Getaway: The Unplugged Family Vacation (for When You Need to Recharge)

The Ultimate Un-camping Experience

If it’s possible for a vacation destination to have an ethos, Getaway has one. It takes everything families love about camping—being outside, spending time together and cooking over a campfire—and combines it with a philosophy of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation that allows you to get away (see what they did there?) from it all. We think you and the kids will settle into your peaceful forest retreat in no time thanks to Getaway's philosophy and design.

Your Cabin in the Woods

While Outposts have a number of campsites, they’re spaced so each one feels like its own nature refuge, and the “all hours are quiet hours” request helps set the peaceful mood. Keeping cell phones in the cell phone lock box frees you up for low-tech activities you’re always trying to do more of anyway, like reading, journaling and playing games with the kids. Plus, there’s something comforting about the cabin names (Morris, Mildred and Estelle to name a few); they're named after grandparents of staff and guests.

How to Stay at Your Getaway

If low-key is the vacation vibe you’re striving for, there’s no better place to do it than at a Getaway cabin. Each one is designed with staying put in mind. It starts with the cabin’s inviting picture window that practically begs guests to curl up with a good book and ends at the Adirondack chairs surrounding the fire pit right outside your door. Everything families need to relax is within reach, right down to the deck of cards, retro radio (and suggested local stations) and books that encourage mindfulness and simplicity found in each cabin (psst…How to Get Away, written by Getaway founders Jon Staff and Pete Davis, is one). And if the kids need to stretch their legs, a quiet stroll around the grounds or along an on-site walking trail is a welcome change of scenery. Make the most of this peaceful place by packing books, games, journals or a point and print camera to truly experience Getaway as it’s intended.

Get Out & Explore

While it’s easy to unplug at the cabin, exploring local wonders is easy too. No matter where you’re staying, the folks at Getaway have curated a list of nearby spots that are worth a look. Local guides include suggested hikes with important info (think: miles, difficulty and descriptions) so you can find one that’s right for your little campers. If they're available, you’ll also find details on exciting adventures like canopy tours, zip lines and white water rafting, plus family-friendly attractions like zoos, museums and farms that are within an hour’s drive (give or take). The character of each community shines through the selections, and you'll feel like a local with Getaway's helpful tips.

Pro tip: Because there's no cell service at Getaway, we recommend checking out the guides before you go and making plans. Take photos or screen shots of things you’d like to try so you can access to the info easily.

Travel in All Seasons

Unlike traditional camping, Getaway is an any-time-of-year destination. Each cabin comes with heat and A/C so families can hunker down and stay warm, even if there’s snow outside the window. Or stay cool on a sweltering summer night, no need to rely on a cross wind to cool off your tent. Plus the kitchenette means you can make meals when campfire cooking isn’t in the cards, thanks to the weather, and roast s’mores when it is.

The Comforts of Home

Part of the charm of these undeniably cozy cabins is that they seamlessly blend homey comforts into nature. Hot showers, a kitchenette (with a retro mini fridge and two-burner stove) and a front door that locks are all perks that make this easier than tent camping and a step up from other glamping experiences. The queen-sized bed tucked along the picture window is something parents will especially appreciate because it means a good night sleep for everyone.

Cabin & Campfire Cooking

When it comes to cooking, you’ve got a few options. Cook simple kid-approved meals using the provided pot and pan in the kitchen. Quesadillas, pasta and veggie stir fry are one-pan meals that are hard to beat. Or try some of Getaway’s chef-created suggestions. If campfire cooking is more your style, you’ll find a fire pit right outside your door (and a gas stove if burn bans are in effect). Heading into town is another option—check the guide for suggestions.

Tips to Getaway with Kids

Getaway cabins are designed like the best RVs and boats around—everything has its place, and there’s not too much room for extras. You won’t find space for things like a pack-n-play or a high chair. Instead consider packing a travel bed and portable high chair if you need them. Remember to put other kid basics like diapers, wipes, sippy cups and favorite stuffies on your list. Many of the 4-person cabins have lofted queen beds, so keep that in mind if you’ve got tots in tow. Before you head out the door, check out Getaway’s other tips for traveling with kids.

Find Your Getaway

You’ll find Outposts within a two-hour drive (or less) of many major U.S. cities, including eight locations on the East Coast (between New York and Atlanta) alone. Texas has three Outposts all to itself and in the Midwest, you can check out the recently opened Chicago spot or the one in Cleveland. On the West Coast, there are Outposts in Los Angeles and Portland, with a Seattle location coming soon. Find your nearest Getaway online.

Good to Know:
1. Since traveling during COVID is a concern, it’s reassuring to know that Getaway is socially distanced by design. Families receive check-in (and other important) information via cell phone so person-to-person interactions are eliminated. You can see what other cleaning protocols and trainings are in place here.

2. Remember to download all necessary info (including the Outpost map) before you reach Getaway, as there’s no WiFi or cell service.

3. Getaway is a dog-friendly destination so your pandemic puppy is welcome on this trip.

4. Getaway has partnered with One Tree Planted to help support reforestation. Every time a Getaway is booked, a new tree is planted.