Lodging

Vacationers can usually be split up into two categories. Although there are a few other smaller categories, travelers usually find themselves vacationing in either luxury hotels or budget hotels. If you fall into the category of travelers who spend most of your vacations in budget hotels, might I suggest a new type of lodging that has slowly begun to catch momentum and that is vacationing at a state park.

Devils Fork State Park South Carolina Cabin

Now if you’re one of the millions of people who detest tent camping and pop-up campers, then I’m still talking to you. When I talk about vacationing at a state park, I’m not talking about tying your tents and sleeping bags to the top of your Griswald family station wagon. After all, we’re talking about a vacation here. State parks around the U.S. are starting to catch on to the idea of offering accommodations for travelers that go beyond the typical state park campsites. These state parks are offering vacation cottage and cabin rentals that are fully-equipped for travelers who are looking for a vacation from anywhere from a weekend to a long week.

Before driving to  the nearest state park and spending a week-long vacation in a state park cottage, I suggest a few tips. First of all, do your research. Many of these cabins offer only the bare essentials and amenities that don’t exactly warrant the label “luxurious”. I’ve stayed in more than one cabin that gave me a stiff back every morning I woke up. I also suggest reserving the deluxe or upgraded cabin if they have something up from the standard cabin.

When staying at a state park cabin or cottage, you’re getting many of the same amenities you would have when staying at a beach house. There are often a couple bed room choices, a full kitchen, living room and dining area. Since it is a state park, many have fire places or at least a fire ring outside. As I alluded to earlier, the bedding can be hit or miss, so make sure you do your homework. The bedrooms are the same size you would have at many hotels and often include an adjoining bathroom, dresser and either one or two beds. 

Vacationing at a state park is usually best suited when traveling with large groups, where you can rent several cabins together. It offers the relaxation and slowed down pace you expect on a vacation without the big city attractions. Start by looking at the state parks in your state to find the best state park cottages near you.

Photo from scmikeburton on Flickr.