Tips for Your First Cabin Camping Trip
Have you found yourself feeling cooped up and searching for a safe, peaceful, and mental-health boosting getaway? Are you looking to spend more time with your family in nature? Does your family love the idea of camping but aren’t thrilled about the idea of sleeping on the ground in a tent? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we recommend renting a cabin this summer!
From a rustic retreat to a premium rental, there are hundreds of cabins available on Campspot. With this year’s camping season right around the corner, we hope you give cabin camping a try and plan an adventure your family will never forget. To make your first cabin camping trip start on the right foot, we’ve compiled these five quick tips:
Camping doesn’t have to mean trekking cross-country to a remote area. As a novice camper, it's like breaking in new shoes: best to start with short walks before planning long hikes. Most campers choose to stay close to home, the average trip being within a two-hour drive from home. Campspot allows you to discover the many wonderful campgrounds and cabins near you.

Like tents or RVs, there are different types of cabins. Read your cabin’s description online or in the booking confirmation, and if you still have questions regarding what your rental includes, contact the campground and ask. Things to look out for:
- Are linens and towels provided?
- Is it a private bath or a shared bathroom?
- What are the cooling and heating options for the cabin?
- Is there a kitchen? If not, is there a mini-fridge?
Consider nearby and onsite amenities. Some parks shine based on the amenities they offer directly on their properties, such as expansive waterparks, laser tag areas, or themed weekend events. Other campgrounds are desirable for their proximity to historic sites, national parks, or famous attractions. Both factors are essential not only when deciding where to stay but also when planning and organizing your trip after reserving your rental. Do you need reservations for any national or state parks, especially during busy seasons? Some hikes require permits ahead of time. Having at least a rough idea of the things you wish to do while camping helps you know how to pack and what to expect.
All campers, including first-time campers, should pack sunscreen, closed-toe shoes, swimsuits, bug spray, and snacks. Grocery shopping makes it easy to prepare tasty and healthy meals that keep your family on budget. Going back to making sure you know what your cabin includes and doesn’t include, be sure to pack linens and towels if not provided. There is nothing worse than showing up expecting linens and then discovering that they were not included in your rental.
About 81% of users are booking their camping trip on Campspot for the first time, some even their first camping trip ever. While camping and outdoor recreation seemed to spike in 2020, it’s looking like these trends are here to stay. According to a recent survey, 89% of campers are planning to camp even more in 2021. With camping on the rise for the second year in a row - you'll want to book your favorite site before someone else does!
To browse and book your families next cabin getaway visit Campspot.com and filter by “lodging”. Don’t forget to follow Campspot on Instagram for daily camping inspiration!
Feature Image: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Golden Valley