We get a lot of questions from people wondering how to pack for a getaway to Postcard Cabins. The best part about Postcard Cabins is we have almost everything you need waiting for you in your cabin.
You don’t need to worry about bedding, shower stuff, or cooking utensils and we encourage you to bring as little as possible to truly disconnect.
There are some items, though, that are a nice bonus to have around. We’ve put together a packing list of things you just might want for that warmer weather stay at Postcard Cabins.
A Rainjacket
“April showers, May flowers” is a nice phrase, but we know rain can strike at really any moment, especially in the spring. A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to cozy up inside with a good book and a cup of coffee, but in case you’re feeling adventurous, you might want some rain protection nearby.
Campfire Supplies
Now that the weather is warmer, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of a fire pit. Don’t forget to bring those extra hot dogs or the ingredients for your favorite campfire meal. If you need some recipe inspiration or some tips for starting your campfire, we’ve got your back.
Light Layers
The sun might be shining during the day, but it still gets a bit chilly at at nighttime, especially near our Outposts. Don’t forget to bring that extra vest or flannel so you can stay outdoors as long as you’d like.
Bug and Sun Protection
We think spring is the perfect time to head outside, but unfortunately so do the bugs. You might want to throw that bug spray in your bag on your way out the door. While you’re at it, grab the sunscreen too, so you can protect yourself from the bugs and the sun.
A Good Pair of Hiking Boots
Now that the snow has started to melt, it’s a great time to check out that hike you’ve been wanting to do. Don’t forget the right shoes though. With the sporadic spring rain, we recommend a pair you don’t mind getting muddy.
With these in hand, you’ll be more than ready to explore. Don’t be afraid to cozy up and do nothing all day though; we love doing that too.
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu
Recovering in nature through the Artist Fellowship has been a true blessing. It feels like a soft exhale after months of navigating the intensity of recovery, community projects, and the endless demands of life. Here, amidst the trees and the quiet, I’ve been reminded of the profound wisdom in Lao Tzu’s words: nature moves at its own rhythm, unhurried and steady, yet everything it sets out to do is completed.
There’s something so healing about stepping out of the usual pace and surrendering to stillness. Waking up surrounded by the whispers of leaves, sipping tea while watching the morning light filter through the trees—it all feels like a gentle reset for my spirit. There’s no rush here, no pressure to produce or perform. Just being is enough, and that’s a lesson I hope to carry with me when I leave.
In solitude, I’ve found clarity. Space to reflect on what matters most: my health, my loved ones, and the creative energy that fuels me. There have been moments of inspiration too—sketching as the sun sets, writing by the campfire, and letting my thoughts wander without constraint. Nature has a way of grounding you, of reminding you that even in stillness, growth is happening beneath the surface.
This fellowship has been more than just a retreat; it’s been a reminder to honor my body’s need for rest and to trust the natural flow of my journey. Gratitude fills my heart for this opportunity to slow down and be nurtured by the simplicity of this place.
To everyone who needs to hear this: it’s okay to pause. It’s okay to take your time. Nature doesn’t hurry, and neither should we. 🌱✨
Your getaway is about finding time to disconnect in order to reconnect—whether with family, friends, or nature. To learn more about the location, read our guide to the Outpost. After a restful break at one of our cabins, there’s plenty to do on your way home to explore. From art museums to state parks, each of our Outposts is surrounded by plenty of relaxing and fun activities, whatever may pique your interest.
Here’s our Blake Brook Outpost guide to nearby attractions and things to do along the way:
Exploring Nearby Spend your day further afield and come back to your cabin to relax after your adventures.
Pawtuckaway State Park With a lake for swimming, a marsh that’s home to a variety of wildlife, miles upon miles of hiking trails, and even boulders for climbing, you could easily spend the whole day roaming around Pawtuckaway State Park, and it’s only about a 30-minute drive from your cabin.
Lake Winnipesaukee The largest lake in the state of New Hampshire offers plenty of activities in any season. About an hour away from your tiny home, you can swim, boat and fish when it’s warm, or bundle up and ski or ice fish in the snowy months.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard If the weather doesn’t cooperate or you just are in search of a more relaxing day, you can head about 30 miles north to Gilmanton Winery. Enjoy a lovely view of the vineyard while sampling a flight of the wines. Follow your tasting with a delicious dinner or visit on Sunday for brunch. And if you explore the grounds, you just might find a couple of barnyard animals who call the place home, including Olive, a juliana pig that loves to be pet.
Take a trip down one of these nearby hiking trails in your Getaway cabin backyard.
Oak Hill Trails Distance: 5.8 miles, about 2-3 hours Difficulty: Easy Dogs allowed on-leash For a long but not difficult hike, try the trail leading to the old fire tower. Climbing the fire tower will provide you with a lovely panoramic view of the area.
Bear Brook State Park Distance: 3.4 miles, about 2-3 hours Difficulty: Moderate Dogs allowed on-leash If you find yourself craving some calming time by the water, Bear Brook State Park is your ideal destination. During warmer months, you can go for a swim or stroll along 40 miles of trails, leading to ponds, bogs and marshes. Catamount Trail is a scenic hike through the woods.
Road Trip Curiosities
Start to disconnect from your daily life and explore something new before you even reach your tiny home by visiting these destinations along the way.
Robie’s Country Store 9 Riverside St, Hooksett, NH 03106 Much more than just a simple country store, Robie’s is a historic spot that is well worth the visit – and many politicians agree, as a huge part of its history is campaign stops by presidential candidates over the years. The current building has been standing since 1887, so you can peruse history, get a delicious meal at Roots Cafe, and pick up local New Hampshire products to take back to your cabin, just twenty minutes away.
On the Local Menu
Blasty Bough Brewery 3 Griffin Rd, Epsom, NH 03234 Within walking distance from your cabin, this hidden gem serves up local flavors rooted in tradition. Dogs are welcome, and you can even get a discount on tasters if you let them know it’s your first stay at Postcard Cabins.
Country Cook’n At The Circle Restaurant 935 Suncook Valley Hwy S, Epsom, NH 03234 Enjoy comfort foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this family-owned local favorite.
Cleveland | Columbus | Local Guides | Midwest | Pittsburgh
On January 18, 2025, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Hocking Hills State Park by participating in the 60th Annual Winter Hike. This cherished tradition offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave, blanketed in winter’s splendor.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: Continuous starts between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Starting Point: Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center
Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for hikers in good physical condition
Cost: Free; donations appreciated for refreshments and shuttle service
Hike Highlights:
Old Man’s Cave: Begin your journey at this iconic landmark, named after hermit Richard Rowe, who once inhabited the cave. Marvel at the impressive rock formations and frozen waterfalls that make this area a winter wonderland.
Cedar Falls: Approximately halfway through the hike, you’ll encounter the majestic Cedar Falls, where water cascades over cliffs, creating stunning ice formations. Here, the Logan Kiwanis Club traditionally serves their famous bean soup and cornbread muffins to warm hikers (donations appreciated).
Ash Cave: Conclude your trek at Ohio’s largest recess cave, Ash Cave. The towering cliffs and serene environment provide a perfect end to the hike. At Ash Cave, local organizations often offer hot beverages and snacks for hikers.
Additional Information:
Shuttle Service: A complimentary shuttle bus will return hikers to the Old Man’s Cave parking area from Ash Cave.
What to Bring: Dress in layered clothing suitable for winter weather, wear sturdy hiking boots, and consider bringing trekking poles for added stability on potentially icy trails.
Pets: Leashed pets are welcome; ensure they are accustomed to cold weather and crowds.
Accommodations:
For those looking to extend their adventure, consider staying at Postcard Cabins in Hocking Hills. These cozy cabins provide a perfect retreat after a day of hiking, offering amenities like fireplaces and hot tubs to help you unwind and warm up.
Plan Your Visit:
The Hocking Hills Winter Hike is a popular event attracting thousands of nature enthusiasts. Arriving early is recommended to ensure parking and to fully enjoy the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the trails, this event offers a unique opportunity to witness the serene beauty of Hocking Hills in winter.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a longstanding tradition and create lasting memories amidst the natural splendor of Hocking Hills State Park.
Earlier this summer, we hosted Photographer, Josephine Rohrbacker, at Postcard Cabins St. Francois outside of St. Louis through our Artist Fellowship program. She used her escape to nature to reconnect to her love of photography and get some rest in nature. Read on to hear more about her stay.
I have always had an eye for nature and for photography. I received my first camera on my 9th birthday, and I’ve been taking photos ever since! In high school, I joined the yearbook club and used my school’s DSLR to play around with portraits and action shots, which was a lot of fun, and it taught me a lot about how to mess with the camera settings to achieve the shot I was going for. Once I graduated, I started playing around with different settings, lenses, angles, lighting, and techniques with my own DSLR I purchased. It’s grown to be something I really enjoy and something I take a lot of pride in, and I learn something new every time I pick up my camera. I love photography because it’s the creator’s perspective and what they find beautiful, and it’s an expression of what the creator sees and what the creator wants to show others, and I love being able to share that perspective and that vision with others.
Being in nature is the only time I feel 100% at peace. It’s my favorite way to spend my free time, to unwind and to spend time with friends and family. All my favorite hobbies are spent outside (photography, paddle boarding, swimming, hiking, reading, running, kayaking, and taking walks). I love taking photographs in nature because I love all the different perspectives you can capture. I am amazed every day by God’s creation and the beauty of the outdoors. I would say my favorite types of shots are close shots and low angles, but there are so many ways to capture the beauty of nature.
My Getaway was so much fun! This was my 4th time being at Getaway, and I always look forward to stepping into that wooden cabin for the first time in a while (usually after a busy week) and taking it all in. Getaway never fails to relax and rejuvenate me. My free time in my cabin always sparks creativity, and because I don’t have service in my cabin, the distractions that otherwise would get in the way of my creativity are limited, so I have free reign to experiment with my DSLR and to try new things and teach myself new things with it.
You can keep up with Josephine’s work on her VSCO.
One consistent piece of feedback we receive from our guests is that our cabins are the perfect place, far from the light pollution of the city, to see the stars and constellations. Here’s what you can look forward to seeing in the sky this month on your next escape to nature.
April
Full Moon
On April 13th, bask in the brightness of April’s Full Moon, also known as the Pink Moon, as it is tied to the first spring blooms of wild ground phlox, often called moss pink. This Pink Moon will be at its fullest at 00:24 UTC, and since it is the first full moon after the Spring Equinox, signifies the Spring season is in full swing, marking the return of life after Winter.
Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation
On April 21st, catch Mercury at its greatest western elongation from the Sun, making the best time to spot the elusive planet. At its furthest distance from the Sun’s glare, look low in the eastern sky before sunrise to spot the pinkish planet before the Sun emerges above the horizon. Since Mercury orbits so closely to the Sun, it is most often in the sky at the same time as the Sun, making it rarely visible in the night sky.
Lyrids Meteor Shower
The night of April 22nd and early morning of April 23rd are the best time to view this annual meteor shower, which occurs each year between April 16th and April 25th. At its peak, the shower produces about twenty meteors per hour. For the best show, look to the constellation Lyra, from where meteors will radiate, however, the bright dust trails that last several seconds each, can be seen anywhere in the night sky. The thin waning crescent moon will pose little obstruction to view this celestial event.
New Moon
Experience the darkness of the new moon on April 27th, when far-off galaxies and star clusters are easier to spot. The new moon phase is a time for introspection and new beginnings. Use this Spring new moon as a reset — escaping to nature solo, or with loved ones and friends — to set intentions, build new habits, and reflect on recent growth. It’s written in the stars.
March
Year of the Snake
As we settle into the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake is a time of transformation, wisdom, and renewal. Snakes are often seen as symbols of rebirth and adaptability, making this the perfect time to reflect and embrace the changing seasons. Use your escape to nature this month as an opportunity to connect with these themes and find clarity in the stillness of the woods.
Total Lunar Eclipse
Mark your calendars for the spectacular total lunar eclipse on March 14th. During this event, the Moon will pass entirely through the Earth’s umbra (dark shadow), turning a mesmerizing rusty or blood-red color. Visible across North America, Mexico, Central America, and South America, this celestial phenomenon offers a rare and stunning opportunity to witness the Moon in a whole new light. Grab a cozy blanket, head outdoors, and prepare to be awed by this lunar spectacle.
March Equinox
At 08:58 UTC on March 20th, we welcome the March equinox. This day marks a moment of balance, where the Sun shines directly on the equator, resulting in nearly equal parts daylight and darkness worldwide. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s the first day of spring—a time of renewal, growth, and budding blooms. For our friends in the Southern Hemisphere, it signals the first day of fall. Take this opportunity to reflect on balance in your own life as the natural world transitions into a new season.
New Moon
On March 29th, the Moon will align with the Sun, creating a new moon phase. With the absence of moonlight, this is the perfect night for stargazing. The sky will be its darkest, allowing faint celestial objects—like distant galaxies and star clusters—to shine brilliantly. Whether you bring a telescope or simply lie back and enjoy the show, the New Moon is a great reminder of the beauty found in nature’s quiet moments.
February
Full Moon
On February 12th at 13:55 UTC, the Full Moon will illuminate the night sky in all its glory. Known as the Snow Moon by early Native American tribes, this lunar event reflects the harshest winter conditions, as February often brought heavy snowfall. Some tribes also called it the Hunger Moon due to the difficulty of hunting during these cold, unforgiving months. Spend a quiet evening by the cabin window, letting the moonlight reflect off the snowy landscape for a truly magical winter scene.
Saturn in Conjunction with the Sun
On February 15th, Saturn will reach conjunction with the Sun. This means the ringed planet will pass directly behind the Sun from Earth’s perspective, rendering it invisible. Although we can’t observe Saturn during this time, it’s a good opportunity to reflect on the wonders of our solar system and prepare for its return to the night sky in the months ahead.
Venus at Greatest Eastern Elongation
At its greatest eastern elongation on February 20th, Venus will be at its farthest point from the Sun in the evening sky. This makes it the perfect time to catch the dazzling “Evening Star.” Look west just after sunset to see Venus shining brightly, outshining almost every other celestial object. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss while enjoying your escape into nature.
New Moon
On February 28th, the Moon will enter its new phase at 00:46 UTC. With the Moon completely hidden from view, the sky will be at its darkest—an ideal time for stargazing. Use this opportunity to spot faint celestial objects like galaxies and star clusters, free from the interference of moonlight. Find a spot away from cabin lights, bundle up, and let the infinite expanse of the universe leave you in awe.
January
Quadrantids Meteor Shower
The Quadrantids meteor shower peaks on the night of January 3rd and the early morning of January 4th, offering one of the first celestial shows of the new year. Known for its above-average activity, the Quadrantids can produce up to 40 meteors per hour at its peak. This shower is thought to originate from dust grains left behind by the extinct comet 2003 EH1, discovered in 2003. With a crescent moon setting early in the evening, skies will be dark, providing excellent conditions for meteor viewing. For the best experience, find a dark location after midnight. The meteors will radiate from the constellation Bootes but can appear anywhere in the sky.
Venus at Greatest Eastern Elongation
On January 10th, Venus will reach its Greatest Eastern Elongation, at 47.2 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Venus, as it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the bright “Evening Star” shining in the western sky after sunset. Venus will be a stunning sight, easily visible even without a telescope, making it a treat for both amateur astronomers and casual stargazers.
Full Moon
The Full Moon on January 13th will occur at 22:28 UTC, lighting up the night sky with its fully illuminated face. Known as the Wolf Moon by early Native American tribes, this full moon signifies the time of year when hungry wolf packs were heard howling outside villages. It is also referred to as the Old Moon and the Moon After Yule. The bright moonlight provides a wonderful opportunity to observe the moon’s detailed surface features, such as craters, valleys, and mountain ranges. It’s an ideal time for moonlit walks and nighttime photography.
Mars at Opposition
January 16th brings Mars to Opposition, marking its closest approach to Earth this year. Fully illuminated by the Sun, the red planet will be brighter than at any other time and visible all night long. This is the best opportunity to view and photograph Mars. With a medium-sized telescope, you can observe some of the planet’s dark surface features, like polar ice caps and dark plains. The reddish-orange glow of Mars will be a stunning sight, making this event a highlight for both seasoned astronomers and casual observers.
New Moon
On January 29th, the New Moon will occur at 12:37 UTC. During this phase, the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible in the night sky. This absence of moonlight offers the darkest skies of the month, perfect for observing faint celestial objects like distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. Whether you’re using a telescope, binoculars, or simply your eyes, the New Moon provides the ideal conditions for deep space exploration and astrophotography.
Our Outdoor Suites offer our most immersive experience yet and are now available at some of our top locations. Enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and nature—relax in a hammock, prepare a campfire cookout at a chef’s station and set the mood with string lights.
Experience this nature upgrade at Postcard Cabins Eastern Catskills and Postcard Cabins Machimoodus near New York; Postcard Cabins Shenandoah near DC; Postcard Cabins Starved Rock outside Chicago and Postcard Cabins Talladega Valley, near Atlanta. Here’s what awaits you when you book an Outdoor Suite.
Spa Robes
Wrap up, stay warm and enjoy the full experience with our spa robes, complimentary during your stay. Upon your departure, please leave the robes in your cabin with the rest of the linens.
Campsite Fire Pit
Our modern fire pit and cooking grill are designed to elevate your campfire experience. Additionally, you’ll find a food prep cart, replete with grilling utensils, to make fireside cooking fun and easy.
Nature Hammock
When the sun is out and the winds are calm, we’ll prepare a bonus area featuring a cozy hammock so you can soak up every outdoor moment.
Heated Soaking Tub
Currently only available at Postcard Cabins Starved Rock outside Chicago.
Cleaned and freshly refilled before your stay, your cedar tub should reach an ideal soaking temp by around 5PM on the day of your arrival. When not in use, please cover the tub to keep the water warm and clean. To reheat the water, just press the “jets” button on the control station along the fence. Please note, the soaking tubs are not considered safe for children under 5 or women who are pregnant to use the tub.
Outdoor String Lights
The perfect mood setting, our outdoor string lights can be turned on and off by using the cable switch. As a courtesy to your fellow nature lovers we ask you to turn them down after 10PM and let the night stars take over.
Ready to immerse yourself in nature? Book an Outdoor Suite today.
Your escape to nature is about finding time to disconnect in order to reconnect – whether with family, friends, or nature. After or en route from Los Angeles to a restful break at one of our cabins, there’s plenty to explore in the Big Bear Lake area, whatever may pique your interest.
Here’s our guide to nearby attractions and things to do along the way:
Getting There
Nestled in the woods of Running Springs, your secluded escape is easily accessible from Los Angeles. Driving is the quickest way to travel to your cabin—parking is easy, just pull up right beside your tiny cabin. If you don’t have any wheels, you can take a Greyhound bus to San Bernardino Depot, then hop in an Uber or Lyft for the remainder of the journey. In the winter, you may see snowfall at Postcard Cabins Big Bear; be sure to check local weather conditions and plan your safe journey to the location accordingly.
Walks in the Mountains Near Our Cabins
Lake Gregory Trail Distance: 2.3 miles Difficulty: Easy Dogs allowed on-leash This shady loop around Lake Gregory is a favorite fishing spot and features gorgeous wild flowers and lovely scenery. There’s a small park and drinking fountain bowl for dogs.
Heaps Peak Arboretum Distance: 0.8 miles Difficulty: Easy Dogs allowed on-leash An easy walk for everyone, grab a map from the kiosk before starting the trail to read up on the types of local trees and wildlife that surround the area.
Keller Peak Distance: 12.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate Dogs allowed on-leash + horse-friendly Along the way to Keller Peak are a children’s garden and a Ranger Fire outlook at the peak for stunning views. For a shorter hike, you can drive part of the way and walk to the summit.
Arrowhead Pinacles Trail Distance: 4.6 miles Difficulty: Hard Dogs allowed on-leash Arrowhead Pinacles Trail is a steep, difficult trail that will keep you puffing. Enjoy the boulders and panoramic views throughout, especially the 360-degree lookout from the top. There’s not much shade, so get hiking later in the afternoon or in the early morning to avoid the heat.
Sustenance and Snacks Near Our Cabins
Jensen’s Food, 31987 Hilltop Blvd, Running Springs, CA 92382 ~ 5 mins away A friendly local market near the cabins where you can stock up on fresh veggies, baked goods (try the donuts), sandwiches, and drinks. Visit on the weekend for a BBQ.
LuluBelle’s Coffee House and Bakery,31621 Pleasant Drive, Running Springs CA 92382 ~ 5 mins away LuluBelle’s Coffee House and Bakery is a café and bakery using local organic foods with some of the best pastries in Running Springs. If you’re heading to our cabins to celebrate a special occasion, this is a great place to stop to grab some treats to bring into nature with you.
Stater Bros. Market, 28100 CA-189, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352 ~ 15 min away Stater Bros. Market is a full supermarket along Lake Arrowhead with everything you’ll need for your stay.
On the Local Menu
Hortencia’s at the Cliffhanger, 25187 CA-18, Crestline, CA 92325 ~ 15 mins away Munch on Hortencia’s Mexican cuisine and ogle at the panoramic view of the San Bernadino Valley. Stay for the sunset or visit on a weekend for live music.
Belgian Waffle Works ~ 15 mins away Family owned and operated along the docks of Lake Arrowhead, this waffle house is open for breakfast and lunch, serving huge portions and unique waffle combinations, such as Mud-Pie, S’more, and Peanutty.
Lou Eddies Pizza ~ 10 mins away Lou Eddies offers gourmet pizzas or create-your-owns inside a 100+ year-old building. The beer served at its quaint bar is home-brewed, and seating spills onto outside patios where you can eat a pie and enjoy live music.
Old Country Coffee Shop and Diner ~ 5 mins away Breakfast at this cute little diner is split between American and Mexican plates, and both options are delicious. The quick, friendly service and cozy interior have made this eatery a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Sign up to receive exclusive offers, insider updates and useful tips on how to make the most of your time in nature. Unlock 15% off your first stay when you sign up for text messages.
Thank you for signing up! Enter your zip code to receive Postcard Cabins openings & updates near you.
Thank you for your submission. Your zip code has been received.
