At Hipcamp, we love nothing more than waking up on a firm ground after stargazing under our tents all night. But sometimes even the most bad ass of campers of us out there begrudgingly accepts that our tent may find a semipermanent home in the garage during the fall and winter months (at least in some parts of the country). While cooler weather can discourage traditional camping trips, there is no threshold temperature for enjoying – and needing – an escape into the great outdoors.
A few weeks ago a Hipcamper based in the Pacific Northwest shared how she uses Hipcamp all year long to prove that camping season never really ends. Today, we ask you to suspend your traditional idea of what “camping” is, because we don’t camp for tents—we camp for nature and all of the beautiful gifts she brings to us.
To cure your seasonal cabin fever, here are some Pacific Northwest cabins to escape into nature with this fall and winter (plus a few from Northern California). Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, an adventurous family holiday or just need some peace and quiet, there’s no shortage of places to #FindYourselfOutside.
On the eastern edge of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is Clear Creek Ranch, a sparkling gem nestled in a rugged canyon with private creeks, expansive meadows, rushing waterfalls and pine speckled trails. Hide out in one of their three cabins, set up your tent in a private meadow or glamp out in this canvas tent at your own private waterfall.
Channel your inner Henry David Thoreau at this rustic backwoods cabin along Kalama River (there’s also another Red Cabin nearby). This simple timber frame structure is on a small farm where you can see goats, chickens, ducks, piglets and hogs. Ask to help out if you feel inclined! The farm is only an hour from Portland and two from Seattle – an easy weekend escape!
We cannot say enough about the Stargazer Farm! It’s located at the foothills of Mt. Hood andboasts private riverside access (check out the tent site during warmer months), meaning you’ll have access to everything from skiing to swimming depending on what time of year it is. Only 45 minutes from Portland, this organic farm also supplies some of the city’s finest restaurants (Ava Gene’s, Dove Vivi, Biwa, Renata and others).
Damn, look at that view of Shasta! If you’re doing an interior California to Pacific Northwest road trip, this cabin is the ideal stop between San Francisco and Crater Lake. The treehouse is outfitted with an air mattress and outdoor kitchen, so all you need to do is show up with your sleeping bag and some food. There’s also a funky brewery nearby (the Mt. Shasta Brewing Company) and other local restaurants just a short drive away in the town of Weed. Wake up early, watch the sunrise over Mt. Shasta and stretch out in the hammock over the creek. This place is truly a little paradise.
Yes, that Hipcamper is actually cuddling with goats and you can too! The host at Leaping Lamb Farm, Scottie Jones, is the founder of the U.S. Farm Stay Association and loves educating campers about life on her farm, as is true with most of our farm and ranch-stay campground hosts. Connect with your hosts! Most would love to let you lend a hand if you’re looking to roll your sleeves up.
This is another rural oases just about an hour outside of Portland. Probably the coolest part about Crooked Finger Farms (besides the two sweet cabins, The Bali House and The Farm Cottage) is that it is super close to Silver Falls State Park where you can see 10 waterfalls within an 8-mile hiking loop. That, and the natural cedar hot tub waiting for you after the big trek!
It’s time to charge your internal batteries at this off-the-grid nature healing facility along the California-Oregon border. It is truly inspiring how hosts Joe and Wendy are dedicated to living truly, deeply and sustainably. If you’re interested in learning how, they offer an array of sustainability workshops that range from yoga to bow-drill fire making. You can read more about one Hipcamper’s experience surrendering herself to the great outdoors at Otter Space here.
The postcard perfect Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout is perched on the rim of the largest volcano in the state! You’ll be treated to sweeping views of Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen, and southern Oregon’s Mt. McLoughlin. Plus, with Medicine Lake nearby there will be plenty of outdoor play time. The lookout has a cozy wood stove, two cots, and a barbecue pit and picnic table outside. Be prepared to bring everything you’ll need, including the whiskey and the marshmallows!
If you’re looking for privacy and serenity, this cabin is only a 3-hour drive from San Francisco and has your name all over it. It’s located in a remote mountain community, so bring all the essentials you’ll need to sit back, relax and find your mountain solitude.
This quaint little thing is located in the coastal town of Bandon, Oregon. It’s on a cranberry farm and has one of the coolest bathrooms we’ve ever seen (psst… it’s in that trailer). If you’re looking for a cabin retreat that is still a stone’s throw away from the beach, you just found your next getaway!
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