Fire lookouts popped up all over the West soon after the horrific fires of 1910, and they remain excellent tools in the early detection of fires in our national forests. Oregon has more than 20 lookout towers, and they're typically available to rent during the parts of the year when forest fires aren't as much of a hazard. Are you ready for your next adventure? Staying overnight in an Oregon fire lookout is an experience you won't want to miss.
The Green Ridge Overlook is nestled right at the very edge of a ridgeline, affording guests one of the best views in all of the Deschutes National Forest. It's located on a ridge high above the Metolius River.
To reach the lookout, you'll start by traveling west from Sisters on Highway 20. For full directions, visit the lookout’s page on the USDA Forest Service website.
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These accommodations aren't fancy. Staying in this fire lookout is similar to camping, but with a few more amenities.
This isn't a five-star hotel... but then again, you don't often find a hotel with this kind of view! The little cabin includes propane heat, electricity, a propane refrigerator, stove, and oven. The futon sleeps one or two people, but you'll need to bring your own sleeping bag or bedding. You'll also want to bring along other necessities such as garbage bags, paper towels, and toilet paper. There's a vault toilet onsite, but no water is available. Below the fire lookout, you'll find a picnic table and fire ring for enjoying a campfire and some s'mores.
The sunrise will have you waking up nice and early to appreciate the view.
Clear up here on the ridge, you'll have unobstructed views of the surrounding terrain. Bring your camera along on this getaway, especially if you want to capture some stunning sunrise and sunset views.
The small table and chairs allow you to enjoy breakfast with a view while the sunlight streams in through the windows. You'll feel as though you're a bird perched high above the 2,000-foot-deep ravine. This cozy little fire lookout was built in the 1960s. It's available for rent from May through June and again beginning in mid-September through mid-October. During July and August, volunteers with the Forest Service live here and keep an eye out for fires.
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The eagle eye's view from up here is simply spectacular.
From the wrap-around deck, you'll have excellent views of the forest and the Metolius River basin directly below. Off in the distance, you'll spy Mount Jefferson, Mount Washington, Mount Oregon, Three-Fingered Jack, and other peaks.
Climb back up the one-story staircase to your wrap-around deck. You can lock the trap door to feel safe and secure, then snuggle in for the evening to enjoy your cozy one-room getaway high above the trees.
There are more than a dozen fire lookouts for rent all throughout Oregon, but they book up fast. Visit Recreation.gov to check availability.
Have you ever stayed overnight in one of Oregon's fire lookouts? We'd love to hear about your adventure in the comments below!
I took a solo trip to Portland, Oregon, for my 40th birthday and was so excited to plan my itinerary. I planned to visit natural wonders like the Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls *and* Rose City attractions like Powell’s, the Portland Japanese Garden, and all of the delicious restaurants in PDX. As such, I knew I wanted to stay somewhere close to everything -- including the airport -- and wanted to live like a local for the weekend, so I decided to go the Airbnb route. I navigated over to Airbnb, entered my parameters -- trip dates, budget, location -- and hoped for the best.
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I had no idea that I'd actually happen on what I think might be *the* best Airbnb in Portland, Oregon: this Urban Cottage, a guest favorite with shining 5-star reviews, a seasoned Superhost, and an outdoor sauna, to boot! I booked this Rose City rental and was immediately contacted by the Airbnb owners, which was a positive sign of the amazing experience to come.
Nestled behind an adorable red home on a cul-de-sac in Southeast Portland, this Urban Cottage is a treasure among Airbnb rentals in PDX.
Sarah McCosham/Only In Your State
After eight hours of air travel, a three-hour time change, two flights, and one rental car drive through an unfamiliar area (though I do have to give PDX drivers props for being incredibly patient with this out-of-towner), I arrived at my Airbnb exhausted and in desperate need of a break.
The owners of this Airbnb are Superhosts, which is a designation awarded to hosts that go "above and beyond" to provide excellent hospitality for their guests. Hosts can qualify for Superhost status regardless of the type of property they rent out, such as a single room or a mansion.
The Urban Cottage's Superhosts truly lived up to this esteemed title. From texting me ahead of time asking when I'd be in and following up with the door code, area restaurants, and FAQ about some of the attractions I was visiting -- Multnomah Falls, for example, requires a timed use permit via Recreation.gov to moving their car so I could have a coveted driveway spot, the hospitality here was second to none.
Oh, and this rental was spotless -- absolutely the cleanest Airbnb I've ever stayed at. And I'm *very* picky about cleanliness!
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I can only compare the hospitality to what you'd get at a B&B, but this was so much better-geared toward my travel needs and wants. This being my 40th birthday weekend, I wanted to disconnect and give myself time and space to enter this new era with joy and gratitude, and the solace and warmth I felt during my stay at the Urban Cottage Airbnb in Portland was perfect.
In addition to a bedroom wherein I had the best sleep of my life and a living space that included lots of natural light (and a skylight!) for gazing out at those tall Oregon pines, "extras" like smart technology, natural soap/detergents, and a high-end washer/dryer (which proved invaluable for washing my clothes after flights *and* hikes) made me feel comfortably at home.
The real pièce de résistance (and admittedly my raison d'être for booking this Portland Airbnb), however, was its titular sauna. Located just outside the door (next to an adorable rock garden), this cedar sauna was EVERYTHING.
Inside, the smell of warm cedar was intoxicating, and the owners' clear instructions made it easy for me to get everything set up. If you're worried about feeling claustrophobic, don't be! The glass door to get in/out of the sauna let in a ton of natural light *and* allowed for gazing out at the beautiful backyard foliage.
This was the most glorious way to decompress after my travels and adventures in Portland and truly, I cannot recommend this Airbnb enough. What a hidden gem!
If you find yourself feeling the pull of PDX (and truly, what a town -- I left part of my heart in Portland), I highly recommend heeding the call of your wanderlust and making this Urban Cottage Airbnb yours for your adventures in Portland, Oregon.
Call us biased, but we happen to believe the best cabin rentals in the country are right here in Oregon. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, an adventurous vacation, or a weekend to de-stress and recharge, there's nothing that compares to a cabin getaway in the Beaver State. Read on for our picks for the best cabins in Oregon, and plan a cozy adventure in our beautiful state!
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Luxury Cabins in Oregon
In the mood for a lux little getaway? You'll be delighted to discover these luxury cabins in Oregon!
Size: This 1,500 sq. ft. cabin has two bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Price: $279/night.
Amenities: This private cabin has a hot tub, wrap-around deck, professional kitchen outfitted with a Jenn-Air professional stove, a private lakeside deck with chairs and a picnic table, a swimming dock, and a lakeside fire pit.
The Hillside Cabin is a high-end masterpiece of craftsmanship, constructed of huge Douglas Fir beams, cedar siding and shakes. Huge windows in every room provide a tree-house sensation with amazing views of nature in every direction. The large wrap-around deck and comfortable Adirondack chairs and rockers allow for relaxing in the fresh air while taking in the gorgeous natural surroundings and views.
Size: Cabin sizes vary but are generally between 900-1200 square feet and can accommodate between two and six guests.
Price: $417/night.
Amenities: Inside each cabin, you'll find rustic luxury at its finest: charming, cozy living areas with fireplaces and warm wood decor. Fireplaces and full kitchens make these cabins cozy; outdoors, each cabin has its own deck, with Adirondack chairs inviting guests to put up their feet and relax into the scenery.
If you’re looking for a riverfront retreat that’s as luxurious as it is beautiful, we have just the place for you: the Metolius River Resort. This river cabin resort is the ultimate spot for a getaway in Oregon; it’s an enchanting escape in nature that’s sure to calm your mind and soothe your soul.
Size: This amazing lodge has eight bedrooms with room for 20 guests and a luxurious 9.5 bathrooms.
Price: $950/night.
Amenities: Fast Wi-Fi, TV, gourmet kitchen, individual room radiant heat, wood-burning stove, washer & dryer, wrap-around deck, two private hot tubs, sauna, kayaks, canoes, SUPs, hammock, fire pit
Ratings: 4.9/5 stars
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Romantic Cabins in Oregon
There's something inherently romantic about a cabin, with its worn wood and cozy fireplaces and furnishings. If you're looking for a getaway with your special someone, you'll find the following romantic cabins in Oregon offer just that!
This oceanfront A-frame rental is located in Glendeden Beach, just south of Lincoln City. Salacia Chalet is all about the sun, surf, and a relaxed way of life.
Size: This cozy little studio-style cabin has one bedroom and one bathroom.
Price: $200/night.
Amenities: Queen-size memory foam bed, working fireplace, smart technology, personal hot tub on a private, semi-enclosed deck, outdoor fire pit, and secluded location.
This charming little cabin in Silverton, Oregon, is perfect for a couple to get away from it all. A cozy living space and luxurious outdoor setup offer a wonderfully romantic retreat for couples.
Cabins in Oregon with Hot Tub
Have hot tub, will soak! There's little that a soothing soak in a hot tub can't cure. Soak up the lap of luxury -- literally! -- with these cabins in Oregon with a hot tub.
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6. Cabin with Hot Tub on the Deschutes River, Deschutes County
This rental is a beautiful large log cabin on an acre of lush natural landscape. Outside there are many amenities to help you enjoy the outdoors; with a hot tub, deck, hammocks, and a fire pit. Indoors, an expansive sunken living room is super cozy, while bedrooms and roomy and comfortable. The master bedroom is upstairs, and it features a king-size bed and en suite bathroom.
7. Cozy Cabin With Fireplace And Hot Tub, Government Camp
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms.
Price: $210/night.
Amenities: Location is everything with this cozy cabin, which offers an amazing "home base" for your outdoor adventures in Government Camp, OR. A cozy fireplace and private hot tub make this a great place to return after a day on the slopes!.
This quaint little two-bedroom cabin is within walking distance of Historic Government Camp, and a short drive to the ski resorts. Snuggle up in front of the fireplace, and enjoy a soak in the oversized hot tub.
Affordable Cabins in Oregon
Looking for a getaway that doesn't break the bank? The options are endless here in Oregon, where some of our most luxurious and coveted vacation destinations boast well-appointed and well-priced accommodations. Here are some of our favorite affordable cabins in Oregon:
Size: This 908 square foot cabin sleeps six with one bedroom and one full bathroom.
Price: $108/night.
Amenities: This charming and secluded cabin has beautiful wood ceilings, floors, and walls, a cozy wood-burning stove, and modern conveniences like smart technology and updated appliances.
Set amongst towering spruce trees just north of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, this home's secluded location is perfect for those seeking plenty of peace and quiet. Escape for a quiet coastal getaway at this dog-friendly Bandon vacation rental, a two-bedroom modern cabin with room for up to seven guests.
Enjoy the quintessential Oregon experience in this beautiful, unique, private, cozy, and comfortable creekside cottage in the country that's fully furnished and oozing with charm.
Size: A lovely studio space that sleeps up to two with one full bathroom.
Price: $136/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette with full stove and oven, wood stove, gas grill, picnic table, pet-friendly
Ratings: 4.9/5 stars
Secluded Cabins in Oregon
There are so many beautiful regions of Oregon that offer a remote escape in nature. Whether it's the High Desert of Central Oregon, the beautiful Oregon Coast, or the Wild West of Eastern Oregon, here are some secluded cabins in Oregon that really let you get away from it all.
Peace, quiet, and natural beauty abound. This charming cabin is a serene, comfortable space with a vaulted ceiling and natural light, surrounded by aspen and pine trees. Updated appliances and perks like a private hot tub make this one of the best cabins in Oregon!
On Tenmile Lake in Oregon, this impossibly charming cocoon cottage is straight out of a fairy tale. With its forested surroundings and delightfully quirky aesthetic, this cocoon cottage in Oregon absolutely needs to be your next getaway. While the inside of this tiny cabin is certainly charming, the views from this cocoon cottage in Oregon are sure to take your breath away. You’ll have your own two-person paddle boat with which to explore the coastline of Tenmile Lake.
Which of these beautiful cabins with hot tubs in Oregon is calling your name? Are there any spots you'd like to add to this roundup of the best cabins in Oregon? Tell us your favorite in the comments, and tag the loved ones you want to join you for a hot tub party!
Another great way to relax and soak in the Beaver State is to find a hot spring. Here's a remote hot spring where you can avoid the crowds.
