Have you ever desired to go camping but were intimidated by the thought of pitching a tent in the middle of nowhere? Camping can be a heck of a lot of fun, and it doesn’t have to be scary. Allow us to introduce: cabin camping.
Believe it or not, cabin camping is an incredibly easy and accessible way to enjoy nature without “roughing it”. You don’t need any outdoor knowledge – just a sense of adventure (and maybe this beginner’s guide).
Cabin camping is a spectacular way to start because you don’t have to worry about setting up a tent or cooking over an open fire. All you need is a reservation at a cabin campground and some basic supplies. Here we’ll cover everything you need to get started, from choosing the right cabin to packing the perfect bag.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s go camping!
Beginner’s Guide to Cabin Camping
Choosing a Destination:
There are numerous cabin camping sites, especially in the United States. You can find everything from rustic, no-frills cabins to luxury resorts.
According to a survey conducted in 2019, Nashville, Tennessee, welcomed 16.1 million tourists and managed to keep its position as the topmost loved tourist destination in the US. So, it’s safe to say that the smoky mountain cabin rentals are a blockbuster choice if you’re looking for a city break.
Whether you’re looking for a rear-view porch, loft bedroom, or hot tub, there are plenty of cabin camping resorts to opt for. Do your research online and find the picture-perfect destination for you and your family.
Tips for Booking a Cabin Rental:
When searching for a suitable place for cabin camping, be sure they are located in a campground or resort near the activities you wish to engage in. If you want to go fishing or skinny dipping, you’d like to be closer to a lake. But if you enjoy hiking, you’d want to have hiking trails nearby.
Some other significant factors to consider are:
Being flexible. Weekends are typically the busiest times for cabin camping rentals, so try to be flexible with your dates. You can also try to book in advance to ensure your plan stays intact, and you might as well find a phenomenal deal. Also, be sure to ask questions before you book to avoid nasty surprises when you arrive!
Be sure to consider how many people you’re bringing when choosing a cabin- and think about the amenities different cabins might offer! From small, simple one-bedrooms to large cabins that feature swimming pools and fireplaces, it all depends on your preferences!
Lastly, before you pay in advance, read the reviews. This will help with your expectations from your cabin rental. The best place to check for reviews are websites like TripAdvisor or directly on the cabin rental company’s site. Your friends and family can offer great insights as well!
Planning Your Itinerary:
Some adrenaline-pumped individuals prefer going out into the wilderness with nothing but a knife and the clothes on their back. If you are among those, this section is not for you! Planning ahead plays a critical role in cabin camping.
You’ll want to map out your route and decide what you will do each day. Will you drive to a different park each day or spend your time hiking trails right near the cabin?
Are there any attractions or special events happening in the area during your stay? What and where will you eat if your snacks and meals are packed in the car?
These are all essential questions to answer before you leave so that you can make the most of your vacation. For a more in-depth guide on how to plan for your cabin camping trip, make sure you check out our planning guide.
What to Pack?
That’s a million-dollar question, isn’t it? You want to take everything with you while cabin camping, especially if you’re traveling with kids — from diapers to baby food, extra feeders, and clothes for everyone. But you can’t take everything.
Here are some essentials that you should take with you:
It seems like a no-brainer, but don’t forget the food and drinks- you’d be surprised at how much you can consume while cabin camping! Additionally, you’ll want to bring some camping chairs to sit on while you eat s’mores.
Also, be sure to pack a first aid kit- something tells us you’re not going to want to go on a hike if you get a nasty cut or twist your ankle. In the same breath, an emergency blanket, matches, and a lantern would be nice to have in case you find yourself out in the dark or cold. Better to be safe than sorry!
In the spring and summer months, cabin camping without sunscreen or bug spray can be a huge pain. Even while cabin camping, these are a must because you’re still in the great outdoors.
We didn’t mention personal gear and clothes because that depends on what you’re into and the weather conditions. But, if you’re unsure of something, just ask the park ranger or campground staff, and they will be more than happy to help.
Entertainment is a Must:
Please say you’re not planning to stay glued to your mobile device the whole time while cabin camping. Yes, we get it, you’re in the middle of nowhere, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun.
Plan and bring activities like fishing rods, hiking trails, frisbees, and cards. If you and your squad are up for it, truth and dare, Dumb Charades, or telling scary stories around the campfire are always a good time.
Oh, and before we miss it out, don’t leave behind your speakers and some good ol’ jams. There is no other souped-up way to take in the sounds of nature while cabin camping than with some tunes in the background.
Conclusion:
Some adventure seekers driven by extreme wanderlust might feel cabin camping is too safe, but it is a great way to ease into the outdoor experience for the first-timer.
Cabin camping can provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and fun-filled weekend getaway without all of the hassles associated with traditional camping.
So, if you’re looking for an easy escape that doesn’t require roughing it, cabin camping is the perfect option!
