If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors, but aren’t ready to squeeze into a tiny tent, then maybe a cabin is what you need. Rustic or plush, you can likely find a lodging that suits your style.
While it’s impossible to list all the best places to hike or immerse yourself in nature, here are a few great spots within a day’s drive to find a cabin to call home … even if just for a few days.
Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is located just 75 miles from Washington, D.C. Its 196,000 acres of wilderness are bordered by the Shenandoah River and the Virginia Piedmont hills. Within the park you’ll find plenty of hiking trails, wildlife and waterfalls. And also the 105-mile scenic Skyline Drive.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in southwest Virginia is 200,000 acres of National Forest land and four wilderness areas. There are over 500 miles of hiking trails, including 60 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The elevation reaches over 4,000 feet in some places, with large rock formations and even a herd of wild ponies.
Maryland
Catoctin Mountain Park in north-central Maryland is ideal for hiking in the summer. But once the snow falls, it’s time to strap on your cross-country skis. On the east side of the park, you’ll find stunning views, challenging terrain and access to Cunningham Falls. On the west, wilder areas with wetlands and wildlife.
Savage River State Forest, located on the northwestern border of Maryland, offers hiking, whitewater rafting and canoeing. The park was the site of the 1989 World Whitewater Championships. If you go in May, you might catch the blooming of the mountain laurel, followed by the rhododendrons in June. Cabins are available in neighboring towns and state parks.
North Carolina
Pisgah National Forest in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina offers over 500,000 acres of hardwood forest, waterfalls and whitewater rivers. The forest is cross-crossed by hundreds of miles of trails. There are also plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing and inner tubing. Cabins are available in nearby towns.
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, located in the mountains of western North Carolina, is part of the Pisgah National Forest, but bears special mention. This area offers rugged terrain and amazing scenery and trails without the usual overcrowding. The Linville River that forms the gorge drops 2,000 feet into the valleys below. You’ll find plenty of swimming holes along the river to refresh yourself while wandering in the wilderness. Cabins can be rented in nearby towns.
Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spans the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is the most visited national park in the U.S. Its 500,000-plus acres offer hikers all-year hiking, with waterfalls, old-growth forests and endless views to check out. Cabins can be rented in nearby communities.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area includes 125,000 acres in northeastern Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky. It has many sandstone bluffs, scenic gorges and natural bridges. The area boasts a large trail system with something for everyone. There’s also plenty of mountain biking, paddling and horseback riding. Cabins can be found in neighboring communities.
West Virginia
Monongahela National Forest, with over 900,000 acres, has five wilderness areas and 500 miles of trails. Located in the north-central highlands of West Virginia, this national forest offers breathtaking views, gently flowing streams and a varied terrain. The forest is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and fishing.