Do you think camping with your pet would be fun? But it seems wise to test the water before diving in. Or maybe you’re a longtime camper looking for an upgrade. In either case, cabin camping with your pet would be the perfect solution.
I love camping with my Airedale Terrier, Bailey. We have spent many nights in auto camps and backcountry camps all over the US. We love sleeping outdoors, but it’s not always the most viable option.
Depending on the weather, it may not be suitable for camping. Alternatively, if you are just passing through an area and only staying overnight, it may not be worth the trouble of setting up a campsite.
The hotel is great. It’s easy to find hotels that allow pets these days. But they are not always in my travel budget. For us, cabin camping works very well.
read more ⇒ Car camping with pets: car preparation, belongings, etc.
Reasons to Cabin Camp with Pets
What is Cabin Camp?
First, let’s understand what “cabin camping” means. Depending on the situation, the cabin may be his one-room cabin or a ten-bedroom ski chalet. For these purposes, however, it refers to rustic cabins with few amenities.
In fact, most camping cabins are raised above the tent. They also tend to be relatively inexpensive compared to hotels and vacation facilities. I have ‘camped’ in many cabins over the last few years and this has become my favorite accommodation.
Another reason I like cabin camping with my pets is that I have a safe place to leave my bailey if I decide to go out to eat or visit a nearby museum. I wouldn’t leave her in a tent or car for too long. So renting her cabin allows us to see more of the sights in the area she can’t go.
where to find camping cabins
Another great thing about camping cabins is that they’re popping up everywhere these days. Some of the most common places to find them include:
- Private campsites such as KOA and Good Sam
- state park
- National park
- DNR or National Forest Land
cabin camping packing list
So you’re intrigued…but does staying in a camping cabin reduce or increase the amount of stuff you need to bring?
Most camping cabins require the same essentials as non-tent camping. The most rustic camping cabins have beds with mattresses and sometimes chairs. Of course, this varies from cabin to cabin, so you should check beforehand. However, in general, you should pack the following for your cabin camping trip:
- linen
- cook stove
- Plates, napkins, cutlery
- fresh food cooler
- Portable amenities, towels, shower shoes for bathroom
- Flashlight, convenient to go to the public bath at night
- We have everything you need for your pet!Get a dog packing list or a cat packing list
read more ⇒ Camping With Your Dog – A Beginner’s Guide
Compare camping cabin options
Each property offers different levels of camping cabin amenities. Knowing what to expect will help you decide which one is best for you.
Camping cabins in private campgrounds
KOA was one of the first campground chains to offer camping cabins. Many bases have different types of cabins, from very basic to top-of-the-line, with fully equipped baths and kitchens. It may be perfect for those who want to enjoy a “glamping” experience.
If it’s just Bailey and I, a basic camping cabin is fine. They usually have a double bed, two bunk beds, and sometimes a small refrigerator and TV. You can use the public bath with other campers, and there is an outdoor grill for cooking. There are also usually picnic tables and a fire pit for campfires.
read more ⇒ Campground etiquette for pets and their people
Many private campgrounds have jumped on the trend and now offer camping cabins. It’s especially useful for family gatherings when you have an RV camper, a tent his camper, and a cabin camper all in the same party.
To find pet-friendly camping cabin options in the area you’re visiting, search for campgrounds on GoPetFriendly.com and review cabin policies. Pet policies (and fees) vary.
Cabins at state park campgrounds
You may be surprised by the variety of accommodation options offered by state parks. My home state of Illinois, like many other states, has several state parks where you can rent cabins. Cabins are often located within the campground, but may be adjacent to the lodge.
This guide to pet-friendly facilities in state parks across the country is a good place to start your search. Or search for “state park cabins” and the name of the state you are visiting.
A yurt isn’t exactly a hut, but the philosophy is the same. Isn’t the yurt at Tumalo State Park in Bend, Oregon amazing?!
read more ⇒ US State Parks That Allow Pets – A Guide to Pet-Friendly Cabins, Campgrounds, Beaches & More
National Park Cabins
Not to be outdone, American national park huts are usually a bit more luxurious and significantly more expensive. But you can feel more outdoors than staying in a lodge or motel.
I rented a two bedroom cabin at Colter Bay in Teton National Park. Trails in the park are prohibited, but pets were allowed. My dog was older and well-behaved at the time, so I was able to leave him in the kennel for a few hours while I hiked with friends.
Search for ‘national park cabins’ and you’ll find plenty of private cabins nearby. If you want a camping cabin specifically within a national park, start with this post on pet-friendly campgrounds in US national parks, or visit: national park website Follow the links for camping and lodging options.
read more ⇒ America’s Most Dog-Friendly National Parks
National Forest Cabins
During a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, I discovered that DNR owns and operates a very nice camping cabin within the National Forest. A group of my friends rented a cabin on Lake Toms in the Hiawatha National Forest and it was a lot of fun.
National forest camping cabins are the most rustic option. The cabin we rented had bunk beds and a wood stove that slept 8 people. There was no electricity, water came from an outside pump, and behind the hut was a warehouse.
Unlike most of the other camping cabins I’ve shown you, this cabin is on a private lake and there are no other cabins nearby. It was perfect for a secluded off-grid getaway.
Michigan has many of these camping cabins, as well as several backcountry cabins for skiers and hikers. Colorado has a backcountry hut system if you want a long scenic hike to your camp hut. And other state options are probably equally appealing.
Accommodation is part of the experience
The accommodation you choose to travel with your pet may enhance the experience. Cabin camping certainly does! We hope these options have inspired you to plan a trip with your pet.
Are you already a fan of cabin camping with pets? Share your favorite cabins in the comments!
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