Mountain Cabins for a Cozy Retreat
Are you looking for a cozy retreat at a mountain cabin? Great mountain and river views, a real fireplace, and even a hot tub make for a relaxing getaway. Three primary destinations offer the mountain retreats you are looking for.
Shenandoah Mountain Cabins in Virginia
Cabins dot the Shenandoah River in Virginia. The Shenandoah River splits into the North and South Forks at Front Royal, Virginia. The river is lovely, and each fork meanders back and forth. This makes for beautiful scenery, but there are very few bridges across each fork, and in some cases, you have to drive quite a distance to reach a bridge. All this being said, when looking for a cabin to rent, check how far it is to the closest bridge. If you aren’t planning to visit one of the cute towns, a winery, or the attractions in Luray, you won’t care if you have to drive 10 miles down a dirt road along the river to get to your cabin. We rented a beautiful house along the river, but it was isolated from everything. We probably won’t rent the same place again.
Virginia towns along the Shenandoah River have good restaurants and attractions, including Strasburg, Sperryville (near the entrance to Sky Line Drive), Luray, and Winchester.
The following quotes are recommendations and comments by members of the “Things to do in Maryland” Group.
“Check for cabins in Luray. A million along the river, not too far from DC, just a lovely little town, super quiet, not far from the resort. Many historic log cabins and also modern ones. I was just there.”
Hot Tub Heaven, Front Royal, Virginia.
Each cabin has its own hot tub. Dogs are welcome. It is located close to Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park. Wineries nearby.
“that is in VA with access to Shenandoah Park.”
“Very nice.”
“Great place. Pet friendly, too. Near Front Royal, VA”
Shenandoah River Outfitters has ten rustic cabins on the Shenandoah River. Cabins have different room configurations and amenities. Some have hot tubs, propane fireplaces in living rooms, and outdoor fire rings. Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting trips down the Shenandoah River are available.

Western Maryland Mountain Cabins
Deep Creek Lake is a man-made reservoir with 69 miles of shoreline. The nearby town of McHenry offers breweries and restaurants that will satisfy everyone in your party. Five state parks surround the lake, as well as Wisp Resort, to provide plenty of outdoor activities.
“Spent a long weekend in a fab townhouse in deep creek with hot tub and fireplace. Vasca management company. Can’t remember name of townhouses but they were walking distance to ski resort. My dog and I were so happy!”
“Very close by and easy drive. Nice place to relax.”
“Also, try New Germany State Park and Herrington Manor State Park in Western MD. No hot tubs, tho.”
New Germany State Park has 12 fully furnished cabins.
Herrington Manor State Park has 20 furnished cabins with wood-burning fireplaces.
West Virginia Mountain Cabins
A short drive from Washington, D.C., the mountains in West Virginia, and along the Potomac River offer visitors relaxing getaways and outdoor activities.
Berkley Springs, WV. “one of our favorite places” Located on a creek with access to fishing, and kayaking. Games Dogs allowed. many board games there also.
Cacapon Resort State Park, is part of the West Virginia State Park system. Has a variety of cabins to choose from. These cabins are a little more rustic but all offer an outdoor fire ring.
Harmon’s Log Cabins
Located in Hopeville Canyon, West Virginia, with 21 cabins, each with different amenities. Outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, close proximity to the river, and fishing opportunities.
Tips for Booking Your Cabin
- Decide on the amenities you want. The options are diverse from rustic to luxurious, riverfront to mountainside.
- Do you want to go hiking, visit a winery, float on the river, or have lunch at cute cafes? That will help determine your location.
- Do your research to find the best cabin for you.
- Check to see if linens are included in your rental.
- Pets?
- Book early