Commune with Nature in These Dreamy Cabin Rentals

Run off to the woods (air-conditioning included).

Sometimes we want a luxury beach vacation. On other days, we'd prefer to stay in a literal castle. For the times when we'd rather take our morning coffee in the coziest place possible (it's okay to contain multitudes!), renting a cabin is the only solution worthy of pursuit.

Whatever you're in the mood for, you have to admit that there's something especially comforting about cabins. It's the rustic wood construction, the glowing fireplace, the views of ponds and mountains and forests... The sight of a cabin, even in a photograph, seems to send some kind of silent message to our soaring, countryside-loving hearts. "Run away to the wilderness," it says. "Run away to the wilderness, sit by the fire, and eat approximately 12 s'mores at once." And we, faced with the promise of utter contentment, have no choice but to listen.

Not all woodsy abodes are built alike, so we've tracked down some unique cabin designs and outdoor lodgings to get you in your back-to-nature feels. Look out for Lincoln Log vibes, A-frame charms, and treehouse whimsy. Consider structures set in remote wilderness, luxurious spas, or family-friendly campgrounds. No matter what you're looking for, you're sure to find it in one of these dreamy escapes. 

Whether you'd prefer to book a cabin nearby or on the other side of the country, we've rounded up the best ones for rent across the United States. No need to resist that siren call any longer—go ahead and run away. 

Photo courtesy of Vacasa

Swanton, Maryland
8 guests/$249 per night
This pet-friendly, renovated A-frame chalet comes with a bunch of fun stuff, including an outdoor hot tub, a deck with a gas fire pit, board games, darts, and shuffleboard. We could hardly blame you if you never left the three-bedroom cabin during your stay, but you'd be missing out if you didn't venture off-property. The cabin is part of the Sky Valley Community, which means it comes with access to a private lake with a beach, picnic facilities, a playground, a basketball court, and winter sledding trails, which should be enough to lure you out of the house. But if that won't do it, you can check out the nearby Deep Creek Lake State Park for lots of additional outdoor activities, or go skiing at Wisp Resort.

What guests say: "We can't say enough about how much we enjoy our occasional weekend getaways at this charming cabin. It has everything-lake access, hot tub, games and smart TVs, fire pit, all in a quiet wooded setting. The cabin decor is charming and very clean with all amenities, so you can pack light and simply enjoy your stay."

cabin
Courtesy of Airbnb

Dawsonville, Georgia
4 guests/$240 per night
Don't be fooled by the treehouse exterior; this cabin about an hour north of Atlanta is actually really luxe inside. Despite its treetop location, it's furnished with a king-size bed that reviewers claim is among the comfiest beds they've ever encountered, along with a queen-size sleeper sofa. It even has a full bathroom and a kitchenette with a retro Galanz refrigerator—plus heating, AC, and WiFi. On the ground floor (by which we mean forest floor), guests will find a fire pit, picnic table, and pizza oven. If you decide to leave the property, you should definitely explore the nearby town of Dahlonega, which has a slew of wineries, along with shops, restaurants, and a museum focused on gold rush history.

What guests say: "This treehouse is amazing! Such a unique place to stay and the view from the loft is stunning! The treehouse is well decorated and clean. Love the outside areas too! The bed is ultra comfortable! One of the best beds I have slept in of any Airbnb location."

Sunbury / Columbus North KOA Holiday
Sunbury / Columbus North KOA Holiday

Sunbury, Ohio
7 guests/$105 per night
Sure, you can reserve a traditional cabin at this KOA rental in the Columbus, Ohio area. But why not book the one-of-a-kind cabin on wheels? Parked in a family-friendly campground with lots of amenities and activities (think a pool, outdoor games, a petting zoo, boat rentals, and more), Tyson’s Truck sleeps four in its queen-size bunk bed, though there's also room for a tent outside the cabin. The cabin is sparsely furnished and you'll need to bring your own linens and dishes (this is, after all, a campground), but it's outfitted with heat, AC, and a smart TV. There’s also a coffee maker, microwave, mini fridge, and toaster. Outside, you'll find a charcoal grill, fire pit, and picnic table, perfect for camping vibes before you head to bed.

If Tyson's Truck is a little too bare bones for your taste, the KOA site also offers bigger cabins with additional amenities. And if you'd rather camp, you can opt to reserve RV or tent camping sites here instead.

What guests say: "What an absolutely incredible facility. Excellent staff. Super friendly! They even deliver firewood and charcoal! Thank you!"

Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa
Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa

Pray, Montana
3 guests (2 adults, 1 child)/$270 per night
Come for the views—after all, it’s Montana’s picturesque Paradise Valley—and stay for (and in) the luxury cabins. These charming little lodges at the historic Chico Hot Springs resort come with access to the resort's naturally heated pools and award-winning restaurant and saloon, both located just a few hundred yards away. Each cabin pays homage to its Western roots with decor you’d expect to see in an episode of “Yellowstone” (which is also set near the Livingston area). Each cabin has a king-size bed and a spa tub for private soaking, not to mention a killer view.

What guests say: "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay sat Chico Hot Springs. It's a great location if you are visiting Yellowstone which is about 30 south of Pray. We stayed in a North 40 cabin and felt very pampered. This is definitely not 'roughing it'. The restaurant and pub/bar had good food and good service."

piaule
@piaule

Catskill, New York
2-5 guests/$534+ per night
Billing itself as a “landscape hotel,” Piaule (which means “pad” in French) Catskill is proud of its head-turning architecture. Its 24 box-like contemporary cabins sit on stilts just a few feet off the ground. They each feature a floor-to-ceiling glass wall that opens up to the forest outside and lets in a flood of natural light. Everything inside is high quality, but also unassumingly modern and minimalistic. Double cabins with two identical bedrooms and bathrooms are perfect for groups.

What guests say: "We travelled from London to stay at Piaule, and it was one of the best hotels stays we’ve experienced. Nestled in the Catskills are these gorgeous minimalist cabins that make you feel at one with nature. The architecture is a work of art and the details within the spaces are so well thought out. The food was delicious (tuna sandwich on focaccia is a must have for lunch), coffee is next level and the spa - is a spa of dreams. Not to mention the staff were super welcoming and made us feel right at home. I couldn’t recommend this hotel more."

cabins
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Terre Haute, Indiana
6 guests/$218 per night
Get two cabins for the price of one when you book this Peaceful Pines property, just 80 miles west of Indianapolis. The main cabin, which sleeps four, boasts heated stone floors, a canopy bed, laundry room, and back deck with a hot tub and bar area. The guest cabin, which is just a stone’s throw away, is “loft meets modern farmhouse.” It includes a full bath, windows looking out onto a forested pond, and a well-stocked kitchenette. But the outdoor space here might be the best part; the property's pond is full of fish (bring a fishing pole if that's your thing!), plus there's a stone fire pit and lots of beautiful trees.

What guests say: "I can’t express how incredible Joni’s cabin was! It was perfect for our group of six friends and Joni thought of EVERYTHING. From the small touches (like adorable s’mores kit bags), awesome hot tub, fun paddle boat, cute decorations, and overall cozy feel, this stay was ideal and I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a nature-filled getaway. Also, the pond was huge and the grassing knoll around it with the fire pit was a wonderful area to picnic and watch the sunrise/sunset."

AutoCamp Yosemite cabin
@geremia_design

Midpines, California
6 guests/$259+ per night
AutoCamp may be best known for its renovated Airstream suites, but they’re winning at cabins, too. Think classic cabin exterior, except with luxurious, spa-inspired decor and furnishings. Each cabin sleeps up to five people and has a galley-style kitchenette and a private outdoor space complete with grill, fire pit, and porch swing. If you're not feeling that setup, you can also try staying in an Airstream, luxury canvas tent, or a combo of the two. While some guests never leave, a daily YARTS shuttle takes others into nearby Yosemite National Park for outdoor adventures.

What guests say: "We LOVED our recent stay at Autocamp Yosemite. The property feels like summer camp for adults. Our cabin was very comfortable and offered all the amenities of a boutique hotel. All the employees we interacted with were very knowledge and helpful. It truly felt like a once in a lifetime experience. I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Yosemite!"

Pioneer Guest Cabin
Pioneer Guest Cabins

Crested Butte, Colorado
4-6 guests/$269 per night
No need to worry about close neighbors at this dog-friendly cabin compound in Colorado, featuring eight Insta-worthy cabins spaced out over 10 acres. The property makes it feel like you're out in the woods, but it's actually located a convenient 10 minutes from downtown Crested Butte, despite the mountain views. Depending on the cabin you choose, you might have a wood-burning fireplace and a wood-burning stove for the purpose of getting cozy, as well as access to a fire pit and creekside hot tub.

What guests say: "This place was so peaceful and well appointed. The cabin was decorated with comfortable furnishings and has a cute little kitchen with all of the essentials. The grounds are beautiful lots of flowers and everyone had their own fire pit and hammock on the river. They have a hot tub you can reserve so a perfect way to end your day soaking listening to the creek and birds. The owners are very friendly and live on the property and the grounds are pristine. We definitely will stay here again as it is very close to downtown and lots of beautiful hiking trails."

a-frame cabin airbnb
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Garden Valley, Idaho
6 guests/$238 per night
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom, modern A-frame cabin is just an hour north of Boise in a scenic Idaho mountain valley. It’s perfect for small groups looking for easy access to popular trailheads. There are even two outdoor patios. Creature comforts in the house's stylish interior include a Keurig, blackout curtains, satellite internet, and central heating and air conditioning. You could use the central heating, but for extra warmth and ambiance, there’s also a wood burning fireplace.

What guests say: "This beautiful home is situated in an idyllic mountain community complete with wild turkeys and roaming elk. The a-frame is well thought out and felt surprisingly spacious. It was just as beautiful as the pictures portrayed it. The small town has everything you need including a sufficiently stocked grocery store, liquor store, restaurant, gift shop, art shop and a community radio station. We also visited the golf resort down the road and swam in the pool fed by hot springs. We would definitely come back to this place."

cabin
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Gatlinburg, Tennessee
8 guests/$322 per night
The town of Gatlinburg seems to be all about that porch life. And you’re going to want an amazing porch to take in the incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains, seemingly unrolling from beneath your feet when you're out on the wooden deck. In a town overflowing with cabins, we went with a super chic and stylish option, with sliding barn doors, simple mirrors, and floor to ceiling windows. It’s almost hard to find a porch without a hot tub in Tennessee, but this cabin’s rolling bubbles come with a screened-in porch, so you don’t have to deal with bugs in your wine. In the summer, the rental comes with access to a pool.

What guests say: "The location is amazing. Views from the cabin are even more impressive in person than they are from the pictures! The hot tub is perfect after a day of hiking or drinking, of which we did both. But we found ourselves wanting to spend more and more of our time at the cabin to enjoy what it had to offer."

The Cabins at Crabtree Falls
The Cabins at Crabtree Falls

Nelson County, Virginia
4-8 guests/$182+ per night
These five cabins located on the sunrise side of the Blue Ridge Mountains range from a 1798 Appalachian home with exposed wood beams (and recently-added indoor plumbing) to a quintessential modern-day cabin outfitted with a gas range and hot tub. All of the cabins are situated near the Tye River. In fact, they’re so close to the largest vertical drop waterfall east of the Mississippi River that guests can hear the tumbling cascade from their front porches.

What guests say: "My friend and I stayed at the cabins for a weekend in August and everything from the location to the accommodations themselves were impeccable. We were able to walk to the Crabtree falls in just minutes and were also close to local wineries. The rooms were spotless, great AC, and had lovely, timeless decor."

Lake Murray Floating Cabins
Lake Murray Floating Cabins

Lake Murray, Oklahoma
4-18 guests/$210+ per night
Waterfront isn’t close enough at this popular vacation spot. Here, floating villas on a crystal-clear lake masquerade as cabins, giving you 360-degree lake views inside Oklahoma’s largest and oldest state park. They range in size—catering to up to 18 guests—and have central heating and air conditioning for any-season comfort. They also have spiral staircases leading up to spacious sleeping lofts. Just be forewarned: These floating cabins fill up months in advance, so you'll want to make reservations on the early side.

What guests say: "Absolutely great weekend here in late September. Stayed in the West Cottage Cabin. It was very clean and very well appointed. Nice peaceful weekend for us."

treehouse
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

SouthSioux City, Nebraska
2 guests/$148 per night
Apparently, some travelers like their cabins in the air, because this cabin up in a tree has a highly impressive rating of 4.9 stars from more than 500 reviews on Airbnb. The eye-catching design is constructed of repurposed materials carefully cradled by two towering cottonwood trees. Despite being located nearly 20 feet off the ground, the house comes with AC, two outdoor decks, a private shower, and even an indoor fireplace. It also comes with your choice of breakfast from the Koffie Knechtion.

What guests say: "The treehouse is absolutely adorable and exactly what we were looking for. We had a two night stay and it was nice to sit outside on the deck and have a glass of wine and unwind. Inside is decorated very cute and has all the amenities that you would need. Can't wait for the next stay!"

BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch
BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch

Cat Spring, Texas
2 guests/$229 per night
This cozy one-bedroom retreat is tucked away on a 350-acre working ranch, just an hour’s drive from Houston. Not only does it come with its own private hot tub and shower, it also includes a private pond complete with a fishing pier. Relax in the front porch’s obligatory pair of rocking chairs, or step inside (on a cowhide rug in typical Texas fashion), before sinking into a leather sofa or custom log furniture. Meanwhile, the cabin’s wooden walls are adorned with the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning Texan photographer Skeeter Hagler.

What guests say: "I rented the Sunset Pond cabin, which is perfect for one or two people, and I instantly felt at home. Time stands still at Blisswood, and you can do things more or less in your own pace. Go trapshooting, feed John John, the ancient horse, pat the Chatty Cat with half a tail, throw tomahawks around, hang out with Skeeter or go horseback riding in the morning. Or sit under the full moon in your hot tub in the middle of the woods. Or just read a book on your porch."

interior getaway cabin window with woods in the background
Photo courtesy of Getaway

Glenwood, Washington
4 guests/ $121 per night
We love Getaway’s ethos: Tiny cabins filled with everything you need—i.e. s’mores—and lockaway bins for everything you don’t—i.e. cell phones. This connection-free retreat, just two hours from Portland, will encourage you to take in the views of Mount Adams, explore the waters of Goose Lake, or hike along the Natural Bridges. Look out for local wildlife—like deer, bald eagles, and foxes—or bring your own furry friend. Dogs are allowed for a $50 flat fee.

What guests say: “Several stays now at Getaway cabins. We have LOVED every stay/experience! The cabins, fire pits, trails, property, communication, supplies, and attention to details are really incredible. True to the "getaway" commitment, in addition to fabulous amenities. Exceptional website too.”

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Katie Jackson is a contributor for Thrillist.

Kori Perten is a senior travel editor at Thrillist.