Wilderness Accommodations

There are many definitions for the term ‘wilderness.’   Wikipedia describes it as a ‘natural environment on earth that has not been significantly modified by humanity.’  In a sense, then, wilderness lodging could be considered an oxymoron.  However, definitions aside, wilderness lodging does exist, and for good reason.  It allows people to experience the wilderness in a short period of time, with a minimum of negative impact and personal discomfort.  Even if you love camping in the wilderness, you may want to take advantage of wilderness lodging when it is available.

Humans are having a great impact on planet earth, and it would be a daunting task to find any place completely devoid of human influence.  From bits of micro-trash to traces of chemicals in our water, our presence can be found everywhere – from the jungles of Borneo to the Arctic glaciers and the bottom of the ocean.  Whether we like it or not, wilderness only exists in a relative sense.  So, if the lodging doesn’t significantly modify the surrounding area, wilderness lodging is a viable concept.  Not only that, it makes sense.

Having an appreciation for wilderness will help motivate us to decrease our impact on the natural environment.  So, the more people we can get to enjoy clean air, quiet, natural beauty, and the wildness of the natural world, the better.  Wilderness lodging is a key component of this, especially for people who aren’t willing or able to walk long distances and camp out of doors.

For those who enjoy hiking and camping, it still makes sense to take advantage of wilderness lodging when it is available.  You will lower your negative impact on the environment and the creatures residing therein.  There are some fantastic places out there to explore, and wilderness lodging is an option nobody should discount.  See you out there!

Many people with limited vacation time choose to go to resorts.  There are many varieties of resorts to suit individual tastes, interests, and budgets.  Entire towns have become dedicated to vacationing and tourism.  Resorts can be ideal for singles looking to meet others with similar interests, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and families, since there is something to do for everybody.

Resorts tend to be all inclusive.  Lodging, food, drinks, and daytime activities are all available on the property and the price can be either a-la-carte or all-inclusive.  Many all-inclusive resorts are on the ocean.  Others are near lakes, rivers, or at ski resorts.  Some cater to hunters, fishermen, and outdoor lovers, others attract sunbathers, surfers, and scuba divers.  Prices can vary greatly – elite resorts can cost hundreds per day, while other resorts can be a real bargain, especially for families.

Tourism is such a successful revenue stream that entire towns have decided to become resort towns.  The infrastructure is designed for tourists to come for 1 week, eat, drink, and recreate, and then be gone.  These resort towns are usually at ski resorts or at the beach, and can be found all over the world.

For active singles, resorts offer a great combination of active sports, social mingling, and relaxing.  Many resorts cater to this market.  Other resorts are more quiet, with secluded lodging, great food , and spas.  These resorts are perfect for couples looking for a place to be alone.  For families, it is important to find a resort that welcomes kids.  There will typically be a swimming pool with a lifeguard, and organized activities for children.  In addition to having fun with the kids, there will be amenities for parents – nice restaurants, and activities like golf.

Resorts are a great place to relax rest, and have fun – which is what a vacation is all about!

Outdoor environmental author Edward Abbey has been quoted as saying “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.”  Abbey valued wilderness, and shunned development in wilderness areas.  The concept of a wilderness lodge would have sparked a lively conversation with Mr. Abbey, to be sure.

A modern wilderness lodge allows visitors to experience wilderness without having to endure the hardship and tedium of camping.  In some respects, these lodges actually protect the surrounding wilderness by constraining human impact to a small geographical area.  Getting in and out can require effort, and there will likely be some creature comforts missing.  But overall, staying at a  wilderness lodge can be the perfect way to experience the great outdoors.

A wilderness lodge can often be accessed by car, usually on a dirt road.  Other lodges require boat, plane, float plane, or helicopter access.  Some require a long hike or a ride on horseback to get to the lodge.  These methods of access lend credence to the saying that ‘getting there is half the fun.’  Once at the lodge, you will usually find comfortable beds, a warm fire, food and drink, and other modern conveniences.  Electricity may be a precious resource if it comes from solar panels or a generator.  Latrines may be composting toilets without running water.

Overall, wilderness lodges can have less of an impact on an area when compared with regular camping.  This is a good thing. Imagine what 1,000 campsites and bathrooms would do to a pristine meadow!   Also, these lodges allow access to visitors who normally wouldn’t be able to handle a back country camping expedition.  The best part about a wilderness lodge is going to sleep and waking up in a wild place.  This is truly satisfying for the human spirit, and Edward Abbey would certainly value that!