Getting ready to head out on a trip? Great! Planning some rest and relaxation is the perfect way to recoup and get energized. Plus, vacations are opportunities to create precious memories with your family. Now comes an important decision — your choice of lodgings. Although hotels are the go-to for many vacationers, cabins at Kampgrounds of America may be a surprising alternative you’ll love.
Camping Cabins or Hotels? Why You Should Consider a Cabin for Your Next Vacation
The Pros and Cons of Camping in a Cabin vs. a Hotel
Everyone is familiar with hotels, but not everyone knows what staying in a cabin is like. Here are some of the pros of choosing a cabin for your next family vacation:
- Convenience: Most people settle for hotels because they are—well—nearly everywhere. However, Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins are also convenient options that offer the fun of camping without sacrificing comfort. These cozy lodgings are found at almost every KOA across the United States and Canada. That means, with more than 500 KOA locations across North America, you’re sure to find cabin options wherever your travels lead you.
- Comfortable accommodations: KOA Deluxe Cabins are designed to provide a comfortable stay, much like a hotel room. You can expect hotel-like amenities such as clean bedding, comfortable mattresses, heating and air conditioning. Similar to AirBnB, daily housekeeping is not included but you may request additional linens and towels as needed in most cases.
- More privacy: Nestled in their own cozy corner of the campground, cabins give vacationers room to breathe and a little bit of space to call their own — both essential components of a relaxing getaway. Hotel rooms are packed right next to each other with paper-thin walls. So, if you have noisy neighbors or people roaming the halls at all hours, that may mean a restless night.
- Access to the great outdoors: There’s nothing quite like getting back to nature. Cabins are often situated off the beaten path, surrounded by the great outdoors. If you want to breathe some fresh air or enjoy a camping fire, these don’t come standard with a hotel room. However, cabins allow you to spend your evenings gazing at the stars as you roast marshmallows over a campfire.
- Affordability: Although the daily rate for some cabin options tends to be about the same cost as your standard hotel room, you can often save some money if you’re planning on a longer stay. Another way to save is by staying in a Deluxe Cabin that features a kitchenette. With a convenient space to prepare your meals, you can stock up on groceries, saving you the expense of having to eat out at a restaurant three times a day. Be sure to check with specific campgrounds to see what they have available.
- Pet-friendly: If you like to travel with your pet, a cabin stay might be a better bet than finding a pet-friendly hotel. Most KOA campgrounds offer pet-friendly cabin and accommodation options, providing comfort for both you and your pet. Each KOA also features off-leash KampK9® dog parks perfect for pets to blow off a little steam.
- Community amenities: Similar to hotels, KOA campgrounds often provide amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, communal BBQ areas, and recreational facilities. These can enhance your stay and provide opportunities for socializing with other guests.
Cabins do have a couple of cons, but only for those who are used to vacationing in hotels:
- Not within cities: If you’re looking to vacation in the heart of a big city, then hotels are probably a better bet. However, if you’re okay with being a bit outside the urban rush, you’ll find KOA cabins just a short drive away from some of the most popular urban destinations.
- No room service or maid service: If you like calling up hotel room service for your late-night meals or you want your linens changed every day, you won’t find these features included with cabin camping. However, KOA is committed to providing guests with comfortable, clean surroundings. So, when you check in, your cabin will be fresh and ready for you.
Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins at KOA Campgrounds
Before booking a hotel reservation for your next vacation, we invite you to consider an alternative — cabin camping at KOA. Not only do we put you near all the best local attractions, but you’ll also get to enjoy the serenity and amenities that come standard at a KOA campground.
We offer two different cabin experiences at many of our KOA locations:
- Camping Cabins: If you love the rusticness of camping, but prefer to keep a roof over your head and leave the tent at home, then you’ll love our KOA Camping Cabins. We put you in the middle of some lovely outdoor scenery, plus you also get to enjoy beds and electricity, which come standard.
- Deluxe Cabins: Our Deluxe Cabins allow you to elevate your cabin camping experience by including bonus features like a private bathroom and potentially a few added features. Some include kitchenettes, TVs, linens and more. Looking for a way to really enjoy your outdoor space? Look for Deluxe Cabins with a KOA Patio™.
We hope you’re ready to try a Camping Cabin or Deluxe Cabin camping experience at a KOA campground. Be sure to book your reservation early as our lodgings tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. You can make your reservation online or give us a call today.
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
