The Coolest Summer Camp-Style Airbnbs, From a Former Girl Scout Lodge to an Upstate New York Compound
Whether or not summer camp was a part of your childhood memories, it’s not difficult to pull together a visual: minimal bunk beds, wood-sided cabins, fire pits, the soft sound of grass or gravel crunching underfoot, the sun setting over a lake. It’s romantic, nostalgic, and fun, all rolled up into one vacation vibe—and it’s great for all ages.
Family trips big and small are the perfect time to level-up the summer camp experience surrounded by loved ones. Luckily, you don’t have to limit yourself to the “roughing it” mentality. There are a ton of options on Airbnb that can give you that jolt of nostalgia but with modern comforts. From literal summer camp grounds that are now available for large group rentals to a fire-lookout-turned-treehouse perfect for a couple looking to get off the grid, there are plenty of ways to get that summertime cabin-in-the-woods vibe—even if you’re visiting the desert.
Ahead, check out eight of our favorite summer camp-style Airbnbs.
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- Courtesy Airbnb
Bonner Lodge in Catskill, New York
The Catskills are a treasure trove of cabin rentals, but we’re especially fond of this one for a few reasons. Once a Girl Scout camp lodge, the three-bedroom property accommodates up to seven people. After finding the original architect and designer, the owners embarked on a year-and-a-half-long renovation. The end result is a cozy space centered around a stone fireplace, a chef’s kitchen, and a covered porch (great for sunset cocktails!). Guests will also find themselves close to the region’s best hiking and skiing. But good luck pulling yourself away from the comforts of “home”—there are plenty of nooks waiting to be enjoyed with a good book.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Camp Wandawega in Elkhorn, Wisconsin
If lake views are top of your list, head to the southeastern corner of Wisconsin where you’ll find the quiet town of Elkhorn. An elevated wraparound porch makes Lake Wandawega the backdrop for your morning coffee, al fresco meals, or afternoon nap. The hosts describe this space as “camping indoors,” so embrace the elements—chilly temperatures, kitchenette, and all. This particular rental is one on a campus with multiple cabins, making it a perfect option for family reunions and other large group occasions. If you choose to rent the entire campus, you’ll also have access to the private beach, campfire pits, canoes, grills and smokers, sports courts, the on-site treehouse, and more. It’s about as close to summer camp as you can get.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Luxury Aspen Ranch in Snowmass, Colorado
The unobstructed views of Snowmass Mountain may be enough to get you to bookmark this Airbnb, but the pool area will perhaps cause impromptu trip planning. The nine-bedroom ranch culminates in a pool and hot tub surrounded by greenery—but that’s far from the full picture. Guests are invited to play on what may be the most beautiful outdoor ping pong table we’ve ever seen, try their swing at the putting green, head out on a horseback ride, or stroll along Snowmass Creek. Cell service is hard to find on the property, which only adds to the getaway vacation vibe; it’s a great place for you and 15 of your closest loved ones to disconnect and give a good deep listen to the wildlife and mountains around you.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Norsdale in Phoenicia, New York
You get a motel and a five-bedroom home when you book this Airbnb. Located right on the base of a mountain and minutes from the ever-popular Phoenicia, it’s the perfect place to unwind away from it all… and then head right into town when you’re craving a craft cocktail, diner food, or a pedal-powered trip on the rails. The curb appeal is instantly evident, with its chic black exterior and multiple outdoor lounge spaces—and the interiors follow suit. In the motel, each of the four rooms follows a color theme (pink, yellow, black, and blue). And there’s no absence of color in the main home, either. In fact, every corner holds something delightful, from bold floral wallpaper to a terrazzo shower.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Base Camp in Palm Desert, California
If “boutique hotel” and “private villa” make your ears perk, you should save this to your wishlist. Base Camp is a landing pad for relaxing, gathering, and adventure, thanks to its two saltwater pools, sport courts, al fresco dining, and proximity to the area’s best hiking trails. With nine suites and room for 16 guests, there’s plenty of space to retreat to when you’ve had enough group time. The interiors lean neutral with an emphasis on comfortable (and plentiful) seating. Gather round the outdoor firepit and take in the stars or close your eyes in the hammock garden; this is a playground for adults who want the activity options that come with summer camp, along with the added luxury of a villa setting.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Private Oasis in Hot Springs, Arkansas
Three designer homes—a lakefront property, a guest house, and a cabin—coexist on a single luxury compound on the shores of Lake Hamilton. With seven bedrooms and room for 20 guests, every single room has an incredible view of the lake, but the best scene is from the hot tub. Gather for an al fresco meal on the patio of the main home or opt for an early morning swim, straight off the dock. Guests are a quick drive from Hot Springs, making grocery shopping (and happy hour) an easy task.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Crystal Peak Lookout in Fernwood, Idaho
Couples or solo travelers looking to get off the grid but maintain that camp-y aesthetic will find the perfect retreat in Fernwood, Idaho. Formerly a fire outlook for the Chelawah, Washington area, the structure was moved to its current home in 1983. Today, it’s a base camp for outdoor adventure surrounded by 13 acres of forest. It’s also an incredible location for taking in the local wildlife. The surrounding treetops are filled with bluebirds, owls, and other winged friends, and it’s not uncommon to catch a moose mid-stroll. A heads up: You will need a vehicle with four-wheel drive to access this Airbnb and in the wintertime, it’s only possible to reach via snowmobile or the host’s vintage snowcat. Despite the adventure it may take to get there, you won’t regret it once you’re relaxing in your own private sauna.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Stoney Clove in Hunter, New York
With 14 (!) bedrooms, multiple fire pits and hammocks, and a swimmer-friendly creek, a stay at Stoney Clove is doing summer camp-style digs in a big way. Made up of three separate houses all within walking distance, it’s an ideal location for hosting the extended family: Spend the day on the creek relaxing on a tube, gather for BBQ, and explore the vast grounds solo for some quiet time to wrap up the day. The interiors have that special kind of rustic charm (stone fireplaces, breezy curtains, a massive wooden dining table for gathering) with luxe additions like Article furnishings and memory foam beds.
