Rustic cabins can be a great choice for you if you are looking to escape modern life and get back to your basic survival instincts. I have stayed in a few and enjoyed my time.

So, what is a rustic cabin? A rustic cabin is a cabin with primitive features, meaning that there will most likely be no electricity or piped water. Most rustic cabins come furnished with the basics such as a table, chairs, bunks for sleeping, and a wood stove. Several of these types of cabins are repurposed from old cabins used by the United States Forest Service.

With an increasingly busy world, rustic cabins are becoming more and more popular for people looking to get away from the noisy chaos of day-to-day life. I know that I sometimes find myself wanting to escape to a cabin with my family for a break. In a document advertising the rustic cabins for rent in the intermountain region of the United States, the United States Forest Service says, “with the exception of a few cabins, there are no modern conveniences or the safeguards of modern society–no telephones, traffic jams, neighbors, and no emergency services.” The appeal of the rustic cabin comes from its ability to offer an escape from society and a secluded camping experience in nature. Often, you will need to bring much of your own supplies when you stay in these cabins.

What to Research Before Booking a Rustic Cabin

Though going off-the-grid can be fun, you also don’t want to go into the experience with no preparation and find yourself unprepared. I’ve put together a few items you should research before booking your getaway.

Cabin Facilities:

Before you book your stay, be sure to review the cabin’s basic facilities. You may be totally committed to using a wood burning stove and going without showers and electricity, but you don’t want to be caught by surprise if you get to your cabin and discover that it doesn’t even have tables, chairs, or beds. Look at the cabin’s listed features and facilities and even call the rental agent or forest service to find out the facilities you will need to prepare for.

Cabin Regulations:

If you are staying on national forest property, you need to be aware of the guidelines and regulations when staying in a rustic cabin. The United States Forest Service posts their cabin regulations on their website as well as in their informational packets. Often, these regulations will include instructions for cleaning and maintaining the cabin and surrounding site.

Know the Risk:

Since these cabins are typically located off-the-grid and usually in places with little to no cell reception, you need to consider the risks of staying in a rustic cabin. The United States Forest Service warns that “recreationists must assume responsibility for obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves from injury or illness.” When you are staying in a backcountry location, weather conditions can be part of the risk you may face. Weather can change quickly, and you don’t want to find yourself surrounded by snow with no supplies to help you deal with this condition. Before you book your trip, contact the owner of the cabin or the local Ranger District to learn more about the weather and risks of the rustic cabin.

What to Bring When Staying in a Rustic Cabin

An important factor for enjoying any vacation is packing. No one likes to get to their destination and discover that they have forgotten something important. This is especially true for families. I’ve done a little research and found a few of the basic necessities that you will need to pack for your stay in a rustic cabin beside the obvious (warm clothes, food, etc…).

Cooking during a rustic cabin getaway doesn’t have to be complicated, but since you probably won’t be eating granola the entire time, you will need to pack proper cooking utensils. Be aware that you will probably be cooking over a wood store or fire, so you will need to bring utensils that are designed for this. Cast iron cookware is a popular choice for cooking outdoors. Also, don’t forget eating utensils such as cups, plates, forks, knives, and spoons.

If you are bringing children on your family getaway, you will want to plan the meals beforehand to reduce your stress and make sure that you have all the items for each meal. You will also want to bring plenty of snacks and water. Water is really important since there will most likely not be running water in your cabins, and you will probably be outside hiking and exploring the beauty around you.

Water will also be essential for maintaining hygiene such as brushing your teeth and bathing. You can purchase outdoor camping showers that will allow you to get a basic rinse off before you go about your day of fun. Be aware though that these showers will need to be placed outdoors, and you might be having a cold shower.

Since rustic cabins don’t have AC or heating, you should prepare for this. Bringing cool clothes for hotter climates will help you manage in the heat. On the flip side, if you know the cabin will be in a colder climate (especially during the nights) pack lots of blankets, warm clothing, and bedding. You might also want to consider packing sunscreen and bug spray to avoid any unpleasant side effects of camping.

Another essential item to include in your packing is a first aid kit. It is important to include one in case of emergencies. You should carry this with you at all times, even when you are hiking.

You can’t often predict what the weather is going to be like on your vacation, so you should pack some activities you can do by yourself or with your family if it rains or snows heavily. You can bring anything from cards to books, to board games, whatever helps you enjoy your trip. Remember that you probably won’t be able to use your electronics at your rustic cabin.

You should also be prepared to bring your own firewood to the cabin since it is typically unlawful to collect wood or cut down trees around cabin property. This is especially true if you are staying on forest service land. However, National Park Services will often provide a station where you can purchase wood for your cabin or campsite.

Popular Rustic Cabin Locations:

Depending on your location, travel budget, and desired area of travel, this may vary for you, but I will list the most popular areas for rustic cabin camping for you.

Rocky Mountain National Park: These large rugged mountains are dotted with rustic cabins for rent. In the Rocky Mountains, there is typically a lot of snow and cold weather during the later season, but this location is also full of majestic mountain trails.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Spanning the east, the Smoky Mountains are a highly forested range of mountains with a variety of rustic cabins for rent. This area is also full of fun activities for families and individuals looking to get away from busy life.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country: This truly rustic location is ideal if you want to experience the beauty of the Northeast and a woodsy cabin experience. This is also a great location for families because of the family-friendly activities.
The Ozark Mountains: This is another popular range dotted with rustic cabins. It’s beautiful landscape and trails make it a serene getaway.

There are many other rustic cabin locations across the United States, including places like San Antonio, Texas, or other more unusual locations. When you start your search for rustic cabins to rent, be sure to picture what kind of getaway would be ideal for you or your family.

What is a Rustic Cabin?