, such as water and bedding. However, there are a few electrical outlets inside as well as a gas heater and storage rack. There is a two-night minimum stay requirement for cabin camping here.
92 Crawford Gulch Rd, Golden, Colorado 80403, Phone: 303-582-3707, Map
Grand Canyon National Park
This national park is best known for being home to the Grand Canyon and offers visitors stunning views of the Colorado River. Grand Canyon National Park contains a variety of different campgrounds that are scattered around different areas providing you with various perspectives of the park. On the South Rim, you’ll find Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins which features historic cabins decorated with Native American and Wild West decor. Guests can choose from a handful of different structures, most of which come with amenities such as lamps, fluffy beds, and sitting areas. A few also offer direct views of the Grand Canyon.
10 Albright Street, Grand Canyon, Arizona 86023, Phone: 888-297-2757, Map
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Situated between the borders of North Carolina and Tennessee lies Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its rugged mountainous landscape, the area also has many rare wildflowers and is a habitat to a handful of different animals. Guests to the park will find a few RV and tent campsites they can choose from, although cabin camping is only available at the LeConte Lodge. Located on the top of Mt. LeConte, LeConte Lodge offers simple cabins that come with a few amenities such as wash basins and propane heat. The cabins are near a few walking trails as well as a quaint dining hall where you can buy meals.
250 Apple Valley Road, Sevierville, Tennessee 37862, Phone: 865-429-5704, Map
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins can be found in Yellowstone National Park’s South Entrance. This lodging option doesn’t have Wi-Fi or cell phone service, but there are numerous other activities provided at the cabins for you to enjoy, such as hiking tours, horseback riding, and fishing. The cabins here are located near the Snake River and have daily room service available, although you can waive this service for a discount. There are also camper cabins available for those with motorhomes that are equipped with both laundry devices and showers. Despite being in a somewhat rural location, the cabins are still near a handful of nearby restaurants and shops.
100 Grassy Lake Road, Moran, Wyoming 83013, Phone: 307-543-2861, Map
Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park is located near Michigan’s Lake Superior and is known for its rugged landscape which is often filled with wolves and moose. Visitors will also find plenty of trails to trek down as well as a few historic lighthouses on its coastline. This national park features two Windigo Cabins that each have one room with bunk beds, a sofa, a table with chairs, electrical outlets, and outdoor grills. The cabins are also situated next to a convenience store and marina which sell necessities such as food, gas, and tackle. It also has showers, boat rentals, and a laundry facility.
Isle Royale National Park800 East Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, Michigan 49931, Phone: 906-337-4993
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is a sought-after destination on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula thanks to its massive glaciers and majestic fjords that flow through it. Besides its stunning landscape, this large national park is home to a variety of different animals, such as moose, sea otters, and humpback whales. Kenai Fjords National Park has three public-use cabins available for guests to stay at. Two of them are open during the summer and provide views of the coastline. The other cabin can be rented during the winter and accessed by bicycling, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing. The cabins have heat, beds, and tables.
Kenai Fjords National Park , 1212 4th Avenue, Seward, Alaska 99664, Phone: 907-422-0500
Kring Point State Park
This state park is located in New York and has views of both Goose Bay and the St. Lawrence River as well as most of the many islands scattered throughout them. During the summer, the park is popular for swimming, fishing, and hiking. Cabins are available throughout the year, although the reservation requirements differ during its peak season which runs from June to August. For those who plan to stay during this time, you need to reserve the cabins for at least 7-14 days, while during the rest of the year there is only a two-night minimum. All cabins come with beds, but campers must bring their own sheets and other similar necessities.
Kring Point State Park, 25950 Kring Point Road, Redwood, New York 13679, Phone: 800-456-2267
Lake Wapello State Park
Lake Wapello State Park is named after Chief Wapello, a Native American leader of the Meskwaki tribe. Spanning over 1,150 acres, this park features numerous trails winding around it and provides easy access to Lake Wapello which is often filled with bluegill, bass, catfish, and crappie. The family cabins at Lake Wapello State Park are made of fragrant cedar planks and can hold up to four people at once. They come with amenities such as a bathroom with shower, stove, fridge, and oven. Keep in mind that most family cabins are only available from April to October, but there are two you can stay at year-round.
Lake Wapello State Park, 15248 Campground Road, Drakesville, Iowa 52552, Phone: 641-722-3371
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is situated in the northern section of California and is packed with volcanic structures. In fact, it is home to over 300 active volcanoes. The park also features a massive ponderosa pine forest that is a favorite nesting spot for many unique bird species. Lassen Volcanic National Park has a handful of cabins nestled beneath ancient trees campers can stay at, most of which have views of Lassen Peak. The cabins vary in their amenities and sizes, but most provide basic things such mattresses and propane heat. However, there are a few rustic cabins available as well.
Lassen Volcanic National Park, 39489 CA-44, Shingletown, California 96088, Phone: 530-779-0307
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
This state park is one of the oldest in California and is a favorite place for hikers and waterfall-seekers. The park is particularly known for Burney Falls which is a National Natural Landmark. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park has also been featured in a handful of movies and is one of the only places in the United States that provides an adequate habitat for black swift. The numerous two-bedroom cabins provided are extremely rustic, so you do need to bring your own appliances, bedding, and lighting devices. The cabins are also a short walking distance away from restroom/shower facilities and a camping store.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park , 24898 CA-89 Scenic, Burney, California 96013, Phone: 530-335-2777
Mt. Hood National Forest
Mt. Hood National Forest is named after Mount Hood, a dormant volcano covered in glaciers. It contains part of the Oregon Trail (including the iconic Barlow Road) and is so large that the land is broken up into different sections. Mt. Hood National Forest’s campgrounds offer plenty of cabin camping opportunities throughout its four districts, all of which have their own unique views and architecture. One historic cabin available for guests can stay at is the Olallie Lake Guard Station which has a rock chimney and wrought-iron carvings. For larger groups, there’s the Tilly Jane A-Frame which can sleep up to eight people.
Mt. Hood National Forest, 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, Oregon 97055, Phone: 503-668-1700
Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Only a quick drive away from San Francisco’s historic Golden Gate Bridge, Mt. Tamalpais State Park features a stunning landscape filled with redwoods, canyons, grasslands, and chaparral. Visitors will find plenty of things to do while here, including hiking, fishing, and stargazing. Mt. Tamalpais State Park has a few different year-round campground options that come with helpful amenities such as picnic tables, wood stoves, barbecue grills, and bed platforms. Many of these cabins are very historic, with some dating back to the 1940s. While they don’t have electricity or running water, they make up for it with their breathtaking coastal scenery.
Mt. Tamalpais State Park , 3801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, California 94941, Phone: 415-388-2070
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is located in the Pacific Northwest and is famous for its varying terrain which ranges from mountains to forests. Besides being a popular spot for mountain climbers, Olympic National Park is also ideal for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife photography. Visitors can stay at this national park during their trip at one of the many nearby lodges and cabins. One option for cabin campers is the Log Cabin Resort which is located on Lake Crescent and offers many cabins that come with amenities like kitchenettes, sleeper sofas, fridges, and pots/pans. Pets are allowed to stay in a few of the cabins.
3183 E Beach Road, Port Angeles, Washington 98363, Phone: 360-928-3325, Map
Prince William Forest Park
Prince William Forest Park was first established in 1936 and is one of the largest natural areas in Washington, D.C. The cabins at the park were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and were used as a lodging place for summer camps until the late 1940s. Visitors can rent either a regular cabin or a cabin camp. The regular cabins, available from May to October, feature cots, fans, and lights and can sleep up to 10 people. The cabin camps are ideal for large groups and come with mattresses and electrical outlets. This option is also near a kitchen hall and restroom facility.
Prince William Forest Park, 18170 Park Entrance Road, Triangle, Virginia 22172, Phone: 703-221-7181
Silver Lake Park Campground
Silver Lake Park Campground is situated in New Hampshire and overlooks Silver Lake. The cabins provided here have waterfront views and are fully furnished. Most can sleep up to six people and come with amenities such as fireplaces, fridges, ovens, TVs, bathrooms, and dishes. However, visitors do need to make sure to bring their own sheets and towels. There is a minimum stay requirement of two days and reservations are required well ahead of time. The campground offers plenty of amenities and events visitors can use or attend, such as kayak rental facilities, pizza parties, horseshoe tournaments, and bonfire nights.
Prince William Forest Park , 389 Jamestown Road, Belmont, New Hampshire 03220, Phone: 603-524-6289
Superior National Forest
Located in Michigan near the United States and Canadian border lies Superior National Forest. It was established in 1909 and contains an interesting mixture of taiga and conifer-hardwood forests that are home to hundreds of North American gray wolves. The East Bearskin Campground at Superior National Forest has three cabin rentals that come with bed platforms, mattresses, and counters. You need to make sure to bring most necessities, including cooking supplies. There is no water or bathroom inside them, but there is an outhouse a quick walk away. Rates vary depending on the time you visit, although they tend to be higher during the summer.
Superior National Forest, 124 E Bearskin Road, Grand Marais, Minnesota 55604, Phone: 218-626-4300
Wai'anapanapa State Park
Towering high on the coast of Maui is Wai'anapanapa State Park. This 122-acre park is filled with lush tropical plants and many exotic animals. In addition to this, visitors will find plenty of ancient Hawaiian temples hidden within it. Wai'anapanapa State Park is also ideal for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. There are a few cabins available for rent, including a handful of ADA-accessible ones. The cabins are very primitive but provide guests with easy access to local trails. Reservations for a cabin must be made three days in advance. Prices for these cabins vary based on whether you are a resident of Hawaii or not.
Wai'anapanapa State Park , Waianapanapa, Hana, Hawaii 96713, Phone: 808-984-8109
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park was formed in 1864 as a way to help protect its sequoia trees, waterfalls, granite cliffs, and vast amount of flora and fauna. Yosemite National Park offers many different types of cabins and cottages for visitors to stay in. One option is the Blue Oak Haven Cabin which has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fireplace, and small kitchen. There’s also the Clark Cabin that can hold up to six people and has a fireplace, TV, and barbecue. Keep in mind there usually isn’t Wi-Fi at these rentals. There is a small parking area in front of the cabins.
Yosemite National Park, 7186 Manzanita Lane, Yosemite National Park, California 95389, Phone: 209-372-0200
