My top VRBO treehouses by national parks for the ultimate adventure escape.
I’ve found some of the most amazing treehouses by national parks, conveniently located near national parks across the U.S., from Zion National Park in Utah to Acadia National Park in Maine. There’s nothing quite like taking in the natural beauty of national parks across the country, whether that means hiking in the mountains or enjoying a swim in the ocean. If you’re looking for a secluded treehouse for an upcoming weekend getaway or a spacious vacation rental for next year’s family trip I’ve got you covered!
Amazing Treehouses By National Parks
When it comes to treehouses, I get flashbacks to my childhood in Michigan of me and my cousin in a makeshift treehouse consisting of a broken homemade ladder leading up to a wooden platform that was tilted with no siding. We didn’t have anything fancy (or safe lol) as they make them nowadays. But we still had all the fun and loved being off the ground in the woods, even if it was just 5 ft or so.
Now as an adult, I’d love to stay in any of these beautiful treehouses that are VERY safe to go up into. Each of the treehouses listed is just outside a national park spread across the U.S. Check out my entire list of treehouses around the country, and pick your favorite to add to your bucket list.
Why Rent a Treehouse on VRBO?
VRBO stands for vacation rental by owner and is a platform similar to Airbnb. The biggest difference is that, unlike Airbnb where you can rent a room in a shared apartment, on VRBO you get the entire place to yourself, which I prefer. You can see reviews left by past guests on both platforms, but only on VRBO can you see the owner’s response and how an issue was resolved.
While these sites may seem similar, there are some differences to be aware of before booking your rental. Incidents can always happen, and when they do, Vrbo has a direct support line whereas Airbnb’s customer service is… terrible. It’s nearly impossible to find a direct way to contact support. I usually end up talking to a robot or going in circles in the help section. I’m personally in favor of VRBO for its customer service and how they work with bloggers.
Table of Contents
Amazing Treehouses Just Outside National Parks
Treehouse near Wayne National Forest
Tennessee
Sanctuary Treehouse Resort will be the largest resort of its kind in the world. Situated on 40 acres in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, the treehouses are still being built. The resort is not open yet, but you can read more about the project in this article by Travel + Leisure.
Treehouse rental Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Michigan
Visit Tree House Ridge, a treehouse resort nestled in beautiful Northern Michigan. The resort is the first of its kind in Michigan. Centrally located in Thompsonville, Michigan the treehouse is just 30 minutes away from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City, and Manistee. This puts you close to shopping, restaurants, wineries, sand dunes, and much more. The first is open and available for you to book your stay, the treehouse is pet friendly so don’t forget your furry friends.
Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes soon? Check out my picks for unique places to stay near the dunes.
Treehouse Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Tennessee
Embrace your time among the trees in the Elm Treehouse of Treehouse Grove. The only place that lets you lodge on the doorstep of the most visited national park in the country in a secluded treehouse setting designed by “Treehouse Master” Pete Nelson. This fabulous canopy lodging offers you a slightly different design than the rest of the Grove, with a wonderful view of the tranquil stream and an enclosed screened-in viewing area off the main treehouse. Take in the extraordinary forest ecosystems of the Great Smoky Mountains while getting your adrenaline flowing on this extreme jeep tour through Newfound Gap.
Treehouse Near Zion National Park
UTAH
“The Treetop Houses” are located in Zion National Park at the East Zion Resort. This is truly a unique and fascinating experience! The treehouses are elevated on a hillside that spreads over 12 acres of countryside. Stunning views of the beautiful landscape and breathtaking sunsets at night, what more could you ask for? But wait… there’s more. The tree houses are crafted and filled with modern yet rustic finishes. Each one has been designed with its own private bathroom, kitchenette, fire pit, gas grill, and AIR CONDITIONING. Sold.
Treehouses Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
TENNESSEE
If you watch the DIY channel, you’ve probably heard of “The Treehouse Guys”. Well, this is their first true treehouse, and it’s located in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area, just outside of the Smoky Mountains National Park. The treehouse is perfect for a quiet retreat, honeymooners, or a romantic getaway. See the beauty of vivid fall leaves cresting the Great Smoky Mountains on this 5-hour tour from Pigeon Forge.
keep reading for More Treehouses By National Parks
Treehouse Near Zion National Park
UTAH
The Treehouse Summary is certainly unique! Guests can access the treehouse through a hobbit door that opens up to the inside of the tree trunk. That’s right, they even managed to hollow out the inside of this giant cottonwood tree and added a climbing wall access. SCORE! There’s a full-sized bathroom with all the toiletries provided. The treehouse even has a kitchenette with a stove, refrigerator, toaster, coffee maker, and microwave.
Treehouse Near Wayne National Forest
Ohio
This charming studio-style Treehouse is located in the state’s coveted area of Hocking Hills, Ohio. Snug in the trees of a hillside with incredible views of the lush forest surrounding it.
Explore the Forest: Guide to Daniel Boone National Forest
Conveniently located just 12 minutes from all of the area’s best attractions like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. The Treehouse has a fully working bathroom, central air, and heat so the treehouse is a great place to stay all year round.
Treehouse Rental Near Glacier National Park
Montana
Treehouse rental near Glacier National Park – Welcome to the World’s First Ski-in/Ski-out Treehouses! Tamarack at Snow Bear Chalets is a luxury treehouse chalet, just a few feet from the slope at Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. Sleeps 6 with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths over three levels. With everything from jaw-dropping architecture, a private hot tub, high-end appliances, and luxury finishes, to privacy and a killer “treehouse” vibe, you’ll want to stay forever! Plus, you’re ON the slope, so ski-in/ski-out is literally just walking out your front door.
Tamarack is 100% ski-in AND ski-out – you can ski to Chair 3 in less than a minute when you’re ready to hit the slopes and then ski straight to the chalet when you’re ready to come home. (Don’t worry, you can still drive your car right to the front door of the chalet, regardless of the season) and in the summer, you’re just 15 feet from miles of prime mountain biking trails, hiking trails, and white water rafting photo opportunities galore!
Treehouse Near Pisgah National Forest
North Carolina
This treehouse is located minutes away from Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, Brevard, and Hendersonville. and has the perfect amount of space for a family of four. It has a great mountain location among the trees and has hiking, biking, as well as kayaking, and canoeing opportunities. You can go to multiple locations easily with how close the treehouse is to civilization but until then, enjoy beautiful mountain and valley views from every room of this private treehouse.
*Authors Choice*
Best treehouse place to stay – Her Life Adventures
Treehouse Near Mount Sunapee State Park
New Hampshire
A four-season luxurious two-story treehouse packed with all the modern amenities. The exquisite craftsmanship can be seen everywhere from the railings to the natural wood interior- you can tell the treehouse was built with love, and a vision. The Treehouse is equipped with brilliant heated flooring and a propane fireplace for the winter. Summer visitors will enjoy the AC, which makes this treehouse perfect to visit all year around. With two bedrooms and one bathroom, this is the perfect space for families, or couples looking for romance, and privacy. The best part is that the woods are near Mount Sunapee and Lake Sunapee so you’re close to hiking or skiing.
Treehouse Near Glacier National Park
Montana
Welcome to Tamarack at Snow Bear Chalets, another beautiful treehouse rental by Glacier National Park! This luxury treehouse is just a few feet from the slope at Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, making it a great location for a winter getaway. Go on a snowmobile ride this winter through Glacier National Park, or check out the new snow BIKES. The treehouse has three levels. With everything from jaw-dropping architecture, to a private hot tub, high-end appliances, and luxury finishes, you’ll never want to leave the treehouse! Plus, you’re ON the slope, so ski-in/ski-out is literally just walking out your front door. In the summer there are hiking opportunities, and all year round the treehouse is by Glacier National Park, which gives you tons to explore.
TreeHouse Near Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Minnesota
Just about two hours northwest of the twin cities, breaking away from the ordinary – this treehouse sits 18 feet off the ground overlooking Rock Lake. On fifty acres in central Minnesota, the tree house is close to Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge and surrounded by 500 acres of state land. Perfect for wildlife sightings, and peaceful solitude. To access the tree house you will walk over a thirty-foot covered bridge that leads you around the treehouse porch into a sitting area. Two bedrooms, a full bath, a kitchen, and two sitting areas give the treehouse guests plenty of space.
It also has heating and air conditioning making it possible to rent year-round. Throughout the land, there are a number of trails for walking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. In the summer you can go paddle boating and kayaking on the lake. You’ll also enjoy the 6 person hot tub in both seasons!
Treehouse in Cape Cod National Seashore
Massachusetts
Ideally situated just minutes from Provincetown, Pamet Harbor, and the Cape Cod National Seashore, this giant treehouse is the perfect getaway for family and friends. The house is newly refurnished, featuring a whopping 3 bathrooms and 3 bedrooms with queen beds, a den with a double bed, and an outdoor shower. Which is perfect for a quick rinse after a day hiking or being on the water. At night catch the sunset and gentle breezes on the large, multi-level deck, or hang out in the open-layout living space playing games.
Visiting in winter? See, experience, and photograph some of Cape Cod’s prettiest holiday displays on a Cape Nights, Holiday Lights Guided Night Photography Tour. The treehouse is a great central location for taking day trips to nearby towns and beaches. Within a mile’s walk, you can be on Corn Hill Beach and the Truro Historical Museum. Less than 5 miles away is Cape Cod National Seashore, Truro Vineyards of Cape Cod, Highland beach & lighthouse, and tons of delicious restaurants.
Glacier National Park Treehouse
Montana
Montana Treehouse Retreat: FEATURED On “The Treehouse Guys” on DIY Network! Nestled on a private wooded 7 acres, this artistically designed craftsman double-decker tree house is one of a kind and has all the luxury amenities. This rental includes its own private 5-acre forest with a campfire ring, walking trails, and cross-country ski trails for winter months.
This treehouse is located by Glacier National Park, minutes from the slopes of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. Near Flathead Lake, Glacier Park International Airport, golfing, fishing, whitewater rafting, boating, skiing/snowboarding, hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and many more Montanan adventures.
The setting is perfect for a quiet writers’ retreat, honeymoon, or romantic getaway with your own private wooded acreage, or an unforgettable family trip to Montana to experience the outdoors without necessarily “roughing” it with your kids! This is the ultimate adventure glamping destination!
Treehouses by Acadia National Park
Maine
Rekindle the joy of being a kid as you revel in luxury suitable for grownups! This treehouse offers an unmatched private setting nestled among maple, spruce, cedar, pine, and birch. Spacious at 900 square feet, your treehouse offers such comforts as a whirlpool, sauna, steam shower, kitchen, fireplace, premium sound system, seasonal outdoor shower, and plenty of deck space. Your treehouse is centrally located near the many attractions along the Downeast Coastline! Pets are welcome!!
Explore the highlights of Maine’s Acadia National Park during a private, half-day guided tour. Get personalized recommendations and information from your tour guide as you cover Park Loop Road, with panoramic views from Cadillac Mountain. This is perfect for those that do not hike – no climbing necessary. Tours include snacks, refreshments, and private transfers in a climate-controlled vehicle.
Treehouse near Smoky Mountains National Park
Kentucky
As shown on Animal Planet and Built by Master Treehouse builder -Pete Nelson known as “the Kentucky Climbers Cottage” this is the original first tree house built. Best for two adults and 2-3 smaller kids. This treehouse features a bar, a kitchenette, a swing underneath, a fire pit, and an oversized deck for gathering and planning your day at the Great Smoky Mountains. But the best part is the ninja obstacle course. The 285 acres of themed trails begin right under your tree house. Hike the highest section of the Appalachian Trail through the dense spruce-fir forest and climb the Clingmans Dome observation tower at 6,643 feet for a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Treehouse Near Olympic National Park
Washington
A stunning treehouse near Olympic National Park looking over the Strait of Juan De Fuca is a total North-West Washington experience. The treehouse is made of cedar with rustic touches. Once you are inside you will never want to leave as the floor-to-ceiling window looks onto the straight with a continually moving landscape of ships, wildlife, and bald eagles soaring across your window.
Amazing Treehouses Near National Parks
These are my top picks of treehouses by national parks to rent. A stay in one of them is the ultimate escape and is sure to bring back childhood memories on your next vacation.
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because you can search for flights anywhere for any date – and it will pull up the cheapest flights. It’s how I found my ticket to Thailand from Chicago for < $600 and how we decide where we are going for a weekend getaway. Two times we were able to find round trip flights to Denver < $100 for BOTH OF US. You can also search by destination to find out what dates have the cheapest rates. Ticket prices usually start to increase 56 days before departure for domestic flights. When traveling internationally, prices usually start to increase 21 days before departure.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your campsites with Campspot. If you want a less rustic stay elsewhere use Booking.com as they consistently produce the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it and have used it in the past (like when my luggage got stolen with ALL my camping gear) My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Allianz (best for everyone)
Travelx (US domestic coverage)
AARDY (compare insurance companies)
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24 comments
These treehouses look like so much fun. I like the one in Glacier National Park the best.
Adding staying in a tree house to my bucket list after reading this post. These tree houses are stunning!! Thank you for the inspiration.
This is by far one of the coolest and unique posts I have ever seen! We’ve already explored about a dozen parks and I am so bummed I missed the chance.. but we’re headed to Sleeping Bear Dunes in 2023 and I am totally researching your spots now! thank you thank you!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! There is one next to sleeping bear dunes too! It’s such a beautiful area, you’ll love where ever you stay. I recommend visiting in the summer 🙂
Wow! What lovely tree houses! I would love to experience staying in one of these someday. It must be easy for hikes and trails. Also it gives an adventurous feeling stay in a tree house. Great images! 🙂
I want to stay in a treehouse on my next vacation in the US! I just start researching options near Washington DC. There is a treehouse in NC near Great Smoky NP!
There is 🙂 I was just down there over the summer, and now we’re thinking about going back this winter to stay in one.
I think I’m hooked; I need to try out a treehouse. The Glacier National Treehouse looks fantastic and affordable. Thanks for sharing.
They all look so amazing, I would stay in any but I’m hoping to stay in the one in the Smokies soon!
I would love to stay in any of these! Awesome finds, thanks for sharing!
Omg new bucket list item! All of these sound amazing!
Oh my word – all these treehouses are soooo magical. I just want to stay in them all.
I love this post. It combines great architecture, comfort, sustainability and that all-important connectedness to the natural environment. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for the lovely compliment, I’m so glad you enjoyed it 🙂
I’ve always wanted to stay in a tree house in Tennessee! What better place…. Thank you for all the ideas!
You’re welcome! I hope you are able to make it to one someday!
Staying in a treehouse in a beautiful National Park sounds like a dream holiday and I love the look of the quirky Glacier NP treehouse. What a great list! Thank you!
I’m hoping to get into one for our anniversary in January, I think it would just be so cozy.
I used to live minutes from the Pisgah National Forest and had no idea there was a treehouse you could rent there! Definitely going to have to plan a visit there on my next trip 🙂
No way! How ironic haha Well now you can visit it next time you’re there!
These treehouses look amazing! I’m definitely going to check them out!
These tree houses look amaaaaazing! I love the roof of the one in Montana, and the one in the smokey mountains just looks like heaven! I would love to stay in every one of these and hike in the national parks close to each one. 🙂
Wow! Hard to pick a spot to stay! Those are so gorgeous!
Your photos are so beautiful! Oh, how I love snowy landscapes- definitely want to visit a snowy treehouse one day!