You’ll Never Forget An Overnight In This Old Fire Tower In West Virginia
The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in Seneca State Forest offers a unique rental experience with unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.
Fire towers were once found all over West Virginia as lookouts to spot forest fires. As new aircraft and satellite technology was developed, they fell out of use, and many of the old towers were abandoned. However, there is one special tower in West Virginia that's been restored and is now available to rent for the night.
The Thorny Mountain Fire Tower once served as a lookout for fires in the Seneca State Forest.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and return to nature for a while? Welcome to West Virginia, where we've got plenty of mountain cabins all perfect for a relaxing getaway to help you unwind and re-center. Here are 14 of the best cabins in West Virginia for the next time you need to get away.
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Luxury Cabins in West Virginia
You can find numerous luxury cabins in West Virginia where you will want for nothing. Take a look at these cabins which will place you right in the lap of luxury.
If the deck hot tub overlooking the lake isn't enough to entice you, then perhaps the firepit, private lake beach, impeccable views, and darling décor will be! This gorgeous cabin by the lake has plenty of space for the whole crew, yet every room still manages to feel warm and inviting - not to mention packed with creature comforts. This is a luxury dream getaway if there ever was one.
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2. Rustic Luxe River Front Luxury Cabin, Slanesville
As one of the most luxurious log cabin rentals in West Virginia on this list, you and your guests won't want to leave. With a private pool plus a hot tub, its tasteful decor, and everything you could ever want in a home, this will be one of the most memorable places you could stay.
3. Monte Vista Luxury Mountain Escape, Berkeley Springs
This is one of the best cabin Airbnbs in West Virginia with stunning views and a luxury cabin that is filled with high-end amenities inside and out. The interior design is impeccable with gorgeous furnishings, a top-of-the-line kitchen, and cozy luxurious bedrooms. Outside you can sit by the fire, soak in the hot tub with beautiful mountain views, or have some family fun on the basketball, pickle ball, and volleyball courts. There is even a cool golf driving range overlooking the mountains that uses biodegradable golf balls!
Secluded Cabins in West Virginia
If you want to get away, and we mean really get away, spending time in a secluded cabin surrounded by nothing but nature may be the thing you need. Here are a couple of secluded cabins in West Virginia for you to consider.
Just imagine being in a remote, secluded location with endless views of the Allegheny Mountains and privacy. If that sounds like heaven to you, Wildview is one of the best cabin getaways in West Virginia you could rent.
This secluded log cabin has all you need for a comfortable weekend getaway. Enjoy gorgeous valley views and the home's close proximity to outdoor adventure if you choose. It's located in Harman which is halfway between Canaan Valley and Seneca Rocks down a country road. Book your stay at this West Virginia cabin rental on Vrbo.
This beautiful modern cabin is the perfect romantic getaway surrounded on all sides by stunning mountain views and glorious West Virginia hillsides. If you are looking for a private retreat where you can sit out in the hot tub looking out at the mountains and a big bold starlit sky, this gem is exactly what you are looking for.
Cabins in West Virginia with Hot Tub
When renting a cabin that comes with its very own private hot tub, well, that has to be the ultimate getaway, right? There's no better way to relax than a soak in a hot tub especially one that's surrounded by nature.
If you're looking for cabin rentals in West Virginia that happen to have hot tubs, this one is a stunner! And just think, you can take in all the natural beauty including river, woodland, and mountain views right from the cabin and its outdoor hot tub.
Designed as a romantic escape for two, this luxurious log frame cabin features a king bed, a hot tub, beautiful views, a gas log fireplace, and free Wi-Fi. Visit Vrbo to rent one of the most romantic getaways in West Virginia.
Romantic Cabins in West Virginia
Skip the hotel with your loved one and rent a secluded cabin instead. There's no better way to connect with each other than by disconnecting from the rest of the world for a time. Check out these romantic cabin rentals in West Virginia.
The adorable Dreamtime A-Frame cabin in West Virginia could easily make it on any one of our lists! Perfect for both couples and families, this beautifully designed abode is peak (pun intended) comfort, with a soothing color palette, high-end finishes, and a dreamy setting in any season. You'll love hanging out on the lofted deck, or warming up in the deck hot tub!
10. Secluded 1940s Romantic Tiny House on the River, Jefferson County
At only 200 square feet, this cozy little cottage sits by the Potomac River and offers both river and mountain views. Its small space, lack of television, and natural surroundings make this an ideal vacation home to connect with your partner. Book your stay at one of the most romantic cottage rentals in West Virginia on Vrbo.
Shabby chic, airy, and beautifully decorated so as to make guests feel as though they've stepped into a storybook romance, this sweet cabin in the woods is far from being rustic. When you step through the magnificent double doors of The Sanctuary, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy high-end amenities (the tiled shower is divine!) as well as a dreamy hot tub, sauna, modern firepit, and more.
Affordable Cabins in West Virginia
On a budget but still want some time away from the grind of daily life? Hey, we all deserve a vacation. Here are a couple of affordable cabins in West Virginia for those of you who are budget-conscious.
This colorful rustic hideaway offers scenic countryside views and is located in close proximity to outdoor adventure just minutes away from Watoga State Park. Best of all, it is quite an affordable getaway! Book your stay at this West Virginia cabin rental on Vrbo.
This classic, cozy cabin in the woods is a dreamy escape from it all in the Allegheny Mountains but really comes to life in the chillier months when fall colors and blankets of snow drape across the landscape. Pretty plaids and warm woods make this sweet abode feel extra warm and homey! You'll also be just a short drive from Seneca Caverns if you'd like to explore.
This stunning and spacious A-frame in the trees is not only gorgeous but thoughtfully decorated as well. Enjoy the mid-century touches, which feel both homey and rejuvenating, as well as the spectacular setting. When you're not kicked back relaxing and enjoying the indoor ambiance and views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, pop out onto the deck for a soothing soak in the hot tub. Who knew cabin life could be this posh?
What do you think of this list of the best cabins in West Virginia? What does your perfect cabin getaway look like? Where do you go? What amenities do you want to see included in vacation rentals when you want to take a staycation somewhere in the Mountain State? We love sites like Airbnb and Vrbo as they offer all sorts of search parameters, including location, dates, amenities, and, yes, hot tubs!
Staycations are great, but another option is always to enjoy a West Virginia State Park! Why not head to Kumbrabow State Forest and stay in a cabin that lets you escape from it all in wild, wonderful West Virginia?
